‘Herbie’ by Califet (IRE)

Five years ago, Owners for Owners embarked on buying high-potential foals, and the plan has proved a notable success. In 2017 we had the highest-rated National Hunt Flat horse in the country with Acey Milan, and we’re hoping that the Califet, also bought as a foal, will be of similar quality. He already has the size and scope you are looking for and Martin Keighley believes that he is top quality, maybe even his next Champion Court.  Coincidentally, he comes from the same stud.

The Califet (stable name “Herbie”) is certainly bred to go to the top, and has an excellent pedigree. The sire has already produced many winners and had an excellent season in 2019/20 including flagship horse Cilaos Emery, in the frame in the Champion Hurdle. His dam is by the leading NH damsire, Presenting, and includes Lord Noelie in the line.

He has been with the Keighleys since his purchase, and is a really friendly character with notable class and presence. He was backed and broken by the specialist Martin Jones during spring 2020 and is now enjoying turnout in the Condicote paddocks. This leisurely regime will continue into early 3yo days, when we will do a bit more with him ahead of summer turnout again next year. He can then go NH Flat (bumper) racing to start what we hope will be an illustrious career.

Herbie is owned 50:50 between OfO and Martin Keighley Racing Partnerships.

For more information about Herbie, please contact Jon Hughes on 07958 763159 email: jon@ownersforowners.co.uk, or Martin Keighley on 07767 472547, email: keighleyracing@btinternet.com.