Cover image courtesy of Magic Millions
1. Best value stallion in the country?
The Autumn Sun and at a lower level Wild Ruler.
Gallery: Tom Wilson's picks for best value stallion
2. Most exciting new stallion for 2025?
Broadsiding.
Broadsiding | Standing at Darley
3. Breeding more, less, or the same as last year?
We are breeding the same however it’s clear that numbers are significantly down and given clearance rates at the lower end of the market last sales season, that doesn’t surprise.
4. Best breeder in the country?
I’ve always thought the boys at Bell River do a terrific job off small numbers.
5. Best judge of a weanling/yearling?
We’ve learned everything off Paul Willetts and I’d stick by that assessment that Paul is the best judge.
Paul Willetts | Image courtesy of Paul Willetts
6. Best pound-for-pound trainer?
Rob Heathcote does a phenomenal job for the quality of cattle he gets through his stable and his job with Abounding, Rothfire, and Buffering is testament to that.
Rob Heathcote | Image courtesy of Sportpix
7. Most talented young person you’ve come across recently?
I’m biased but Tyla Becker who works for First Light Racing (FLR) is a jet!
8. Redistribute prizemoney across races, or happy as is?
Absolutely redistribute! We need to increase the percentage of owners who break even. Owners will always tolerate making a loss if they enjoy the experience to a reasonable degree however too many are getting disproportionate results with upkeep costs increasing quicker than prizemoney.
9. Tariff on imported horses - great idea or misguided protectionism?
I don’t have a firm view here.
10. Your best mate in the business?
A lot of our owners have become great mates like Simon Gardner and Scottie Bartlett but that’s not too exciting to read. There are several amazing people but most are best kept at arm’s length or on occasional visitation rights (Trent Busuttin)… so I’d go with Caitlin Agnew or Rory Gardner from Howden insurance both girls are legends (and would crack it if I chose one over the other).
