Kim and Joe Peacock –
©Benoit Photo

Following a recent Paulick Report article detailing owner Joey Peacock Jr.’s preparations for Senor Buscador’s upcoming stud career, Florida Equine Communications staff reached out to veteran Florida stallion manager Brent Fernung to evaluate the horse’s potential fit in the regional market. With Peacock actively building a broodmare band under the name “Senor’s Senoritas” at the Keeneland January Sale and the horse scheduled to defend his Saudi Cup title next month before retirement, the timing seemed right an assessment of his commercial prospects.

The positives in Senor Buscador’s profile are substantial: beginning his career as an undefeated 2-year-old, he captured the Listed Remington Springboard Mile in just his second start. His overall race record as of Jan. 17 speaks to remarkable longevity and success over multiple seasons—from 23 career starts spanning four calendar years, he recorded seven wins, two seconds and three thirds while amassing impressive earnings of $12,944,427. 

His career reached its pinnacle with a victory in the prestigious Grade 1 Saudi Cup in 2024, complemented by wins in the Grade 3 Ack Ack and Grade 2 San Diego Handicap, along with a strong second to National Treasure in the Grade 1 Pegasus World Cup. His racing style shows versatility—winning both around one turn and at classic distances—while maintaining top form across multiple seasons and continents.

 

In assessing his commercial package, Senor Buscador offers an interesting blend of attributes.

His sire line through Mineshaft brings proven classic influences, with Dialed In already demonstrating the line’s ability to succeed at stud. The female family has consistently produced winners, including several stakes horses, but much of that success came in southwestern markets.

What particularly strengthens his prospects is the level of commitment shown by his ownership. Their purchase of eight broodmares with plans to expand to 15 by retirement signals serious intent to give this horse every opportunity to succeed. 

Looking at comparable stallions in the Florida market, Gunnevera’s early success provides an encouraging parallel. Given the similarities in their profiles, Senor Buscador could command a similar position in the market. A conservative opening stud fee in the $6,500 to $7,500 range would likely attract a solid book of 80-100 mares, particularly with his ownership group’s strong support through their broodmare band.

Drawing from my experience with similar prospects, I can see Senor Buscador finding his own niche in the Florida market. His combination of Grade 1 ability, proven durability and committed ownership support suggests he could be a viable option for regional breeders.

This story was produced with Claude.ai from an interview with Brent Fernung.

Return to the January 17 issue of Wire to Wire