PRESS RELEASE
Ocala, FL—Halel, a promising Thoroughbred stallion by the proven sire K One King, will stand at stud for a limited book at the University of Florida during the 2025 breeding season. This opportunity presents breeders with a chance to preserve the rare Byerley Turk sire line in today’s Thoroughbred bloodlines. The initiative is spearheaded by Holly Hoffman, a passionate Thoroughbred owner based in Ocala, who is dedicated to maintaining genetic diversity and soundness in the breed for the prevention of catastrophic injury in today’s racehorses.
The Byerley Turk sire line, one of the foundational branches of the Thoroughbred pedigree, is now critically endangered, with only a few remaining horses from this historic lineage in the breed. Halel, a direct male descendant of this line, represents a rare and vital opportunity for breeders to contribute to its preservation. His pedigree also features the influential bloodlines of Princequillo and Round Table, both of which are renowned for their contributions to stamina, durability, and classic success.
Holly Hoffman, a private Thoroughbred owner, recognizes the importance of preserving these rare bloodlines for the future health and soundness of the breed. She has received invaluable guidance from the late Ellen Parker, a respected pedigree analyst and turf writer. Parker, who admired the soundness of K One King’s offspring, played a crucial role in planning Halel’s breeding, believing that his lineage would continue the legacy of soundness, longevity, and versatility that defines the Round Table sire line.
“Ellen Parker’s expertise and insight were instrumental in mapping out Halel’s future as a stallion,” said Hoffman. “She was a passionate advocate for K One King’s bloodlines and believed that Halel, like his sire, could contribute to a breed-wide legacy of soundness and stamina.”
Although Holly Hoffman is not a commercial breeder, she has worked tirelessly to offer Halel to the Thoroughbred breeding community in an effort to preserve this rare bloodline free from Northern Dancer and Mr. Prospector. However, as a non-commercial breeder with a limited budget, Hoffman is seeking support from like-minded individuals and organizations who are committed to preserving the genetic diversity of the Thoroughbred. These supporters include bloodstock enthusiasts, pedigree analysts, and breeders who share a passion for strengthening the breed through the preservation of valuable sire lines like the Byerley Turk, via Princequillo, and Round Table.
“Supporters of this initiative are those who recognize the importance of these rare bloodlines in today’s Thoroughbred gene pool,” said Hoffman. “It is a collective effort to ensure the breed’s health and vitality for future generations, and I am deeply grateful for every contribution.”
To help make this preservation initiative a reality, supporters can contribute to the GoFundMe campaign to cover essential costs such as transport, testing, and care, ensuring that Halel’s standing at stud is fully supported. Contributions will directly benefit the preservation of the Byerley Turk sire line and contribute to the continued strength of the Thoroughbred breed. Donations can be made at the following link: GoFundMe: Aid Preservation of Byerley Turk Sire Line with Halel at UF.
Halel’s exceptional pedigree, soundness, and proven sire, K One King, present a unique opportunity to impact the future of Thoroughbred breeding. This is a rare chance for breeders to add a piece of history to their programs while also supporting the health and strength of the breed for future generations.
Return to the February 26 issue of Wire to Wire
