The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) hosted a sold-out Pedigree and Conformation Clinic March 9-10 in Ocala, Florida, in partnership with the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association (FTBOA). The two-day educational event welcomed participants from across North America and featured presenters representing the very best of the Thoroughbred industry.
"We were thrilled to bring our Pedigree and Conformation Clinic to Ocala, which welcomed us with tremendous enthusiasm," said Lauren Biddle, Director of Marketing and Education for TOBA. "Not only were we able to assemble an all-star lineup of industry experts to share their knowledge, but we were equally impressed by the outstanding group of engaged owners and breeders who participated and contributed to the success of the clinic."
Held at the Ocala Breeders' Sales Company (OBS) complex, the clinic was intentionally scheduled just ahead of the OBS March Sale of 2-Year-Olds in Training, allowing attendees to gain insight into the evaluation and preparation of young racehorses as they enter the sales ring.
"This clinic had the highest participation of any Florida TOBA clinic with participants coming from across North America including California, Montana, Delaware, South Carolina, Canada and, of course, Florida," said Tammy Gantt, FTBOA Vice President of Membership, Sales and Events. "The intentional programming of speakers who are at the top of their game willing to share their best practices and secrets to success along with the networking opportunities really gives those who attend a leg up as they plan their own programs."
Notably, the Ocala clinic marked the first time a TOBA clinic outside of Kentucky sold out, underscoring the growing demand for Thoroughbred education across the country and the importance of expanding educational opportunities beyond the sport's traditional centers.
A Two-Day Deep Dive into the 2-Year-Old Market
The clinic opened with welcome remarks from TOBA President Dan Metzger and an overview of the OBS sales process from Tod Wojciechowski. The morning sessions also included an overview of Florida's Thoroughbred industry from Gantt.
Educational sessions throughout the two days focused heavily on 2-year-olds in training, reflecting the timing of the OBS sale. Experts walked attendees through every step of the process--from evaluating conformation and breeze shows to understanding the roles of agents, veterinarians, consignors, and trainers in preparing young horses for the marketplace.
with Eddie Woods, who presented at the clinic
Presenters included some of the most respected names in the industry:
- Nick de Meric of De Meric Stables on pinhooking and conformation evaluation
- Richard Kent of Kaizen Sales on the role of the bloodstock agent
- Larry Oxenham on asset protection strategies for owners and breeders
- Dr. Kriss Eisaman on veterinary considerations at the sale
- Hall of Fame trainer Mark Casse on selecting horses at the sales
- Marette Farrell on evaluating 2-year-old breeze shows
- Niall Brennan on breaking and preparing young horses for the sales
- Donato Lanni on sales selection strategies
- Eddie Woods on the legacy of leading 2-year-old consignors
- David O'Farrell of Ocala Stud on the breeding process
- Tim Leith of Jockey Club Information Systems on pedigree data resources
"TOBA has been around a long time and has really worked hard to promote the business," said Brennan, owner of Niall Brennan Stables. "It's a no-brainer to be a TOBA member."
Throughout the clinic, speakers shared practical insights and behind-the-scenes knowledge designed to help owners and breeders make informed decisions when buying, racing, and breeding Thoroughbreds.
Outreach to Future Industry Leaders
On the second day, TOBA also extended the clinic's reach to students from the College of Central Florida, inviting participants from the college's Equine Exercise Physiology and Advanced Equine Handling courses to attend the sessions. The opportunity provided students with direct access to industry leaders and real-world educational experiences tied to the sales environment. Both students and presenters praised the initiative, highlighting the value of connecting future professionals with established experts in the Thoroughbred industry.
Partnership and Networking
The event highlighted the strong partnership between TOBA and FTBOA, demonstrating how collaboration between national and state organizations can strengthen the Thoroughbred community.
Attendees also gathered for a cocktail reception held at the FTBOA Museum and Gallery, providing an opportunity for networking and continued conversation among owners, breeders, and industry professionals.
TOBA thanks its sponsors for their support of the clinic:
- Clinic Sponsor: Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association
- Lunch Sponsor: American Society for Asset Protection
- Cocktail Reception Sponsor: Hallway Feeds
Continuing the Mission of Thoroughbred Education
As the Thoroughbred industry continues to evolve, educational initiatives like the Pedigree and Conformation Clinic remain central to TOBA's mission of supporting owners and breeders.
"I believe in TOBA's mission," said Nick de Meric of De Meric Stables. "It's incumbent on all of us who are passionate about our beautiful sport to share the joy, excitement and thrills that Thoroughbred racing can bring."
By providing access to expert knowledge, fostering industry connections, and welcoming new participants into the sport, TOBA clinics play a vital role in educating the next generation of Thoroughbred owners and breeders while keeping current participants informed in an ever-changing marketplace.
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