US Stallion Owner Waives 2020 Service Fees

US Bloodhorse have reported well known US owner/breeder Charles Fipke will be waiving the 2020 breeding fees on all his stallions in order to provide some relief to small breeders that could be particularly hard-hit by the economic downturn from the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, according to longtime consultant Sid Fernando.

"What can I say? Small breeders will especially be affected by the economic conditions, and they are the backbone of this industry," Fipke said in statement published on Twitter April 13 by Fernando.

"None of my stallions stand for more than $5,000, and they are primarily supported by small breeders. Because I own my stallions outright and don't have shareholder responsibilities, I am able to do this, with the support of the farms where they stand. I'm passionate about this game and will continue to support my stallions, and I'd like to show my appreciation for outside breeders who do so as well in these trying times."

Fipke stands seven stallions in the United States and Canada ranging in fee from $5,000 to $2,500.

Darby Dan Farm in Kentucky stand three of those stallions – Bee Jersey, Tale of Ekati and Tale of Verve.

Ryan Norton, stallion director at Darby Dan, said Fipke contacted farm owner John Phillips over the weekend about his plan.

"For everyone who has a contract, he told us he is waiving the fees and anyone who wants to breed to them this year will get a complimentary season," Norton said.

"It is very generous, and we think it is a great idea. (He) is trying to think outside the box and should be commended for trying to do the right thing and help breeders."

Bee Jersey, who entered stud in 2019, has a book of around 60 mares and that Tale of Ekati and Tale of Verve, as of April 13, where expected to each cover around 30 mares.