Great Breeders and Their Methods: The Hancocks

The great Thoroughbred stallions of the 20th Century have one thing in common - the Hancock family.

As independent breeders, as salesmen and promoters, as innovators and as conservators of racing and breeding, four generations of the Hancock family have played a vital role in the development of the Thoroughbred. From the original Ellerslie Farm in Virginia to Claiborne Farm and Stone Farm in Kentucky, the Hancocks have been a dominant force in the American and, indeed, the international racing scene.

It has been said that the secret to the success of the Hancocks was the philosophy that success lies not in breeding the occasional champion, but rather in controlling the bloodlines of the champions of the future.

Here are the business strategies, the breeding theories, the champion horses of the generations of diligent, insightful men who have given so much to the industry.