Graded stakes-winning stallion Elite Squadron is relocating to Swifty Farms near Seymour, Ind., owner Tom Walters announced Oct. 15. Previously standing at Wintergreen Stallion Station near Midway, Ky., Elite Squadron moves to Swifty Farms for the 2014 breeding season. His stud fee is set at $2,500.
Trained by James Baker for Walters to a record of 5-2-2 from 14 starts, the 9-year-old son of Officer has won on both dirt and synthetic surfaces. He captured the 2008 Churchill Downs Stakes (gr. II) at the Louisville track, as well as the 2007 Tom Ridge Labor Day Stakes at Presque Isle Downs.
Elite Squadron also placed in four graded races during his career, including runner up efforts in the Triple Bend Invitational Handicap (gr. I) at Betfair Hollywood Park, and the Commonwealth Stakes (gr. II) at Keeneland. He retired with earnings of more than $500,000.
"We're excited that Indiana breeders will have the opportunity to breed to not only an incredibly attractive horse, but one that displayed world-class speed winning the Churchill Downs Stakes," said Walters. "I feel certain Indiana breeders will find Elite Squadron as eye-catching in the paddock as he was on the racetrack."
Bred in Kentucky by Matt Herbener, Elite Squadron is out of Sweet Mama, by High Brite. A sire of two crops of racing age, 40% of his starters are winners.
"I am thrilled to see a horse like Elite Squadron leave the state of Kentucky and move into a lucrative program like we have here in Indiana," said Christina Lawton, general manager of Swifty Farms. "His speed and good looks will make him extremely popular with our Indiana breeders as well as breeders from our neighboring states who want to take advantage of our program."
