Robert N. Clay's Three Chimneys Farm announced Nov. 10 that pedigree consultant Ken McLean will be retained by the Midway, Ky.-based Thoroughbred stud and nursery for his services in 2011.
McLean, whose career as a pedigree consultant began in 1985 when he was hired by the late William T. Young to help establish Overbrook Farm and manage young up-and-coming sire, Storm Cat, will serve as a matings specialist, stallion and broodmare acquisitions advisor, and general pedigree consultant.
During his tenure as a matings specialist for Overbrook, McLean selected many of the foundation mares that carried the historic farm to international prominence. McLean also served as a consultant to the Maktoum family’s Gainsborough Stud and Gainsborough Farm.
"I have known Ken for years and have known of his work for even longer," said Clay. "His approach to matings is unique and will add a new dimension to how we can assist our clients and pursue outside opportunities."
As a Thoroughbred pedigree consultant, McLean's advice regarding mare matings has produced more than 200 stakes winners and 20 champions worldwide, according to a Three Chimneys release.
"Having built a relationship as both an advisor and a friend to Robert over the years, I'm looking forward to working with Robert and Case, and the rest of the Three Chimneys team in a more formalized arrangement," said McLean. "My approach to matings and pedigree analysis is unique in that I focus on key genetic patterns to pair one horse's strengths with another's weaknesses. Anne Peters has given Three Chimneys and its clients an excellent foundation for matings advice and pedigree analysis. I hope my fresh perspective will enhance what the farm can offer customers in the way of guidance."
Anne Peters served as the matings specialist for Three Chimneys Farm for the past five years and will continue her relationship with the farm in an advisory capacity.