Unusual Heat, who is well on his way to a third consecutive leading sire title in California, has been relocated to John C. Harris’ Harris Farms near Coalinga, Calif., where he will stand the 2011 breeding season. The move comes after a dozen seasons at the Johnston family’s Old English Rancho near Sanger, Calif.
A 20-year-old son of Nureyev, Unusual Heat set the all-time California record for progeny earnings in 2008 with over $5.8 million. He sired the earners of $5.1 million in 2009. This year, he leads all California stallions with progeny earnings of $2.7 million and ranks fourth on the list of North American turf sires.
“I am delighted to announce that Unusual Heat will stand at Harris Farms for the 2011 breeding season and hopefully for the remainder of his breeding career,” said majority owner Madeline Auerbach. “I wish to thank Buddy Johnston and all of the people at Old English Rancho for a tremendous 12-year run. I appreciate all of their dedication and hard work that contributed to the success of Unusual Heat and his progeny. At the same time, I look forward to our new partnership with John Harris, (farm manager) Dave McGlothlin, and the entire team at Harris Farms.”
Unusual Heat, out of the Glacial mare Rossard, has sired 27 stakes winners, nine of which are graded winners, including grade I winners Acclamation, Golden Doc A, and The Usual Q. T. His runners have earned $25 million.
Harris Farms not only will be the new home of Unusual Heat but also of the California-based breeding and broodmare operation for both Auerbach and long time racing partner/trainer Barry Abrams. Notable broodmares owned by the partners that are moving to Harris Farms include Lethal Leta, Bel Air Belle, Little Hottie, Style of the Year, and True Melody.