Bloodstock agent Barry Berkelhammer and Starlight Stables have agreed to part ways.
In a release, Berkelhammer said he planned to "expand his client base and focus on growing his bloodstock business." Berkelhammer was an advisor to Starlight since its inception and oversaw the breaking and initial training of their horses at his AbraCadabra Farm in Ocala.
“I look forward to actively seeking new clients and creating new memories," Berkelhammer said in the release. "“I look forward to actively seeking new clients and creating new memories. I wish Starlight continued success, especially in the Preakness with Take the Points.”
Jack Wolf, managing partner and racing manager for Starlight, said retired trainer Frank Brothers would be part of the Starlight team. Starlight's 2-year-olds, layups, and 2009 yearling purchases will be handled by J. J. Pletcher at the Payton Training Center in Florida.
"When Frankie Brothers announced his retirement from training, Starlight saw an opportunity to diversify our selection proces. We are very happy with our new team," Wolf said.
Berkelhammer said that among the horses he selected, along with longtime assistant Lisa McGreevy, at auction have been two-time champion Ashado, a $170,000 yearling who earned $3,931,440; Harlan's Holiday, a $97,000 yearling who earned $3,232,664; Octave, a $350,000 yearling filly who earned $1,660,934; and Purge, a $180,000 yearling who earned $905,434.