Saparas to Disperse Winsong Farms

Jim and Alice Sapara, who have bred and raced horses since the early 1980s, and late in the 1990s purchased Winsong Farms near Versailles, Ky., will disperse their stock at Keeneland in November. In a release, Jim Sapara explained that the reason for their departure was a fire at his business in Canada, Winalta, Inc.

"I have more than 250 people depending on me," he said. "All my time an energy is now devoted to rebuilding Winalta Inc. and unfortunately, I have not time to devote to the horse business--I will miss it terribly."

The Saparas had a division of Winsong in Alberta, Canada, near their home in Edmonton. But late in the 1990s, they purchased about 100 acres in Kentucky and moved their operation, including farm manager Mike Rudnisky, southward. Soon after, Jim Sapara explained his outlook on the Thoroughbred business.

"You have to really love this business to be in it, because of the economics. The only place in the business is at the top end...you have to breed top horses to be competitive."

The Saparas played at the top level of the game, albeit in a limited way. Among their $1 million purchases is Serena's Tune, the first foal from champion Serena's Song. A stakes winner for the Saparas, Serena's Tune is currently in training with Neil Drysdale. They also raced stakes winners Vice n' Friendly, Brushed Halory, Golden Mirage.