Veteran Deborah Mihaloff’s Insights: Thriving In Arabian Breeding & Racing

Cre Run's pedigree boasts champions, including First Classs with million-dollar wins and Deb Mihaloff's victories overseas. Deb, drawing on 40 years of expertise, prioritizes natural growth for her horses and mimics proven global routines. In the US, Lynn Ashby's training adds unwavering determination to their athletes. Treasured Moments, a Cre Run-bred mare, demonstrates this spirit after a career on the racetrack with five Tevis Cup rides, including two victories. In the previous year while she battled California heat in America’s premiere 100 mile Endurance race to win in impressive fashion, bridleless and in a masterful time of 15 hours and 14 minutes, First Classs conquered Goodwood with a second-place finish in the Gr.1 Qatar International Stakes, along with three-million-dollar race wins in a year. Cre Run breeds champions of various terrains and distances, not just runners.

Cre Run keeps moving forward. Deb persisted in breeding exceptional Arabians for various arenas like racing, endurance, and more. Every foal at Cre Run has the potential to be a champion and leave its mark in the world of horses.

In this exclusive interview with Ten Furlongs, Hall Of Fame and co-founder of Cre Run Farm, Deborah Mihaloff (Deb) joined by their Racing & Marketing manager, Amanda Roxborough shares the challenges as a breeder and an owner in a male-dominated industry, discusses her passion for Arabian horses and her commitment to maintaining integrity and class in the sport.

What drew you to the breeding industry? What were some of the early challenges you faced as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated sector?

Originally, my mother and I had a breeding farm in Michigan, where winters can be cold. I remember watching the foaling from the hayloft, bundled up in a sleeping bag with an electric blanket. One of my first Arabians, Cesja had her foal and unexpectedly had a second one, which made me committed to horses' racing and insurance. The first foal, a healthy filly, was given medication that killed her, but the weaker colt survived because he hadn't been given the medication. This made me realise the need for horses' insurance and inspired me to start my own insurance program. Despite challenges as a woman in the insurance industry, I developed the second-largest equine insurance program globally, being one of the first woman to place insurance coverage at Lloyds. My mother's teachings of independence and hard work fueled my determination. I believe Arabian horses can bring peace to the Middle East.

(Amanda adds) Deb's strong work ethic and dedication to the sport have been with her since she was a 17YO racing enthusiast. Wanting to always do things right and with integrity, she found her place among the wonderful people in the Arabian racing world. 

What qualities and skills do you believe are essential for thriving in this demanding field, and how have you honed them throughout your career?

Honesty is crucial in the industry, as a good reputation takes a lifetime to build but can be ruined in an instant. Contributing, sacrificing, and being honest are essential to success. With over 40 years in the industry, I have made sacrifices to keep racing alive and have learned about breeding and the importance of maintaining the Arabian type. I believe in breeding for quality rather than following fads despite the challenges of expenses and complexities. I take pride in my role as a breeder and have experienced success with horses like First Classs and Treasured Moments, which have fulfilled my dreams and brought me pride. Passion and dedication lead to rewards.

The breeding and racing industry involves long hours, physical labour, and tough decision-making. How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance and prioritise your well-being while leading your farm?

My life revolves around Arabian horses, with little sleep and constant discussions with trainers, friends, and mentors. When feeling down, I swim to clear my mind. My support network consists of women who share my passion and guide me through the industry. Despite financial struggles and regulatory obstacles in the US, I remain dedicated to Arabian horse racing. My husband and I have contributed millions to develop the industry. We have co-founded the US Arabian Jockey Club and the Arabian Racing Organization in the UK. We have also supported our Autism School through auctioning horse partnerships. Despite challenges, I am determined to see Arabian horse racing thrive worldwide.

You're an inspiration to many women interested in the Arabians as well as the racing and breeding industry in general. What advice would you give to young women aspiring to careers in breeding, racing, or other aspects of the industry?

Having a passion for your product is crucial as it fuels your desire to learn more. Internet access has significantly expanded knowledge availability. Websites like Amanda's provide valuable information, but the firsthand experience is unbeatable. I've visited many farms, which gave me a sense of organisation and the horses' happiness. My advice, especially to young women, is to pursue their passion and gain as much knowledge as possible for success. Traveling has been pivotal, allowing me to explore the world and form deep friendships with ten remarkable women. Their support and happiness for my achievements with First Class or Treasured Moments are truly special, as they understand the hard work, I've put in.

(Amanda adds) I credit the horse racing industry for building strong relationships. I've been involved since I was young and have worked in various countries like Dubai, America, Canada, Australia, and my native England. The horse racing community, whether thoroughbred or Arabian, fosters strong friendships and support among women. Horsewomen unite.

There's a growing movement to promote diversity and inclusion in the racing industry. What initiatives or changes have you observed or implemented at your farm to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for women and other underrepresented groups?

First let me say my Farm Manager Donna Mallory Canter has been with me over 30 years and our Breeding Manager Sarah Spiller has been with us since 2017, so I am supported by woman at the root of my business.

When I started racing Arabian horses and I went to get licensed at Los Alamitos racetrack and was met with sexist comments from the racing secretary, I stood up for myself, proud of my half-Bulgarian heritage and the last of the Mihaloff name. My mother always encouraged me to have confidence and use my God-given talents. I admire female jockeys and trainers who have succeeded in a male-dominated industry. Women in the US were allowed to be jockeys much sooner than in Europe or the Middle East. I learned to ride on an Arabian horse and admire women who balance family and career, something I didn't feel was possible when I started, which is why I have always supported and used women jockeys on my horses when possible and appreciate their connection with the Arabian horse.

The horse racing industry faces various challenges, from animal welfare concerns to economic pressures. How do you approach these challenges at your farm, and what do you believe the industry as a whole can do to ensure a sustainable and ethical future?

I prioritise a clear conscience and my horses' well-being, ensuring I have control over choosing trainers through partnerships and leases. Trainers are crucial for success in horse racing, laying the foundation for performance, while jockeys determine wins or losses. I've carefully selected ethical trainers like Lynn Ashby and Doug Watson, ensuring my horses are not subjected to abuse. My insurance coverage exposes me to industry stories and incidents, providing valuable information about losses in certain farms or training centres. Involvement in veterinarian studies enhances my commitment to utilising the latest technologies and innovations in horse care.

(Amanda adds) America's new governing body, HISA, aims to bring uniformity to racing, but unethical practices still exist. Owners should take responsibility for choosing trustworthy trainers that are doing their job with the best interest of the horse and integrity of our sport. The UAE deserves credit for its successful promotion of racing and attracting more owners. With an abundance of Arabian horses, filling races is not a challenge, and they are willing to continue to learn and grow. Playing the game in the UAE is thrilling, and credit must be given for its current management and the exciting future prospects.