Taylor Made: Redefining Racing Excellence

The Man Behind The Magic: Frank Taylor's Multifaceted Approach

While Frank Taylor's success at the sale has garnered headlines, there's much more to this industry titan than meets the eye. As the director of New Business Development at Taylor Made, Frank's role extends far beyond the sales ring, encompassing mentorship, innovation, and a deep commitment to both equine and human welfare.

"I spend about half my time mentoring the new generation and developing businesses," Taylor explains. "The rest is devoted to growing Stable Recovery." This innovative program, which provides equine-related employment opportunities for individuals in recovery, has become a passion project for Taylor.

But the sales ring still calls, with Taylor spending approximately 80 days a year at various auctions. It's a testament to his enduring love for the Thoroughbred industry and his commitment to maintaining Taylor Made's position at its forefront.

The Secret To Sales Success: Timing And Presentation

Taylor attributes the recent sales triumph to a combination of factors. "Both Informed Patriot and Cats by Five had great physical appearances and were in excellent recent form, which matched what the market wants," he notes. "People are looking to buy horses that are ready to race and provide immediate action, and these horses fit that description perfectly."

The evolution of sales options has played a crucial role in Taylor Made's success. "Over the years, the way sales options have evolved has improved significantly," Taylor explains. "It allows you to capitalise on a horse that gets hot at the right moment and sell it quickly."

The American Advantage: Breeding Champions For Dirt Racing

When asked what makes American-bred horses stand out, Taylor's response is unequivocal, "We have some of the greatest stallions and mares in the world. We have a great group of people who know how to raise good horses. We have great farriers and vets. I believe we breed the best dirt horses in the world."

This expertise is particularly relevant for buyers from the Middle East, where dirt racing is predominant. Taylor notes, "There's a lot of money in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and the Middle East, making good dirt horses very desirable for buyers in those regions."

The Anatomy Of A Dirt Champion

Taylor's keen eye for conformation has been honed over decades in the industry. He paints a vivid picture of the ideal dirt horse: "A Thoroughbred resembles a Quarter Horse with a long neck and a bit of stretch to it. I believe dirt horses need to have some speed to stay competitive. Personally, I love a horse with a slender, long neck and a big hindquarter."

He contrasts this with turf horses, "A turf horse tends to perform better with a bit more curvature in its hind leg. In contrast, a dirt horse needs a strong, straight hind leg with a robust gaskin and stifle to effectively push off on the dirt."

The Role Of Pedigree In Surface Preference

in determining a horse's aptitude for different surfaces, Taylor emphasises the crucial role of pedigree. "If most of the family has run on turf, then they're likely to be turf runners. Conversely, if most of the family has run on dirt, they're probably going to be dirt runners," he explains.

However, he also points out exceptions, such as Taylor Made's stallion Not This Time, known for his versatility in producing both top-class dirt and turf performers.
Looking To The Future: Rising Stars In The Stallion Ranks

While Taylor Made's success in the sales ring is well-documented, the operation's stallion division is also making waves. Taylor is particularly excited about several young sires he believes are poised for stardom,
"Vekoma, Complexity, Instagrand, Knicks Go, Tacitus, Yaupon, and Epicenter are all stallions to watch," he enthuses. "They represent the next generation of American breeding, and we're thrilled to be part of their journey."

The Stable Recovery Program: A Mission Of Hope

One of Taylor's most innovative contributions to the industry is the Stable Recovery Program. Inspired by a local restaurant run by individuals in recovery, Taylor saw an opportunity to make a difference in the horse industry.

"The Stable Recovery Plan or program is a new focus for me," Taylor reflects. "This business has been incredibly good to me and my family, transforming our lives from very modest beginnings to building a thriving and successful operation."

The program has since expanded, helping nearly 100 men graduate and integrating about 60 people, sober and thriving, into the industry. Taylor's commitment to this cause underscores the holistic approach that has made Taylor Made a leader in the Thoroughbred world.

A Bright Future Ahead

As Taylor Made continues to evolve and innovate, Frank Taylor's multifaceted approach ensures that the operation remains at the forefront of the Thoroughbred industry. From the sales ring to the breeding shed, and from mentoring the next generation to pioneering recovery programs, Taylor's vision for the future of racing is as broad as it is inspiring.

With a robust lineup of upcoming sales, including 40 horses at the prestigious Saratoga sale, and a focus on both equine and human potential, Taylor Made is set to maintain its industry leadership. The future looks bright for Taylor Made with the next generation of owners, Brooks Taylor, Marshal Taylor, Katie Taylor, Joe Taylor, Alex Payne and Logan Payne, ready to carry the torch forward.

In an industry often defined by tradition, Taylor Made stands out as a beacon of innovation and compassion. Proving that success in the Thoroughbred world can be measured not just in dollars and cents but in lives changed and dreams realised.