The world of horse racing is a fascinating one, and the story of General Nediym and Snitzel is a testament to the power of breeding and the impact of a single stud's legacy. These two sires, born eight years apart, have left an indelible mark on the Australian racing scene, with their influence extending far beyond the racetrack.
In my opinion, the term 'colonial' is fitting here, as these horses embody the spirit of Australian speed and resilience, passed down through generations. The fact that they were both out of Australian-bred mares adds to their allure and showcases the strength of local breeding programs.
General Nediym, a champion first-season sire, and Snitzel, who became one of the greats, had an immediate impact on the racing world. While Snitzel's success took time to fully materialize, General Nediym's influence was evident early on, with eight stakes winners and one Group 1 winner in just 1000 days of breeding.
However, the real story lies in their impact as broodmare sires. General Nediym's daughters have produced an impressive 53 stakes winners, including Group 1 champions Hey Doc, Jameka, Mr Quickie, Sizzling, I Am Excited, Run Fox Run, Ellsberg, and Lasqueti Spirit. What's more, 10 of these stakes winners are by Snitzel or his sons, further highlighting the strength of their genetic lineage.
The combination of Snitzel and General Nediym's bloodlines has proven to be a winning formula. Menari and Empire Of Japan, both by Snitzel out of General Nediym mares, have produced seven stakes placegetters and 26 winners from just 32 runners. This consistency is remarkable and has led to the success of two more Australian Group 1 winners in the past six months.
The impact of these sires extends even further, with Campione D'Italia, a Group 1 ATC Sires' Produce winner, and Panova, the Australasian Oaks victor, both having General Nediym and Snitzel in their pedigrees. This brings the total number of stakes winners with their influence to 16, an impressive feat considering the small number of runners involved.
The story of Chilly Girl, a stakes winner herself, is a testament to the legacy of these sires. Bred and raced by the Vieira family, she has a throwback pedigree, with her dam being 20 years old when she was foaled and her damsire, General Nediym, being a true 'colonial' horse, with a lineage dating back to Rosedale, imported from England in 1873.
In my view, the success of General Nediym and Snitzel as sires and broodmare sires is a fascinating insight into the world of horse racing. It highlights the importance of breeding, the impact of a single stud's legacy, and the enduring spirit of 'colonial' horses in Australian racing.
