Maine Chance Farms has secured an extraordinary addition to its stallion roster with the acquisition of Point Lonsdale, a blue-blooded bay stallion by Australia (GB) out of the stakes-winning Acclamation mare, Sweepstake (IRE). At 16 hands high, Point Lonsdale brings a rare combination of precocity, durability, and stamina to the South African breeding scene.

A Record-Breaking Pedigree

Point Lonsdale was the highest-priced yearling ever sired by Australia, selling for a staggering 575,000gns. He justified this price tag with a career that saw him win seven races, including five Group contests. His early brilliance was evident as a 2-year-old when he won his first four starts, culminating in victories in the Gr.2 Futurity Stakes and the Gr.3 Tyros Stakes, cementing his place as one of the best juveniles of his generation.

As he matured, Point Lonsdale displayed the stamina and tenacity that characterize many of Galileo’s descendants. Over his four- and five-year-old campaigns, he added victories in prestigious events like the Gr.3 Chester Ormonde Stakes, the Gr.2 Chester Huxley Stakes, and the Gr.3 Curragh Alleged Stakes. He also placed in elite company, finishing second in the Gr.1 Coronation Cup and the Gr.1 Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud.

Aidan O'Brien's Verdict

Trained by Aidan O’Brien, Point Lonsdale earned glowing praise from the legendary conditioner. O’Brien described him as a horse with natural speed and an exceptional work ethic, adding, “He was the best 2-year-old we had in 2021. He’s a typical Australia in that he’s full of Galileo’s grit—his head goes down, and he digs very deep.”

Proven Lineage and Sibling Success

Point Lonsdale’s dam, Sweepstake, was an early 2-year-old winner herself, capturing the 5-furlong National Stakes at Sandown. As a broodmare, she has produced multiple top-class progeny, including Broome, a seven-time Group winner and two-time Irish Champion Older Male.

Point Lonsdale’s pedigree boasts connections to several influential sires, including Zoffany, Ernest Hemingway, and Rostropovich, ensuring his bloodlines will resonate across generations.

Coolmore’s Legacy and Maine Chance’s Vision

Point Lonsdale’s arrival marks the continuation of a successful Southern Hemisphere legacy established by Coolmore Stud. Previous Coolmore stallions like Bernstein, Orpen, and Lancaster Bomber have left a lasting impact on breeding programs worldwide, and Point Lonsdale is poised to follow in their footsteps.

Bill Oppenheim, a leading industry analyst, underscores Point Lonsdale’s appeal: “He combines precocity, durability, and stamina—a rare mix. His 2-year-old success shows he was far from a stayer alone. He’s an outstanding sire prospect for South Africa.”

A Bright Future for South African Breeding

Maine Chance Farms’ acquisition of Point Lonsdale represents a significant boost for the local industry. With his impeccable pedigree, versatile race record, and outstanding physical attributes, he promises to attract breeders aiming to produce both early winners and durable campaigners.

As Point Lonsdale embarks on his new chapter in South Africa, the excitement surrounding his potential as a stallion is palpable. His arrival not only enhances Maine Chance Farms’ prestigious lineup but also reaffirms South Africa’s growing stature in the global thoroughbred industry.