The exceptional conformation, proven pedigree and impressive statistics of Frenchmans Guy—as both a sire and competitor—were all factors contributing to the decision to clone the 25-year-old stallion. Listed as a leading all-around performance sire for the past decade by Equi-Stat, the statistical division of Cowboy Publishing Group, Frenchmans Guy has progeny earnings in excess of $4 million.
As genetic replicas, the clones will allow the champion sire’s exact genes to continue. The Myers family hired ViaGen, the Austin, Texas-based world leader in animal cloning, to produce these three outstanding foals.
“After long thought and consideration, as well as extensive research, we have decided that keeping Frenchmans Guy’s genetics alive into the future would be the right thing to do both for our breeding program, as well as the horse industry as a whole,” said Bill and Deb Myers in a joint statement. “Knowing the prepotency of Frenchmans Guy and finding through our research and our consultation with Blake Russell of ViaGen that these foals would in fact produce exactly like their sire was the deciding factor in our final decision.
“Seeing these foals in person has validated our decision, and we are extremely happy and excited for their future.”
Cloning produces a later-born identical genetic replica, thereby preserving and multiplying the genetics of superior animals. Many horse breeders, who already use assisted reproductive techniques, such as in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer, view cloning as the next step in breeding. Horse breeders increasingly recognize that cloning is an excellent tool for maximizing the value of their best genetics.
“It is a true pleasure to work with such a legendary stallion owned by a great family,” said Blake Russell, CEO of ViaGen, Inc. “Frenchmans Guy is a proven, elite stallion, and now, through advanced reproduction, his genetics can continue making a positive impact for many years to come.”
Myers Training Stables is located in picturesque St. Onge, S.D. Bill and Deb Myers produce their semi-annual Myers Performance Horse Prospect Sale in Spearfish, S.D., where they feature select prospects. The stallion Frenchmans Guy has been the cornerstone of their highly regarded program for over a decade. Visit frenchmansguy.com for more information.
Look for feature-length coverage of this breaking story in the December issue of Barrel Horse News, the leading publication committed to serving the barrel racing industry.
