News from Bloodhorse.com that Smarty Jones, who, in 2004, won both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness, is relocating from Three Chimneys in Kentucky to Ghost Ridge Farms, near York, PA. It is presumed that he will continue to stand at stud since a new syndicate agreement is being written in conjunction with the move. Ghost Ridge is currently accepting nominations for 2011.
Pat Chapman, who owned Smarty together with her late husband Roy purchased him back from Three Chimneys to whom they had sold a 50% interest in him as a stallion. "We've had many discussions over the past year about what is in Smarty's best interest and I am thankful for the Clay's support in my decision to bring Smarty Jones back to his home state of Pennsylvania to stand at Ghost Ridge," said Pat Chapman.
Part of the impetus to bring back to Pennsylvania is his huge fan base in the area. Pennsylvania racing fans were always wild about Smarty since he raced at Philadelphia park and the Chapmans are from the area. "If it wasn't for Smarty, I'm not sure there would be the slots and casinos in Pennsylvania that has fueled both the resurgence in the racing and breeding programs," noted Tarry Bratton, owner of Ghost Ridge Farms.
As a stud, Smarty is no slouch--having sired 89 winners from 137 starters, including stakes horses. It is hoped that by moving him to Pennsylvania he will be closer to his primary base of mare support and thus give him an even greater chance to be a success.
One thing is known for sure: Ghost Ridge Farms will need a nearly full time tour director to keep all of Smarty's fans happy! He is one of the main attractions on the daily Three Chimneys tours and it is expected that he will maintain that status in Pa.
Smarty is expected to move in early November.
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