Foundation Mares: How Outstanding Female Families Shaped America's Breeding Industry
John P. Sparkman began his career in the Thoroughbred industry in 1972 at Windfields Farm in Maryland, with Northern Dancer quite literally in his back yard. From 1974 to '79 he served as Director of Cataloging for the Jockey Club Information Systems and also served on the Keeneland July sales selection committee.In 1979, Sparkman became General Manager of William du Pont III'sPillar Stud Inc., where he supervised building a major broodmare band and stallion operation. In 13 years at Pillar, Sparkman was responsible for breeding more than 45 stakes winners, including 1994 Kentucky Derby winner Go for Gin and champions Noalcoholic and Rancho Ruler.Sparkman became Bloodstock Editor of Thoroughbred Times in 1994. He also has contributed to European Bloodstock News, International Thoroughbred, Pacemaker, Racing Post, Thoroughbred Daily News, the Blood-Horse and other publications. His first book,Foundation Mares, was published in 2008.Sparkman's private consulting firm, JPS Inc., also advises clients on matings and bloodstock purchases. His email address is ormonde1@gmail.com. More of his work can be viewed at pedigreecurmudgeon.blogspot.com/ .