Picture this: A seasoned breeder making a bold move to relocate a Grade 1-winning Thoroughbred stallion to Virginia, not just for fresh pastures, but to chase untapped potential in a booming regional market. John Funkhouser of O'Sullivan Farms did just that with Cross Traffic, and the story behind it could redefine how we think about stallion relocation in horse racing!
Hey there, fellow horse enthusiasts! If you're new to the world of Thoroughbred breeding, let's start with some basics: A stallion is a male horse used for breeding, and 'standing' him means offering his services at a farm for mares (female horses) to be bred. Cross Traffic isn't just any stallion—he's a proven winner, the son of the legendary Unbridled's Song, who himself sired multiple champions. And here's where it gets interesting: Funkhouser spotted a golden opportunity when Cross Traffic became available, seeing him as a perfect addition to the Mid-Atlantic region's breeding scene.
First off, Funkhouser recognized Cross Traffic as a stallion that could bring top-notch quality and adaptability to local breeders. Think of it like adding a versatile all-star to your team—someone who can produce winners on dirt tracks or turf courses. 'I genuinely think Cross Traffic is the kind of horse the whole Mid-Atlantic area has been waiting for,' Funkhouser shared. 'He's proven to sire Grade 1 winners, which means he can give you powerful, adaptable horses that excel on turf as well.' For beginners, a Grade 1 winner is basically the elite level in horse racing, like winning the Super Bowl of stakes races—it's a huge deal that signals pedigree and performance potential.
But here's the part most people miss: This move wasn't just about quality; it was about timing and tapping into Virginia's growing state-bred incentive programs. These programs reward horses bred in the state with special races, bigger purses, and opportunities that can make or break a breeder's success. 'Clearly, O'Sullivan Farms handles stallion operations, breeding, and boarding, but I'm noticing how everyone's buzzing about Virginia's initiatives,' Funkhouser explained. 'Each time they host meets at Colonial Downs, the racing days are lengthening, and the prize money is climbing.'
Funkhouser elaborated that if Cross Traffic leaned more toward speed and sprinting distances, he might have kept him in West Virginia. But this stallion's strengths lie in producing horses for classic, longer races and turf events—making him an ideal fit for Virginia's expanding scene. It's like choosing the right venue for your athlete; Virginia's program aligns perfectly with Cross Traffic's versatile bloodline.
To give you a sense of Cross Traffic's track record, since he started at stud in 2015 at Spendthrift Farm, he's fathered 270 winners, including 19 with black-type honors (that's a fancy way of saying they've won or placed in stakes races). His standout offspring include the 2018 Eclipse Champion 2-Year-Old Filly Jaywalk, the Ashland Stakes (Grade 1) victor Defining Purpose, the multiple-stakes winner Ny Traffic (who finished second in the 2020 Haskell Stakes), and the turf millionaire Neecie Marie, who conquered multiple graded stakes. These successes highlight Cross Traffic's ability to produce champions across disciplines, adding to the excitement of his relocation.
And this is where it gets controversial: Is it fair for breeders to relocate stallions to capitalize on state programs, potentially siphoning opportunities from their original home states? Some might argue it's savvy business, boosting local economies, while others see it as a competitive edge that could disadvantage smaller operations. What do you think—does this promote innovation or widen inequalities in breeding? Share your take in the comments!
Funkhouser teamed up with a syndicate to acquire Cross Traffic and will station him at Mt. Airy Farm in Millwood, Virginia—just a quick 30-minute drive from O'Sullivan Farms near Charles Town, West Virginia. Owned by Bridget and Tim Overcash, Mt. Airy sits next door to a breaking and training facility run by Cliff and Laura Robbins, who handle the early development of Funkhouser's young horses. The Robbinses were already boarding a few at Mt. Airy, so when Funkhouser sought a Virginia location, they recommended it seamlessly.
Bridget Overcash, no stranger to horses but new to managing Thoroughbred stallions, was won over after Funkhouser toured her through O'Sullivan Farms and introduced his lineup of sires. 'I've enrolled all my horses in Virginia's certified program, and now with Cross Traffic, we're expanding our horizons,' Funkhouser noted, pointing out that standing a stallion in Virginia unlocks not only awards but also access to high-stakes restricted races for Virginia-sired and -bred runners. 'There's serious cash in those Virginia-limited events, and they pop up frequently,' he added. 'Opting for a $90,000 restricted race over lesser options? Absolutely, every time.'
Funkhouser predicts Cross Traffic could draw about 50 mares for the upcoming season. The stallion's fee is set at $4,000, with lifetime breeding rights available for $5,000. Plus, he's honoring any lifetime rights sold earlier by Spendthrift through their 'Share the Upside' initiative, ensuring continuity for past buyers.
Since Mt. Airy is stepping into the stallion business for the first time, Funkhouser will oversee all breedings himself. He'll also provide boarding for mares booked to Cross Traffic at O'Sullivan Farms. 'Mt. Airy isn't taking on more mares, so we'll use my place as the preparation farm,' he said. 'We've got ample room and an excellent reproduction vet. We handle the pre-breeding checks, prep them, and offer complimentary transport to the breeding site.' This hands-on approach ensures quality care, which is crucial in breeding operations where every detail can impact foal success.
Wrapping it up, Funkhouser is upbeat about revitalizing Cross Traffic's stud career in a region where most breeders focus on breed-to-race models. 'This is such a thrilling moment to invest in a stallion that delivers performers,' he enthused. 'He's already produced an Eclipse champion, a Breeders' Cup winner, and another Grade 1 victor, plus he carries the esteemed Unbridled's Song line. He's a rock-solid choice and a true gentleman. Ignoring him would be a major mistake.'
So, what's your verdict? Do you see Cross Traffic's move to Virginia as a brilliant strategic play, or do you worry it could overshadow other regional breeding efforts? Is there a counterpoint here, like whether state incentives create healthy competition or unfair advantages? I'd love to hear your thoughts—agree, disagree, or add your own insights in the comments below!
