[Frack]

I don't understand why everyone is concentrating solely on the performance side of cloning. I don't believe I have ever heard anyone say that a clone will automatically perform to the same level as the original. There are too many variables. Rather, the question is whether we should be able to use cloning for breeding purposes to access a particular set of genes that we would not have access to in the current market. Apples and oranges.

I have no urge to watch a Kentucky Derby with four Affirmed clones entered. I don't care to see a hunter class full of Rox Dene clones. It is bad for the sport, and I think we would all be disappointed with the results. I don't blame breed registries for limiting performance opportunities to clones for that reason. But when we are talking about production, my opinion changes.

With rare breeds and rare combination of genes in more popular breeds, cloning could be useful in the production of better stock. I am somewhat skeptical of the need to clone geldings where there is viable access to stallions with similar bloodlines and bona fide performance records. I know little about Scamper. Are his genes at all unique? I am curious.

In my opinion, the real value to cloning is the mares. A top of the line, popular stud with bloodlines and performance credentials can breed many mares in a season. Let's say that stallion averages fifty foals a year. Only a few of those mares are of the same quality as him. The rest of the mares are of lesser quality in the hopes that he will correct her faults. There are only so many great mares to go around in one breeding season, but yet it is a theoretical dilution. The flip side of that? A top quality mare that has proven herself in the performance ring will put out, let's say, eight foals in her lifetime. In the barn next door, a less than average stallion with no show record and who only pulls in luke warm local interest could very well sire twenty foals in his lifetime. Hence, the below average stallion has more of an impact on his breed than the elite mare.

I know the fuddy-duddies in the JC will never consider it. But somebody should. Restrict registration of clones out the wazoo. Completely exclude all clones from competition but not their foals. Start with mares only. Go with an application process before recognizing the clone based on performance. You can microchip them if you want, but I would demand a brand on all clones and their progeny as a prerequisite to registration. Don't ignore the phenomenom; try to learn from it.

You can say its all about industry and greed, but I see it as science. And if the private sector wants to pay for the science and doesn't have to go through the red tape of federal grants, let them. The science behind cloning could help more than just horses.

[canadianlover]

Does anyone have a picture of the "original horse" ?