Twelve Questions: Kelsey Lupo

A native of upstate New York, Kelsey Lupo spent summers at Saratoga learning to read the Form. With a degree in Animal Science from the University of Massachusetts, she has lived all of over the world working for stud farms in places like Kentucky, Ireland, Australia, England, and France. Bolstering her resume, she completed the Kentucky Equine Management Internship and the Irish National Stud Breeding Course. As the principal for Atlas Bloodstock, she advises on a wide range of services, while utilizing her extensive experience with all things bloodstock.

Racing or bloodstock highlight of the year?
For me personally, it was watching Lezoo win the G1 Cheveley Park S., and for an all-around highlight of the year, I would say watching and participating in the Breeders' Cup at Keeneland. It was fantastic racing with incredible stories and outcomes.

Value sire for the 2023 season?
I would say Cracksman would be the value sire at £17,500. He has had some good performers as 2-year-olds, but you could think they will be better 3-year-olds, as Cracksman himself was better as he got older.

Who will be the leading freshman sire next year?
I think Advertise will be a top contender for that spot. The yearlings by him looked quite precocious and could fit the 2-year-old campaign in Europe rather nicely. They also look like a type that will be attractive to international buyers to race on various circuits around the world.

Most respected stallion–current?
You can't deny Dubawi. He doesn't command his high stud fee and selective broodmare band for nothing.

Favorite sales ring moment?
Selling one of my first pinhook horses at Keeneland that I bought for $20k and seeing her go for $97k. I was so excited to have a successful pinhook on my own in the first year.

Name one positive change you'd like to see in racing next year?
Seeing the purse structure improve in the UK to have not only the prestige of top racing, but financially as well.

If you could only go to one track the rest of your life, where would it be?
There are many beautiful tracks that I have visited, but I would say I have to go back to where it all started for me at Saratoga. The racetrack experience, the vibe, and the culture is like no other. I grew up going there and fell in love with the industry.

How about the breakout stallion of 2022?
Havana Grey was certainly impressive with his 2-year-olds this year.

If you could bring back one racetrack from the past, which one would it be and why?
I think it would be Hialeah Park in Florida during the glory days of Thoroughbred racing. I have heard industry mentors of mine talk about their experiences and what it was like. I would have loved to see it for myself.

As you know, we name 'TDN Rising Stars;' which one(s) are you most looking forward to seeing run in 2023?
I am looking forward to seeing Auguste Rodin. I thought his Doncaster performance in the G1 Vertem Futurity Trophy S. was a step above and showed true class.

In the next 10 years, what do you think will be the most significant change when it comes to the bloodstock business in North America?
The online sales market is already proving itself. I think we will see exponential growth in this arena. Thus, we will see major impacts on the bloodstock industry, especially when it comes to buying on the private market for horses in training.

And finally, your favorite Thoroughbred of all-time is…?
My favorite horse would be Zenyatta. She gave so much to the sport and to the fan base. She was positive for the industry and touched so many hearts during her campaign.