Quality and quantity Adena formula

Frank Stronach's far-flung Adena Springs operation became only the second breeder to win four Eclipse Awards, following Khaled Abdullah's Juddmonte Farms. Stronach and Adena Springs previously won Eclipse Awards as North America's leading breeder in 2000, 2004, and 2005.

The Adena Springs formula is simple and highly effective: combine quality with quantity. From farms in Kentucky, Canada, and Florida, Adena Springs sends out numerous runners that support the operation's 16 stallions and amass earnings and victories that make a formidable presence on the year-end statistical rankings.

In 2006, Adena Springs bred 471 starters who won a combined 507 races for a staggering bankroll of $13,077,535. That was nearly double Adena's nearest rival, Sez Who Thoroughbreds, whose horses earned just over $7.7 million.

Adena Springs also led breeding partnerships. With partners, Stronach's program produced 472 starters last year who won 507 races and earned $13,078,230, easily beating Farnsworth Farms and partners, who had 462 wins and more than $8.8 million.

Adena's leading homebred runners last year included Grade 1 winner Spun Sugar and Grade 3 winner Silver Whistle.

Stronach, 74, is the founder and president of Magna International, a manufacturer of electronics and auto parts. He also is the head of Magna Entertainment, the country's largest racetrack operator. In 2006, he won his sixth Sovereign Award as Canada's leading breeder.

* VOTING: Adena Springs, 119; Mr. & Mrs. Roy Jackson, 47; Darley, 44; Live Oak Stud, 24; William S. Farish, 11; Thomas/Lakin, 7; Farnsworth Farms, 3; WinStar Farm, LLC, 2; Haras Clausan, 1; E. Paul Robsham, 1; Stanley Estate and Stud Co., 1; Voter abstentions, 11.