Sams named director of stallion operations at Lane's End

Bernie Sams, who brings in a wealth of stallion experience from historic Claiborne Farm and other operations, has been named the director of stallion operations at Lane's End. It is a major acquisition for the farm whose roster is led by the proven Candy Ride and Quality Road, and champion Flightline, whose first yearlings were well-received this year.

“This is a tremendous opportunity, and I’m looking forward to working with the team at Lane’s End and the exciting roster of stallions," Sams said in a release.

Sams began his tenure at Claiborne in 2003, and over more than two decades, managed the careers of stallions such as Arch, Pulpit, and current flagship sire War Front. In 2024, noted bloodstock agent and consignor Jacob West was named the farm's stallion seasons and bloodstock manager, with Sams serving as an adviser during the transition. West has spearheaded the acquisitions of a number of new stallion prospects for Claiborne; multiple Grade 1 winner Mindframe is the latest of those, set to retire to the farm following the Breeders' Cup Classic.

Meanwhile, Sams launched a new venture, BF Sams Bloodstock Advisory, offering a number of consulting services this year.

Sams also spent time at Wimbledon Farm, Haras de Roiville in France, Manchester Farm, and Overbrook Farm, as well as managing stallions at Gainesway.

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“It’s exciting to bring on a longtime friend like Bernie to quarterback our stallion division as we continue to build out the team,” Lane's End's Bill Farish said in the release.

In addition, Lane's End announced that Will Farish III, Ray Smoot, and Casey Klein will be joining Jill McCully and Chris Knehr on the stallion sales team.

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