Southern Phantom to stand stud in Virginia

Southern Phantom will begin his stud career next year in his father’s home state of Virginia.

The uniquely marked son of Virginia-bred Bodemeister will stand at Mountain View Equine in Steels Tavern, according to Danny Caldwell, who owns Southern Phantom with his wife, Allison.

“We felt like it was a central location on the East Coast,” Danny Caldwell said. “We felt like that was the best place for him to go to breed different breeds of horses.”

Southern Phantom will stand for an introductory fee of $2,500 and is expected to be supported by Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse, and Paint mares. Southern Phantom, a registered Thoroughbred, also will be registered as a Paint, Caldwell said. In addition, Southern Phantom will have a “T-number,” or special American Quarter Horse Association registration for breeding purposes.

The Caldwells have been working with the University of California at Davis on DNA testing, and preliminary results show Southern Phantom will pass on color to his offspring. They also are testing to learn more about the genetic source of his unique markings. The couple purchased the horse at auction as a racing prospect.

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“I can tell you we had no idea what we were getting into when that hammer dropped at the sale last year, but we learn a little more every day,” Allison Caldwell said. “It’s pretty amazing the people one horse can bring together. We certainly consider ourselves blessed to own him and love being able to share him with his fans.”

Danny Caldwell said Southern Phantom has already shipped to the Mountain View operation of Dr. Wynne DiGrassie. He was put in touch with DiGrassie through Kathy Jennings, who had purchased the Caldwell’s stakes-winning mare Drip Brew.

“I think he’s going to throw some pretty babies,” Danny Caldwell said of Southern Phantom. “He’s a very smart horse. He’s well-behaved. I think he’ll fit all different breeds.”