December 7, 2023

Revival of Litchfield Stud Marks New Era for South African Thoroughbred Racing

Litchfield Stud

The South African thoroughbred racing industry received exciting news this week as Litchfield Stud, located in Robertson, Western Cape, is set to make a comeback. Andreas and Natalie Jacobs, renowned breeders and owners of Maine Chance Farms, have decided to add Litchfield Stud to their South African portfolio, showcasing their confidence in the country’s business potential.

The Jacobs family has a longstanding history in the horse breeding industry, owning Gestüt Fährhof in Germany, a prominent European thoroughbred stud known for producing top-class horses. Andreas Jacobs, a global entrepreneur, has been a steadfast supporter of South Africa’s racing and breeding industry since acquiring Maine Chance Farms in 2002. He has consistently enhanced the local breeding stock by importing fillies and broodmares from Europe. His decision to bring SILVANO [GER], a champion racehorse, to stand at stud in South Africa underscored his commitment to the local industry, and the stallion achieved five Champion Sire titles.

Litchfield Stud has been a prominent landmark among renowned wineries and stud farms in Robertson for decades. Originally developed as a stud farm by the Foulkes family, it continued its success under the ownership of Geoff and Katherine Winshaw in 1998. The Winshaws, hailing from racing and breeding backgrounds, produced notable racehorses, including the international star VICTORY MOON, who won races in Dubai and the Gr1 Dubai World Cup.

The connection between Litchfield Stud and Maine Chance Farms began when VICTORY MOON returned to SA to stand at stud at Maine Chance Farms. Despite his short stud career, he sired multiple Gr1 winners, including PRINCESS VICTORIA, WAR HORSE, and NOCTURNAL AFFAIR, achieving success in Europe, the UK, and the UAE.

In 2010, when the Winshaws reduced their breeding operation, Andreas Jacobs seized the opportunity to acquire their broodmares due to their exceptional quality. The Jacobs family has dedicated considerable time to Maine Chance Farms, and when the chance to purchase Litchfield Stud arose, they eagerly continued the legacy.

The new owners plan to maintain Litchfield Stud as a horse nursery and incorporate a guest lodge. Andreas envisions creating a unique facility similar to their breeding operation in Germany, offering educational and explorative equine courses. This initiative aims to uplift the local community and will require investment.

Litchfield Stud, a place of beauty and champion horses, is on the brink of an exciting new era under the ownership of the Jacobs family. Geoff and Katherine Winshaw expressed their joy in passing the reins to their friends, Andreas and Natalie, signifying a sweet transition. Margaret Louw of Agrisell [Pty] Ltd facilitated the sale.