A farm that appears to agree with me is Woodlands judging by their 12 October website update.

"Lonhro's lovin it!" shouts the headline.

If some of you had prudently wondered if the author was, in fact, referring to Lonhro's new appreciation of paddock life (or his ability to sleep in til 10) the article boldly proceeds to rob you of such G-rated fantasies.

"Last year’s Australian Horse-Of-The-Year Lonhro (Octagonal-Shadea, by Straight Strike) has commenced stallion duties ...and is an extremely keen participant in the barn & among the most fertile horses to stand at Woodlands", reports manager Peter Flynn. 92% of mares covered thus far have apparently recorded a positive test. Among those with early positive scans are Faith Hill, Seances, Forum Floozie, Regrowth, Yvonne, Ponton Flyer, Latte, Manana, Lady Mulan & Mamzelle Pedrille."

It's fair to say that the majority of studs, whilst certainly promoting their stallions, tend to keep the whole issue of the um... well, you know, 'act itself' a little more circumspect. They tend to adopt the Victorian approach of 'if we don't DIRECTLY mention it then our clients will hopefully not ask us too many questions about it, we can all just pretend that that gorgeous foal just APPEARED 11 months later ... and thank god for that'.

Widden aptly demonstrates this approach in a recent news release that reads: "Anabaa off to great start to season. Proven international sire Anabaa has covered several outstanding mares at Widden this season, including dual Oaks winner Grand Archway and Tyrises - the dam of Group One Galaxy runner-up Taikun."

'Cover' - Such a lovely turn of phrase. It sounds as if we should be setting the table for tea!

Thumbs up to Woodlands for adopting a rather more risque approach on this occasion. It may have surprised a few people - but ultimately, creative marketing tactics often achieve that effect.

(UPDATE: 15 October 2004 - Lohnro may be rising to the task (no pun intended) but alas Platinum Scissors appears to be having a few problems in the fertility department. Today's Breeding & Racing Daily News
reports "Arrowfield Stud's 1st season sire Platinum Scissors (Danehill-Shantha’s Choice, by Canny Lad) has been stood down for the rest of the season after experiencing fertility problems. Arrowfield boss John Messara confirmed to The Sydney Morning Herald: 'Platinum Scissors had 125 mares booked for his 1st season, but from the initial 33 mares covered only 5 tested positive. We have advised all our clients with bookings to the stallion & they have made alternative arrangements. The results of his tests do not look good & his future is in doubt.' Platinum Scissors is insured against fertility problems in his 1st season.")