High Court Rules Sands Of Mali to Remain at Ballyhane Stud

The High Court in Dublin has ruled that the stallion Sands Of Mali will remain at Ballyhane Stud, following legal proceedings between owner Steve Parkin and Joe Foley, the stud’s owner. The case centered around the ownership and management of the Group 1-winning stallion, with both parties presenting conflicting claims regarding their stakes in the horse.

Sands Of Mali, a son of Panis, was purchased for stud duties in 2020 for £225,000 and began covering mares at Ballyhane Stud in 2021. He has since established himself as a successful young sire, with 21 two-year-old winners in his first season.

Parkin had sought an injunction to relocate the stallion, arguing that he was the sole owner. However, Foley countered that Parkin had acquired only a 50% share, with Foley's own share covering outstanding training and boarding fees owed by Parkin. Supporting affidavits from Sands Of Mali’s former trainer, Richard Fahey, and bloodstock agent Federico Barberini were submitted in support of Foley’s claim.

The court ruled in favor of Foley’s position, stating that Sands Of Mali would remain at Ballyhane Stud under specific conditions. These include veterinary examinations at least once every six weeks and the provision of monthly financial reports to Parkin. The ruling also confirmed that there was no evidence of any environmental or health concerns affecting the horse while at Ballyhane.

This legal dispute follows the dissolution of Parkin and Foley’s long-term professional relationship in early 2024. Following this split, Parkin moved his other stallions, Space Traveller and Asymmetric, from Ballyhane to Starfield Stud.

Sands Of Mali will continue to be available for the upcoming breeding season at Ballyhane Stud, ensuring continuity for breeders who had planned to use him. The outcome of this case reinforces the contractual obligations governing stallion ownership and management within the thoroughbred industry.