A Legacy of Champions

Nestled in the heart of North Lexington, Kentucky, Clarkland farm is more than just a boarding and breeding operation—it is a living testament to equine excellence. Since 1774, the storied farm has been a family affair—starting with John Wesley Marr—a remarkable lineage stretching back to the roots of American horse racing.

Every year, Clarkland Farm’s carefully raised crop of yearlings is offered at the prestigious Keeneland and Fasig-Tipton sales. Clarkland’s mission is simple: to raise exceptional racehorses. The operation delivers on that guiding principle, having produced champions around the world.

The farm’s legacy was supercharged by 2016 Broodmare of the Year Leslie’s Lady. Purchased for a modest $100,000 in 2006, Leslie’s Lady became a powerhouse producer. Her 2005 foal, Into Mischief, became a Grade 1 winner on the racetrack and subsequently, a breed-shaping, record-setting stallion. Leslie’s Lady’s magic did not stop there. For Clarkland, she foaled the phenomenal Beholder, a champion at ages 2, 3, 5, and 6, and a three-time Breeders’ Cup heroine. She also produced Mendelssohn, a Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf (G1) winner who commanded a staggering $3 million at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale.

Clarkland’s honor roll extends far beyond these superstars. Think of Housebuster, the electrifying Champion Sprinter of 1990 and 1991 who was raised on the farm; Clarkland is also represented by North Sider, Champion Older Female; Wind and Wuthering, Champion 2-Year-Old in England; and Grade 1 winners like Farma Way and El Deal. The list reads like a who’s who of racing royalty.

Even in 2024, the Clarkland tradition of excellence continues. The farm celebrated new Grade 1 winner Howard Wolowitz, new Grade 3 winners Clock Tower and Brilliant Bertie, and new stakes winner Ecstasy.