Hascombe Stud, a family-owned business, have been breeding and raising racehorses since 1965. Based in 300 acres of beautiful grassland in Newmarket, Hascombe is home to approximately 80 horses at any one time and have produced many Group 1 winners over the years. In 2023, a Hascombe bred Frankel colt topped day two of the Book 1 Tattersalls October Yearling Sale making 2,000,000gns- a phenomenal achievement.
In their pursuit of excellence, the team at Hascombe recognise the importance of nutrition. “We have been feeding Dengie Alfa-A Original for the 11 years I have been at Hascombe. We always want to give our horses the very best, so every single horse on the yard is fed Alfa-A Original and they all love it” explains Co Stud Groom James Frank. “As well as adding quality nutrients to the diet it also helps slow down eating and reduce the risk of choke. The yearlings are all fed a large double handful twice a day but those needing extra will get more as required”.
“The mares get a lot!” adds Co Stud Groom Steven Golding. “I find Alfa-A Original is great for building topline and muscle tone, helping to provide good all-round coverage due to the quality protein the alfalfa provides. I like the consistency and the way that it is chopped, not too stalky but not too fine and powdery either. It’s fantastic quality and most importantly the horses enjoy it”.
“We have also found the Alfa-A Original beneficial for those who don’t eat much hay” says James. “As well as their bucket feed, we mix a bucket load of Alfa-A through their hay to help tempt them and encourage them to eat it up”.
This approach to ensuring fibre is an integral part of the Thoroughbred’s ration is really encouraging and demonstrates the lengths those who are most successful go to, to ensure their horse’s health and welfare needs are met.