Michael Hernon Launches Bloodstock Agency

Michael Hernon, Gainesway's director of sales for the past 24 years, announced Sept. 2 the launch of his own bloodstock agency.

A native of Ireland, Hernon managed the stallion books of top sires like Broad Brush, Cozzene, and Mt. Livermore starting in the mid-1990s. More recently, he oversaw the books of leading sires Tapit  and Empire Maker, as well as the emerging young sire Karakontie .

"Two decades of selling at the highest level of the stallion market was a rare experience, but as Gainesway expanded their bloodstock sales agency, I worked on the farm consignment and started helping our outside clients with everything they needed to be successful at the sales. We enjoyed a lot of success," Hernon said in a release.

Tom Conway, who created the breeding operation Waymore with Charlie Moore, commended Hernon for his expertise.

"Before Michael took over, we were breeding for the top of the market, but not always succeeding at the sales," Conway said. "He put us on the right track, from sales prep to setting reserves, and suddenly we were on fire with two yearlings selling for $800,000 and another for $700,000. We became fast friends and last year I was proud to attend when Michael became a U.S. citizen."

Hernon's greatest personal achievement was co-breeding champion Monomoy Girl, winner of the Longines Kentucky Oaks (G1) and Longines Breeders' Cup Distaff (G1) in 2018. Monomoy Girl was bred by FPF and Hernon's Highfield Ranch.

From a small broodmare band, Hernon has also co-bred two-time grade 1 winner Zazu with Summerhill Equine, and with William Andrade, graded stakes winner Flashback , sire of champion British Idiom. This year in the U.S., he co-owns with partners stakes-winning 2-year-old Spanish Loveaffair.

Prior to his tenure at Gainesway, Hernon served stints at Pedigree Associates, Fasig-Tipton, and Walnut Green.

"I feel everything I have done in this industry has brought me to this new position. Helping people find the right horses and succeed in sales and racing is very satisfying. I look forward to operating as a bloodstock agent and attending Thoroughbred racing and sales both in the U.S. and in Europe," Hernon said.