Denali Stud

Where Attention to Detail is Standard

Current News

Care, Safety Key in Selecting Right Boarding Outfit

November 20, 2010

For the past 20 years Craig and Holly Bandoroff have owned and operated a first-class operation at their Denali Stud in the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass in Bourbon County. The results speak for themselves—Denali has raised runners such as English group I winner Sophisticat and recent Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf (gr. IIT) winner Pluck. In fact, Bourbon County had a huge Breeders’ Cup, as Juvenile (gr. I) victor Uncle Mo and Classic (gr. I)
winner Blame both hail from the land just east of Lexington.
 
Denali spreads out over 700 prime acres of the best-quality land in the region, known for its limestone-rich soil and its centurylong history of raising strong Thoroughbreds. The facilities at
Denali are top-shelf and include modern, fire-safe barns; large paddocks and fields as well as individual-sized paddocks ideal for sales prep, lay-ups, and limited turnouts; round pens for breaking and training; and a Stratton Exerciser for yearling sales prep.
 
The farm is managed by Gary Bush, and Don Snellings serves as yearling and sales manager. Craig Bandoroff said his team at Denali ranks with the very best in the region, and its attention to detail is second to none.
 
Others who contribute to Denali’s success as a boarding and sales prep operation are a consulting equine nutritionist to take care of the horses’ food needs and soil evaluators that test the soils annually for fertilization requirements. Denali keeps a tight control on is equine population to make sure its pastures remain in the best possible condition. Currently, 100 mares roam the pastures.
 
Denali’s most famous resident is the Hall of Fame runner Serena’s Song, one of the greatest fillies in racing history. Robert Lewis, the late owner of Serena’s Song, chose Denali for his star because of Craig Bandoroff’s hands-on approach and his compulsion to do things the right way.
 
Denali is committed to providing its clients with the best possible care for their broodmares, sales prospects, and racing prospects. While Denali is a major operation, it is also committed to customized care and providing individualized attention to each horse. It is dedicated to the Thoroughbred industry and each day displays a commitment to the equines that call it home and the customers it has served so well for the past two decades.