Dan Patch Award winner Bettor’s Wish made it his calling card to exceed expectations on the racetrack and now he’s doing the same in the breeding shed. His initial book, originally capped at 45 mares, has been increased to 70, according to his owners.

“We took two things into consideration when planning Bettor’s Wish’s book,” said co-owner Art Zubrod. “First, he’s a ridgling, and second, we plan to race him this year; so everyone thought it best to be very cautious with numbers.

“But after corrective surgery to remove the undescended testicle, his fertility has now far surpassed what was expected, and he can well accommodate more mares.”

Bettor’s Wish, last year’s leading money-winning Standardbred with earnings of $1,643,745 and a slate of 19-13-6-0, is back in training with Chris Ryder for the upcoming racing season, and, according to Ryder, he’s “training back great and seems to really like his expanded duties.”

The popular first-year stallion by Bettor’s Delight-Lifetime Star, with a fee of $10,000, is collected as needed at Walnridge Farm of New Jersey. Dr. Richard Meirs at Walnridge says he couldn’t be happier with the progress they’ve made.

“His semen quality is excellent and he appears to be highly fertile,” Meirs said. “I appreciate the conservative approach the owners took, as it gave us some leeway, but I would think that by next season he could be booked to 100 mares or more.”

Those considering breeding to Bettor’s Wish are asked to call or text 908.451.4135 or email bettorswish@gmail.com.