Big Sky Ranch

We are delighted to have been able to acquire a farm with more than 135 years of thoroughbred racehorse heritage. Big Sky Ranch (formerly known as the Gary Player Horse Stud) was founded by the Ellis family in 1883 as a horse stud. The Ellis family bred numerous champions and studbook dynasties on the farm including Prestisimo, Hey Presto, Magic Charm, Magic Link, Mowgli, Lavonia, Pussmoth, Preston Pam and Pipes of Pam.Gary Player acquired the farm in 1974. His personal involvement with the stud and winning philosophy produced Creator, My Advantage, Amajuba, Kadarko, Foreign Source

We are delighted to have been able to acquire a farm with more than 135 years of thoroughbred racehorse heritage. Big Sky Ranch (formerly known as the Gary Player Horse Stud) was founded by the Ellis family in 1883 as a horse stud. The Ellis family bred numerous champions and studbook dynasties on the farm including Prestisimo, Hey Presto, Magic Charm, Magic Link, Mowgli, Lavonia, Pussmoth, Preston Pam and Pipes of Pam.

Gary Player acquired the farm in 1974. His personal involvement with the stud and winning philosophy produced Creator, My Advantage, Amajuba, Kadarko, Foreign Source, World Over, Foolish Pride, Kazatka and Pinehurst to name a few.

The choice of the estate near Colesberg has proved to be a masterstroke for all that have owned it. The quality of its breeding stock over the years has become acknowledged by the increasingly selective and sophisticated South African and international thoroughbred market.

For the past couple of years, under the stewardship of Greg Morris, the farm has undergone a tremendous upgrade. Buildings and stables have been modernised to meet the modern breeders' aspirations. The veld and associated farmlands are all going through a revitalization program and the operation has diversified to include a Nguni Stud. The introduction of cattle is a key element needed for the veld restoration program the farm has adopted.

Thoroughbred racehorse breeding remains a key element of the farm's operation and whilst this has been downscaled significantly, horses and the breeding thereof will always be at the "heart" of our farming operation.

Natural Karoo veld is renowned for its rich trace elements and high calcium content, ideal for growing strong-boned and resilient animals.

The extreme climate is perfect for breeding racehorses - The cold kills off parasites and the warmth is essential for proper growth.