It takes a team to run a large breeding stud, here are the key members of Astek
Sue Fowleris the driving force behind the well-known, respected and established Astek Stud.
She began breeding horses in 1995 with an Arabian Stallion Elenbees R Rated over NZTB and warmblood mares. As the demand grew for warmblood horses so did Astek Stud! Sue has become one of New Zealand's equestrian pioneers in branding, marketing and breeding warmblood sport horses,
"Ultimately we all thrive on following our excitement in life, the relationship with an equine partner is always unique and rewarding, only recently I realised that although we believe we train horses, in reality they train us in the ways of better relationships and connection! It is said that the next horse finds us when we are ready for what he/she has to teach us so look at your equine friend in a new light as your personal growth expert."
With over 20 years of breeding experience Astek Stud now boasts of an extraordinary number of top quality horses competing over all disciplines. "My original aim was to assist in making New Zealand a competitive force on the world scene, it is so satisfying that many of those with my Astek bred horses are proud owners with the ambition to succeed at top level. I'm very confident the horses will take them there and I shall continue to support them in every way I can."
The breeding of the latest in the line up of stallion Astek Quatermaster heralds the introduction of an extremely modern type of equine athlete with the most trainable temperament and a selection of gears seldom experienced. His uphill balanced canter is a joy to ride and only enhanced with a rider on his back.
Following the fantastic success of Gym Bello’s progeny in all disciplines, Quatermaster has big shoes to fill as a sire but all signs point to continued success for the stud with the depth of his pedigree set to produce exceptionally athletic horses for both dressage and jumping careers.
Gym Bello presently remains the most sought after Astek stallion due to his sucessful multi talented progeny with their uphill conformation, calm highly trainable temperaments and athletic ability. With extraordinary high fertility, Gym Bellos strike rate with vets and breeders country-wide is well known and Gym Bello babies continue to fulfil all expectations as they continue up the grades.
Set up of Astek Stud based in Nelson
It was a huge undertaking to set up again but it is nearly there! We would like to acknowledge Mecland Roading (Murray Chambers) and Lindsay Dennis (fencing) who both did an amazing job and are highly recommended! Below is a slideshow of the progress, from paddock to arena!!!