Pleasant Acres barn. (Photo by Tandra Downs)
Continued Confidence Despite Industry Challenges
By Tandra Downs
MORRISTON, Fla. – Pleasant Acres Stallions has successfully concluded the 2025 breeding season with 546 mares bred across their diverse stallion roster – demonstrating continued confidence in Florida breeding despite ongoing industry uncertainties.
The 2025 season marked a significant milestone for the Florida-based operation with the addition of two exceptional first-year stallions: Champions Dream, a son of Triple Crown winner JUSTIFY, and Mr Fisk, who represents one of the few remaining sons of the late, great ARROGATE.
“We’re thrilled with the response to our roster this season,” said Christine Jones, Director of Stallion Services. “Despite the challenges facing Florida breeders with decoupling concerns and various industry obstacles, the support from our mare owners has been tremendous. Several of our stallions increased their book size compared to 2024, which speaks to the quality and confidence breeders have in our horses.”
“The Florida breeding industry continues to face headwinds, but operations like Pleasant Acres Stallions prove that quality stallions and dedicated service still attract mare owners,” Jones continued. ” We’re optimistic about the future and committed to supporting Florida breeders through these transitional times.”
The season saw particularly strong support for established stallions. Leinster – currently in the TOP 5 2025 Leading 1st Crop Sire for progeny earnings and is #1 for 1st Crop Sires by % of BT Winners in all of North America – more than doubled his book from the previous season. Resident stallion Neolithic – the 2021 Florida Freshman Sire of the Year – saw significant growth as his progeny continue to excel on the racetrack in 2025. He currently is the #1 5th Crop Sire by % of BT Winners – ahead of Kentucky stallions Gun Runner ($250,000 fee) and Practical Joke ($100,000 fee.) The success of Leinster and Neolithic gaining such strong support based on their progeny’s performances in the sales ring and on the track, validates Pleasant Acres Stallions’ commitment to standing quality horses.
Pleasant Acres Stallions stands a diverse roster including Grade 1 and multiple graded stakes winners, regional champions, proven sires, and promising young stallions – all supported by the expert care of owners Joe and Helen Barbazon and their dedicated team. The farm’s loyalty to Florida-Bred Excellence includes the important ingredient of Florida-bred progeny BY Florida stallions, strengthening the entire state breeding program. Reflecting their excellent commitment to the industry, the Barbazons were recent recipients of the 2024 Florida Broodmare of the Year Award.
The farm looks ahead to the 2026 season with continued confidence in Florida’s breeding future and their commitment to excellence in thoroughbred breeding.
Standing at Pleasant Acres Stallions: Champions Dream (Justify), Chess Chief (Into Mischief), Doppelganger (Into Mischief), Leinster (Majestic Warrior), Magic on Tap (Tapit), Mr Fisk (Arrogate), Neolithic (Harlan’s Holiday), Simplification (Not This Time) and Verifying (Justify) at the 220-acre farm located just northwest of Ocala. Pleasant Acres Stallions and Joe and Helen Barbazon have received many accolades for excellence, including the 2024 Florida Broodmare of the Year Award, 2021 Florida Freshman Sire of the Year for Neolithic, 2017 Florida Freshman Sire of the Year for Poseidon’s Warrior, 2017 DRF Florida-bred Beyer Award, 2009 Florida Breeder of the Year, 2009 Florida Broodmare of the Year, Breeder of the 2009 Florida Horse of the Year, and was ranked third in the nation for leading breeders in 2009 by average earnings per starter with 10 or more starters.
For information on Pleasant Acres Stallions, visit www.pleasantacresstallions.com.
Director of Stallion Services: Christine Jones: 352-804-6618, christine@pleasantacresstallions.com
Pleasant Acres Stallions is located at 2153 S.E. HWY-41, Morriston, Florida 32668. Owners: Joe Barbazon and Helen Barbazon. Syndicate Manager: Joe Barbazon.
