The Irish foal crop of 2014 was up 3% from two years ago and at its largest since 2009, according to Racing Post. Figures through Dec. 31 from the Weatherbys Fact Book show 7,999 foals registered in Ireland last year, a number that doesn't account for late returns. There were 7,757 in 2013, and 10,167 in 2009. The Irish broodmare population also grew, to 12,909 from 12,643.
British figures currently show 4,328 foals, down 2% from the 4,420 registered in 2013. The British foal crop has fallen five of the past six years–with the exception of 2013–since reaching a high of 5,920 in 2008. Britain's active broodmares also dropped by 2% last year to 8,284; however, new broodmare registrations were up 18%.
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