Frankel and friends

Frankel.

I’m still recuperating from a busy trip to Europe but thought it beyond time I posted some photos, beginning with these from a February 25th visit to Banstead Manor Stud -- home of some of the best stallions in Europe -- in Newmarket, England.

It’s been so long since I was at Banstead Manor that Dansili, who is now recognized as one of the top sires in the world, was unproven and standing for just £10,000. His 2014 covering fee is £95,000, with only Frankel (£125,000) and Dubawi (£100,000) breeding for more in England, and Oasis Dream (at £85,000) close behind.

And Frankel...well, he’s Frankel. Click here for fun Frankel facts and a photo of him as a foal.

Observatory, winner of the Queen Elizabeth II S.-G2 and Prix d'Ispahan-G2. His son Twice Over won back-to-back Champion Stakes, among other Group 1 wins.

Dansili, a Group 2-winning full brother to champions Banks Hill, Intercontinental, and Champs Elysees, and a leading sire.

Dansili wasn't interested in putting his ears up.

This is a priceless expression.

Dansili's Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe-winning son Rail Link.

Pensioner Zamindar, sire of Arc-winning filly Zarkava and classic winners Zenda and Darjina.

Another Dansili son at Banstead Manor: Bated Breath, a Group 2 winner with first foals of 2014.

Champion Oasis Dream, sire of 10 Group/Grade 1 winners. (Odd photo angle because I had to maneuver around a large group of students.)

Frankel stepping out and eyeing his audience.

Frankel says: "I can pose and hold my own shank, thank you very much!"

He was as interested in us as we were in him.

On their way back to his box, Frankel's groom reached over and played with the gentle stallion's ear.