Now that all the Running Springs broodmares who are expecting foals in 2026 are on the property, it's time to share an update! If you've been following along with my horse breeding journey, you know this is one of the most exciting times of the year. Today, I'll go through which mares are pregnant, their due dates, the sires of the foals, and even make some color and gender predictions. Leave your guesses in the comments so we can revisit them when foaling season arrives!
Raven - Due January 20
Raven is officially the most pregnant in the barn. Her safe date is New Year's, so we'll be watching her closely. She's carrying an embryo from Only Blue Couture, a multiple World and Congress Champion in Hunter Under Saddle, bred to my stallion VS Code Red.
My prediction? A gray filly named Violet, because Blue Couture and Code Red make Violet, right? Gray foals don't look gray at birth, but I have a feeling this one will be.
Indy - Due February 7
Indy, my Thoroughbred mare, is expecting an Appendix foal (a cross between a Quarter Horse and a Thoroughbred). She's had two foals with us before, Wheezy and Wally, and this time she's bred to VS Code Red.
My guess? A dark bay colt. Even though color genetics can be tricky, I'm betting on a tried-and-true bay.
When Is Horse Breeding Season?
Before I introduce the next mare, let's answer a question I get all the time: When is horse breeding season?
Most mares are seasonally polyestrous, meaning their heat cycles are influenced by daylight. In North America, horse breeding season typically runs from February through June, though some start as early as January. Breeding during this window ensures that foals are born in the spring, which is ideal for growth and development.
At Running Springs, we plan foal arrivals between late winter and early spring, perfect for healthy, strong babies!
Rikki - Due February 9
Rikki is a maiden mare, meaning this will be her first foal. She was already bred when I purchased her, and the foal belongs to her previous owners. She's bred to Hey Good Lookin, and since she's been acting a little studdy (like a stallion), I'm predicting a red colt.
Charlotte - Due February 12
Charlotte has one of the most amazing stories. She came from a kill pen in Oklahoma and has made an incredible transformation. She's carrying an embryo from Trudy (Kat Tails R Blazing), an NSBA World Champion, bred to my young stallion First Thingz First.
My guess: bay roan filly. If that happens, I might just keep her!
Lexy - Due March 12
Lexy is a new addition to the farm and still in quarantine. She's a palomino grade mare carrying an embryo from Waffle House, a World and Congress Champion, also bred to VS Code Red.
Prediction: bay roan colt.
Phoebe - Due March 24
Phoebe is carrying a full sibling to my stallion Denver—BS The First Lady bred to RL Best Of Sudden. Denver has been phenomenal, so I’m hoping for a chestnut roan filly this time.
Maggie - Due April 10
Maggie is carrying another exciting foal, VS The First Lady bred to Machine Made. This foal will be a full sibling to Kirby, one of my favorites. My guess: bay colt.
Annie and Happy - Due April 11
Annie and Happy share the same due date. Annie is bred to First Thingz First, and I'm praying for a chestnut roan filly with her blaze, if so, she's staying here! Happy is also bred to First Thingz First, and I'm betting on a dark liver chestnut colt.
Looking Ahead to Foaling Season 2026
We have a barn full of mares carrying some of the most exciting combinations yet, three Denver babies, three VS Code Red babies, and a couple from other top stallions.
Foaling season is my favorite time of year. There's nothing like watching a healthy foal stand for the first time. Let me know in the comments: Which foal are you most excited about? Do you think my predictions will be right?
Stay tuned, 2026 is going to be unforgettable at Running Springs!
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