Great Notion, leading Maryland sire, pensioned
Press Release
November 19, 2025
Northview Stallion Station announces the retirement of legendary Maryland sire Great Notion, citing his advancing age and the farm’s unwavering commitment to placing his long-term health and well-being first. Set to turn 26 ahead of the 2026 breeding season, Great Notion concludes an extraordinary career that helped redefine the Mid-Atlantic breeding landscape. He will remain at Northview, the farm he has called home for more than two decades, to enjoy a peaceful and well-earned retirement.
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A perennial powerhouse and Maryland’s Stallion of the Year every year since 2016, Great Notion has long been the dominant force among regional sires. A proven source of speed, versatility, and class, he has delivered a level of consistency rarely seen in any breeding program. The dazzling sprinters, brilliant juveniles, and durable winners that have become his trademark propelled him to historic financial milestones—surpassing $5 million in annual progeny earnings in 2023 and exceeding $6 million in 2024, the first Maryland stallion to reach that mark in more than a decade.
“Great Notion has been nothing short of transformational for breeding in Maryland,” said David Wade, General Manager of Northview Stallion Station. “His ability to upgrade mares, his consistency year after year, and the sheer quality of his runners have elevated our entire regional program. Retiring him now is simply doing right by the horse. He’s earned every comfort we can give him, and his impact will continue to be felt for generations.”
Great Notion retires with remarkable statistics that underscore his influence:
- 55 stakes winners and a total of 82 stakes horses, an extraordinary 17% of all his starters.
- 79% winners from starters, with average earnings per starter exceeding $102,000.
- A stakes winner in 18 consecutive crops—a testament to his unparalleled consistency.
- A Maryland Million staple, with at least one winner on the card for 16 consecutive years.
His progeny includes some of the region’s most accomplished and runners:
- Future Is Now, a multiple graded stakes-winning sprinter of $967,160.
- Coastal Mission, a millionaire and one of the Mid-Atlantic’s most dominant modern performers.
- Anna’s Bandit, the iron-tough mare who earned more than $800,000 and won 17 races.
- Havelock, a five-time graded stakes-winning turf sprinter with earnings over $650,000.
- Course-record setters Ruby Notion and Jazzy Idea, two of the fastest turf sprinters ever to emerge from the region.
Great Notion’s legacy traces back to his own brilliance on the track—a dazzling sprinter and Grade 1-placed colt at three—before becoming one of the most important stallions in Maryland history. His ability to sire elite talent across surfaces, distances, and ages has made him a cornerstone of the state’s breeding and racing success story.
“There may never be another one like him,” Wade added. “He elevated the entire region—breeders, trainers, owners, and the reputation of Maryland racing itself. We’re grateful for every foal he gave us.”
Great Notion will remain at Northview Stallion Station in retirement, receiving the highest standard of care befitting one of the most influential sires the Mid-Atlantic has ever known.
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