Bridlewood Farm retains its class in a changing role.
by Michael Compton
The late Arthur I. Appleton will forever be remembered for building up Bridlewood Farm near Ocala, Fla., into one of the industry’s most respected and successful Thoroughbred operations. Established by Arthur and his wife, Martha, on 500 acres in 1976, Bridlewood Farm has been a perennial leading breeder in Florida and routinely ranks in the top 10 on a national basis. The farm, which grew over the years to encompass nearly 900 acres, is responsible for breeding, racing, or training more than 200 stakes winners in its illustrious history.
Among the best horses bred and/or raced by Appleton before his passing in 2008 are David Junior; Jolie’s Halo; Forbidden Apple, Florida’s Horse of the Year in 2001 out of that year’s Florida Broodmare of the Year North Of Eden; Wild Event; and Southern Image.
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