Hazelwood Con Air - The Dam of Classic success
The Inaugural Landmark Classic Winner also the Dam of Hunter View Conmaze 2022 Nutrien Classic Winner and the Inaugural Nutrien Graduate Winner.
A Historic Beginning: Landmark Classic Champion
Hazelwood Con Air’s story began at a pivotal moment in Australian campdrafting history. Bred by Terry and Christine Hall, where she was sold at the inaugural Landmark Classic Sale in 2008. WL WILD recognised her potential and purchased her, marking the start of a journey that would forever change the history of the Classic and Masters. Shortly after, under the expert guidance of legendary horseman Terry Hall, Con Air returned to compete in the inaugural Landmark Classic Campdraft in 2009.
The competition was fierce, but Con Air’s natural ability, combined with Hall’s skilled horsemanship, secured her place in history as the first-ever winner of this prestigious event. Her victory wasn’t just a triumph; it established her as a standout athlete and signalled the beginning of a career that would leave an permanent mark on the Classic.
From Champion Competitor to Broodmare Extraordinaire
While Hazelwood Con Air was celebrated for her success in the arena, her true legacy began when she transitioned to life as a broodmare. Her influence on future generations of campdrafting horses is unparalleled, with her progeny consistently proving her value as a cornerstone of modern breeding programs.
Among her most notable offspring is Hunter View Conmaze, who claimed two major victories in 2022. First, under the skilled guidance of Ben Hall, Conmaze won the Nutrien Classic Campdraft. Later that year, with owner Ben Stanger in the saddle, she triumphed in the inaugural Nutrien Graduate Campdraft. These back-to-back wins showcased not only Conmaze’s exceptional abilities but also the depth of talent in Con Air’s bloodline.
Another standout progeny is Hunter View Con Elsie, who achieved 6th place at the 2024 Nutrien Nursery Campdraft, once again ridden by Ben Stanger. These achievements demonstrate the remarkable consistency and versatility that Con Air’s lineage has brought to the sport.
A Testament to Quality: Praise from the Stangers
Ben and Cheri Stanger, proud owners of both Conmaze and Con Elsie, have repeatedly expressed their gratitude for having mares of such exceptional quality in their stables. Cheri Stanger’s reflection, “It’s amazing to be able to buy a quality mare out of a quality mare,” summarises Hazelwood Con Air’s lasting impact.
This statement highlights not just the competitive success of Con Air’s progeny but also their value as breeding stock, ensuring her influence extends well beyond her immediate offspring.
A Lucky Encounter: The Lawrence Family’s Purchase
In 2015, Warwick and Fiona Lawrence were heading to the Sydney Royal Easter Show when Fiona purchased the Horse Deals magazine to pass the time. As she browsed the listings, an advertisement in the Broodmare section caught her attention. The listing was for a bay mare named “Con Air.”
Fiona, however, immediately recognised the mare from her past performances and knew that, despite having lost an eye, Con Air had enormous potential as a broodmare. The Lawrence’s acted on this instinct and purchased her, a decision that would prove to be transformative for their breeding program.
Under their care, Hazelwood Con Air became the foundation of a highly successful breeding operation, producing offspring that would carry her legacy into the future. The fortune of this purchase underscores the importance of recognising quality, even when it isn’t immediately apparent.
Building a Lasting Legacy
From her beginnings as a champion in the inaugural Landmark Classic Campdraft to her current status as a legendary broodmare, Hazelwood Con Air has cemented her place in the history of Australian campdrafting. Her influence spans generations, with her progeny continuing to excel at the highest levels of competition.
But her legacy isn’t just about trophies and accolades. Hazelwood Con Air represents the best qualities of the sport—athleticism, versatility, and a drive for excellence. Her ability to produce offspring of exceptional quality ensures that her impact will endure, not only in the arena but also in the breeding programs that continue to shape the future of campdrafting.
Today, Hazelwood Con Air’s name is equal with greatness, a reminder of how one mare’s extraordinary journey can influence an entire industry. From the Landmarks she set to the traditions she continues to inspire, her story is one of triumph, legacy, and lasting excellence.