In late 1995, given the paucity of information being published about female families, we decided to start a newsletter, which we called Pedlines.

Since both of us were long-time turf writers and the printed media was our forte, the newsletter offered us a variety of expression that we would not be able to accomplish in the commercial publications.  And, since the newsletter did not solicit advertising, it was free to ‘tell it like it is’ about bloodlines and markets, be it complimentary or critical.

As Pedlines enters its 16th year of publication, we feel it still accomplishes its original purpose:  to offer insights into pedigrees not found in any other publication.  Certainly we are proud of a comment from the breeder of an Eclipse Award winner that she would rather read Pedlines than any other Thoroughbred publication, and are flattered by Mr. Forsythe’s endorsement (see Testimonials).

Published six times per year, Pedlines tries to cover a lot of territory.  Female families are certainly the main theme, and we look at them both from the historical perspective as well as how they fit in today's market.  But stallions are not ignored, and we try to project the strengths (or weaknesses) new sires are likely to pass on.  Even this falls back to family analysis since Thoroughbreds breed on in accordance with their genetic heritage, not simply their own racing performance.

For those with a deep interest in pedigrees we often include six generation printouts to help the reader trace the influences that are discussed and analyzed.  Pedlines also offers a variety of other sections when the material so warrants.  Readers are encouraged to ask questions, which we try and answer in the newsletter.  We periodically include Ellen’s selections from Thoroughbred sales.  While analyzing catalogs for specific buyers and/or breeders remains a for-pay project (see “Mating Services”), these sales picks are horses whose pedigree caught her eye and are simply part of the newsletter.  (Unlike others who may offer their sales choices for hundreds of dollars).   And, because most people like to wager a few coins on Thoroughbreds, Ron can sometimes be found (rightly or wrongly) commenting on a runner who has caught his attention, or simply continuing his quest to prove that betting on Thoroughbreds is a better investment than the stock market.  And, just for fun, we even have a contest now and then for modest prizes, usually related to the Triple Crown, Breeders’ Cup or Eclipse Awards.

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