Howl At The Boon is a genetic game-changer! With no Cat, Dual Rey, Conman or Acres in his genetics, he is the out-cross stallion of the future.

‘Bluey’s’ superior performance genetics will complement a wide range of mares, providing much-needed diversity, which breeders are increasingly seeking.

Howl At The Boon is an investment in the future of Australian performance genetics, which will pay dividends for generations to come.

He is a powerful combination of superior performance bloodlines, being by multi-million-dollar sire Once In A Blu Boon and from the outstanding NCHA Derby Champion Beccy’s Merada.

Bluey’s owner, Belinda Staib, has the absolute highest regard for Beccy’s Merada, saying she always loved watching her.  “She was so consistent and such a cowy mare”.

Belinda always wanted a foal from Beccy, believing that a colt out of her favourite mare of all time by just the right stallion could make a lasting impact on the Performance Horse industry. Not only is Beccy an exceptional individual, but she is from a strong female line that includes her full sister, Merada In Prada (Victorian Futurity and NCHA Derby Champion).

As fate would have it, in 2020, during a conversation with the mare’s owner, Pam Drew of Cutting Edge Performance Horses, Belinda discovered a recipient mare was carrying a foal by Once In A Blu Boon. Belinda had wanted a foal from him for some time. She instinctively knew this combination had the potential to be something very special. “I said, “Wow, I would love that foal. I knew Pam wanted a filly, and I asked if I could have first preference if the foal was a colt. Within minutes of him being born, she let me know”.

Bluey grew into a beautiful animal with a striking presence. He quickly surpassed all expectations. At over 15HH, with an innate intelligence and athleticism, he proved early on that he would suit any performance horse discipline.

While Belinda and fiancé Ken Frost, decided to debut Bluey as a cutting horse, the intention was always to look towards campdrafting in the future.

He was trained and shown by Phil Dawson in the NCHA and DDCC Dalby Futurities. Even though he was unable to draw cattle that enabled him to show his exceptional ability, he captured a lot of attention. It wasn’t the debut Belinda hoped for, and even though Phil would have loved to keep showing him, the decision was made to forge ahead with the plan to change disciplines.

Bluey has what Belinda describes as a smooth, slinky, cool way of moving. “He is very, very smooth and naturally carries himself beautifully. He has a gift for knowing how to move efficiently, where to put his feet and position his body. He is also very willing – you only have to show him something once. He has a big motor but is not hot”.  When asked if he can travel, Belinda smiles and says, “He sure can!”

In 2025 Bluey made his Challenge debut with Rob Leach, further exploring both his athleticism and ability to work cattle.  2026 will see his debut in the campdraft arena with Kimberley Sammon.

Belinda and Ken operate Beljay Performance Horses, also home to stallion Shines Like Metallic. They pride themselves on breeding exceptional performance horses, carefully considering genetic lines. They firmly believe that Bluey is an asset to their own breeding program and will have a positive impact on the industry.

2025

2024

HOWL AT THE BOON

2026

• Willinga at Juandah Plains with Kimberley Sammon. Rd1 (88.5) [View Video on Facebook]

2025

• Australias Greatest Horseman Rd1 Herdwork with Rob Leach. [View Video on Facebook]
• Nutrien Classic Preworks.  [View reel on facebook]
• Nutrien Classic Presale promo.  [View reel on facebook]
• Nutrien Classic Presale promo. [View video on Youtube]

PEDIGREE

Dam: Beccys Merada

• 2018 NCHA Open Derby Championship with Phil Dawson (224).  [View video on Facebook]
• 2018 NCHA Open Derby Championship with Phil Dawson (224).  “Horse Eye View”:   [View video on Facebook]

Sire: One In A Blu Boon

• Once In A Blue Boon Promotional video.  [View video on Youtube]
• 2012 Oklahoma City. 4yo Open Champion with James Payne.  [View video on Youtube]
• 2012 Arbuckle Mountain Futurity 4yo Open Championship with James Payne (223).  [View video on Youtube]