Owen, one of the best breeders I have ever had,in fact two never won a race.The first I went to buy a noted hen in the village a 1968 bird,when I was walking away,I turned to the seller and asked if there was a cock that would suit her,reply " my late father said never to race the pied cock ( NU68A2338 )but to breed off him" he gifted him to me,absolutely rubbish in the basket,out several times and nearly got rid but was a cock short.Lucky me.Just about a winner in every nest. Similar story with a red cheq. Dordin cock,had a hen out on loan and went to collect her,I was asked how I was fixed,cock short with taking her home.Took my pick out of the loft and his statement was " you've just about picked the worst of the lot rubbish in the basket and was not keeping. NOT as far as breeding,again done me well. Good luck mate I enjoy reading your posts