Changing money, even during the Yearling Sale in October, was seen by some as not helping the image of racing, as the whole financing model continues to break down. But in other ways, this sale can be seen as an excellent example of why the industry should be nurtured and supported.
Every major breeder from around the world will see individuals in this catalog as representing the most historic and coveted bloodlines that money can buy. Last year’s record trading saw ten mares pass the 1,000,000gns mark, with two-thirds of them bought by overseas entities to strengthen paddocks as far away as the United States and Japan. It can rightly be described as a worrying drain of talent, but at the same time it concerns investments that fall outside the British and Irish ecosystem.
It’s reasonable to again expect a few participants to reach seven-figure heights, especially during the keynote Scepter Session on December 2, with some obvious names to consider.
Best of all in terms of numbers was Bring luck (Lot 1734), the collector of group races at 2, 3 and 4, and some major prizes during her incredibly consistent time with Donnacha O’Brien.
Choisya (1717) reached the highest level this year in the Jenny Wiley Stakes (G1T) at Keeneland for the Crisford team and has added value as a daughter of Night of Thunder who will be crowned champion sire of Great Britain and Ireland this year.
To survive (1723) suffered a headbutt in the Prix de Diane (G1) last year and came very close to victory in Group 1 again this year ahead of Nicolas Clement, while I like you was another exemplary performer (1743) for David Menuisier and Quantum Leap Racing and had her biggest day in the Sun Chariot Stakes (G1) last year.
Tiffany (1747) is unlikely to reach the 2017 European auction record of 6,000,000gns set by Elite Racing and Sir Mark Prescott, both of whom were also responsible for star sprinter Marsha, but has entered an enterprising finish of second in three consecutive group races in Germany.
The results of last week’s Foal Sale were a reminder, even if he doesn’t win the sire title this year, that Frankel remains the biggest draw in flat racing. His just three foals, including the top lot at 1,150,000gns, easily placed him at the top of the table in terms of both total and average.
It seemed only a matter of time, and yet it could be the case posthumously, that Wootton Bassett would one day become champion sire and finish clear in second this year. The rags-to-riches Coolmore resident’s death in September means his final crop will be born in 2026, and there are half a dozen opportunities to own one, with different Galileo And Dubai mares in the catalogue.
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