An enthusiastic group of owners, my team and I enjoyed another fantastic week in New Zealand for the NZ Bloodstock Yearling Sales at Karaka, near Auckland.
Firstly, thanks to New Zealand Bloodstock and all the vendors for their wonderful hospitality. They really do make the trip enjoyable, and run an outstanding operation. Worldwide support of their sale and horses is reflected in the strength of this year's sale, with average and median up significantly on recent years. Although it does make it tough for those of us purchasing!
We visited several farms in November, and inspected well over 400 yearlings. We recorded video footage of these yearlings, who, despite being very early in their yearling sale preparations, were well presented. The inspections, pedigree analysis and video footage allowed me to garnish support from my clients to go shopping in January. Thanks to the 10 or so owners who joined us in New Zealand, and owners at home watching closely on television and waiting for text messages!
There was high competition for quality yearlings in the NZ$100,000-$200,000 price range, and we failed to get on the scoreboard on day 1 of the sale. In one respect, it made me confident that we had shortlisted the right yearlings!
But on day 2 of the Premier Sale, I was thrilled to secure one colt from the Cambridge Stud draft, a very athletic and well-conformed colt by first-season sire BURGUNDY, out of group-placed mare LA VIENNE (by THORN PARK). At NZ$100,000, I thought he was a good purchase for clients considering his type, athleticism and pedigree.
Just three lots later, a full sister to YOU'RE SO GOOD went through the ring. Upon my advice and the great support of Sheamus Mills (Sheamus Mills Bloodstock), a client of the stable purchased this filly by SAVABEEL out of LIGHTING SPUR for NZ$140,000. Offered by Waikato Stud, another farm whom I trust and always presenting a wonderful draft, this filly will make her way to our stable in coming weeks.
View a couple of videos of these two yearlings below.
