National Sale Closes On A High

[Wandering Eyes]

The curtain came down on the marathon Magic Millions National Sale on the Gold Coast on Thursday, and records were returned for the cumulative average and clearance rate. The gross surpassed A$140-million, while the average for the sales of weanlings, yearlings, broodmare and racehorses was A$89,039. The clearance rate finished at 83%.

“To have a gross again over $140-million is a phenomenal result,” Magic Millions Managing Director Barry Bowditch said. “The National Breeding Stock Sale has once again proven itself as the number one sale of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.”

“So many people have played their part in making this year’s National Sale such a success. The vendors, their staff, buyers, the transport companies and drivers, strappers, change over crew and wait staff at the complex should all be congratulated.”

“But I really must pay tribute to the Magic Millions team who have stepped up to the plate and shown incredible dedication from the lead up to this massive event until today. It was a huge team effort and I couldn’t be more proud of their efforts.”

Thursday’s action featured Book 2 of the three-day yearling sale, as well as a small offering of racehorses. Queensland studs sold the three top-priced yearlings, headed by Grandview Park’s Red Element (Aus) colt (lot 2198) who was picked up by the Macau-based owner and trainer combination of Jason Tam and James Moore for A$90,000. Eureka Stud sold the day’s two highest-priced fillies, both by its standout first-season sire Spirit of Boom (Aus). Lot 2115 was selected by Tony Sears for A$50,000, while The Last Stride took home lot 2159 for A$40,000.

A small offering of racehorses saw Godolphin sell the 16 top-priced lots, headed by the 3-year-old gelding Nathula (Aus) (Sepoy {Aus}) (lot 2349), a recent Warwick Farm placegetter. He was bought by Hong Kong’s Bridle Bloodstock for A$165,000. Asian connections scooped the second-highest priced offering as well, the 3-year-old Exceed and Excel (Aus) gelding and two-time winner Thrilled (Aus) (lot 2376), who is headed to Singapore after being bought by Constance Cheng for A$120,000.

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