Hunter Tops Yearling Sales

Sun Herald

Sunday March 30, 2008

By Nat Wallace

HUNTER Valley studs have dominated one of Australia's important yearling sales, easing the financial strain of last year's equine influenza-affected breeding season.

The five most expensive lots auctioned during the four-day main session of the Magic Millions yearling sale on the Gold Coast came from the Hunter.

The result debunked fears buyers would avoid flu-infected yearlings.

Baramul Stud in the Widden Valley sold four of the top-five-priced yearlings, including the equal highest bid of $2.2 million for a colt by local stallion Redoute's Choice, whose $330,000 service fee is easily Australia's highest.

Another Redoute's Choice colt, offered by Coolmore Stud at Jerry's Plains, also attracted $2.2 million in the ring.

In a further boost for the local economy, eight of the top-10-priced yearlings are destined for breeding farms or trainers in the Hunter Valley.

© 2008 Sun Herald

Back to News Index | Back to Home