Optimism up at equine sale

THE annual bloodstock yearling sales have surpassed expectations following the return of a strong contingent of buyers from the eastern States, Malaysia and Singapore.

A record Perth average was set during the two-day premier sale, while a new maximum price record of $150,000 was reached for a filly sired by Metal Storm. This was well above the top price of $92,500 reached the previous year.

The average price of $24,791 was significantly higher than last year’s $18,400 average. Prior to the horse auction, Perth general manager Murray Tillett had conservatively predicted the average price would rise to just $20,000.

While the number of lots sold was down to 218 from 229 in 2002, the total sales during the premier offering was $5.4 million, compared with just $4.2 million in 2002.

The overall clearance rate at the auction was 77.58 per cent compared with 68.56 per cent the previous year. Magic Millions managing director David Chester said it was great to see vendors meeting the market.

“This year’s sale has been supported strongly by clients from Singapore and Malaysia,” he said.

The top three buyers of the sale were: WA-based identities John Chalmers Bloodstock with a total spend of $378,000; Japan Australian Bloodstock Agents with a total of $300,000; and local trainer Vern Brockman, who spent $286,000.

Mount Baker trainer Margaret Skinner from Athelston Stud said she had received strong prices for her Land Speed Record-sired colts, which reflected the renewed optimism felt at the Belmont Park stables.

“There definitely seems to be a bit of optimism around at the moment,” Ms Skinner said.