(New Zealand bloodstock press release)

New Zealand Bloodstock’s three-day select yearling sale experienced big downturns in business during its opening session at Karaka Jan. 28.

The 145 horses that sold grossed NZ$5,149,500 (approximately $2,725,321 in U.S. funds). The average price was NZ$35,514 ($18,795), and the median price was NZ$30,000 ($15,877). The clearance rate was 69%.

Compared to results for all sessions a year ago, the average was down 40.5% from NZ$59,709 while the median declined 37.5% from NZ$48,000.  The 2008 clearance rate was 79%.

The most expensive yearling sold was a Street Cryfilly, which brought NZ$125,000 ($66,155) from Andrew Scott. Twin Pines was her consignor. The filly is the first foal out of the Umatilla mare Lowan Behold.