(Edited Magic Millions press release)
A More Than Ready –Lily Isabella colt brought Aust$240,000 (approximately $192,422 in U.S. funds) to top the second session of the Magic Millions national weanling sale on the Gold Coast of Australia June 1. Perth horseman Joe Byrne bought the colt on behalf of his Singapore-based client Ong Tiong Seng.
"He was the nicest type in the sale," Byrne said. "I didn't really want to have to pay that much. It's tough buying the nice colts. It's been the same at sales everywhere this year; the nice horses are selling well."
Byrne said the colt would be sent to Perth where he would be prepared for racing. He probably will run in Singapore.
Warwick's Rosari Farm was the colt’s consignor.
During the first two days of the national weanling auction, 372 horses were sold for a gross of Aust$8,299,500 ($6,654,207) and an average price of Aust$22,310 ($17,887). The clearance rate was 85%.
"The past two days have offered buyers with some great opportunities," said Magic Millions managing director David Chester. "It was pleasing to see the clearance rate increase, and the competition for the feature lots was quite strong."