(Edited Arqana press release)
Sarissa, a 12-year-old Diesis – Wonderous Minstrel mare, brought the top price of 32,000 euros (approximately $40,489 in U.S. funds) during the Arqana February mixed sale at Deauville in France. French agent Abeth Mussat purchased her from Haras d’Etreham. Sarissa, who is in foal to Dylan Thomas, has produced two winners in Japan, Rock of Sarissa (by Rock of Gibraltar) and Loulan Reverse (by Montjeu).
In all, 144 horses were sold Feb. 17, and they grossed 815,500 euros ($1,031,844). The average price was 5,663 ($7,165). Compared to a year ago, when 120 horses were sold, the gross was down 19.7% from 1,015,000 euros and the average fell 33.1% from 5,663 euros.
Private sales generated 62,000 euros ($74,448) this year compared to 127,000 euros in 2008.
The clearance rate rose to 67.9% from 56.3% last year.
“We have every reason to be pleased with today’s trade, which has registered the highest clearance rate since 2004 and the third-highest aggregate ever,” said Arqana president Eric Hoyeau.