Fasliyev Filly Dominates Deauville Session

Saturday evening's smaller session of Deauville Yearling Sale Aug. 19 was dominated by a daughter of Fasliyev who went for 600,000 euros, more than double the next highest price seen at France's premier bloodstock auction.

From the family of Intercontinental and Banks Hill, both winners of the Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf (gr. IT), the filly was purchased by agent Peter Doyle on behalf of Plantation Stud in Newmarket, England, which is being built up again by new owner Dermot O'Rourke.

Her dam, the Generous mare Jiving, is a half-sister to Hasili, who produced Intercontinental and Banks Hill plus other winners including Dansili.

Doyle explained that the filly will go to British trainer Richard Hannon, who was also used by the late Lord Howard de Walden who owned Plantation Stud for many years.

O'Rourke, who purchased the stud in July 2005, is keen to follow in its traditions as well as introducing new blood into the broodmare band. He also recently bought 3-year-old Araafa as a stallion prospect.

During the Saturday session, 88 yearlings had been catalogued, with 79 appearing and 68 selling for 6,285,000 euros, at an average of 92,574 euros and median of 70,000 euros.