By Ric Chapman
When is it all going to stop? Day two of the Australian William Inglis & Son broodmare sale came and went with another 196 moms passing through the ring. And once again the "Wonder from Down Under" -- the incomparable Redoute's Choice -- stamped himself all over it.
The mare It's Who Deanie, a 5-year-old daughter of former Japanese star galloper but failed sire Fuji Kiseki (Sunday Silence -- Millracer) attracted the highest bid. Astute horsemen John Foote, widely recognized in Australia as one of the very best judges, purchased her for a client in foal to Redoute's Choice for Aus$475,000 (U.S.$376,400). Consigned by Yarraman Park, It's Who Deanie was a group-II place-getter and was very swift as a racehorse. Her dam Deanie is related to a handful of outstanding siblings who have produced stars all throughout Europe. Her half-sister for instance, Vallee Secrete, won in France but then produced a UAE Champion, the multiple stakes winner and group I place-getter Fruits of Love.
Quality broodmares were again keenly sought throughout the day conducted in nonstop drizzling rain. A notable dvelopment was the rise and continued rise of Woodlands Stud, which is on a spending splurge. Last week it shelled out Aus$7.1 million (U.S.$5,457,000) on 16 yearlings and thus far have bought five mares -- one of the them for Aus$410,000 (U.S.$315,000) on day 2.
It was Material Girl, a tall, well-built daughter of yet another Arrowfield-based stallion Flying Spur. Consigned by Philippa Duncan Bloodstock, Material Girl is a beautifully bred mare related to many black-type Australian stars like Carolingian, Chiliard, and Magari. She was in foal to former champion Falbrav.
"We have to keep upping the bar," said Woodlands general manager Trevor Lobb, another man admired for his ability to find a good horse.
In all, at the end of day 2, a gross of Aus$9,382,300 (U.S$7,208,700) at an average price of Aus$46,218 (U.S.$35,203) was achieved. The overall gross thus far for the first two days is Aus$38,403,800 at an average price of Aus$95,531, with a whopping 90% clearance rate.
"Following on from the super strong Vinery dispersal yesterday, there has been great competition today at all levels of the market," said Reg Inglis, managing director of Inglis & Son.
The sale continues on Tuesday with a further 290 horses on offer, including 45 race mares and fillies. Highlights tomorrow include: group performers Ain't Seen Nothin', Classy Dane, Coco Cobanna (NZ), Klarissa, Sensational Spot, Sharp Aunty, Star of Gibraltar, Sybeel (NZ) and Sylvaner (NZ).
