The WTBA reported that 144 horses were sold for a gross of $2,472,800, an average of $17,172, and a median of $11,500 The buy-back rate was 29.4%, with 60 of the 204 horses offered failing to find new homes. In 2001, 140 horses were sold for a gross of $2,442,400, an average of $17,446, and a median of $14,000.
Business was steady on several fronts at the Washington Thoroughbred Breeders Association's summer yearling sale, which was held at Emerald Downs on Tuesday. The number sold and gross revenue increased by 2.9% and 1.2%, respectively, while the average declined by 1.6%. However, the median dropped significantly, suffering a 17.9% setback.The auction's highest price of $120,000 was brought by a Siphon colt, who was purchased by Kentucky bloodstock agent Tim McMurry, agent. Consigned by Northwest Farms, agent, the colt is a half-brother to Washington champion and multiple stakes winner Al Renee (by Al Mamoon). The colt was produced from the 18-year-old Bold Ruckus mare Renee's Reflection, who was a stakes-placed runner. Murray also bought a Smart Strike--Northern Hilite filly from Northwest Farms for $100,000. She is a half-sister to added-money winner Strong Credentials (by Carson City). In both transactions, McMurry was acting on the behalf of Stanley Fulton, the owner of Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino in New Mexico.
