"As the day unfolded, there was some more spirited bidding resulting in a stronger session today," said Peter Heagney, associated director of William Inglis & Son. "As the sale this year expanded into a two-day format, the healthy clearance rate of 80% indicates that there was still plenty of demand for this type of horse. Buyers were quick to focus on the nicer horses that were well-conformed, resulting in some strong competition at the top end of the market."
The autumn yearling sale at Oaklands Junction ended its two-day run on Monday in Australia. The 324 yearlings sold grossed $3,054,750 (approximately $1,649,565 in U.S. funds) and averaged $9,428 ($5,091). The clearance rate climbed slightly on the second day, bringing the overall rate to 80%. A colt by With Class, out of Constant Pressure, brought the auction's top price of $60,000 ($32,400). Pastore Pty Ltd. purchased the colt Sanctuary Lodge. With Class sired a very impressive winner at Sandown on Sunday, Lady Sophia. Further cementing the sire's popularity at this sale, the second top-priced yearling was also by With Class (USA), sold for $46,000 ($24,840).Bred in Canada, With Class is an 8-year-old unraced son of Deputy Minister. Produced from Canadian champion and Broodmare of the Year Classy 'n Smart, With Class is a half-brother to Dance Smartly (by Danzig), a Canadian Horse of the Year, Canadian Broodmare of the Year, Canadian Triple Crown winner, and Eclipse Award winner.