Trish Dunell Photography
The influence of the strong Hong Kong buying bench was immediately evident during the early stages of the annual New Zealand Bloodstock Ready to Run sale at Karaka.
Bidding on Lot 53, a Snitzel gelding from stakes placed mare Cape Princess, from Jeremy Whale’s Diamond Lodge draft was settled in favour of Hong Kong trainer Dennis Yip who outlaid $250,000 for the flashy individual.
Yip admitted he had made numerous visits to inspect the horse in the lead-up to the sale after arriving at Karaka earlier in the week.
“He is by a sire who is doing well in Hong Kong and we liked what we saw when he breezed up,” he said.
“As soon as I got to Karaka I went and inspected him and I’ve been back a few times as well.
“He looks a very athletic type with good muscle although he is a little on the small side. That doesn’t worry me as he is a November foal, so he has plenty of time to grow before we get serious with him.”
Yip advised the horse would continue to spend time in New Zealand before heading up to his new home in June next year.
Last year’s leading international buyer by aggregate, Ricky Yiu, was also involved in the thick of the action when he purchased Lot 61, a chestnut Declaration Of War colt, from Matamata’s JK Farm for $280,000.
The colt is a half-brother to good performer Speech Craft, who numbers the Listed Newmarket Handicap amongst his seven career victories.
Also featured in the colt’s extended pedigree is multiple Group One winner Wall Street and Gr. 1 Emirates Stakes (now known as Kennedy Mile, 1600m) winner Bezeal Bay. - NZ Racing Desk.