A Galileo (Ire) filly, consigned by Haras des Capucines as lot 51, topped the opening day of the Arqana August Yearling Sale at €810,000. American-based agent Justin Casse signed the ticket.
“She’s from a very good family with a lot of quality and a decent amount of substance for a Galileo,” said the agent. “Every time I went back to see her she was the same horse. Her temperament is excellent.”
An American Pharoah (USA) filly, lot 34, was the second most expensive yearling when purchased by M.V. Magnier for €750,000. Phoenix Thoroughbreds was the underbidder. American Pharoah's first Australian foals arrive this season.
“My grandfather founded Ballydoyle on American dirt horses—that’s where Galileo comes from, that’s where Sadler’s Wells came from,” Magnier told TDN. “It all goes back to the American Classic horse. And we strongly believe in American Pharoah. He really could be the next big thing."
A Charm Spirit (Ire) colt, lot 43, also featured prominently. He was knocked down to Oceanic Bloodstock for €400,000. The son of Invincible Spirit (Ire) has made a promising start with his juveniles in Europe, and shuttles to Windsor Park Stud in New Zealand.
