The Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company’s Spring Sale of 2-Year-Olds in Training saw a significant increase in activity during its second session, with sales figures surpassing those of 2023, highlighted by a $1.9 million purchase of a filly by Tiz the Law, amidst a day of lively bidding and notable purchases by various clients.
– ‣ The Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company’s Spring Sale of 2-Year-Olds in Training saw a significant increase in activity during its second session, with sales figures surpassing those of 2023. A highlight was a filly by Tiz the Law selling for $1.9 million to Donato Lanni on behalf of Michael Lund Petersen.
– ‣ The market showed polarization, with high demand and competitive bidding for top-quality horses, while lower and middle-market horses faced challenges. Despite this, the overall sentiment among consignors and buyers was positive, reflecting a healthy and vibrant auction environment.
– ‣ International participation was noted, with Naohiro Sakaguchi making his first racehorse purchase, a colt by Into Mischief for $925,000. This indicates the global appeal of the sale and the diversity of the buying bench, contributing to the dynamic and competitive atmosphere of the auction.
By Jessica Martini & Stefanie Grimm, the scene was set in Ocala, FL. The Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company’s Spring Sale of 2-Year-Olds in Training was buzzing during its second session. Notably, the auction’s vibe shifted gears with its first seven-figure sale leading the charge. By Wednesday evening, figures soared above those of 2023.
“It was an excellent day,” remarked OBS Director of Sales Tod Wojciechowski, brimming with optimism. “Plenty of good horses are still up for grabs,” he continued, reflecting on the day’s success. Quality horses found their matches, thanks to a high-quality lineup. “A good day, indeed,” he hoped the momentum would carry on.
Wednesday’s session was a spectacle. A total of 171 horses found new homes, amassing $25,841,500. The average sale price stood at $151,120, with the median hitting $75,000. Halfway through the auction, the numbers were telling. With 324 horses sold, the tally reached $46,428,500. The average sale price was up by 9.6% from last year, and the median price had jumped by 14.3%.
A filly by Tiz the Law stole the spotlight, fetching $1.9 million from Donato Lanni, who was bidding for Michael Lund Petersen. This seven-figure sale was just the tip of the iceberg for Lanni, who had a field day, securing six of the top 10 purchases. The domestic buying bench saw a late shake-up when Naohiro Sakaguchi stepped in with a $925,000 bid for a colt by Into Mischief.
“Mr. Sakaguchi is a newcomer,” Wojciechowski shared, excited about the international participation. The market, however, showed its fickle nature, according to consignor David Scanlon. “It’s a rollercoaster,” he admitted. Despite the ups and downs, Scanlon remained optimistic, having managed to sell several horses just over the reserve price.
The OBS Spring sale was set to continue through Friday, promising more action. Meanwhile, the $1.9M Tiz the Law filly destined for Petersen became the talk of the town. Donato Lanni, acting on Petersen’s behalf, couldn’t hide his delight. “Bob Baffert will train her,” he revealed, hinting at high expectations.
Petersen’s knack for picking winners was evident. His portfolio boasted champions like Gamine and Adare Manor, alongside Grade I winner Faiza and multiple graded winner Kinza. The session topper, hip 365, had shown promise early on, tying for the fastest quarter-mile at the auction’s under-tack show.
Tom McCrocklin, who had purchased the filly for Jim Tilton last year, was all praises. “She’s something special,” he said, reflecting on her journey from a $170,000 yearling to a million-dollar sensation. Despite the transformation, McCrocklin noted, “She’s always been beautiful.”
The buying frenzy wasn’t limited to the fillies. Lanni was on a mission, securing top picks for his clients. The morning saw him nabbing a Nyquist colt for Frank Fletcher and a Bolt d’Oro colt for the Three Amigos. His spree included a $925,000 American Pharoah colt and an $800,000 Vekoma colt, showcasing his knack for spotting potential.
As the day wound down, an Into Mischief colt provided a late bang, selling for $925,000 to a first-time buyer from Japan. The colt’s journey from a $350,000 yearling to a coveted sale item was a testament to his potential. Meanwhile, Speedway Stables made headlines with a $725,000 purchase of an Oscar Performance colt, emphasizing the importance of speed and pedigree.
The OBS Spring sale was more than just numbers. It was a showcase of dreams, aspirations, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of horse racing. As the auction continued, each sale, each bid, and each horse carried a story, a hope for the future. Amidst the flurry of activity, the heart of the sport beat strong, fueled by passion and the promise of greatness.
