This was 14,35% up on last year. The average prices per yearling was also up, by 16,9% at R699 212.
Adrian Todd, managing director of Cape Thoroughbred Sales, ascribed the great start to the year to South Africa offering good value for money: “SA horses have proven themselves to be capable of competing with the best in the world, a feat breeders can truly be proud of.”
The weaker rand also helped, and 14 international buyers were present.
The top lot was Charles, a Trippi colt from a Dynasty mare, from Gaynor Rupert’s Drakenstein Stud. It was bought by Tom Magnier for R6 million.