Blaxland starts Magic Millions sale with a bang…

Source: Daniel Meers, Gold Coast Bulletin – 28/5/08

Gold Coast-based bloodstock company Blue Sky Thoroughbreds led the charge on the opening day of the Magic Millions National Sale yesterday, forking out $700,000 to purchase the highest priced weanling of the day.

But there was little time for company director Julian Blaxland to celebrate the purchase of the three-quarter brother to former star mare Fashions Afield.

Literally moments after placing the successful bid, Blaxland was on the other side of the hammer as a Magic Millions auctioneer.

"Flat out, it keeps you busy, but that's part of the fun of it," said Blaxland.

More than $10 million was outlayed yesterday at an average price of $68,000, which was up $17,000 on the same day last year. Blaxland and business partner David Joice were surprised to purchase the horse to their budget.

The Redoute's Choice colt was part of the Swettenham Stud dispersal which totalled more than $6 million.

"When the Swettenham Stud dispersal started so strongly we were concerned we wouldn't have enough money," said Blaxland.

"I was surprised we got him for what we thought we would.

"I guess you get to a certain point over $500,000 where there are only so many buyers."

The company, which shot to prominence with star two-year-old She's Meaner, purchased the horse for a syndicate, but are not sure whether they will sell him as a yearling or race him.

"We'll decide over the next few months," said Blaxland.

"He's a three-quarter to a champion in Fashions Afield, he's by a champion sire in Redoute's Choice, he's a lovely animal."

Blaxland believes if sold at next year's Magic Millions yearling sale, he could fetch anywhere up to and above $1.5million. Blaxland's Blue Sky Thoroughbreds went on to purchase lots 113, a son of Arrowfield stallion Hussonet for $110,000, lot 177 by Catbird for $33,000 and lot 345 from Yarramalong Park for $110,000 for local Queensland clients.

It was a monumental day for Swettenham Stud, which offered 39 lots produced by the broodmare band assembled by the now deceased Robert Sangster. His son Adam, who now owns the stud, said it was a day of mixed emotions.

"It's always sad to see the end of an era," he added.

"But I'm excited about the new journey ahead. There's big shoes to fill."

Sangster said with the recent EI worries, it was a positive sign to see strong bidding for the well-bred yearlings.

"I am particularly delighted with the cross section of purchasers," he said.