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| Staff Writer |
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The European yearling sales season kicks off with Arqana's prestigious August Sale on August 16, with a star-studded cast of buyers descending on Deauville.
Established juggernauts Coolmore, Godolphin, Juddmonte, and Shadwell were all busy inspecting lots on August 15. However, emerging forces could add spice to proceedings, with Wathnan Racing representatives Richard Brown and trainer Alban de Mieulle spotted on the grounds.
American high-roller John Stewart's Resolute Racing, already a major player Stateside, was also represented by agent Gavin O'Connor.
No consignment attracted more attention than Ecurie des Monceaux, perennial leading vendor. Their 39-strong draft features progeny of top sires Dubawi, Frankel, and Siyouni.
Henri Bozo, Monceaux's director, said: "Things have been busy and smooth and we've had plenty of people looking since the beginning. Based on what I'm seeing, I'm reasonably confident."
Japanese trainer Yoshito Yahagi, who spent €2.1 million on a Siyouni colt two years ago, returns seeking another star. "Hopefully this could be the place to find a bargain," he said, citing strong prices at recent Japanese sales.
Arqana, formed in 2006 through the merger of L'Agence Française and Goffs France, has quickly established itself as a major player on the global bloodstock stage. The August Sale, in particular, has produced numerous Group One winners, including Sottsass, Almanzor, and Earthlight.
The three-day sale begins Friday at 2 p.m. local time, with Saturday and Sunday sessions following racing at 5:30 p.m. As the gavel falls on the first lot, the European yearling sales season will be off and running, with fierce competition expected both in and out of the ring.
