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| Staff Writer |
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On the day following Seize the Grey's triumph at the 149th Gr.1 Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course, the Maryland State Fairgrounds were abuzz with anticipation ahead of the Fasig-Tipton Midlantic 2YOs in Training Sale.
After three days of under tack previews, potential buyers had a plethora of promising prospects to consider. Despite occasional rain, the barn area witnessed significant foot traffic over the weekend, indicating high levels of interest among both buyers and sellers.
Regarding market sentiments, Bennett anticipated continuity, especially given the recent strength observed in top-end horse sales. While acknowledging variations in demand across different price tiers, he remained confident in the appeal of well-prepared horses to diverse buyer groups. Notably, he highlighted the sale's track record of producing successful graduates, a testament to its quality offerings and buyer satisfaction.
Among the consignors, Crane Thoroughbred Services stood out, presenting 13 head at the sale, including Hip 276, a notable Bernardini filly. Bred in Kentucky, this filly descended from a prestigious lineage, boasting impressive credentials and garnering attention from prospective buyers. Clovis Crane, representing the consignor, expressed delight in the filly's exceptional condition and performance during the under tack preview.
Crane shared an anecdote illustrating the filly's remarkable composure, underscoring her impeccable temperament and readiness for the sale. Despite a brief delay, the filly remained composed, showcasing her tranquil demeanor and professionalism—a testament to her exceptional temperament and preparation.
Aside from Crane's standout offering, attention also gravitated towards other prospects, including Hip 401, a Bolt d'Oro filly, and Hip 285, a colt from Vekoma's first crop. These prospects, exhibiting strong breezes and impressive pedigrees, added to the sale's allure, drawing further interest from potential buyers.
Consignors like Al and Salley Pike's Pike Racing at Highlander also contributed promising prospects, such as Hip 83, a bay filly by Uncle Mo, showcasing the sale's diversity and quality offerings. The Pike Racing team expressed confidence in their consignment's appeal, underscoring their excitement for the sale's outcome.
Mage, the victor of the 2023 Gr.1 Kentucky Derby, stands out as the most prominent among the recent stakes-winning graduates from the Midlantic Sale. Showcased on the cover of the current year's catalog, this offspring of Good Magic was acquired by Ogma Investments for US$290,000 from the Sequel Bloodstock consignment in 2022.
As the sale approached, anticipation mounted, with buyers and sellers alike eagerly awaiting the opportunity to engage in transactions. With the sale slated to commence at 11 a.m. on both days, stakeholders remained optimistic about the prospects for successful transactions and continued market momentum.
Among the stars of their consignment were Hip 12, a promising filly sired by Volatile, Hip 59, a colt from the first crop of Authentic, and Hip 429, a Curlin colt with a hefty price tag of US$600,000 from last year's Keeneland September Sale.
The first under tack show saw remarkable performances from the Volatile filly and the Authentic colt, both clocking bullet works. The Volatile filly blazed through an eighth of a mile in an impressive :10 flat, while the Authentic colt covered a quarter mile in :21 1/5.
Bred in Kentucky by Newton Anner Stud Farm, the Volatile filly, purchased for US$230,000 at last year's Keeneland September Sale, showcased not just speed but elegance. Described as "beautiful" by Dean DeRenzo, she exuded confidence on the track despite the challenging conditions, leaving a lasting impression with her standout performance.
While the Authentic colt, hailing from Florida's Bridlewood Farm, displayed a similar flair for speed and determination. Acquired for US$300,000 at the Keeneland September Sale, he demonstrated a deep affinity for the dirt track, clocking one of the fastest gallop outs across all three days of the breeze shows.
"All of our horses showed off how we thought they would," DeRenzo said. "So, we're happy. Traffic at the barn has been jammed. I think buyers are liking what they see. Now, we just need to see how the market holds. It was a little low in April. There is some uncertainty going on in the U.S. It's an election year, and things can get a little strange in election years. I think the good horses sell well anyway. We'll find out."
The Hartley/DeRenzo team's knack for identifying top talent is further underscored by their Justify colt, Hip 400, who breezed an eighth in :10. This chestnut colt, acquired for US$200,000, comes from a distinguished lineage of winners, hinting at a bright future on the track.