KZN Sale Delivers Opportunities Across The Market

One of the hallmarks of the Bloodstock South Africa KZN Yearling Sale has long been its commitment to making thoroughbred ownership accessible to as many people as possible, and Thursday's auction at Suncoast Casino, Hotels and Entertainment once again lived up to that philosophy. Buyers across the market found opportunities to invest in quality yearlings at prices to suit a variety of budgets.

Held in its customary slot during the build-up to the Hollywoodbets Durban July, the sale once again blended the excitement of South Africa's biggest racing week with the relaxed, festive atmosphere that it has become synonymous with.

Significantly, the sale's top three lots reflected its broad appeal. The three highest-priced yearlings each realised around R1-million and were purchased for three different trainers, including two smaller operations.

Lot 54, a striking chestnut colt by Legislate consigned by Cheveley Stud (Agent), was knocked down to Tony Rivalland for long-time patron Mary Liley, at R1.2-million.

Lot 88, a well-balanced filly by Legislate from Beaumont Stud, realised R1.1-million after Sean Tarry signed the docket on behalf of Antony Beck.

Jacques Mitchley secured Lot 33, a strong, well-muscled colt by Vercingetorix bred by Hemel 'n Aarde Stud, for R1-million. The colt will join Dennis Bosch’s Summerveld stable.

Sterling Miller's Pound Bloodstock, renowned for uncovering value and a regular supporter of the KZN Sale, topped the buyers' list with 10 purchases at an average price of R280,000. Among them was a striking Danon Platina filly out of the five-time winner Ma Black (What A Winter), secured for R450,000.

Among the other notable value-hunters to leave the sale well satisfied were Glen Kotzen, Gareth van Zyl, Jonathan Snaith, Dean Smith and Garth Puller, each securing yearlings to suit their respective requirements.

Danon Platina enjoyed a productive day in the ring overall, with his progeny attracting strong interest across the market. His 16 yearlings realised prices ranging from R30,000 to R450,000, earning the Mauritzfontein stallion top honours on the sires’ log with aggregate sales of R3.695-million.

Peter Blyth’s Clifton Stud, a consistent Top Five vendor at the KZN Sale since 2022, topped the vendors’ list with 17 yearlings sold for an aggregate of R3.87-million. The farm has earned a reputation for producing durable, value-for-money racehorses with an impressive strike rate at the highest level.

The sale recorded its third-highest turnover in the past 20 years, while the average price reached a record R232,500 per yearling and the median remained firm at R180,000.

Bloodstock South Africa CEO Michael Holmes commented: “The KZN Sale has always been about creating good opportunities throughout the catalogue while maintaining the quality that buyers have come to expect.

“We're grateful for the continued support of our vendors and purchasers. We look forward to building on that momentum in the years ahead."