SHAKOPEE, MN – The annual Minnesota Thoroughbred Association’s annual yearling sale concluded on Monday, August 21st and results were down across the board up against the record numbers from 2016.
There were 58 yearlings consigned to the sale with 55 coming through the ring and 43 changing hands which compares favorably to the sold percentage of 2016. The average and median were down nearly 20% year over year and the gross proceeds, $399,600, was down 23% from the $517,350 in 2016.
Though the comparisons to a record year were unfavorable, the numbers were still up considerably from 2015 continuing a seesaw trend with a record sale in 2014 followed by a dip in 2015 and another record in 2016.
“We were pleased with the facilities, quality of the horses and had an overall solid sale,” said MTA President Cameron Mahlum. “Obviously we wish we had achieved last year’s wonderful sale but once again we are faced with the challenge of acquiring new owners.”
This year’s sales topper, hip number 19, was consigned by John and Kay King for John and Kay King and Art and Gretchen Eaton for $37,000. The gelding, by Astrology out of Minnesota bred champion Bella Notte, was sold to Paul Schaffer.
The leading consignor was Dove Hill Farm with five horses sold for $80,000.
The leading purchasers for the second year in a row were Barry and Joni Butzow purchasing a pair of horses for $64,000 while David Hansen and Cashin Racing Stable purchased four horses each.
According to figures provided by the MTA, Minnesota bred horses are enjoying increasing success outside of the state, winning more races and purse money than ever before.
In 2014, the total amount of purse money won by Minnesota breds in wins outside of Minnesota was $27,046 while last year that number increased to $45,274.
Locally, last year’s sale topper, Firstmate, purchased by Barry and Joni Butzow for $50,000 won the $85,000 Northern Lights Debutante in impressive fashion the day before the sale.
“Thanks to the buyers, sellers and consignors for the opportunity to showcase our industry,” said Mahlum. “It is exciting to see recent purchases winning some big races. The running success of the sales graduates is definitely improving and we hope that continues.”
