The
rising popularity of Westbury Stud stallion Reliable Man (IRE) was never more in
evidence than when Lot 379 hit the auction ring on day two of the NZB Ready To
Run sale.
The stylish grey colt, offered through the Phoenix Park draft, is out of well
performed Faltaat mare Stella Doro and features multiple group performers
Aquidity, The Sportsman and Ombre Rose in his extended pedigree.
With progeny such as Gr.1 Victoria Derby (2500m) runner-up Sully flying the
flag for Reliable Man in the lucrative Australian market it was no surprise
that the bidding quickly escalated as multiple international interests vied to
secure the colt.
When the action was completed it was Hong Kong's Upper Bloodstock that had won
the day with their final offer of $430,000.
"He was a stunning colt that we just couldn't fault," said agency principal
Ross Lao.
"His breeze up was very attractive and when we saw him in the flesh he more
than matched what we had seen on the video.
"He looks a real staying type, very well proportioned with a lovely action and
excellent conformation."
Lao advised the colt would now spend some time in the spelling paddock before
being tried in New Zealand ahead of a decision on his racing future.
"We will see how much progress he makes during his time in the paddock and
initial preparation before we decide where he will be trained," he said.
"Given we believe he will furnish into a stayer it could well be he does his
early racing in New Zealand with the option to then send him to either
Australia or Hong Kong depending on where he will be best suited."
The colt was the third purchase for Upper Bloodstock during the sale having
secured a Husson colt for $120,000 on the first day while they also picked up
an All American colt for $40,000 earlier on day two. – NZ Racing Desk