In the world of horse racing, it’s not every day you witness a modestly priced filly transform into a valuable contender practically overnight. But that’s exactly what happened at the Tattersalls Ireland Breeze-Up Sale.
Unbelievable Rise in Value
In what was easily one of the most remarkable sales in recent memory, a Cotai Glory filly notched up an astounding 13,650% increase in value, selling for €165,000. The filly, initially purchased by Johnny Collins of Brown Island Stables for a mere €1,200 at the Goffs Autumn Sale, became the talk of the town on Friday morning.
From Modest Beginnings to Big Time
Johnny Collins, a shrewd and experienced consignor, saw potential where others might not have. Described in racing terms as “greener than spring grass,” Collins brought the filly to Cork, where she thrived. At the sale, her breeze was the fifth-fastest straight run at Fairyhouse, and she caught the eye of many in attendance.
Kevin and Clodagh Mitchell of Phillistown House Stud were equally perceptive, having initially bought the chestnut filly for €5,000 as a foal at the Tattersalls Ireland Sapphire Sale. The events at Fairyhouse proved that sometimes being in the right place at the right time, coupled with an acute eye for talent, pays off handsomely.
A New Chapter Awaits
The lucky buyer, Anthony Stroud, signed off on the filly for Shaikh Duaij Al Khalifa. Stroud, who has an eye for top-quality racing prospects, recalled being impressed by her breeze. “It’s not just about the speed,” he noted, “but her balance and the excellent consignor she came from. Johnny has an eye for a good horse, and I’m hopeful she will prove to be extraordinary in her racing career.” No trainer has yet been selected to oversee her journey on the racecourse, indicating that the journey of this talent-laden filly is only just beginning.
Pedigree and Potential
The filly’s pedigree reads like a who’s who of racing royalty. Her second dam, Salonsun, is a full-sister to the Listed winner Monblue and a relative of multiple race winners, including Sammarco, who took home the Deutsches Derby. Her family tree is filled with champions, only adding to her allure.
This filly is a living testament to the adage that in horse racing, just like life, ‘you never know’. A seemingly innocent purchase can evolve into a record-breaking sale. And with each glittering step, the wonder builds – what more lies in her future?
More to Come
While Collins took home the biggest story of the day, he hinted there may be more to come. With three other horses still to go through the sale ring, he expressed optimism particularly about Victor Ludorum, another bright prospect aiming to follow in these illustrious hoofprints.
Every now and then, a sale story intersects with the greater narrative of horse racing’s unpredictable path – stakes are high, just as the rewards can sometimes defy expectation. This sensational six-month rise of one Cotai Glory filly is sure to be recounted for years in the gilded halls of racing lore.
