Colts by Snitzel, Redoute’s Choice, Fastnet Rock and Hinchinbrook made a million dollars and more during the opening session of the Inglis Easter yearling sale in Sydney on Tuesday.

A total of 178 yearlings sold at an average of $291,975 marking the best start to an Easter Sale since 2008.  Turnover reached $40.29 million and the clearance rate was up 5 points 78%.

Gai Waterhouse and partners purchased the Snitzel half-brother to Winx sold by Segenhoe Stud, as agent, for $2.30 million.  Involved in ownership of the colt is Emirates Park’s Hussain Lootah, Angelo Konstantatos, David Healey and Fairway Thoroughbreds breeder John Camilleri who retained a share.

“He’s one of the nicest colts in the sale, from the strongest family,” Hussain Lootah said.  “He’s a lovely type and Winx adds a lot to the page.  We hope he’s in the Golden Slipper next year.”

Waterhouse had to fight off plenty of competition from around the ring including under-bidder Duncan Ramage.  The colt is also a full-brother to her G3 Kindergarten Stakes winner El Divino.

“Hussein was on the phone to me after El Divino crossed the line in the Kindergarten Stakes,” Waterhouse revealed.  “After much discussion, he made the executive decision that we must have this colt.”

Shadwell Stud’s Angus Gold was the most active of all buyers securing 11 yearlings for $5.41 million including a colt by Redoute’s Choice from Top Cuban for $1.50 million that will head to Lindsay Park.

Waterhouse will train the Fastnet Rock – Rose Of Cimmaron colt sold by Newgate Farm for $1.20 million for Tom Magnier and Mayfair Speculators.

Yarraman Park Stud’s resident stallion Hinchinbrook came of age in the sale ring with a $1 million colt from Al’s Magic Miss (Magic Albert).  Paul O’Sullivan’s Wexford Stables landed the final blow for owner Mr Yeung.

Snitzel half-brother to Winx sells for $2.30 million