Trade on Day 1 at the 2011 Inglis Easter Broodmare Sale saw a significant rise in average but that was offset by a disappointing clearance rate.

A total of 117 head changed hands at an average of $66,953 which was up 25% on the opening day last year.  The clearance rate was 61.9%.

Turnover of $7.83 million was marginally down but Day 1 last year included the Toorak Park Stud dispersal which grossed $3.8 million alone.

“The market was very selective, which was reflected in the clearance rate,” Inglis Managing Director Mark Webster said.  “We’ve seen the yearling market rebound strongly this year so some great opportunities exist for breeders at the broodmare sale.”

Oceanfast (Monde Bleu) topped the first session at $700,000.  The dam of Champion Filly Alinghi was offered by Yarraman Park’s Mitchell family and was secured by Peter Ford Thoroughbreds.

The Mitchells have kept a percentage in her ownership and the mare will return to Yarraman.  

The Hunter Valley nursery has enjoyed an unprecedented run of success with Oceanfast having sold five of her yearlings at Inglis yearling sales for almost $7.50 million.

The Inglis Easter Broodmare Sale continues on Wednesday (Lots 201 – 400) and Thursday (Lots 401 – 600).