In a remarkable feat, the 2011 NZ Bloodstock National yearling sales at Karaka will see Sir Patrick and Lady Justine Hogan’s world famous Cambridge Stud aiming to become the leading vendor by aggregate for the 30th consecutive year.

Cambridge Stud has a formidable record at Karaka selling seven of the eight all-time top priced yearlings and 11 yearlings that have surpassed the million dollar mark.

Cambridge still holds the record for the highest priced yearling ever sold at auction in the southern hemisphere.  That occurred in 2000 with the NZ$3.60 million Zabeel colt who went on to win the G1 AJC Derby as Don Eduardo.

“What the stud has achieved over the last 29 years is a tribute to the staff who have worked here and the horses we have had,” said Sir Patrick.  “We have been very fortunate to stand such wonderful horses such as Sir Tristram and his son Zabeel.

“It will be a huge achievement for Cambridge Stud if we can reach the 30th consecutive year, but the most important thing is for us to continue to turn out the best yearlings we can for the sale, and let the results take care of themselves.

“Everyone has their time at the top, and although we are hoping to achieve the milestone, it would also be great for the industry to see other vendors achieve the top spot as well.”

Cambridge Stud was also responsible for the highest priced yearling sold in Australasia in 2010, the Zabeel colt from Diamond Like who was knocked down for $2 million to the bid of Sydney-based bloodstock agent James Bester.

Bester was overwhelming in his praise for the yearling at the time, and confirmed that Cambridge Stud is truly producing a world class product.  “I love this colt, he just knocked me over when I first saw him.  He would have to rate as the highest of all yearlings I had ever seen in the world.”

Back in 2007, Sir Patrick pledged his unwavering support for the New Zealand National yearling series by selling his yearlings exclusively at Karaka.   “There’s only one way to ensure the New Zealand Sale has the best possible catalogue and that is by leading by example,” Sir Patrick said.  “It sends the clear message to buyers that if you want to buy Zabeel progeny you must come to New Zealand.

Cambridge Stud has the largest draft in the 2011 Karaka Premier Sale with 51 yearlings, plus an additional 19 yearlings in the Karaka Select Sale.