An O’Reilly gelding topped the Hong Kong International Sale at Sha Tin in Saturday.  He was purchased for HK$7.5 million by Tommy Yeung Kin Wing who also races leading Hong Kong galloper Fascinating Smile.

The 20 lots fetched a record average of HK$4.70 million.  “The average reflects the fact that the lots were beautifully presented and the prices paid were a compliment to the Club,” HKJC Executive Director William Nader said.  “The high prices also reflected buyers’ confidence in the Club’s vigilant vetting procedures.”

The sale topper was bred in Matamata out of Centa Belt.  The dam is a half-sister to G1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas winner Master Belt.  Second dam Lady Di also left the stakes winner Buckle Your Belt (Rangitikei Gold Cup) and Minnie Belt (Canterbury Breeders’ Stakes – twice).

Other notable purchases included sons of Fastnet Rock (HK$7m), Hawk Wing (HK$6m) and Cape Cross (HK$5.2m).

“It was a strong sale by any criterion,” Nader added.  “But it’s not just about profit and loss or about the record average.  It’s about how these horses contribute to the world class standards of Hong Kong racing by their performances on the racecourse.”