Rock Of Gibraltar leads the way at Tatts Ireland September Sale

A well related colt by Coolmore sire Rock Of Gibraltar led the way at the Tattersalls Ireland September yearling sale on Wednesday.

John O’Byrne was the successful buyer of the colt at 65,000 euros.  He is a half-brother to 8 winners including G3 Molecomb Stakes winner Almaty.  “He was the standout today,” O’Byrne said.  “There was a lot to like about him and he’s out of a very consistent producer and the sire has done it the world over.”

At the end of Day 2, Tattersalls reported 7% gains in both the average (10,911 euros) and aggregate (4.62 million euros) compared with 2010. The clearance rate was up one point to 84%.

“It is obviously very satisfying to attain growth for the second year running while the clearance rate has again excellent,” Tattersalls GM Roger Casey said.  “It was particularly pleasing to see the diverse range of UK and international buyers.”

Coolmore sire Holy Roman Emperor was also popular with a 62,000 euros colt and a 50,000 euros filly.

Ben Marshall’s Palatinate Bloodstock bought the colt who was described by auctioneer Alistair Pim as “one of the best I’ve seen by Holy Roman Emperor”.

Eamon Reilly of BBA Ireland was the successful bidder for the filly who will be trained by David Wachman.

Coolmore sire Duke of Marmalade topped the two-day sale at Fairyhouse with 70,000 euros colt bought by pin-hooker Willie Browne on Tuesday.