Huge Trade at Goffs Land Rover Sale

The Goffs Land Rover Sale of young National Hunt horses took place in Kill, Co. Kildare this week and trade of the future stars of jump racing exceeded expectations. The sale began on Wednesday and following two days of action, last year’s impressive set of KPIs had been comprehensively outperformed. Turnover of €11.59m for the two-day sale was up 50% on last year while the average price per horse at €27,468 represented a 45% increase on 2013.

A large influx of British owners, trainers and bloodstock agents competed against a buoyant domestic buying base which lead to nine horses making €100,000 or more, headed by the top lot which commanded a price of €200,000 from Tipperary trainer Mouse Morris. Over the two days of trade, 44 horses made over €50,000. Another key and very positive aspect of the sale was the fact that 92% of horses offered were sold, a remarkable clearance rate which strongly suggests that supply and demand for quality national hunt stock is very evenly matched.

Henry Beeby, CEO of Goffs recognised the contribution Irish thoroughbred breeders and traders make to the business commenting: “Our vendors have supported us with an outstanding catalogue of young horses and we were thrilled to see them so well rewarded with the spectacular trade.”

Daithí Harvey, Marketing Executive at Irish Thoroughbred Marketing, added: “After a few tough years in this sector it is very encouraging to see Irish National Hunt breeders being rewarded for producing the kind of quality stock Ireland has for so long been renowned for. The results are a huge boost to the National Hunt breeding industry in Ireland and will help fuel confidence and further investment in a sector that is spread countrywide. We are thrilled to see so many UK buyers in attendance, their support is vital and we are confident their efforts will be rewarded on the racetrack.”

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