The last week of June remains the most likely date for the combined Goffs UK/Arqana combined breeze-up sale. After the Irish Government's lockdown roadmap was released on Friday and with the UK's position to become clearer on Thursday, all European breeze-up sales will be discussed with Tattersalls. The three sales companies are working to harmonise the breeze-up sales calendar and are preparing for more than one outcome as provisional plans pertaining to the resumption of racing in the UK, Ireland are under discussion, with France to begin on May 11.
“We are adapting all the time and continuing to explore all options to ensure we provide the best market place possible,” commented Arqana Executive Director Freddy Powell and Goffs UK Managing Director Tim Kent. “This is an evolving situation but we will be ready with a variety of options to inform potential purchasers, whether or not they are able to attend the breeze and/or the sale itself.
“For now our preferred option remains selling at Goffs Kildare Paddocks in the week of 29th June following a breeze at Naas some days before the sale but we do not rule out any alternative that may suit better in due course.”
An online platform will be in place to support the sale and allow bidders to participate via telephone and remotely. Breezes will be conducted either online or with limited attendance and that has resulted in accelerated preparations to provide as much information as is required for absent buyers. Videos and detailed reports on conformation and veterinary information alongside more analysis of the breezes are likely following feedback from the Federation of Bloodstock Agents.
In addition, if attendance is limited, a list of acknowledged buyers' list will be created, so that notes and reports by those on the ground can be circulated to absent potential purchasers whilst Goffs may also be able to provide onsite accommodation for visitors.
“Our teams are working tirelessly to adapt and react as we plan for this joint venture,” Goffs Group Chief Executive Henry Beeby and Arqana President Eric Hoyeau said in a statement. “The Goffs site is the best appointed for the social distancing that will inevitably be required if we can have people at Kildare Paddocks. Naturally we will follow any Government directives to the letter and have provisional plans in place to control the numbers in every area inside and outdoors.
“Whilst we have combined our sales, vendors and purchasers should rest assured that discussions with Tattersalls will deliver a workable schedule outcome for all.”
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