Marie's Rock Stars, As December NH Sale Ends At Goffs

Dual Grade 1-winning hurdler Marie's Rock (Ire) (Milan {GB}) (lot 704) topped the third and final session of the Goffs December NH Sale on Wednesday.

The daughter of Grade 3-winning jumper By The Hour (Ire) (Flemensfirth) brought €155,000 on the bid of Coolmara Stables. She was consigned by Clonbonny Stud.

Closutton Stables' Pink In The Park (Ire) (Walk In The Park {Ire}) (lot 713) was next at €120,000, with Powerstown signing the ticket. The listed chase winner is Grade 1-placed over hurdles.

During the day's session, 139 lots sold from 211 offered (66%) for a gross of €2,536,200. The average was €18,247 and the median was €11,000. Overall, 672 horses visited the ring with 439 (65%) marked as sold for an aggregate of €7,525,900 (-8%). The cumulative average was €17,144 (-2%) and the median settled at €11,500 (-4%).

“The highest priced NH mare and foal at public auction for the third successive year is a fitting tribute to the progress that the Goffs December NH Sale has made over the last decade,” said Goffs Group chief executive Henry Beeby in his end-of-sale statement. “From small beginnings our NH Team have worked tirelessly with NH breeders to provide a market that is now the first choice for so many in the category. We are proud that Goffs is now seen as the market leader by so many in the NH world whether it is for the mares and foals this week or in the store sector with the Arkle Sale.

“Despite the week starting with a major storm that caused a huge amount of turmoil and presented major travel issues for horses and people, buyers have flocked to Kildare Paddocks in their droves with significant numbers from the UK whilst, of course the record-breaking foal is destined for France. We are grateful for every entry, every bid and all the support we receive as we continue to recognise that we are nothing without our clients and their indulgence.

“All that said, we acknowledge the challenging nature of the NH market away from the headlines. Whilst our clearance rate has improved it is not where we would all like to see it and the sales ring can be a lonely place if you don't have exactly what the market wants. As ever, our commitment to Irish breeders remains steadfast. We will work for you and do everything in our power to create the most vibrant market for every horse you entrust to us. That is the point of Goffs and why we exist. From foal to mare, Flat and National Hunt, €1,000 lots to seven-figure sales toppers, the team at Goffs is passionate about what we do and how we do it. We are here to serve at all levels of the market and will continue to provide a viable, transparent and appropriate sale for every category, deriving pleasure and satisfaction for each and every sale regardless of price or category as long as our clients are happy or, at a minimum, satisfied.

“To provide that service, we will continue to engage with HRI, ITM, ITBA and every breeder or potential vendor. We will continue to invest in Kildare Paddocks and in Irish Racing as we believe passionately in Irish horses, Irish racing and the Irish thoroughbred industry.

“In closing I repeat our thanks to every vendor and each purchaser for the trust both entities place in Goffs with every transaction. Nothing is taken for granted and we remain as ambitious as ever for every visitor to our sales. I also want to acknowledge the hard work of all the staff who work literally night and day to show and present the horses at each sale. They are so often the unsung heroes of the act but their dedication and obvious love for each horse in their care is always a joy to see whilst the camaraderie and support offered across each sale is inspiring.

“For now, we wish all Goffs clients a very Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year and look forward to welcoming each and every one back to Kildare Paddocks in 2025.”