Alpha Centauri (Ire)

Observations on the European Racing Scene turns the spotlight on the best European races of the day, highlighting well-pedigreed horses early in their careers, horses of note returning to action and young runners that achieved notable results in the sales ring. Thursday's Observations features the second foal out of a four-time Group 1 winner. 16.45 Leopardstown, Mdn, €25,000, 2yo, f, 7f 47yT The Niarchos Family's homebred filly PROXIMA CENTAURI (IRE) (Circus Maximus {Ire}) is the second foal thrown by four-time Group 1-winning Irish 1000 Guineas heroine Alpha Centauri (Ire) (Mastercraftsman...

Expected to be the star of the show, champion Alpha Centauri (Mastercraftsman {Ire}--Alpha Lupi {Ire}, by Rahy) did not disappoint and brought a co-session-topping €6 million on the bid of MV Magnier. Also part of the Norelands draft who were selling on behalf of Niarchos family like €3.3-million mare That Which Is Not (Elusive Quality) just three hips prior, the imposing grey (lot 1263) equaled the price of her Sea The Moon (Ger) half-sister and fellow Group 1 winner Alpine Star (Ire) to share topper honours. In foal to Sea...

The Niarchos Family's Discoveries (Ire) (Mastercraftsman {Ire}), a full-sister to multiple Group 1 winner Alpha Centauri (Ire) (Mastercraftsman {Ire}), will not step out again in 2021 and will instead wait for the G1 QIPCO 1000 Guineas next year. Sunday's G1 Moyglare Stud S. heroine, also a half-sister to G1 Coronation S. winner Alpine Star (Ire) (Sea The Moon {Ger}), does hold an entry in the Oct. 8 G1 bet365 Fillies' Mile at Newmarket. Connections were also considering a trip to France on Arc weekend or a run in the Breeders'...