Apple's Jade

One of the most respected racing and bloodstock journalists in Britain and Ireland for over 20 years, Ryan McElligott bid adieu to the press room at the Goffs November Breeding Stock Sale as he embarked on his new role as Chief Executive of the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association. Admitting there was some emotion surrounding the move, McElligott looks back on over 20 years reporting on the sport he loves and looks ahead to the challenges he faces in his new position as the IRTA chief.  The 41-year-old wears many hats....

It wasn't too hard to predict that Gigginstown House Stud's 11-time Grade 1 winner Apple's Jade (Fr) (Saddler Maker {Ire}) would be the star of the Goffs December National Hunt Sale and, entering the ring just a handful of lots before the end of the two-day auction, the 8-year-old mare (lot 515) duly commanded the top price of the sale, eventually bringing the hammer down at €530,000. Along with her own illustrious race record, an extra selling point was provided by the fact that Apple's Jade was offered carrying her...

Eleven-time Group 1-winning hurdler Apple's Jade (Saddler Maker) will be among the 522 lots catalogued for the Goffs December National Hunt Sale, which takes place Dec. 9-10 at Kildare Paddocks. Comprised of foals, yearlings and breeding stock, the catalog is now available online. Retired in March of this year, Apple's Jade, who is in foal to Walk In The Park, will be offered by Gigginstown House Stud as Lot 515 Thursday, Dec. 10. The winner of 15 career races, the 8-year-old became the first mare to achieve 11 top level...