As records tumbled throughout Magic Millions ‘greatest ever Gold Coast yearling sale’, Natalie McCall was thrilled to secure two ‘cut-price’ purchases including the full sister to Baroda.
Despite the coronavirus pandemic restricting travel and access to the sales for many buyers, sales from all divisions surpassed $211 million and saw the average purchase price from Book One reach $253,000, up from $250,000 last year.
“In a sale that always sees highly inflated prices I think I’ve found a couple of great value horses that slipped through the cracks,” McCall said. “When inspecting, I look at all vendor’s horses not just the big names, that’s where the bargains are generally found. “Our aim is to have a runner in the Magic Millions 2YO Classic next year as well as increase the quality of our stock. We did try to buy into a higher price bracket only to be under bidder on a handful.”
Possessing a keen eye for value, McCall bided her time before securing Lot 775, a Pariah colt out of Shamrock Slipper for $80,000. “Pariah’s really caught my eye as a first season stallion. I loved what I saw,” McCall said.
“They are very athletic and possess a classic ‘Redoute’s (Choice)’ look about them. If you’re willing to back your judgement and have a crack at a first season sire, you can also find yourself not paying the premium of the established stallions. “That coupled with the fact Redoute’s Choice’s sons are beyond outstanding, Snitzel and Not A Single Doubt to name a few.”
A speedy two-year-old, Pariah kicked off his racing career with victory in the Group 3 Canonbury Stakes before consecutive seconds in the Blue Diamond Prelude and Group One Blue Diamond Stakes.
A well performed sprinter herself, Shamrock Slipper contested Listed company throughout her career, culminating in taking out the 2013 Magic Millions Sprint as a three-year-old filly. “He is just a very neat running type, perfect to target the Magic Millions,” McCall said.
McCall’s patience was once again rewarded when securing the full sister to Baroda for $72,500.
“First of all she is a QTIS filly so there are amazing bonuses on offer for her, but then you delve into her page and most notably she is a full sister to a very promising Team Edmonds trained mare Baroda,” McCall said. “She has been raised on one of the best farms in Queensland and is a lovely strong girl.”
A four-year-old by Epaulette, Baroda has been a very consistent performer winning five of ten career starts, securing over $250,000 in prize money.
Shares are still available in both horses and for all enquiries visit www.NatMcCallRacing.com.au or email Brett@natmccallracing.com.au
Brodie Dickson