3 minute read
As we head into Karaka 2021 we talk to some of the agents
With most international buyers unable to attend the 2021 sale, do you think this will present additional opportunities for domestic buyers?
You would like to think so. Seeing is believing and if you look hard enough there should be some value to be had.
Have you had more enquiries this year with overseas agents / buyers, or equally domestic buyers, unable to travel to New Zealand for the sale?
Yes I have. Mainly from offshore.
Vendors are now having to provide more information on each lot which has led to an increase in information and transparency around bloodstock sales. Do you think there will be any other positives come out of the global Covid pandemic and how do you feel this will change the industry over the coming years?
Good question. Who knows where the world is heading so online looks to be the way of the future.
The professional media people are doing a great job, taking the horses to the buyers. Camera work has taken a whole new look. I think most of the presentation is outstanding.
Access to vet reports from vendors is also a step forward.
Do you think on-farm inspections are becoming an increasingly important part of the inspection process and how do they help you?
Without doubt. On-farm inspections are crucial. They can change so much in 20 - 30 days. Arriving at the sales complex armed with pre-sale inspection information is a must otherwise the logistics of looking at them all from the time they arrive at the complex until sale day is almost impossible.
Seeing the horse in its own environment, then seeing how they react to sales pressure can be a good guide to how they may handle training and raceday pressure.
Which horse is your favourite Karaka / NZB yearling purchase and why?
My favourite Karaka purchases are Gingernuts and Vin De Dance - successive Derby winners.
What is your favourite NZB moment?
Meeting Luca Cumani. A great trainer and gentleman of the highest order.