Hawkes Racing Secure ‘Best Justify of the Year’ for $1million

Triple Crown hero Justify was the first sire to post a $1million yearling at Inglis Easter on Wednesday with the half-brother to Champion 3YO Filly and dual Group I winner Loving Gaby lighting up the sale ring.

A powerhouse chestnut, clearly stamped by his undefeated sire, the Kia Ora Stud consigned colt from Maastricht was bought by Hawkes Racing.

He is the fourth foal from Group II placed Maastricht, a half-sister to Group I winner Velocitea that made $2.25million when offered at the Inglis Chairman’s Sale in 2019.

Kia Ora Stud sold an I Am Invincible filly from Maastricht last year for $1.2million that is showing serious talent in the Maher Eustace stable as Greece and this stunning colt is another exceptional type from this proven producer.

“He was a belter,” declared Wayne Hawkes.

“We all remember Loving Gaby here as a yearling, she was all quality, but we thought she was a staying type and we got that wrong!

“We trained Mum (Maastricht) and she was pretty good and placed in a couple of Group II races, so we knew she had the quality.

“This colt is the best Justify of the year.”

Justify finished as the leading first season sire of the sale with 17 yearlings selling at an average $338,529.