Arqana Kicks Off With Phenomenal Demand For Wootton Bassett

Demand for the progeny of Wootton Bassett proved stronger than ever at the opening session of Arqana’s October Yearling Sale, where his stock produced an impressive average of €200,857.

Stroud Coleman signed for a quartet of six-figure yearlings by Coolmore’s new recruit, two of which were purchased on behalf of Alison Swinburn; owner of dual Group/Grade 1 winner Audarya (Wootton Bassett). Swinburn’s new recruits are Lot 14, a daughter of Group performer Harem Lady which cost €210,000, and Lot 45, a colt costing €270,000.

Stroud Coleman’s most expensive purchase of the day was a Wootton Bassett colt from Ecurie des Monceaux, for whom they went to €420,000 on behalf of an undisclosed client. “He was expensive!" Anthony Stroud commented. “He comes from a very good family and an excellent farm. I liked him a lot, though that goes without saying.”

Offered as Lot 49, the January-born bay is the first produce of Lucerne, herself a half-sister to Charm Spirit. Stroud added Lot 153 to his haul later in the session, going to €310,000 for the Wootton Bassett colt from Haras de la Louviere, which will be trained by Simon Crisford.

La Motteraye Consignment offered another late highlight of the session in the shape of a Wootton Bassett grandson of Group 1 Nassau Stakes heroine Winsili. Oceanic Bloodstock’s Michel Zerolo secured the bay for Peter Brandt’s White Birch Farm at a price of €400,000.

Bloodstock agent Jamie Piggott and trainer Nigel Tinkler made a significant purchase on Monday in the shape of JK Thoroughbred’s Wootton Bassett filly (Lot 211). Piggott later revealed the daughter of Group performer Broken Applause had been purchased on behalf of owner Martin Webb. “She’s a lovely filly,” Piggott added. “She’s got residual value, which is wonderful. She’s got an amazing temperament, she’s so chilled out.”