Trade was uplifting in many ways

IT is no secret that Ireland, Irish bloodstock and, by association, Goffs have endured a torrid time over the last while, and so it has been most uplifting to host a sale of such vibrancy, strength, depth and consistency.

For that we firstly have our vendors to thank and, as ever, we are indebted to each one of them for their support of our sale.

The superb Foal Sale trade almost paled into insignificance when compared to the electric atmosphere of our Breeding Stock Sale, most especially on Friday although Saturday’s top price was the highest for the session in 15 years.

We knew that we had assembled the best catalogue for many years as so many major breeding entities had drafts of note but the tempo, enthusiasm and hunger to buy was just breath taking as a huge cast of international buyers, both in person and online, battled for mare after mare to highlight the enduring attraction of the best Irish bloodlines.

The class of 2021 will disperse around the globe as international breeders tap into the class and quality that was offered whilst it was also heartening to see so many local stud farms investing in the future.

Unique welcome

Goffs November has long held a significant place in the calendar and last week only underlined its importance to Irish breeders, who sell with us safe in the knowledge that they will always get that little bit more, as well as international buyers who are attracted to Ireland by the quality on offer, together with the unique welcome they receive from the Goffs team and our colleagues at Irish Thoroughbred Marketing.

Indeed, a trip to Goffs is of course for business but our teams always go out of their way to make it enjoyable at the same time.

So, our thanks to everyone who walked through our famous gates for the November Sale. Nothing is possible without their patronage and we truly value every lot and each bid.