Phoenix of Spain colt tops Goffs

The final day of Goffs November foal sale was topped by a cracking colt by Phoenix Of Spain. Consigned by Galbertstown Stables, the colt ex Almarada  was purchased by Finn Kent for €90,000. Post purchase Finn commented, “I thought he was the nicest horse of the day. I bought the two-year-old half-brother, Almarada Prince, at the breeze-up sales this year for £40,000. We hold him in very high regard, and we hope he’ll be a black-type horse next year.”

He also noted, “He’s an improving horse, so it made sense to buy the brother. I didn’t think we’d have to pay that much, to be honest, but the owner was keen to get him, so we didn’t want to leave him behind. He’ll be kept for racing, and I think Craig Lidster will probably train him.”

Phoenix Of Spain, boasts an impressive record as a sire with 19 individual first-crop winners, showcasing a remarkable 42 percent success rate. Notable among his progeny is Haatem, the Group 2 Vintage Stakes winner for Richard Hannon.

Commenting on Phoenix Of Spain, Finn remarked, “From small numbers Phoenix Of Spain has had a very solid start. He was a bit of a surprise package as I didn’t expect him to do as well as he has with his two-year-olds, but the runners he’s had have gone well so I’m pleased to buy one by him.”

Breeder Tony Cosgrave shared his admiration for the colt, stating, “He was a belter, and I loved him from day one. I’ve never had a foal like him. He was some walker but had an even better temperament.”

Reflecting on the decision to pair Almarada with Phoenix Of Spain, Cosgrave explained, “Another reason I went to Phoenix Of Spain is that the mare has done well with French Navy before, so Phoenix was the closest thing I could get to Shamardal. Phoenix was also a very good horse himself. The mare isn’t in foal, but we have the whole winter to dream. A big thanks as well to everyone in Galbertstown, especially Pa Doyle. It’s a great result.”

 

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