Student blog from Sam Thompson (Australia)

Having worked in sales back in Australia, I was thrilled when asked to represent the Irish National Stud at Goffs for the week. Leading up to the sales, I had been working at Maddenstown, where we conducted a mini sales prep with six yearlings set to go under the hammer. This experience was invaluable, allowing me to familiarize myself with the horses and understand their individual quirks.

On Monday afternoon, we transported the yearlings to Goffs, preparing to parade them on Tuesday, with the hope of successful sales on Wednesday and Thursday. Chloe, Tara and I we were kept busy showing the horses to a host of major buyers inspecting the stock. Although we were excited, the atmosphere was sombre as we reflected on the passing of the Aga Khan, whose immense contributions to European racing and breeding will have an everlasting impact.

Tuesday evening brought an insightful seminar held at Goffs, organized by the ITBA, where Cathal from the INS hosted four fantastic speakers. Des Leadon addressed challenges facing Ireland’s breeding industry and his ongoing efforts to resolve them, an eye-opening perspective on the industry’s future. Olive O’Connor, an INS graduate, and former employee discussed foaling and possible complications before Bena Hickey, a vet at Anglesey Lodge Equine Hospital, backed this up from a veterinary perspective. Michael Orlandi, who operates as Compass Stallions, concluded the talk with advice for young breeders, sharing experiences from his own journey. It’s safe to say we all took loads away from this insightful night!

Wednesday saw four yearlings through the ring. First was Lot 76 (Equiano x Capsaicin), which I had the privilege of leading through, who unfortunately passed in. However, Lot 91 (Nando Parrado x Divine Approach), led by Chloe, sold as did Lot 114 (Nando Parrado x Fly On The Night) accompanied by Tara. Our final yearling for the day was Lot 145 (Phoenix of Spain x Kerch).

Thursday was another 6:30am start, braving the cold until the sun finally emerged, helping us defrost. We had two yearlings and three broodmares to sell, and buyers kept us busy making their final inspections.

Earlier in the week, we were tasked with choosing a broodmare from the sale as if we were purchasing it, writing a report on why it would be a good investment and how to turn a profit. Once inspections slowed, I enjoyed reviewing mares based on their pedigrees and thinking like a buyer, a refreshing change from parading horses.

The final two yearlings sold well, with Lot 222 (Lucky Vega x Rickrack) making €15,000, and Lot 279 (Nando Parrado x With One Accord) fetching €9,000. This was one of many highlights of my week as I really liked Rickrack, who was such a character, and I also had the opportunity to lead up the Nando Parrado colt. The three broodmares – Divine Approach, Stay Safe, and Spinworthy, all sold successfully to new homes.

The week wrapped up with the ITBA Next Gen Quiz Night which we were all really looking forward to. We did some thinking, raised funds for charity and had lots of laughs. This was a great way to bring everyone together and meet like-minded people. An unforgettable experience, and I’m grateful to everyone who helped make it happen.

Overall, the sale wrapped up on a high note with a strong clearance rate. The horses all handled the new environment exceptionally well, which can be challenging with the constant noise and busy surroundings. It was privilege to represent the stud and meet many industry professionals out at Goffs.

Tara and myself in the famous Goffs Sale Ring

Myself leading up lot 300, StaySafe – 7yo Bay mare

ITBA seminar at Goffs

ITBA Next Gen Quiz Night