The 2025 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale made headlines on Day Three with a record-breaking moment as a colt by champion sire Snitzel sold for an all-time high of $2.8 million. Presented by Widden Stud, the colt was purchased by Ciaron Maher Bloodstock after an intense bidding war that shattered the previous record of $2.7 million, set just two years ago.
A Star in the Making: The $2.8M Snitzel Colt
The record-setting colt, described as “early and sharp” by winning bidder Ciaron Maher, is the second foal of Group Three winner Humma Humma. The striking young horse was the standout of the sale, captivating the crowd with his pedigree, physique, and flawless movement.
“He has a great pedigree from a quality family,” Maher explained. “Bred on a good farm, and hopefully, he can get back to a farm in good time.” He added that while the final price exceeded expectations, “the top ones always get stronger” in spirited bidding contests.
Maher secured the colt for Phil Cunningham of the UK-based Rebel Racing, who arrived at the auction just minutes before the sale. “It was Ciaron’s pick of the sale,” Cunningham said. “This is my first time to Australia, and I’m absolutely delighted to get involved. It gives me an excuse to come back!”
Widden Stud’s Moment of Glory
For Widden Stud, the sale marked a significant milestone in their storied history. Antony Thompson, Widden’s principal, shared his pride in achieving a new record.
“A really proud moment for us,” Thompson said. “To have the highest-priced yearling come from our farm is an incredible honour.” Reflecting on the colt’s attributes, he added, “He had Magic Millions written all over him—very strong, forward, and with a bombproof action.”
Thompson also acknowledged the strong interest in the colt, with several buyers bidding well past the $1.5 million mark. “It’s humbling and special to see him do so well.”
Day Three’s Other Highlights
While the Snitzel colt was the star of the day, other impressive sales rounded out a strong session:
- $1.8 million: A Written Tycoon colt from In Her Time, sold by Yulong to Coolmore’s Tom Magnier.
- $925,000: An Extreme Choice colt out of Mrs Ramona G, purchased by China Horse Club/Newgate Bloodstock & Partners.
- $875,000: A Wootton Bassett filly from Lady Piaf, secured by Victory Lodge.
- $850,000: Another standout Snitzel colt, out of Medovina, purchased by James Harron Bloodstock/Tony Fung Colts Partnership.
Magnier, who acquired the Written Tycoon colt, noted the calibre of horses at the sale: “Everybody liked him, and you could see from the bidding that the good judges were on this horse. He’s a nice individual, and we’re delighted to have him.”
Record-Breaking Sale Statistics
The Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale continues to exceed expectations, with gross sales for the first three days reaching $144.5 million. Key figures include:
- Lots Sold: 521
- Top Price: $2.8 million
- Average Price: $277,351
- Clearance Rate: 80%
Magic Millions Managing Director Barry Bowditch highlighted the depth of the market, with multiple parties bidding above $1.5 million for top lots. “It’s an outstanding feather in our cap to set a new record of $2.8 million. The overall average and clearance rates are holding very well, and we expect tomorrow’s Howden Super Session to push total sales beyond $200 million.”
The 2025 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale has already delivered exceptional results, and with Day Four’s Howden Super Session commencing at 10 am (QLD time), the excitement is far from over.
