Superstar New Zealand race mare Legarto has been sold for A$2.8 million (approximately $3.4 million) at the Magic Millions fillies and mares sale on the Gold Coast. The Matamata mare was acquired by prominent breeding operation Yulong, marking one of the highest sales for a New Zealand-trained mare at public auction. Legarto, who has been retired, will not return to racing and is set to go straight to stud. She is a distinguished winner of multiple Group 1 races, including the NZ 1000 Guineas and the Australian Guineas. Yulong has a history of purchasing elite mares, having previously acquired other champions such as Imperatriz and Melody Belle for breeding at its Victorian facilities.
Why It Matters
The sale of Legarto underscores the growing demand for high-quality bloodstock in the thoroughbred racing industry, particularly for established racehorses transitioning to breeding. The price achieved reflects the increasing market value of top-performing New Zealand mares, which have historically garnered significant attention at auctions. Yulong’s strategy of acquiring “trophy mares” is part of a broader trend where breeding operations seek to enhance their stock with proven race winners, thereby impacting breeding programs and the future of horse racing in Australia and New Zealand.
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