The 2025 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale kicked off with a bang as the first foal of former Magic Millions 2YO Classic champion Away Game topped the charts, fetching an impressive $1.8 million. The Written Tycoon filly, consigned by Yulong, sparked fierce bidding before being secured by John Stewart of Resolute Bloodstock through an online bid from Switzerland.

This marked Stewart's debut at the Gold Coast Yearling Sale, and the American-based buyer made his presence felt by acquiring nine yearlings on the first day, including two million-dollar purchases. Just minutes before buying the Away Game filly, Stewart paid $1.6 million for Coolmore Stud’s I Am Invincible filly out of New Zealand superstar Avantage.

Stewart’s Bold Moves

“It’s been an exciting day,” Stewart said. Speaking from Geneva, he described the challenge of coordinating bids remotely but expressed his satisfaction with his purchases. “The quality of horses here is amazing. The diversity in Australian bloodstock is a credit to local breeders.”

Stewart confirmed that Ciaron Maher, who trained the legendary Away Game, would handle her first foal’s training. “Ciaron was keen to train her and has bought into her with me. It was a must-win scenario, and I’m thrilled with the outcome,” he added.

The I Am Invincible filly’s trainer will be announced soon. Stewart also hinted at further acquisitions in the coming days, underscoring his commitment to building a strong bloodstock portfolio in Australia.

Day One Highlights

Day One saw strong performances across the board, with three additional yearlings surpassing the million-dollar mark:

$1.7 million: A Wootton Bassett colt out of Battleofwinterfell, purchased by Dean Hawthorne Bloodstock on behalf of Jonathon Munz and partners.

$1 million: A Stay Inside colt from Bleu Zebra, secured by the James Harron Colts Partnership and Tony Fung Colts.

$950,000: A Snitzel filly out of Baaqyah, purchased by Sheamus Mills Bloodstock.

Hawthorne praised the Wootton Bassett colt, describing him as “the best colt in the sale.” Anthony Freedman will train the youngster.

James Harron was equally enthusiastic about his Stay Inside colt, calling him “a gorgeous horse” and praising his potential as a first-season sire standout.

Market Snapshot

The opening session grossed over $45 million, with 162 lots sold at an average price of $278,549. However, the clearance rate was a moderate 75%, slightly down from last year’s 85%.

Magic Millions Managing Director Barry Bowditch expressed optimism despite the clearance rate. “We’re satisfied with the day’s results and believe the top-end offerings will drive momentum in the coming sessions.”

Looking Ahead

Day Two of the sale promises more excitement, with several marquee lots yet to enter the ring. Bowditch highlighted the growing international participation, particularly from buyers like Stewart, as a testament to Australia’s global bloodstock appeal.

“This sale reflects the strength of Australian breeding and racing. We look forward to seeing how the rest of the week unfolds,” Bowditch concluded.

Day Two of the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale resumes at 10 a.m. tomorrow.

Day One Statistics

Lots Catalogued: 240 (2024: 210)

Lots Sold: 162 (163)

Lots Passed In: 55 (29)

Lots Withdrawn: 22 (16)

Sale Gross: $45,125,000 ($45,928,000)

Top Price: $1,800,000 ($1,300,000)

Average Price: $278,549 ($281,767)

Median Price: $200,000 ($210,000)

Clearance Rate: 75% (85%)

Top Sellers:

1. $1,800,000: Written Tycoon x Away Game (Lot 185) – Resolute Bloodstock/Ciaron Maher

2. $1,700,000: Wootton Bassett x Battleofwinterfell (Lot 196) – Dean Hawthorne Bloodstock

3. $1,600,000: I Am Invincible x Avantage (Lot 182) – Resolute Bloodstock

4. $1,000,000: Stay Inside x Bleu Zebra (Lot 216) – James Harron Colts Partnership/Tony Fung Colts

5. $950,000: Snitzel x Baaqyah (Lot 187) – Sheamus Mills Bloodstock