The prestigious Tattersalls December Mares Sale has made history, shattering the European record for the highest-grossing single day of horse sales. The auction's second day generated a staggering £60 million in turnover, setting a new benchmark for the industry.
Multi-Million Guinea Lots Dominate Proceedings
The record-breaking day was headlined by the sale of Barnavara, who became the highest-priced filly sold anywhere in the world this year. The bidding war concluded with Sugar Whiskey Trading securing her for 4.8 million guineas, equivalent to £5 million. Remarkably, the filly was initially purchased as a yearling for just £61,000.
In another major transaction, the top-class mare Porta Fortuna was sold to the powerhouse operation of M V Magnier for 4.5 million guineas (£4.7 million). Auctioneer John O’Kelly hailed her as “the embodiment of excellence.” Magnier's Coolmore Stud was a dominant force, adding four lots at a combined cost of 11.1 million guineas.
The day equalled a record with 11 individual lots selling for one million guineas or more. Other significant sales included Tamfana (2.6m guineas to M V Magnier), Saqqara Sands (2.1m guineas), and Choisya (2m guineas).
Trainer's Dream Realised in Bidding Frenzy
Barnavara's trainer, Jessie Harrington, expressed sheer astonishment at the final price. “Jeepers. That was more than my wildest dreams,” she said. “We sort of thought in our excitement that she might make 3 million guineas. The bidding sort of stopped at 1.5 million, and I was a little worried but then it went on and on and on. I promise you it is amazing.”
The historic £60 million day brings the sale's total, including private transactions, to 79.6 million guineas. The current average sale price stands at 186,666 guineas, with a median of 70,000 guineas.
Final Session and Historic Context
The final session of the December Mares Sale commenced on Wednesday morning at 9:30 am, with a huge number of lots still available. While the 2025 sale has set a new daily record, the all-time record for a single lot at this event remains the 6 million guineas paid by Magnier for Marsha back in 2017.
The unprecedented level of investment underscores the enduring strength and global appeal of the European bloodstock market, with the Tattersalls December sale solidifying its position as a pinnacle event for breeding stock.
