New Zealand Bloodstock’s National Yearling Sale has made quite the impression on Queensland visitors Brian and Peggy Flannery.
“It’s our first time here. It is a lovely set-up, and I am glad we came,” Brian Flannery said.
The couple have ventured across the Tasman in search of their next star, having already enjoyed success with Manzoice in last year’s Gr.1 Victoria Derby (2500m).
They called upon the expertise of bloodstock agent Guy Mulcaster to select the son of Almanzor as a yearling and have once again utilised his services at Karaka when purchasing two yearlings for $450,000 apiece on Sunday.
Their first acquisition was lot 189, the Vadamos filly out of stakes winner Floramour, who has produced Group Three winner Manolo Blaniq and Group One performer Caboche.
Shortly after they secured lot 196, the Pierro filly out of Group Two winner Forever Loved.
The Flannerys haven’t been involved in racing for long, but they are hoping their recent purchases can further add to their early success.
“We have only been in racing for a few years. We got into it through a friend of ours Neville Morgan and our sons,” Flannery said.
“We bought a few horses and Guy Mulcaster has bought them for us.
“We were lucky enough with our third horse to get Manzoice, which won the Derby in Melbourne.
“That has got us hooked and we thought we would come over here and enjoy ourselves.”
Manzoice has already given the couple a great thrill and they are hoping that continues into autumn.
“He trialled the other day and Chris Waller (trainer) is happy with him,” Flannery said. “It looks a pretty promising start for the autumn carnival.”