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One of Australasia’s most respected bloodstock agents, Bruce Perry speaks to The Impact about the upcoming Magic Millions’ July Sales. With more than three decades in the industry is one of the sought-after consultants for buyers interested in top quality bloodstock as well as for vendors needed advice on how best to market their quality bloodstock sales. This year Perry’s daughter Becca will be joining BP Bloodstock.
Q: Having looked at the catalogues for which horses would you rate as the top five in each catalogue and why?
A: Given I am stuck in NZ it difficult to rate the top lots as type is such an important factor. In saying that, there are obviously a number of standouts and none more so than Sunlight & Unforgotten. Mares of their quality are rare and while expensive, they provide breeders with an opportunity to breed from them and hopefully the daughters and granddaughters for many years to come.
Q: What did you think of the online sales – there have been a few sofar?
A: We have been fortunate to have had them during these uncertain times as they have kept the wheels turning, however, I would hate to think they became the norm post-COVID. The capacity to bid online is important but live auctions are a huge part of our industry and much of what takes place can’t be replicated online.
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Q: What do you think should be a buying strategy for this year and going into 2021?
A: Initially, I thought it may be a good time to take a wait and see approach but Australian racing continues to be strong and exciting. The desire for many to race and breed superior racehorses remains so there is little point sitting on the sideline. COVID 19 is obviously having a negative effect on the world but at the same time, it will create some great opportunities for people to find value and upgrade their bloodstock portfolios so they are well placed for a brighter future.
Q: What have been your most significant sales thus far in 2020 and the race track successes of your purchases over the past few years?
A: Thankfully I got to attend all the main yearling sales before the disrupted Inglis EasterSale and purchase 12 yearlings on behalf of clients so they will be a big part of our racing interests during the next few seasons. Our current racing season was severely impacted by the ban on NZ racing at a time when a number of our team were looking to target black-type races so we are hoping that is behind us. However, the last couple of seasons have still been good, highlighted by CrownProsecutor’s 2019 Gr1 NZ Derby win and Nicoletta’s Gr1 NZThoroughbred Breeders Stakes.
Q: What is next for you after July Sales are put to bed?
A: The focus will shift to spring racing and the breeding season. It’s always an exciting time watching the progress of our new season 3yo’s and previous yearling purchases. Likewise, I can’t wait to see the foals of some of last season's first crop sires and in particular Ardrossan.
Q: Your daughter is joining the family business. What are your plans for her?
A: Bringing Becca on board will definitely be a huge advantage for the company. With so much uncertainty surrounding auctions, you would expect more breeders to retain quality yearlings and take them through to the racing stage to target the strong tried horse market. This is certainly one area that we will look to develop and involve her in.