KEY POINTS:
The company behind the standardbred yearling sales at Karaka on Monday have a unique problem - the product is too cheap.
That is the bizarre situation PGG Wrightson are finding themselves in with some potential buyers as they prepare for four days of sales, starting at Karaka before heading to Christchurch.
The sale of harness racing yearlings comes at a time when the industry is stronger than at any stage in the past 20 years, with record stakes and the stallions represented now world class.
But PGG Wrightson spokesman Bruce Barlass says a strange phenomenon is striking some buyers.
"We are finding there are people who want to get into the industry who don't know how to," said Barlass.
"What has been one of our great strengths in the past - the fact we sell horses at not extravagant prices - has left some people without anybody to help them spend their money."
The sales come on the back of the megabucks Karaka thoroughbred sales which, with an average close to $200,000, attracts far slicker marketing, more professional agents and buyers as well as a huge overseas buyers' bench.
Bottom line: if you want to buy a galloper, there is no shortage of people willing to help you spend your money.
But because buyers can get into the harness racing market for as little as $15,000 or $20,000 they often feel too embarrassed to approach trainers.
"We have seen that recently because the industry is so strong," said Barlass.
"I have had people ring me, say they love all the good stuff happening in harness racing and they want to buy a horse - but they don't know how.
"I had three guys from Wellington ring and say they like the way Cran Dalgety trains but didn't want to bother him because they only wanted to spend $20,000 or $30,000.
"I just laughed and gave them his number because I knew Cran, or any trainer, would get a buzz out of just hearing from them.
"What people need to realise is if you want to buy a horse you only need a few thousand dollars and then simply ring your favourite trainers and it will go from there. It is simple, although I can see how people might not know that."
Monday's sale, in particular, could provide plenty of bargains, with the increased number of horses and plenty by first-season sire Elsu.
"People love the Elsu stock but trainers are traditionally reluctant to go hard on a first-season sire.
"I can see sons of Elsu selling on Monday for half what they will sell for next year, just because of the way a sale works. "Because the sale is bigger and the fact there are three days to follow in Christchurch we are going to have some real opportunities there on Monday."
And for the real first timers, Barlass said buying has never been easier. "We have a parade on Sunday and every major trainer will be there.
"People can come out and if they like what they see just ask to meet the trainer of their choice.
" It really is that easy."
CLASSIC SALE
What: Australasian Classic Standardbred Yearling Sale.
Where: Karaka sales complex.
When: 10.30am Monday. Parade of yearlings at 2pm Sunday.
Who: Nearly 200 yearlings.
