Racing: Frankel success to be continued as Curraghmore returns

Frankel colt going up to auction at next week's yearling sales, with his groom Liam Cunningham. Photo / Supplied

The unbelievable Frankel success story should hit another high at Karaka next week.

The champion English racehorse of a few seasons ago has proven a stud sensation and is set to have one of the stars of the show at the premier sale again.

Curraghmore Stud, one of the leading sellers at Karaka in recent years, will offer a colt by Frankel who should attract international attention.

Last year the sole Frankel yearling at the Karaka sale fetched $1.3 million, when secured by a syndicate of international buyers.

Curraghmore boss Gordon Cunningham expects similar offshore interest in this year's colt that will go through the ring as Lot 181 on the first day of the sale. "He is a super colt who oozes class.

"He's bred on the same cross as Soul Striking, Frankel's group one winning filly in Japan, being out of a Monsun mare. He is a very athletic type who catches the eye every time you see him.

"We also have some wonderful Fastnet Rock colts, while I have a special feeling about our Declaration Of War colt, Lot 88, who is from a top family and is a real looker."

Cunningham is proud of Curraghmore's record but believes the success of the sale is the quality of horses on offer across the board, from a wide spread of breeders.

"I think what buyers have to remember is that every time they come to Karaka they can walk into any barn, any draft and buy a world-class horse," he said.

"Just look at the record of this sale. It compares favourably against anywhere else in the world. You can buy Melbourne Cup, Cox Plate and Derby winners - horses that can compete anywhere against any opposition.

"Karaka is just so unique and it's more than just a sale. It's a facility and an event that draws people together who love horses and racing and provides the opportunity to socialise and enjoy hospitality of the highest quality.

"It's something that we should be proud of and I can't wait for it to happen again this year."

- NZ Racing Desk