"It has been a very successful bloodline cross, which I liked, but primarily he is a fantastic type and has a pedigree littered with speed.
"New Zealand Bloodstock does a great job in getting a lovely bunch of horses here every year and the results that have been coming out of this sale give you confidence to be stronger in the ring."
The colt highlighted a strong sale for Australian buyers, who will take home more than $5.3 million worth of horseflesh from over 60 purchases, beating out Hong Kong buyers who outlaid $4.3 million on just 28, so bought at a significantly higher average price.
That strong international interest made for a record sale on almost all fronts: turnover, average and median.
Over the two days, 243 of the 407 lots sold for $17,972,000, over 11 per cent more than last year's record sale.
The clearance rate was slightly down on last year, 72 per cent versus 77 per cent, but was still way ahead of two years ago.
And 21 horses made $200,000 or more, compared with 18 last season.
"We are absolutely delighted," said NZB director Petrea Vela yesterday.
"The indications were there on the first day and we saw that really come through today with strong demand and some fantastic prices.
"It started well today and that momentum was important but we couldn't be happier because in the current climate this is a huge result.
"We were confident of a good sale because of the overseas interest and the great results from sales graduates, especially lately, but it is still very satisfying."
Karaka's biggest event, the yearling sales, begin in late January.
