Beau Liam Colt Breaks Record at OBS June Sale Preview!

Ocala, Florida, USA - The excitement in the air at the Ocala Training Center is palpable as horse enthusiasts gather for the final day of under tack works ahead of the upcoming OBS June Sale. This year, the spotlight shines brightly on a remarkable colt bred by first-crop sire Beau Liam, who has not only made his mark but has also tied the track record for a quarter mile with a stunning time of :20.20. This achievement, reported by FTBOA, signals strong competition heading into the sale slated for June 17-18, starting at 10 a.m. each day.

The record-setting colt, cataloged as Hip 829 and consigned by Omar Ramirez Bloodstock, isn’t just a flash in the pan. He is the first two-year-old to clock such a time since two fillies did so during last year’s OBS Spring Sale. Notably, one of those fillies, Cash Call, has already found success, winning the Grade 3 Summertime Oaks at Santa Anita. It’s no wonder Omar Ramirez referred to the colt as „special,“ marveling at how he „performs naturally.“

A Thriving Market

The Ocala Breeders‘ Sales Company (OBS) has seen a significant upswing in its auction market in recent years. Just last year, the Spring Sale set records with total sales hitting $92,070,000 for 710 horses, a 25% increase from the previous year. Buyers have been keen, as bidding has drawn a diverse crowd, bolstered by the introduction of online bidding that allows international participation. Ocala.com reported that the average sale price reached $129,676, surpassing prior records.

The strong recovery of the horse market post-pandemic can be attributed, in part, to the success of OBS graduates in prestigious races, providing added incentive for potential buyers. With such a robust market, it’s clear that the appetite for quality horses remains high.

Notable Works and Performances

Besides the star colt, the June under tack show featured several promising horses. Two juveniles matched the fastest eighth-mile time of the day at :9.80. These are Hip 831, a Florida-bred filly by Leinster, and Hip 754, a filly by Yaupon, who is a half-sister to stakes-winner The Grass is Blue. Both highlight the competitive nature of this year’s sale, showcasing the potential of Florida-bred horses and the talent emerging from the region.

Ramirez was pleased with his entire 28-horse consignment, expressing satisfaction and optimism for a successful sale. As the under tack show wrapped up, anticipation grew for a thrilling auction where buyers will have the chance to obtain some of the best young horses in training.

As we look ahead to the OBS June Sale, it’s clear that this year promises to deliver excitement and remarkable talent, continuing a legacy of quality that the Ocala region is proud to uphold. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness what could be a record-breaking sale once again!