Karaka crown to a proud Waikato Stud

Mark and Lisa Chittick’s Waikato Stud ended a stellar 12 months when they claimed top vendor honours by aggregate at the close of NZ Bloodstock’s Premier Sale. Pre-auction expectations had been high, but their commitment to pledge their entire draft to Karaka has been handsomely rewarded, selling 46 yearlings for a total of $7,655,000 at an average of $166,413.

Their efforts have come off the back of securing the Gr 1 Cox Plate winner Ocean Park for stud duty, as well as Fastnet Rock’s Gr.1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas-winning son Rock ‘N’ Pop. They have joined an all-conquering roster that features the dominant trio of O’Reilly, Savabeel and Pins as well as No Excuse Needed, Fast ‘N’ Famous and Rios.

“It’s been a busy year and the last two days have been fantastic,” Mark Chittick said. “I’m so proud of all my team and everybody involved. They’ve all done a wonderful job, in particular, my yearling manager Kerrie who has prepared these horses immaculately. We left no stone unturned and it’s gone like clockwork – obviously, I couldn’t be happier and I’m very proud.”

WS leading light was the colt by resident stallion Savabeel out of Splashing Out, who was purchased by Te Akau principal David Ellis for $500,000. “He has been a star all the way through and there was serious competition on him,” Chittick said. “After that, there was the Zamfir filly, who was an outstanding type and she’s gone to a great young trainer.” He was referring to the daughter of O’Reilly who went to the final $475,000 bid of Sydneysider Bruce Heys.