Standing out in terms of performance as well as pedigree, the talented mare was one of several smart performers to boost the figures overall and contribute to an improved set of returns. The final clearance of 59% (51% in 2013) was accompanied by a turnover of €292,700 (€222,900) and an average of €2,033 (€1,873).

“Happy enough for the first sale of the year, and with the clearance rate of nearly 60%,” reflected Cavan’s Stuart Clarke. “The fact that the weather in Ireland and the UK has been so bad was bound to have had a knock-on effect, but we were busy enough and I’m optimistic for the rest of the season.”