NOW the curtain has finally closed on 2017, it is timely to reflect on the highs and lows of the past sales year. Positively, the auction houses of Goresbridge and Cavan have produced steadily improving returns, and despite the Brexit-weakened sterling rates, demand for the Irish horse appears as strong as ever. Once again, the specialist sales delivered some spectacular results, while the upper end of the foal trade has been phenomenal.

The year’s figures have also revealed a welcome clustering of more balanced returns and, with the exception of the foals, a gradual increase of the middle market. In general, clearance rates also rose throughout the year, illustrating that vendors had the appetite to sell and that there were buyers to accommodate them.