Con Marnane is looking to replicate past successes at the Goffs London Sale, held on June 17, which coincides perfectly with the excitement of Royal Ascot. Marnane, the force behind Bansha House Stables, has a history of uncovering and selling promising young racehorses that perform well at major events.
Last year, Givemethebeatboys, a colt purchased for just €11,000, topped the auction at £1,100,000 (approximately US$1,395,585) and then impressively finished fourth in the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot. Trained by Jessica Harrington, Givemethebeatboys went on to win the Marble Hill Stakes and is now returning to Royal Ascot for a shot at the Commonwealth Cup (G1). This success story highlights the Marnane family's knack for identifying and developing racing talent.
Marnane’s approach is unique. Unlike many who rely solely on breeze-up sales, he often races his horses before selling them, enhancing their value and showcasing their potential. This strategy paid off with Different League, a filly purchased for €8,000 who won the 2017 Albany Stakes and was later sold for 1,500,000gns (approximately US$1,998,092).
This year, Marnane’s standout offering is Rock N Roll Rocket, a homebred by Starfield Stud's Far Above, out of the mare California Tee. Trained by Jessica Harrington, the colt made a winning debut at Cork in mid-May. Marnane is optimistic about Rock N Roll Rocket’s prospects, planning to enter him in the Windsor Castle Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Adding to the excitement of this year's Goffs London Sale is Sparkling Plenty, a filly who recently won the Prix de Diane (G1). If owner-breeder Jean-Pierre Dubois confirms her for the sale, she is expected to attract significant interest and could command a seven-figure price.
The Goffs London Sale, held in association with Privat 3 Money, promises to be a highlight of the racing calendar, with Marnane hoping to continue his tradition of successful sales and high-performing graduates.