With a strong clearance rate coupled with spirited bidding, today’s Ladbrokes Australian Pacing Gold Sale has been referred to as a positive sign to Queensland harness racing.

Following some late withdrawals, 41 lots passed through the ring for a clearance of 70.73 per cent – up from 58.33 per cent last year.

Colts were the most popular among bidders, with a rise in sales average and clearance, which was 80 per cent compared to 66.67 per cent in 2017.

The clearance among the fillies was 60 per cent, an increase from 51.28 last year.

“We are really pleased with the attendance at the sale, including interstate bidders, and the good vibe throughout the day,” APG’s General Manager David Boydell said.

“It’s a great result given the integrity issues Queensland have faced and hopefully the confidence of buyers is an indication the tide is turning in Queensland and people are beginning to see a brighter future.”

As predicted, Lot 30 topped the sale, being sold for $60,000.

From Group One winning mare English Elegance, the colt is by outstanding stallion Mach Three.

Successful in the New Zealand Great Northern Oaks, English Elegance has matched her racing feats in the breeding barn, producing seven winners from eight starters.

Her progeny include Elegant Christian and Major Moment, which have both captured Group Two events.

Lot 3 – a daughter of A Rocknroll Dance and Rich Heritage – was the highest priced filly, bring a bid of $26,000.

Rich Heritage has a perfect record from four starters, including Remember Ruby, which was successful at Albion Park recently and Heritage Beach, which has won two of its last three starts.

Other notable sales include Lot 12, which is the first Australian yearling by He’s Watching to enter the ring.

The colt, from The Oval Office, fetched $32,000.

APG’s photographer Ashlea Brennan put her camera down long enough to purchase Lot 40, which is a son of A Rocknroll Dance.

Brisbane Results

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