The headline act at the Tattersalls December Mares Sale so far was Pearling, sold in foal to Galileo, for 2.4 million guineas to the bid of Tony Nerses of Blue Diamond Stud
Underbidders on the sale-topper included David Hanley of WinStar Farm and ultimately, Australian-based agent Dean Hawthorne.
Offered by New England Stud, the regally-bred mare is an own sister to Champion sire and racehorse Giant's Causeway and the dam of three-time Group 1 winner Decorated Knight.
Imad Al Sagar, who was the successful purchaser and previous part-owner of the mare with Saleh Al Homaizi, said: "She is very special to us and has an exceptional pedigree. I could not let her go. Saleh has some serious business commitments coming up and has needed to reduce his interests, but he is a very good friend. We have had some great times with the horses together but things change.
"I am delighted to be able to take this mare home - and she is carrying a filly by Galileo."
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