The Inglis Digital USA February Sale closed Feb. 12 with an 80% clearance rate, led by Suga Steve, who rode a three-race winning streak into an $80,000 purchase by Starry Night Racing.
Suga Steve, a 4-year-old Goldencents colt, entered the auction off three consecutive victories, won by a combined 16 1/2 lengths. That stretch of wins saw him earn Equibase Speed Figures of 105, 104, and 96. Trained by Lacey Gaudet for owners Team Gaudet and Penwood Racing, Suga Steve most recently won a six-furlong allowance race Jan. 24 at Laurel Park, taking command in the stretch to draw away by 2 1/4 lengths.
"I had a great first experience working with Inglis Digital USA," Gaudet said. "We're very pleased with the price and wish the new owners the best of luck. My clients and I are looking forward to using Inglis Digital USA again in the future."
Starry Night Racing is the nom de course for Southern California-based owners Rachel and Sean Gerson, who have sent runners to tracks around the country. Their runners are trained by J. Kent Sweezey, currently based at Gulfstream Park and Oaklawn Park.
Suga Steve is out of the Candy Ride mare Helen Sung, who is the dam of three winners from as many foals to race. He hails from the family of multiple grade 3 winner Tizamagician and 2016 Queen's Plate winner Sir Dudley Digges.
A total of 20 horses sold for $153,000, averaging $7,650, with a median of $2,750. The full results are available online.
"We're pleased with our first sale of the year," said Kyle Wilson, senior director of sales and recruiting for Inglis Digital USA. "A good group of clients supported us and the sale finished up with a healthy clearance rate. There was activity at all levels and we look forward to our next sale in March."
Entries are now open for the Inglis Digital USA March Sale, and they will be taken through March 17. The catalog will be released March 21 and bidding will commence March 26.
