Group 1 winning Vinery mare Bel Mer became the top priced lot at this year’s Inglis Australian Easter Broodmare Sale when Patinack Farm went to $1,050,000 to secure her this afternoon.

The strong day of trading took the sale gross beyond the $31million mark, with 430 mares having sold over the past three days at an average of $72,323.

Bel Mer was sold in foal to Vinery’s Champion sire, More Than Ready and continued Patinack’s strong activity during this week. Nathan Tinkler’s operation had previously secured Serious Speed for $900,000, along with Readyor and She Will Be Loved topping the $500,000 mark.

Supplementary entry Fritz’s Princess, also by More Than Ready and herself Group 1 placed, was sold to Teeley Assets for $800,000.

International Group 1 winner Sun Classique fell just short of her $2million reserve.

“It was pleasing to see the buying bench actively competing for the top lots today and overall it has been a very strong sale,” Inglis Managing Director Mark Webster said.

“Once again, the value of fillies off the track has been highlighted via the likes of Bel Mer, Absolut Glam and Serious Speed.

“I think this week’s sale is a healthy sign for the industry, with breeders keen to secure quality mares ahead of this year’s breeding season.”

Vinery Stud’s Adam White was delighted with the sale even though it ends a long and rewarding association with the mare.

“We raced Bel Mer with a few partners and she was a terrific competitor right from the very start,” White said.

“She raced won or placed in a number of stakes races and was finally rewarded with the Group One when she won the Robert Sangster in Adelaide.

“She has furnished into a lovely mare and I am sure (new owner) Nathan Tinkler will be pleased with her as time goes on.”