Today's post from JOHN BAXTER

According to Arrowfield's John Messara, the 4 best Australian 3yos from a breeding perspective are Fastnet Rock, Alinghi, Not A Single Doubt and Charge Forward. Arrowfield now has a controlling interest in the third and fourth named. It would be fair to say that, from a racing point of view, you could add Dance Hero to that illustrious group.

Alinghi cost $80,000, Charge Forward $100,000, Dance Hero $90,000 and Not A Single Doubt $210,000. Fastnet Rock didn't make his reserve - $300,000 (Demi O'Byrne bought the year older full brother for $850,000).

With results like that, you've got to ask yourself - at what level does the real value lie at the sales ?

And why didn't all the "good judges" with open cheque books pick 'em out ?