To the pessimist it's a bit of a lottery, but to the optimist it remains a genuine opportunity to pit one's skills as a judge of equine horseflesh.

With 167 yearlings on offer at Karaka in Auckland and a further 508 to go under the hammer in Christchurch there is plenty to choose from. One thing we do know is harness racing's greatest star search continues to deliver on stage performers year after year no matter what the circumstances or economic projection. The wonderment of untapped talent remains an allure for all walks of life. The biggest cheque book doesn't always buy the biggest star.

It certainly helps to be in a privileged position to make a multitude of purchases, and thus applying the old cliché "it's a numbers game". But skillful selection by those with proven records, a little insider knowledge and a good eye for a horse can guide purchasers to the greatest benefits. This year's NZ Cup, and Miracle Mile winner Monkey King, was purchased by Robert Famularo for a conservative $20,000. Hunter Cup winner Bondy $26,000 and back to backInterdominion Trotting Final winner Sundon's Gift a very affordable $24,000.

If that's too rich for you there is always syndicate options to ease the financial burdon. There has been the odd rabbit dragged from the hat over the years. Smart juvenile racehorses Race Ruler, The Court Owl, Tigerish and more recently Fiery Falcon were all purchased well under $10,000. Giving us all hope that a first division prize is not beyond anyone's grasp.

Of course there are the expensive failures, but more often than not the purchaser is a genuine harness racing enthusiast, from a solid financial and business background who tends to be able to take the knocks and spills of substantial loss, without curbing their enthusiasm for the future. So whether your selections are based on specific bloodlines, certain types or just a stab in the dark, this year's sale comesfully equipped with a tag of "there's something for everyone".

According to PGG Wrightson rep Bruce Barliss, signs are positive for this year's sale. "The Thoroughbred Sale went particularly well this year after suffering from economic downturn last year where they were down 32%. We did particularly well last time out given the circumstances with a loss of around7%. "There is alot of new sires this year along with a resurgence of Christian Cullen's on offer,"said Barliss.

"We expect Art Major's to sell well and with the likes of previous sale purchase successes such as Smiling Shard, Bettor's Strike and Washakie to mention a few, we are getting alot of return business. Success breeds success naturally,"he said.

And what about the vibe from vendors and buyers? Brian West of Studholme Park Bloodstock has a draft of twelve yearling offered at this year's Premier Sale and is a regular contributor to the industry. "It really seems to be business as usual. My draft this year certainly isn't as attractive as previous, but we are still getting the regular influx ofgenuine buyers and supermarket shoppers restacking the shelves," said West.

The man who started Studholme Bloodstock back in 1994 has high hopes for Lot 65. A Western Terror Colt from unraced Walton Hanover mare Putting On The Glitz, who has already left smart juvenile filly Secret Potion. "He is a perfectly conformed racehorse, a beautiful type and looks as though he will make a young horse too."

West is breeding from 23 broodmares at present patronizing a wide variety of stallions, and does have some concerns for the future. "While im thrilled with the quality of stallions on offer, I am concerned at that asking price for their services. Some are just way too risky and sanity must prevail with the profit potential very marginal," he said.

West Melton horseman Ken Barron is a recognizable figure at most Yearling Sales with clientele again looking to fill their shopping basket with equine goodies. "We purchased 14 last year and I am ecstatic with the results, said Barron."Both Major Obsession (Art Major) and Thumpem (In ThePocket) are performing well as early season juveniles. While The Cotton Club (Christian Cullen) and Eliminator (McArdle) are not far behind."

Barron also has high hopes for another two year old son of Christian Cullen in Night Of The Stars. And it's not just the success of last year's purchases that is sending the Barron brigade back for more. "No we have had some bad years too, but you just turn the page and keep trying. I have looked at 350 odd yearlings this time round and I thought the quality of the potential top lots was down a little.

Which could cause a number of buyers at that level to attack the same lots. I believe the middle sector will hold up well enough with the lower end of the market most likely to be affected due to the economy." according to Barron.

Steve DOLAN