Expansion looks justified but clearance rates could suffer

After a slew of high-profile winners for graduates of the September Sale throughout the 2016 Flat season and a thoroughly heartening set of results at last year's renewal of the auction it is little surprise to see an expanded catalogue at Tattersalls Ireland this week.

There are 533 lots entered for the select session, which begins its two-day run today, a figure which represents a 13 per cent increase on last year's catalogue.

Such a rise looks expected, warranted and potentially manageable considering the numbers started from a relatively low base, the upward trajectory the sale has taken and the interest that is likely to have been piqued by that positive set of results on the track.