The sales arena became charged with excitement as the eagerly awaited Flightline colt (Hip 1056) entered the auction block during the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Spring 2-year-olds in training sale’s April 17 closing event. After an entire week of intense speculation, the initial offer surpassed predictions, commencing at a solid $1 million.
An intense contest of bids followed, yet Donato Lanni, representing Zedan Racing Stable, triumphed with a successful bid of $10.5 million, breaking the prior record for a young horse at OBS. The former benchmark was held by Grade 1 victor Brant, also acquired by Zedan for $3 million at the OBS March 2-year-olds in training sale last year.
Hip 1056, presented by Hartley/DeRenzo Thoroughbreds, ranks as the second most expensive 2-year-old ever purchased in North America.
“Bob [Baffert] was very fond of him. From their initial encounter, he developed a strong affection,” Lanni remarked. “And clearly, Amr [Zedan], he’s a formidable competitor. He’s challenging to outbid. He’s a passionate individual. He significantly benefits the sport. He has a deep appreciation for racing. His zeal is extraordinary.”
Lanni mentioned that he anticipated strong rivalry, but did not foresee the cost reaching such a high level.
Hip 1056 completed a remarkable furlong workout in :09 3/5 during the pre-sale display for the consignors, Hartley/DeRenzo Thoroughbreds.
“During his training session, everyone gathered by the rail to observe. He performed exceptionally,” Lanni stated. “He surpassed all expectations and then some. Bob commented that the sole other horse [Hip 1056] brought to his mind was Unbridled’s Song at the 2-year-old in training sale when it was sold at Barretts.”
Originating from the inaugural progeny of 2022 Horse of the Year and Lane’s End sire Flightline, this young male horse was raised in Kentucky by Edward and Beverly Seltzer alongside W.S. Farish. Hip 1056 descends from Lucrezia, an Into Mischief mare who achieved graded stakes placements and stakes victories. He was acquired as a weanling for $575,000 by Classic Equine at the 2024 Keeneland November breeding stock auction.
“[Flightline] stands among the most exceptional racehorses throughout history,” Lanni affirmed. “Furthermore, his dam is an Into Mischief mare. This particular horse appears quick, and it seems he will maintain his stamina similar to Flightline.”
Hartley/DeRenzo Thoroughbreds, owned by Randy Hartley and Dean DeRenzo, currently possess the distinction for the most expensive male and female young horses ever sold at an OBS 2-year-old auction. Earlier that week, they had sold a female horse (Hip 570) sired by Jackie’s Warrior for $2.3 million to Dermot Farrington.
“A truly remarkable horse,” Randy Hartley declared. “It’s uncommon for us to encounter horses of this quality passing through 2-year-old sales. [We express] profound gratitude to Tom Durant, his property, and Jack Bruner, who manages the Texas ranch, for entrusting us to handle horses of such exceptional standard.”
Hartley noted that the young male horse consistently performed flawlessly, from his workout to his displays throughout the week, exhibiting supreme elegance.
“Spending even a brief moment near him, you instantly perceive that he possesses a distinct aura compared to other equines,” Hartley commented.
Hartley and DeRenzo have been involved in the sale of 2-year-olds since 1992. Among their most notable achievements are the 2025 champion female sprinter Shisospicy and the multi-Grade 1 victor Taiba.
“Maintaining that standard is challenging,” Hartley expressed. “Numerous skilled horse professionals are present, and they are all vying for the identical animals.”
Hartley stated that they continuously assess their operational methods, implementing modifications when required.
“I even altered the jockeys for the breeze sessions specifically for this auction,” he elaborated. “I simply felt a need for a fresh approach. I discovered a young individual named Adrian Martinez. He doesn’t typically ride many horses, but I recognized a unique quality in him. He is the most graceful rider I have ever witnessed on an equine. It simply felt correct.”
