What Is Consigning for Thoroughbreds

So much goes on behind the scenes in the Thoroughbred industry. The sales are where the magic of so much of that work comes to light. It’s a kind of horse matchmaking experience about pairing elite horses with the people and organizations that can make them superstars. Consigning is vital to the experience for the horses and the people involved. If you’re new to the concept or need a refresher, let’s look closer.

What Do Consignors Do?

Think of consignors as sports agents of the horse world and the auctions like the NFL draft. Their primary job is to prepare and present horses for sale. A consignor is responsible for showcasing a horse’s pedigree, health, and potential to prospective buyers in the best possible light.

The journey begins long before the horse steps into the auction ring. Farms work tirelessly with consignors to ensure that the horses are in peak condition, both physically and mentally. This involves a rigorous regimen of proper nutrition, exercise, grooming, and even time spent working on standing correctly for potential buyers. Farms and consignors also work together to handle all the logistics of getting the horse to the sale, including transport, stabling, and ensuring all the necessary paperwork is in order.

For the team at horseOlogy, we buy horses at the yearling and weanling sales and work with them ahead of the yearling and two-year-old sales. We handle all the developing and training before the horses are taken to the sales in the spring. We have created great relationships with consignors at the yearling and two-year-old levels.

Once at the auction, the consignor’s role shifts to that of a marketer and negotiator. They answer questions from potential buyers, provide insights into the horse’s background and abilities, and ultimately help secure the best possible price. Their expertise and reputation can significantly influence a buyer’s decision, making their role crucial in the sales process.

We work with owners and do sales prep at horseOlogy. Ask us more.

How We Work with Consignors

Relationships with consignors are built on trust, collaboration, and a shared passion for thoroughbreds. We understand that each horse is unique and tailor our approach to highlight their strengths.

We have experience on both sides of the consignor experience. At the upcoming Keeneland Sale, we’ll shop for young thoroughbreds to add to the horseOlogy program. We will see the experience through the eyes of buyers. Katie’s foray into the Thoroughbred business started around her two-year-old consignment, White Lilac, which gives horseOlogy the knowledge of all of the intricacies it takes to get these athletes to the two-year-old sale.

Stay tuned for our experience in Kentucky later this year.

What About Bloodstock Agents?

While consignors focus on presenting and selling horses, bloodstock agents operate more like personal shoppers for prospective buyers. In the NFL, they would be the scouts looking at top college talent at the Combine. These agents are experts in evaluating horses, pedigrees, and market conditions. Their job is to help clients find and purchase the right horse, whether it’s for racing, breeding, or investment.

Bloodstock agents and consignors often work hand-in-hand. A good bloodstock agent will have a network of trusted consignors they rely on, knowing that these professionals will present high-quality horses. Conversely, consignors value relationships with reputable bloodstock agents who bring serious buyers to the table.

While the consignor’s role maximizes a horse’s sale potential, the bloodstock agent’s job is to ensure buyers make informed and strategic decisions. Both roles are crucial, and when they work together, it’s a winning combination for everyone involved.

Learn more about bloodstock advising with horseOlogy

The Art of Thoroughbred Sales

Consigning is truly an art form, blending expertise in horse care, marketing savvy, and negotiation skills. It’s a dynamic and exciting part of the thoroughbred industry, where every sale is a unique story of opportunity and potential. Whether you’re considering selling a horse or looking to buy, understanding the role of consignors and their collaboration with bloodstock agents can make all the difference in navigating the thrilling world of thoroughbred sales.

Next time you see a sleek thoroughbred strut into the auction ring, you’ll know there’s a talented team behind the scenes, making sure that horse shines as brightly as possible.