$1.4million for G1 Winner Startantes – Back to Widden

Winner of the Group I Tatts Tiara in 2022, speedy Star Turn mare Startantes was subsequently bought by Widden Stud at the 2024 Inglis Chairman’s Sale for $1.15 million and she was back in sale ring at Magic Millions on Wednesday to dissolve a partnership.

Startantes missed in her first season at stud and was presented in foal to Australian Horse of the Year Anamoe with Widden Stud/ David Redvers purchasing her back for $1.4million.

“She’s a mare we know very well, obviously we’ve had her at the farm,” said Antony Thompson.

“We did own a little bit of her, but there’s a few of the clients that were in who were looking to trade out, so we’re happy to increase our stake and take her home.

“Obviously it’s hard to buy Group 1 winners and she was joint Champion 3YO Filly. They’re the type of mares you want to have in your paddock and in-foal to Anamoe, who we had a bit luck with this year – we sold an Anamoe here in January for $1.1m – and this is the sort of mare who will suit him down to the ground.

“She’ll also suit Zoustar, so we’ve got lots of options for her.”