The Incredible Hard Work Dalziel Racing Put Into Yearling Selection

The Incredible Hard Work Dalziel Racing Put Into Yearling Selection

Written by Brendon Davis of Dalziel Racing 7th February 2025

As the echoes of the Melbourne Cup fade, Wylie Dalziel’s focus shifts to the meticulous process of yearling selection across New Zealand’s stud farms. While racing enthusiasts revel in the excitement of the Spring Racing Carnival, Dalziel and Peter Moody embark on an extensive journey, covering hundreds of kilometres to inspect yearlings in preparation for the late January sale. The dedication to this process is staggering. Hundreds of hours are invested in yearling research, culminating in Dalziel Racing’s carefully curated shortlist of potential purchases. When asked about the importance of these on-farm inspections, Wylie emphasizes the value of observing yearlings in their natural habitat. This approach allows for a comprehensive assessment of their development and conformation.

The Selection Process

Over November and December, Wylie Dalziel personally inspected the majority of the 700-strong catalogue, from which an initial shortlist was prepared. After this, Wylie and Peter Moody spent an additional three days meticulously re-examining each yearling on their list, continuously refining their target purchases. Their target yearlings are then the subject of vets checks before final targets are agreed. This rigorous process highlights the extraordinary level of detail involved in their selection methodology.

At the New Zealand Bloodstock Sales

The commitment to excellence is evident in Dalziel and Moody’s approach at the New Zealand Bloodstock sales. Their day typically begins before 7:30 am, well before most others awake, allowing them to conduct final inspections on shortlisted yearlings. This early start, often preceding even the handlers’ arrival, showcases their dedication to thorough evaluation. Throughout the auction process, a strict discipline prevails. Wylie’s focus remains on ensuring each syndicated yearling represents value for his loyal client base. A predetermined budget is set for each lot, adhered to rigorously for the benefit of Dalziel Racing’s loyal owners.

Even the New Zealand Bloodstock Media team identified Wylie Dalziels work, they ran an interview with him which you can view here:

NZB Interview Wylie Dalziel

The Results

The 2025 New Zealand Bloodstock (Karaka) sales, held from January 26 to 30, saw Dalziel Racing’s meticulous process in action. From an initial catalogue of 1,088 lots, they developed a shortlist of 37 yearlings, ultimately resulting in six strategic purchases:

1. Lot 10: Colt (Contributer x I’m Kate)
2. Lot 24: Colt (Per Incato x Isstoora)
3. Lot 88: Filly (Too Darn Hot x Lucky Raquie)
4. Lot 145: Filly (Savabeel x Nina From Passadena)
5. Lot 348: Filly (Almanzor x Tavispirit)
6. Lot 517: Colt (King of Comedy x Chaquinta)

This approach to yearling selection exemplifies the truth in Thomas Jefferson’s words: “I’m a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more of it I have.” Wylie Dalziel and Peter Moody’s tireless efforts and attention to detail in the selection process undoubtedly contribute to Dalziel Racing’s continued success in the competitive world of thoroughbred racing.