The National Broodmare & Mixed Bloodstock Sale at Karaka on August 6th and 7th, was New Zealand's first sale since the depreciation changes came into effect, with over 350 lots on offer. MWB made a successful bargin price purchase of the maiden Cape Cross mare, Cape Merlot. From the fantastic black type family including Omnicorp, Centie Lassie, Mi Centie, Iguazu, Mynzawine, Dabeer Zaheer, Zamazan Lass, Crimson and Pharostan. It is a family well supported by Cambridge, Waikato and Little Avondale Studs, with multiple upgrades in matings. Cape Merlot will be retired to stud, with a possible mating with Windsor Park Stud's new stallion, Falkirk in 2006.