The Ocala Breeders’ Sale in Florida continued its upward trend during the first session of non-Select yearlings on Wednesday.  The average jumped 29% to $9,582 and the clearance rate increased 9 points to 75%.

The Ocala Select session on Tuesday saw an average hike of 9% compared to last year.

A Mass Media – Defrills (Defrere) colt topped trade on Wednesday bringing $50,000.  He is a half brother to Awesome Son (Pure Precision), winner of this year’s East Hanover Township Stakes at Penn National.

The top-selling filly by Congrats brought $47,000.  She is out of the winning West by West mare Chelsea Rose and is a half sister to the winners Neverrguwithrichie (Closing Argument) and Chelsea’s Prime (Montbrook).

“Hopefully, it’s a sign we are working our way out of a slump,” Ocala general manager Tom Ventura said.  “It looks like there is a little bit more confidence in the market and we’re thankful things are turning around a little bit.