Racing NSW has announced significant changes to the Benchmark programming and handicapping system that will take effect from January 1, 2012.

The much anticipated first foal from legendary mare Makybe Diva highlighted proceedings on Day 1 of the Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale, with Melbourne trainer Danny O’Brien securing the Galileo colt for $1.5million.

A high number of private sales and an improved clearance rate highlighted the final day of Session I at the 2009 Inglis Premier Yearling Sale at Oaklands today, which concluded with a decline in line with all other sales conducted in the southern hemisphere this year.

William Inglis & Son have announced the sale dates for their Major 2009 Yearling and Broodmare Sales.