How to Buy a Thoroughbred

The buying process, step by step

1. 1

   Create an account

   Register with your email. Registration takes a minute and lets you follow lots and track auctions in your dashboard.

2. 2

   Complete industry verification

   AtTheGate is a trade marketplace. Verify your standing as an owner, licensed trainer, bloodstock agent, breeder, consignor, racing partnership, or farm representative. Most applications are reviewed within one business day.

3. 3

   Study the lot

   Every catalog page carries photos, video, a two-generation pedigree, a free five-cross pedigree link, and Equibase Lifetime Past Performances when applicable.

4. 4

   Contact the seller before you bid

   Each listing shows the seller's contact name, phone, text number, and email along with their preferred method of contact. Ask questions and arrange a pre-bid inspection or vetting.

5. 5

   Place a live or proxy bid

   Bid in real time, or set a maximum and let proxy bidding raise your bid one increment at a time up to your limit.

6. 6

   Soft close

   A bid placed in the final moments extends the clock, so no lot is ever sniped at the buzzer.

7. 7

   Complete the transaction

   When the hammer falls, buyer and seller contact details are released to each other by email. Payment, transfer, health papers, insurance, and shipping are handled directly between the two parties, and must be completed within 72 hours of the auction's close.