Black Forrest Shires Gypsy Horse Auction

I know that most people in the Gypsy Horse World already know about his – but if you don’t (plus this may be a reminder for most of you) that this unbelievable auction is happening at the end of this month!!  They do require reservations… so please hurry and sign up…. we’re going too!  The Q&A’s below were taken directly off their website, but I suggest you visit it for more information.

Black Forrest Shire’s Auction Info Page

• Where will the sale be located?
  The sale will be held at Black Forrest Shires’ 206 acre farm in Colorado.  The address is 8751 County Road 36.5, Platteville, CO  80651. 

• Why must I RSVP if I’m planning to come to the sale?
  They need to know how many people are coming to ensure they have adequate seating, food, parking, restrooms, etc…  It also allows them to have your registration materials prepared ahead of time.  Click here to RSVP. 

• What is the nearest airport to the farm?
  Denver International Airport (DEN) is 40 miles from the farm, and is served by most major airlines.  Private and Corporate aircraft should use the Fort Collins/Loveland airport (FNL).

• I’m thinking of bringing my horse trailer.  Can I un-hook it at the farm?
  Yes, there will be a designated trailer area with plenty of space.

• Where are the nearest Hotels to the farm?
  Click on these hotels for more information.
  Best Western, Firestone
  Comfort Suites, Firestone 

• How many horses will be selling?
  These are the approximate numbers of horses they will be offering:
  68 Gypsy Horses, 5 drum horses, 6 Shire Horses, and 1 gypsy/arab cross.  These numbers are subject to change as some horses may sell, and others born prior to the sale date. 

• Will I be able to bring my new horse home right after the sale?
  They will require payment in full before any horse can leave the facility.  Every horse will have a current Coggins test, Colorado brand inspection, and a vet will be available to issue health certificates to enable it to travel right away. 

• I live overseas.  Can I bid on the horses?
  Yes.  And if you’re the winning bidder, BFS can assist you in making the arrangements to have your horse shipped to you.

• Which horses will have reserve prices on them?
  They have not decided yet.  It likely won’t be necessary to put reserves on the top mares (like Babydoll) because the interest in these horses is so strong, that any reserve set is likely to be met anyway.  Reserves will likely be placed on horses with particular qualities that may not be readily apparent to all bidders. 

• Will they be selling Galway Warrior?
  Warrior is the only horse who will not be offered through the auction.  Because of his advanced age, BFS want to make sure that his new owners possess the knowledge and facilities to care for an aged draft horse stallion.  Anyone interested in him should contact BFS directly. 

• Will they be selling their Gypsy Waggon?
  Yes, their bowtop Gypsy waggon will be made available for inspection and bidding.  There will be a reserve on this item.  It is pictured with information in our sale catalog. 

• I just love the farm.  Will that be for sale?
  The farm is currently listed for sale through a local agent.
  Click here for the virtual tour.
  Click here to see the listing.

• When will the sale catalog be ready?
  The sale catalog is available for download now.  It is in Adobe Acrobat pdf format, and can be downloaded by clicking here. 

• Can I buy any of the horses before the sale?
  All Gypsy horses currently listed on the sale pages of the Black Forrest Shire’s website will remain for sale until May 8, 2009.  Gypsy Horses which are not listed for sale on the website will not be available for sale prior to the auction.  They want everyone to have an opportunity to see and bid on each and every horse. 

• I’ve never participated in an auction, and am a bit nervous…
  BFS’s auction will proceed somewhat slower than most auctions to allow internet/telephone bidders to get their bids in, which will make for a more relaxed atmosphere.   Their staff members will be available to assist you during bidding so you’re not ‘left out’.  Just ask when you’re here. 

• Will there be any provision for bidding by proxy?
  The company BFS hired to broadcast the auction online provides a service for bidding by proxy.  Just register online with Dvauction.com for all the details. 

• Can I insure the horses I buy?
  Every horse sold will receive a complementary ten day “Fall of the Hammer” insurance policy from Jarvis insurance.  A representative from Jarvis will be present on the sale date to assist you with insurance questions.  (This is a great idea, because you never know what might happen – we would actually call the insurance company before leaving with the horse to make sure we have FULL COVERAGE….. we’ve had a situation with this kind of thing before.)

• When can I see the horses?
  The horses will be available for review on Friday before the sale on Saturday.  Bidders will have the opportunity to look over each horse, lead them around, and even turn them out to see how they move.  They intend to have a vet and farrier available for you to visit with.  You may also schedule a visit to the farm anytime before the sale by calling Black Forrest Shires.

• Will there be food available?
  Food & drinks will be available all day from Mama-Bear’s Kitchen.  Have cash available, they can’t take credit cards.