Guy Petit has been appointed as bloodstock director at AKTEM, the new auction house in France which is scheduled to hold its first sales in February next year.
A bloodstock agent for more than 30 years, Petit has sourced top-class National Hunt performers such as Min, Royale Pagaille and Thousand Stars, as well as the Grand National winner Mon Mome. On the Flat, his high-profile purchases include the Group 1 winners Rougir and Tribhuvan.
“I am delighted by this new challenge, which allows me to move to the other side of the fence,” said Petit. “Supporting a young and ambitious person like Sofiane Benaroussi – who is determined to implement new initiatives for the benefit of the industry – really appealed to me, and I am thrilled to invest myself alongside him.”
He added, “My extensive address book of both buyers and vendors allows me to confidently embrace this new adventure and bring my expertise, particularly in the National Hunt sphere, by offering new opportunities to breeders and owners with a service that complements the existing market.”
Mégane Martins has also joined the AKTEM team as head of communication and development.
After a full-year internship with Arqana Racing Club, Martins gained hands-on experience at Écurie des Monceaux, before returning to the Deauville sales company within the communication and marketing department. In recent years, she has applied her expertise to the charity Au-Delà Des Pistes, among other roles.
“I am honoured to join the AKTEM team and lead the communication department,” said Martins. “I return to an environment I know well and appreciate, and I am delighted to put my skills to work once again in this sector. We are committed to offering a new, high-quality service with a truly convivial, modern and professional atmosphere to conduct sales in the best possible conditions.”
AKTEM president Sofiane Benaroussi added, “It is a real pleasure to welcome Guy Petit to the AKTEM team. His expertise and network, both in France and internationally, represent a major asset for a young auction house like ours.
“Highly active in the National Hunt sector, he brings strong skills to this segment of the market and will provide clients with the best possible support in enhancing the value of their horses.
“We are also delighted to welcome Mégane Martins to lead the agency's communication and support its growth. She brings extensive experience in this field, a broad range of skills acquired within the industry, and a young, innovative, dynamic profile.”
Not a subscriber? Click here to sign up for the daily PDF or alerts.
