Hayata Group files for bankruptcy

LEXINGTON, Ky. - Koichiro and Yuki Hayata, once among the most active Japanese buyers at American Thoroughbred auctions and owners of the farm that stands Brian's Time, have filed for bankruptcy in Japan for their Hayata Group.

According to a report in The Blood-Horse, the Hayatas' company - which owns Hayata Farm and CB Farm on the island of Hokkaido - declared total liabilities of more than $47 million and total sales as recently as last year of just $13.9 million.

The Hayatas' operations include 10 stallions, the most important of whom is Grade 1 winner Brian's Time, one of Japan's most popular and successful stallions. His progeny included 1994 Japanese Triple Crown winner Narita Brian, whom Hayata Farm bred.