There is been a lot of talk on the subject of finding a good fish in the 4 for $100 tanks at dealers. Well, back in 2001 Frank picked a Sanke out of one of Eastern Nishikigoi's $18 ponds, were if you bought 4 you got 1 free. We grew it for almost 1 year, and then entered her in the San Diego koi show, she won best in size 1. Sorry we did not take pictures then of our fish when we 1st bought them, but here is her picture at the show.
A few years ago Eastern got in there shipment of high quality tosai, well everyone was going crazy wanting that perfect koi to compete in the ZNA SoCal show, Frank bought a Sanke for $1200, and several others spent the same amount, they were all having a friendly competition on who was going to win Baby GC. Well, Joe Co comes in and does not want to fight the crowds, he finds a small Sanke in the $25 tank, and buys it. 2 months later he brings it to the ZNA show and wins Baby GC. I laughed my butt off at my husband and a few of our good friends. The only consolation was that who ever wins Baby GC or GC has to buy dinner, in our circle of friends
Spending big money does not mean you will get the best fish of the day. This is were education, and a trained eye will get you further in the hobby, and more bang for your buck.