The Keeneland September Yearling Sale came to a close on Saturday and broke new records which re-established Keeneland as the world’s premier Thoroughbred sale. The total gross for the 13-day sale hit a record $411,749,500 through the ring, the highest in Keeneland history. This a impressive achievement depictiates 7.1% more than last record of $384,552,100 set in 2022.

It was clear from the onset that quality yearlings would attract good demand and therefore high prices. Combined, 2,847 horses were sold at the auction and on average the horses’ price was $144,625 and a median of $80,000. Such statistics show the Thoroughbred market to be healthy and confirm that there is continued interest in Keeneland sales by international purchasers.

Among the reported records, the main attraction was the propensity for sales of colt of the year for the Into Mischief stallion. The lot, which was presented by Clearsky Farms, agent, was knocked down to Godolphin at $4.3m, a success which standard a new high for the September Sale. Something as simple as this sale shows the concept is not fading and race operations are more than willing to spend significant amounts for promising bloodlines.

The sale was not confined to several costly ‘star’ lots, however. There was always pressure during the bidding and there was a sign of strength at every level and more specifically he noted that there’s been a higher supply of million dollar plus yearlings. This year’s sale featured 39 seven-figure yearlings, one more than in 2022, which demonstrates spirit at the top.

The sale could only be possible due to the international buyers who involved more than 20 countries in the sale. Antiquated clients were more evident in the European and Middle East regions, this is evidence of the international market of Kentucky-bred Thoroughbreds. This international presence was useful in fostering competition and keep strong prices through out the two weeks event.

Despite downturns in its own business, it is essentially argued that the improved performance of the sale is a good sign to the other Thoroughbred market. Shannon Arvin, the president and CEO of Keeneland, had nothing but praise for the outcome, saying the sale was a vindication of the quality of horses that was presented, as well as the Thoroughbred market. On behalf of ourselves, our consignors, buyers and all the participants we wish to thank them for the great event which took place.

The ramifications of the sale do not end at the door of the auction sale as it will yield massive economic gains for Lexington it’s environs. The many people who travel to visit the various outlets during the sale period are able to patronize other local industries such as hotels, restaurants and shops. Furthermore, realisation of the sale is a further validation of Kentucky as the centre of the Thoroughbred breeding business.

For the future, other professionals view Thoroughbred racing and breeding in better light. The high-gear signal from Keeneland September sale indicates more people’s commitment to the game and a steady generation of new crop of good horses to join the races next year. As the dust settles on this record breaking auction attention now switches to the new season with any number of future stars emerging from this year’s yearling crop.