By Christie DeBernardis
LEXINGTON, KY–Bidding moves across-town Monday with the first session of the Keeneland November Breeding Stock Sale getting underway at noon. The 12-day auction opens with a single session Book 1 comprised of 250 catalogued head.
Last year, Book 1 was comprised of 367 horses and held over two sessions. Of the change to one session, Bob Elliston, Keeneland's Vice President of Racing and Sales, said, “Last year we had a multi-day Book 1 and one thing we hear from buyers all the time, especially with the Breeders' Cup in Kentucky, is that principals from all over the world have very busy schedules and they want to see as much stock as they can up front. Last year, we were done at 4:00p.m. and it wasn't an efficient use of time. We want to have as much of the quality offerings in a quick time frame, so buyers can return to their responsibilities.”
In 2017, 18 lots attracted seven-figure bids, including champion Stellar Wind (Curlin) who topped the auction when selling for $6 million to Coolmore's M.V. Magnier. During 12 sessions a year ago, Keeneland sold 2,424 head and grossed $202,021,700 for an average of $83,342.
The market has been exceptionally strong throughout the yearling sales this year and Elliston is one of many industry professionals who believe that will continue into the weanling market.
“We are optimistic that the valuables that have contributed to the terrific yearling market are still in place,” Elliston said. “They are a great economy that is still ticking along; enthusiasm in the sport in terms of buyers looking to acquire more talent and upgrade their broodmare bands; and I know our offerings are terrific for as worldwide market.”
This term's Keeneland November catalogue is highlighted by popular champion Lady Eli (Divine Park), who sells in foal to War Front; GISW Zipessa (City Zip), who is offered in foal to Medaglia d'Oro; as well as Grade I winners Lady Ivanka (Tiz Wonderful), Union Strike (Union Rags), Sailor's Valentine (Mizzen Mast) and Vasilika (Skipshot). Weanling headliners include Tapit half-sisters to champions Honor Code and Arrogate.
“We have 251 graded stakes-winning and producing fillies and mares,” Elliston said. “Then you look at what has transpired even more recently. We have updates to horses all the way through Books 3 and 4. We are very keen in terms of the depth of the marketplace. You have the top end in the form of Lady Eli in foal to War Front and Zipessa in foal to Medaglia d'Oro. We are very happy with what our consignors have brought to the marketplace.”
Following Monday's opening session, bidding on subsequent sessions will begin daily at 10 a.m. and the Keeneland November sale will run through Nov. 16.
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