A Maryland-bred colt (hip 4105) by First Defence was knocked down to champion owners Ken and Sarah Ramsey for $90,000 to top the 12th session of the Keeneland September Yearling Sale Saturday. Consigned by Upson Downs Farm, Agent II, the Sagamore Farm-bred is out of the SP Listen Boy (After Market), while his third dam, the SP Gold Shadow (Mr. Prospector), is responsible for GSW Keys to the Heart (Wild Again), SW and GISP Avie's Shadow (Lord Avie) and SW Nastassja (Seattle Dancer).
The top-priced filly was also the second most expensive yearling sold Saturday, bringing $87,000 on the bid of McMahon & Hill Bloodstock LLC, agent. Kentucky-bred Hip 3891, consigned by breeder Lakland Farm, is by young sire Trappe Shot and out of Stormandaprayer (Songandaprayer), who completed the trifecta in the Loudonville S. Her second dam is Stormy Pick (Storm Creek), who captured the 2000 edition of the GI Spinaway S.
Overall, 168 yearlings changed hands during the 12th session of the 13-session Keeneland September Yearling Sale, grossing $1,490,300, just under last year's 12th and final session of $1,518,800 for 170 sold. The average was $8,871, 0.71% below the 2015 average of $8,934, while the median dropped by 46.43% at $3,750 from $7,000 in 2015.
Cumulatively, 2,645 have sold through the first 12 sessions, good for a gross of $271,853,900. The entire 2015 sale saw 2,745 yearlings bring $281,496,100. This year's average is shading slightly higher at $102,780 (+0.23%), compared to $102,549 in 2015, while the median remains unchanged at $50,000.
Taylor Made Sales Agency, agent led the way among consignors, selling 14 head for $135,500. McMahon & Hill were the session's leading buyer, spending $111,000 for two yearlings.
The Keeneland September Yearling Sale's final session will begin at 10 a.m. ET Sunday. Visit www.keeneland.com for further details.
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