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The Keeneland September Yearling Sale kicked off Sept. 13 in fine fashion, headlined by a knockout American Pharoah filly going for $1.4 million to Northshore Bloodstock, agent for Joe Allen.
From the 201 horses cataloged to Day 1, Keeneland reported 95 yearlings sold for gross receipts of $38,172,000, an average of $401,811, and a median of $325,000. The 61 horses that failed to meet their reserve represented an RNA rate of 39.1%, up from 36.26% in 2020.
Last year 109 horses sold on the first day for gross receipts of $40,680,000, with an average price of $373,211 and a median of $330,000. This year's catalog sessions run similar to last year, with the omission of Book 6 and an additional day of selling added to Book 5.
This year three yearlings broke into the $1 million bracket two fillies (Hips 43 and 89) and one colt (Hip 177) compared to the five sold in 2020 on opening day.
Bidding was electric and competitive in the ring, with many buyers going to battle for their top picks.
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Keeneland made great efforts to get foreign buyers on the grounds, many of which were seen Monday hoping to secure horses for their racing clients.