Nyquist Colt Leads Record-Breaking Keeneland September Sale Session
The Keeneland September Yearling Sale recently concluded a remarkable third day, setting new benchmarks for sales activity. A notable highlight was the sale of a colt sired by Nyquist, which commanded an impressive $2.25 million. This transaction established a new record for the highest price achieved in a third session since the current sale format, featuring a two-day Book 1 and a two-day Book 2, was adopted in 2021. The overall enthusiasm and competitive bidding underscored a vibrant market for high-quality young thoroughbreds.
During this extraordinary session, a total of 14 yearlings each surpassed the $1 million mark, a never-before-seen achievement for a single day within the third session. These strong results contributed to a gross sales figure of $89,535,000 for 209 horses. The atmosphere was described as intensely competitive, with buyers eager to secure highly sought-after prospects. Keeneland's Vice President of Sales, Tony Lacy, remarked on the "incredibly solid, incredible day," noting that breeders were well-rewarded for their exceptional stock.
Comparing these results to the previous year, the session's gross sales saw a 4.47% increase, climbing from $85,702,000 generated by 221 yearlings in 2025. The average price per yearling also rose significantly by 10.47%, reaching $428,397, up from $387,792 in the prior year. While the median price experienced a slight dip of 4.62% to $310,000, these figures collectively indicate a market that continues to operate at a very elevated level, even surpassing the high standards set in previous years.
Cumulatively, over the first three days of the sale, Keeneland successfully sold 417 horses, accumulating total sales of $240,935,000. This represents a 4.81% increase compared to the corresponding period last year, which saw 438 yearlings sold for $229,887,000. The cumulative average price also saw a substantial rise of 10.08%, reaching $577,782, while the median increased by 5.88% to $450,000. With nine sessions remaining, the sale is on track to potentially surpass previous records, having already seen 55 horses sell for $1 million or more, just one shy of the 2025 record.
Among the top sales, the Nyquist colt, consigned by Taylor Made Sales Agency and bred by Fred W. Hertrich III and John D. Fielding, captivated buyers. Purchased by Kimmel/Sallusto, agents for Alex and JoAnn Lieblong, the colt's pedigree and exceptional conformation made him a standout. Another highlight was an Into Mischief colt consigned by Stonehaven Steadings, which sold for $2 million to Legion Bloodstock. Other significant sales included a Flightline colt fetching $1.1 million, another Flightline colt selling for $1.85 million to Winchell Thoroughbreds, and a Nyquist colt from Claiborne Farm realizing $1.75 million. The high demand for these elite yearlings reflects a discerning market focused on quality genetics and promising athletic potential.
The remarkable outcomes of the Keeneland September Yearling Sale’s third day underscore the enduring strength and vitality of the thoroughbred market, with a clear demand for exceptional equine athletes and their future breeding potential.