Keeneland sold 283 yearlings today for $13,354,600, a 51.08 percent increase
from the $8,839,600 recorded in the same session in 2017. The average of
$47,189 rose 42 percent from $33,232 last year, while the median of $35,000 is
up 40 percent from $25,000 in 2017.Through nine sessions of the 13-day auction, Keeneland has sold 1,987 yearlings for $359,245,200, an increase of 20.67 percent from $297,708,600 for the corresponding period last year. The average rose 21.82 percent from $148,409 to $180,798, while the median of $100,000 is up 17.65 percent from $85,000 in 2017.
Darby Dan Farm, agent, consigned Wednesday's session-topper, who is out of the winning Unbridled's Song mare Welcome Guest and from the family of Breeders' Cup Distaff (G1) winner Unbridled Elaine.
Sallusto and Albina, agents, paid $360,000 for the second high-seller, a filly by Into Mischief who is a half-sister to stakes winner Tea Time and from the family of the 2-year-old Into Mischief filly Covfefe, an impressive winner of her Sept. 16 career debut at Churchill Downs. Gainesway, agent, consigned the filly, whose dam is the Empire Maker mare Asian Empress, a full sister to Grade 1 winner Acoma and a half-sister to Grade 1 winner and sire Arch.
Gainesway was the day's leading consignor, selling 23 yearlings for $1,504,000.
Red Wings topped all buyers for the session, purchasing five horses for $469,000.
