The Keeneland September yearling sale experienced a robust close to Book 3 on Sunday, witnessing a substantial 5.54% increase in sales through the ring, reaching a total of $50,852,000. This impressive growth was largely driven by a highly sought-after colt from the lineage of Nyquist, which commanded a staggering $1.2 million. This acquisition was made by Donato Lanni, representing FRC/Starlight/Madaket, who emerged as the day's leading purchaser, securing five yearlings for a combined $3,060,000.
The Sunday session alone generated $50,852,000 from the sale of 262 horses, a notable increase over last year's $48,184,000 from 267 horses. The average price per horse rose by 7.55% to $194,092, up from $180,464 in 2025, while the median price remained consistent at $150,000. This trend indicates a healthy and appreciating market for thoroughbred yearlings.
Since its commencement on September 14, the Keeneland September sale has seen 1,150 horses change hands, amassing a total of $430,039,000. The overall average price for this period stands at $373,947, with a median of $275,000. These figures represent significant improvements over the previous year, with gross sales up by 2.97%, the average increasing by 8.88%, and the median rising by 10%. A total of 70 yearlings have sold for $1 million or more this year, a considerable jump from 56 in 2025, underscoring the strong investor confidence in premium bloodstock.
The top-priced yearling on Sunday, consigned by Four Star Sales, agent, was a colt out of the stakes winner Alexandria, by Constitution. This colt's impressive pedigree, including Group 1 winner Wandack and Group 3 winner Barefoot Angel, contributed to its high valuation. Tom Ryan of FRC expressed optimism about the purchase, highlighting the colt's potential to become a future Kentucky sire. He also emphasized that quality and performance are paramount, regardless of the sale book number, citing past success with high-hip number purchases like Authentic, a Kentucky Derby (G1) winner.
Other notable sales included a $900,000 colt by Maxfield, acquired by CHC Inc., Maverick Racing, and Light Post Ventures. Nyquist also sired another colt that sold for $825,000 to Pin Oak Stud. Additionally, Pin Oak Stud purchased a Liam's Map colt for $800,000. Dream Big Racing, represented by Kenneth McPeek, secured a Golden Pal colt for $775,000, and Gold Square paid $700,000 for a colt from Gunite's first crop. Grovendale Sales, agent, sold a Taiba colt for $625,000 to Donato Lanni, and Kimmel/Sallusto, agent for Flanagan Racing, acquired a Maxfield colt for $600,000. These diverse sales demonstrate the breadth of valuable bloodlines offered at the event.
The September Sale is scheduled to continue through Saturday, with daily sessions commencing at 10 a.m. ET. Enthusiasts and potential buyers can follow the auction via livestream on the Keeneland website, offering continuous access to this significant event in the thoroughbred industry.
The recent Keeneland September yearling sale concluded its Book 3 on Sunday with remarkable financial outcomes, indicating a thriving market for young thoroughbreds. The sale achieved a substantial increase in total gross and average prices, spearheaded by a $1.2 million Nyquist colt. This strong performance, marked by numerous high-value transactions and a significant rise in million-dollar sales, underscores robust buyer interest and confidence in the racing industry's future.