The North American Thoroughbred racing and bloodstock industry saw banner results at Fasig-Tipton’s October Yearling Sale as a Curlin colt set a record, while standout juveniles impressed on the racetrack including Dr. Kapur’s dominant Keeneland win. Overseas, European yearling sales activity remains robust with important developments both in France and at Ballydoyle. Major news today spans impressive sales figures, emerging juvenile stars, and the sport’s continuing global vitality.
Fasig-Tipton October Yearlings Sale Opens With Records
The Fasig-Tipton Kentucky October Yearlings sale launched with a historic first session, seeing a single-session gross of $16,864,500—the highest ever for the opening day of the sale. A well-bred son of Curlin topped the proceedings, reflecting exceptional buyer enthusiasm and robust demand for elite bloodstock at the close of the yearling auction season.
Dr. Kapur: New Juvenile Star Emerges at Keeneland
Two-year-old Dr. Kapur (by McKinzie, out of Ava’s Kitten) delivered a commanding performance at Keeneland, securing a ‘Rising Star’ designation. Ridden by Irad Ortiz, Jr., the colt broke on top, set a solid pace, and powered clear in the stretch to win by nearly three lengths in a swift time of 1:23.71 for seven furlongs. Bred and owned by Ken Ramsey, Dr. Kapur is now bound for the Grade II Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes at Churchill Downs next month. The colt carries significant sentimental value for Ramsey, being named after the surgeon who performed his kidney transplant.
European Sales Season Maintains Strong Pace
In France, the Arqana October Yearling Sale commenced today, continuing a European sales year marked by consistent gains in both average prices and total turnover. International buyers are active as major breeding and racing operations invest for the upcoming season.
Promising Ballydoyle Debut for Trojan Warrior
Aidan O’Brien’s Ballydoyle operation has another promising juvenile after Trojan Warrior impressed on debut, signaling new strength in their two-year-old division as the European flat season reaches its crescendo.
Other Noteworthy News and Insights
- Presque Isle Downs features competitive midweek racing with several key runners dropping in class and leading handicappers highlighting horses to watch in today’s card.
- Industry insiders and New York breeders are sharpening focus on the rapidly approaching Breeders’ Cup as state programs and elite operations continue preparations for American racing’s year-end showcase.
