Zenyatta

Queen of Racing

Ask The Experts

Ask The Experts #19

Fillies in the paddock at Lane's End. Photo by Kyle Acebo.
Fillies in the paddock at Lane’s End. Photo by Kyle Acebo.

Q:

Sales have always fascinated me but I don’t have a full understanding of all the mechanics of them. How is it chosen which yearlings will be sent to auction and what sales they will be sent to?

Brooke Coleman

Versailles, KY

A: Determining if a yearling will go to public auction depends on a number of factors, beginning with the initial interests of the breeder. Some clients breed to race, some breed specifically to sell, and some do a little bit of both.

Sale nominations are submitted to the auction companies by May 1st of their yearling year; this is when it is determined who will be kept to race and who will be pointed towards a sale. This decision is generally made by the owner in conjunction with the advice given by our managerial and sales staff here at Lane’s End.

Various sales are held throughout the summer and fall; some are “select”, meaning nominated yearlings must be accepted by the sale companies upon inspection, and other sales are open, or acceptable for all types of yearlings. Determining which sale to nominate a yearling to prior to the May 1st deadline depends on a few important factors:

1) Physical
Yearlings are very similar to teenagers—they can go through awkward stages as they grow and develop, so it is important to select a sale that corresponds well with a horse’s maturity level. Our public sales and managerial staff inspect yearlings every two-three weeks through the Spring months. Notations are made on the horse’s conformation, condition, stride, and even demeanor. Maintaining notes on their physical development allows us to judge how each horse matures and determine the most appropriate sale for them.

2) Vetting
When all yearlings at Lane’s End are between 10-11 months of age, a set of survey x-rays (36 views) is taken to help us determine if any joints need special attention or surgery based on radiographic findings. For sale yearlings, survey x-rays also allow us to establish a suitable exercise program for each yearling entering the sale prep routine on June 1st.
We are mindful of survey x-rays at sale nomination time because radiographic findings can affect how commercial a yearling will be at a sale. Another set of x-rays are taken within 21 days of the auction date and provided for veterinarians to review on behalf of potential buyers.

3) Pedigree
The strength of a yearling’s pedigree also affects which sale we nominate it to. For example, a horse by a proven sire out of a stakes winner/producer will appeal to buyers at select sale venues. Alternatively, a horse with an unproven family will probably be best-suited for a larger, open sale venue where there are more potential buyers present, some of whom may not have steep pedigree requirements.

Lane’s End typically consigns yearlings at the following sales:

July 15: Fasig-Tipton Kentucky Select Yearling Sale
A one-day select sale best suited for a physically forward yearling with few (if any) significant radiographic findings. Because it is a select sale, all yearlings must be accepted in a conformation inspection performed by the sale company. Physicals and X-Rays are very important here as this is the first summer yearling sale and buyers are not pressed to purchase a horse that doesn’t meet their exact requirements. Minimum bid required: $10,000
2012 # Catalogued: 283
Average sale price: $81,291
Median sale price: $60,000

August 5-6: Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Select Yearling Sale
A select sale taking place over two evening sessions, held in conjunction with the prestigious race meet in Saratoga Springs, NY. Physical, pedigree, and vetting are all extremely important at this sale as it is concentrated with some of the best yearlings to be found all year. Minimum bid required: $10,000
2012 # Catalogued: 162
Average sale price: $299,065
Median sale price: $225,000

August 10-11: Fasig-Tipton Saratoga New York – Bred Yearlings
A two-day sale for New York-Bred yearlings only. Athletic-looking individuals sell well here as the sale is well-attended by trainers and end-users looking to race in the lucrative state-bred program. Minimum bid required: $5,000
2012 # Catalogued: 223
Average sale price: $62,551
Median sale price: $50,000

September 9-20: Keeneland September Yearling Sale
This is the largest yearling sale in the world and it is suitable for yearlings of all types… a one-stop shop for buyers! 11-12 sale sessions are typically catalogued within 6 sale books. Horses catalog primarily by pedigree with the best pedigree + physical combinations selling in Books 1-2. Keeneland September attract thousands of international and domestic owners, trainers, and bloodstock agents. Minimum bid required: $1,000
2012 # Catalogued: 3,604
Average sale price: $87,354
Median sale price: $45,000

October 21-23: Fasig-Tipton Kentucky Fall Yearling Sale
A three-day sale acceptable for all yearling types, especially late bloomers! This sale is also a good option for yearlings that may have been injured or experienced a physical setback over the summer months. Minimum bid required: $1,000
# Catalogued: 1,254
Average sale price: $26,127
Median sale price: $12,750

Our Expert

allaire

Allaire Ryan

Sales, Lane’s End

Allaire was born and raised in Lexington, KY. She developed an early interest in Thoroughbreds by attending the sales after school with her father, a bloodstock agent, and growing up she gained sales experience working for various farms and consignors. She works with clients old and new to develop Lane’s End’s public sale consignments of yearlings and breeding stock.

Reader Interactions

1,118 Comments

  1. / Reply

    Happy Birthday, Sue! (I replied to your post further up the page.)
    Great poem, Trina! You’re simply amazing. :-)

  2. / Reply

    @ Sue in FL- Happy Birthday from me—and from Barnaby John!!! Just now got on to the site and saw that today is your special day!! Was SO sorry to read about your Mr. Bubbles–my four babies are so special to me,I understand your heartbreak Hope a new kitty finds you soon–maybe there is one waiting for you at a shelter–it’s always great to save a life!

    • / Reply

      Sue N Thank you I have a kitty that was from a rescue.Her name is Jelly. They are great pets. The ones that have found me are special too.love Sue

  3. / Reply

    HAPPIEST BIRTHDAY TO SUE Fl….
    have a birthday yr…..not day….things will improve
    your own Kitty will find you soon….ours were found in our garden…yours could be anywhere just waiting…
    …..
    am going to Oaklawn tomorrow on “dry run” for Friday….got to find out when Calvin is riding as you must be present to get the cards…
    …..
    And I second the notion that those flashes disappear….mine are long gone …thank goodness
    ….
    Kisses for all soft noses….
    Love yo all

  5. / Reply

    Sue (FL) – see more messages on previous page (written after you visited), and I forgot to say thanks again for all the fun we had as the Zentastics!!!
    Sandy

    • / Reply

      I agree,Sandy!
      Thanks,Sue for making it happen!
      Sandy…..has Lenny told you any news about CMG? Ha!
      Sue…keep celebrating your birthday. What better present than, Gary Stevens returning to the track! Now that is a gift,HONEY!!!!!!

  6. / Reply

    Kathy R – just wanted to say I’m thinking about you and hoping that the fires are not near where you are. I hate winter here, but I realize that snow is nothing compared to what you’re facing. Every time I see the New Year’s fireworks over the Sydney harbor, I wish I could be there to see it in person, but this is a “wake up call” about life beyond such glamorous places.
    Sandy

  7. / Reply

    Sue in Fl
    Happy Birthday to you
    Happy Birthday to you
    Happy Birthday dear Sue
    Happy Birthday to you
    And, many more!

    Here kitty kitty. Here kitty. Sue needs you & you need Sue. I know you are out there.
    Birthday Hugs, Keta

  8. / Reply

    Happy New Year Z Family!

    Had to take the time to stop in, and check in. It was calling me, and the urge was too much! FAFSA can be done while multi-tasking, can’t it? :-)

    http://thespiritofthehorse.blog.com/2013/01/07/gypsy-is-going-home/

    SHERR news: Gypsy has been adopted. Follow the link and it will tell you all about it! We tried, and tried, and finally, she was ready!

    So much cooking, and cleaning, and eating, and then avoiding mirrors. So much! AHH!

    My brother is turning 16 in two days….I have to figure out a present for him, but I might just bake him a cake, and go icing crazy on it. He’s like me, we love our sweet-toothes, regardless of how much the dentist warns us against it. I’ve never had cavities…so it’s a good excuse to keep eating sweets as any!

    @Terry
    Welcome back! (Or hello, since I am the one returning!) The redneck jokes are good as ever! Hope you are well, and that life is being nice to a wonderful person.

    @Trina
    I was going to send you a Christmas (or holiday) card, but first I lost the stamps, and then I couldn’t find an envelope, and then it was too late to send it for Christmas, so I’ll send it late. I hope you will still accept it! :-)

    @Judy B.
    Good to hear that everyone is doing well, and Papa Charlie is being spunky. You should take that ride on him! You never know, maybe he is waiting for someone like you as his “perfect rider”.

    @Keta
    Great links as always Mama Keta! I especially enjoy the Australian coverage of the racing, and Black Caviar.

    @KathyR in sweltering Australia
    Lots of rain and cool breezes sent your way! We’ve had plenty of water, now if it would kindly meander over to you guys, it would easy the heart. I read a heart-breaking article on CNN about families who lost everything in the fires that are ravaging the country. I hope you stay safe, and that these fires are put out soon! Nothing worse than adding insult to injury.
    I also saw the duck in the Sydney harbor. I wish they would have had that in there when I was there! I always go at the wrong times! I would have backstroked out there and tried to get on it. Who wouldn’t try to ride a giant, yellow duck?? :-) I also loved the fireworks display! Second to none this year! We didn’t have fireworks, because our city is a scrooge.

    @Everyone with a birthday!
    Happy Birthday! I don’t want to mention individuals because I know that I will forget someone! So Happy Birthday to everyone who had one in the last few weeks.

    I watched the Keeneland sale today. Potesta looked like a superstar the way she stood in that ring! So proud, and championesqe. Princess Arabella looked amazing too! Of course Nereid was the sales topper. As good as she looked, it didn’t surprise me. Excited to see who Stonestreet will breed Potesta to! The choices are unlimited for a filly like her! I’m also excited for the Princess Arabella x Tapit baby. That’s going to be a blur, not a horse! Zoom!

    I don’t have the shoes, nor the rugs, to start pacing just yet. Once I buy new ones, I’ll join the group. Still have to replace the ones from last year. So many good babies we are awating. Zenyatta, Rachel, Blind Luck gives birth this year too I believe (does anyone know anything on her?), St. Trinians is due early, Goldikova, and so many more! How exciting!

    The Stormy Atlantic x Tap Gold filly I saw at the Keeneland Yearling sale last year turns two this year, so I’m excited to find out her name, and see her works.

    I think this will be a breakout year for racing!

    • / Reply

      Dear Pati:

      You are Too Cute. I think Charlie is happiest with Angela (his new Mom) as his perfect rider. I just so happy he knows me and welcomes me when I visit. (I think it’s the carrots and mints).

      Hope everything is going well for you at school.

      You are so right. So many fabulous mares due to foal this year. Getting anxious already for Z and all of them. Love and Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      Dear Pati, I would be honored and delighted to get a card from you. Thanks so much! Love in Dumplinghood, Trina

  9. / Reply

    You have all been so wonderful. I hope I did not miss anyone. I tried to keep up with all of you tonight.
    I can take a go at it tomorrow if I did.
    I do love you all and thanks for a great end of the day.
    Sue

  10. / Reply

    Happy Birthday wishes to you!!!!! You are so very young!!!!! They do end, but yes, it’s no picnic, ya gotta be tuff to get old. I’m facing 68 this month. Staring me down hard.

    I know you aren’t in Ca, we have some wonderful kitties at Rescue House. org, but you will find your special sweetheart or vice versa.

    Hugs,

    • / Reply

      Good to know Delrene they are working on me hard. All you guys love makes me think about my new kitty and not the nasty flashes ha ha. love Sue

  11. / Reply

    Dear Sue, I have just gone back to read the wonderful birthday poem Trina wrote for you and saw that you did not have the special day I had hoped you did. I join others in wishing that tomorrow is a better day! Did you get the white Zenyatta T-Shirt with her dancing picture? Shari Voltz got me that one for my birthday and I loved it. I know you will find a dear kitty to love and bring warmth to your heart soon. You are in my thoughts. Keep smiling!!! Hugs, Dawn

  12. / Reply

    Dear Sue,
    Left you a birthday week wish on page 7.
    Hope you have a great week.

  14. / Reply

    BLOODHORSE: ERIC KRONFELD AND NERIED AT THE KEENLAND SALE

    Owner Kronfeld Gets Lucky at Keeneland Sale
    By Ron Mitchell, @BH_RMitchell
    Updated: Monday, January 7, 2013 2:53 PM
    Posted: Monday, January 7, 2013 2:15 PM

    For awhile it appeared that owner Eric Kronfeld was snakebit when it came to his grade I stakes-winning mare Nereid.

    First, the daughter of Rock Hard Ten was scratched out of the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf (gr. IT) after sustaining a minor injury. The injury and subsequent medications she was administered then led the owner to scratch Nereid from the Keeneland November breeding stock sale.

    But all that was ancient history Jan. 7 when Nereid was purchased by Lane Seliger, Baumann Stables, for $1.3 million, lighting up the bid board at the first session of the Keeneland January horses of all ages sale in Lexington.

    “I would rather be lucky than good,” Kronfeld said shortly after his mare, consigned by Don Robinson’s Winter Quarter Farm, sold.

    Kronfeld declined to reveal his reserve for the mare, who was trained by John Shirreffs to a deadheat victory with Cambina in the 2012 American Oaks (gr. IT) at Betfair Hollywood Park. The 5-year-old mare retired with three wins from 11 starts and earnings of $303,800.

    “It was a fair bit above her reserve,” Kronfeld said. “My reserve is always a price below which I would be happy to keep her. She was here to sell.”

    Produced from Dowry (by Belong to Me), Nereid was bred by Mr. and Mrs. Emler Neuman in Kentucky and sold for $190,000 as a yearling at Keeneland in September 2009.

    Read more on BloodHorse.com: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/75402/owner-kronfeld-gets-lucky-at-keeneland-sale#ixzz2HLxitN2f

  15. / Reply

    Sue in Fl…a very happy birthday to you! Sounds like it did get better, whippersnapper indeed! LOL Barbara Wood (Texas.) Trina, your poem was very cheerful!

    Before it gets behind me I want to tell you all of my Saturday morning (mostly) at Santa Anita. First, VERY early we visited Rightful!!! Mike has moved his barn to #17, much closer to Clockers’ Corner. (And brr..was it cold then…I had on three pairs of socks–kind of redneck territory, huh, except Terry Crow, it was COLD, dammit!) Ahem, back to Rightful, he accepted my kisses–IF I had carrots in my hand. He is SO tall–close to our Z’s height almost. One has to reach up or he has to come way down. We congratulated him on his second place finishes; Rod told him to be careful of “seconditis,” I told Rod to stop talking to him like that–his last race was so good! On our way through the barn, before Rightful, we saw Caracatado–and here was a consensual smooching session–withOUT any carrots. He just let me smooch his nose over and over…it was great. Definitely warmed me up a little. Rightful did not say when his next race would be. I told him to ask the boss.
    Sometimes we don’t know until we know. Rightful looked good, or as good as I could tell in the dark. ( Would be nice if he would race on a weekend, which he did in 2011.)
    I have not heard about Cara racing either; has anyone else? (Mike was not in barn when we were there. Out watching horses.)

    A short while later I had the good fortune to be standing right near Paynter (!) as he jogged by. I was on the rail and he kinda looked over at me, sort of, really.
    From what I can tell (and what do I know, really?) he looked fine. Seemed to be a nice jog. That was a thrill. Handsome fella.

    Later in day, there I was admiring the QUEEN’s statue when who should I see walking out that entrance/exit by the fountain but Gary Stevens. He was in HRTV garb carrying papers over his shoulder. I wished him luck for his race the next day and he replied, “Thank you honey.” Sweet. We now know how that race unfolded–not bad IMHO. I hear he is racing on Friday.

    I also had a brief–very brief–exchange with John Scheer–the 90+ gentleman who saved the little girl last year. We bumped into each other at the paddock, both said sorry and then smiled and wished each other a happy new year.

    So, my day was full. I think I may have even bet on some horses! :-)
    I probably should apologize for name dropping, but I don’t think I will. Very enjoyable!

    Afterwards, we went to the Claimjumper–our first time there since Breeders’ Cup–well that one IS closer to Santa Anita than HP. Brought a smile to our faces, Dumplings.

    • / Reply

      Dear Anne from Paramount,

      Loved all the updates from Santa Anita, special equines and people there.

      Don’t apologize for namedropping, shows good self-esteem, we all know you and
      Rod and Rightful have that. Best of Luck to Rightful, he will get that winner !!!!!

      No sterling silver carrot? Guess I will have to bring him one, he deserves it !!!!

    • / Reply

      Anne-Always good to hear from you. If racing had more people such as you involved, it would be better for everyone who loves the sport.

    • / Reply

      Dear Anne:

      So enjoy your updates on Rightful and your wonderful humor. Too cute Gary Stevens called you “Honey”. Like that man. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      Thanks Anne. Always love your interesting stories. Maybe you could teach RI to tap out the answers with his hoof?? Hope we get some warning before his next race.

    • / Reply

      Thanks Judy! He’s MY horse, and I can’t believe that another one of the small band of horses I feel like I sort of “know” has gotten hurt. First Questing, then Nonios, now Dullahan!! Hope they are right about it just being a small cut, but how do these things keep happening? I saw a comment from someone in another venue saying that a horse in a padded cell could find a way to get hurt. Honestly!!

      • / Reply

        Dear Sandy, Anne and Z Fans:

        I love Dullahan too and I hope he heals well and soon. I never realized just how fragile horses can be, especially our beloved TB’s with their delicate skin.

        I check Charlie every time I visit. He always has a new mark or small cut in his skin. Angela is right on it all the time, so they heal fast. He bangs the side of his head getting hay out of his hay rack. He bumps himself on the bars of his stall. H’es constantly playing with his buds in the paddock; a lot of chasing and nipping. He clips his front legs when he runs like the wind. So he’s always got some new mark on him. As long as they’re not deep or in a difficult place to heal, it’s just what goes on with horses I’m finding out.

        Glad E’s bruise healed quickly and wish the same for Dullahan. Love and Hugs, JB

        • Thanks for the insights Judy (and I meant to include E on the list of course). This is all just amazing to me.

        • Dear Barbara,

          They are like infants and love to play like adults.
          Never know how they do what they do, just find it
          and treat it.

          Bet you have a lot of experience with that !!!1

    • / Reply

      Love this article, Judy B.

      He is a gorgeous boy, good luck to Nick Zito.

      • / Reply

        Dear Sign:

        Would love to see NZ have a contender for the Derby. Always liked and admired him. Hugs, JB

    • / Reply

      Dear Judy B,

      Seems like 13 Z will be here very soon.
      Zenny looks so healthy and happy as a MOM.
      Wishing for a grey filly, maybe Tapit will get
      the stamp on this one. 12 Z keeps learning
      his lessons like just like mom did and taught him.

      • / Reply

        Dear Sign:

        Yes, I’m hoping for a gray filly too (that looks like Z). Very exciting. Hugs, JB

  19. / Reply

    Dear Sue,

    Sending you the link to this wonderful book: Finding Joy: 101 Ways to Free Your
    Spirit and Dance With Life by Charlotte Davis Kasl and Lenore Davis.

    A wonderful book that will give you joy and that WHOOSH, when special things
    happen to you. It is only about $5.00.

    http://www.amazon.com/Finding-Joy-Ways-Spirit-Dance/dp/0060925884/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357618814&sr=1-1&keywords=finding+joy%3A+101+ways+to+Free+Your+Spirit+and+Dance+with+Life

    Went to a wonderful group meeting tonight. Some thoughts that were shared:

    “My mother told me to never be a DOORMAT”
    “My husband always tells me what to do and how to do it, we had a discussion
    and I am NOT going to do what he says anymore, and he agreed and actually
    laughed”
    “What are the 5 top things that make you feel happy and do them”.

    Hope you enjoy the book. It really is great, lots of uplifting, positive, self-esteem
    building ideas. Before one can care for other, one must be able to care for themselves.

    ENJOY !!!!

  20. / Reply

    Me again…there was a fascinating article on Trevor Denman in yesterday’s Long Beach Press Telegram Sports Section by Tom Hoffarth. I believe same was in L.A. Daily News. If any of you have/get those papers, be sure to read it. Sure did not know some of those things about our Trevor. I don’t do links, but perhaps someone else can. His email address is: thomas.hoffarth@dailynews.com

    More on the postings here probably tomorrow–now must get ready for tomorrow!

    Sweet Z dreams everyone!

  22. / Reply

    Sad to hear that PBS host Huell Howser is gone! Down to earth, and beloved by many… only 67. It was said a surprise, but he had just retired in November, amid rumors of illness, but not confirmed. He had just a wonderful personality.

  23. / Reply

    Ohmygosh! Teary eyed a little here! I just watched our local KCET PBS station and program called SOCALConnected. A very lovely tribute to Huell Howser. Knowing he’s gone to meet our maker in Heaven, here’s to you Huell – “Open up your Pearly gates, Heaven here I come” (sing this to the tune of “CALIFORNIA HERE I COME”) What the Lord must think when Huell exclaims, “Get a shot of this, Louie! Amazing! And you are THE LORD. Tells us about this amazing place” LOL! I’m sure HE will discover things HE didn’t even know from Huell! Rest his soul …

    http://news.yahoo.com/californias-gold-host-huell-howser-dies-67-003852762.html

    • / Reply

      Oh yes, I will miss him! Was sad when it was announced Nov 27, 2012 that there would be no more new California Gold episodes and now this sad news!

      • / Reply

        Huell Howser was always about the little guy, the moms and pops and always finding the good in people and in life. A big loss….gone too soon.

      • / Reply

        Huell Howser was always about the little guy, small businesses and always finding the good in people and in life. A big loss….gone too soon.

  25. / Reply

    Dear Zenny Fans, Dumplings, and All,

    Blessed be our protection when we go out during day or
    night,
    That you mayest not let the weather or others approach us,
    If they do not intend to bring us what was intended from
    your Holy Altar.

    Because Jesus has ascended into Heaven in his living Body,
    And so shall our bodies and wellbeing be protected this
    day and each day forward,
    O Lord, bless us and watch over us day and night.
    In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
    Amen

    Wishing everyone a blessed day.

    • / Reply

      Can’t wait to see his pretty babies and as I mentioned earlier I hope their commitment to building his stallion reputation turns out to be as successful as the Ramsey’s commitment to establishing Kitten’s Joy.

      • / Reply

        Really great point, Expecially Horses.

        It would be so wonderful if Shack could build a dynasty
        of filly and colt “crow hoppers”

        It shall begin, Ann !!!!

  27. / Reply

    Kathy R.
    Please keep us up to date w/ Miracle of Life.
    Hope things turn around for you folks,Down Under.

    Sue Fl…..hope you will have a great day and keep the birthday spirit going! Happy B-Day!
    TC..loved the funnies,spraying the shrubs,HA!

    PATI….FAFSA,never lose that pin number,tattoo it on your body! HA! good luck w/ that.

    Love reading all posts,thanks to all!

    • / Reply

      Thanks Ann the day ended great with all the love that came from everyone on the Zenny Blog. Best group of pals, rednecks and whipersnappers ever. Sue

  28. / Reply

    Fantasy Cappers
    I just got an email to take a survey. I hope we can tell them it was a bit hard setting up. Other than that I had alot of fun. Hope you all get the email today. Sue

    • / Reply

      hi sue….I got the same email….did survey….thanks for the heads up to look for it…told them it was great fun….and hope we can all do it again next year…

    • / Reply

      Dear Sue and Ann,

      Go the survey, too. And said it was sooo much fun and hope one of us
      wins the $100.

      Thanks so much for organizing this group. I was a little frustrated at first, but
      got into the swing of things thanks to our expert group of handicappers on this site.

  29. / Reply

    This is from Mya and Deja Hi how do you feel? do you want a girl or boy horse? Mrs.V wants you to have a girl and wants her to be white. Is there snow on the ground. when is the new baby due ? do you get to see babyz

    • / Reply

      She sure done look like Zenny from a far !!!

      Great link !!!

    • / Reply

      Dear Especially Horses, Sign and Z Fans:

      I agree. Beautiful filly has the Z look. Hugs, JB

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