The recent momentum generated by Tapit colts in 2009 continued in the sales ring on Day 1 of the Keeneland September yearling sale, as Hip No. 65 – an attractive bay colt by leading sire Tapit – sold for $550,000 with bloodstock agent John Ferguson signing the ticket on behalf of Darley Stable.

The colt, which was consigned by Gainesway Sales for long-time client Winchell Thoroughbreds, went to Darley after a dual with Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, who was the under bidder. He is out of the Wild Again mare Wild Vision, making him a half-brother to Grade 1 winner Pyro and a full-brother to the leading 3-year-old filly War Echo, winner of the Silverbulletday S. (G3) earlier this year at Fair Grounds.

The $550,000 tag represents 44 times Tapit's stud fee, which was $12,500 when Wild Vision was covered back in 2007.

Later on Day 1, Gainesway Sales sold a handsome Mr. Greeley colt for $375,000 to Robert Baker & William Mack. Through the ring as Hip No. 122, the bay colt was sold on behalf of Eldon Farm Equine LLC and is out of the Williamstown mare Erica’s Smile.

Gainesway sold four of five horses offered on Day 1, which also included lots of $350,000 and $250,000, and was a Top 5 consignor on the first day and leading consignor with fewer than 12 lots offered. On Day 2, Gainesway closed out Book 1 with the sale of an Elusive Quality colt – Hip No. 346 – for $420,000, also to Ferguson and Darley.