Half-Brother To ‘Tapit’ Brings $1 Million To Top Keeneland Sale

A Malibu Moon colt who is a half-brother to Grade 1 winner and leading sire Tapit brought $1 million Monday during the 22nd annual Keeneland April Two-Year-Olds in Training Sale.

He was purchased by the partnership of Gainesway, Greg Goodman’s Mt. Brilliant Farm and Robert LaPenta.

The price marked the first time since 2009 that the sale’s highest-priced horse reached $1 million.

The colt, who was consigned by Niall Brennan Stables, agent, is out of the stakes-winning Unbridled mare Tap Your Heels, a half-sister to champion sprinter Rubiano.

Antony Beck of Gainesway said the colt would be trained by Chad Brown.

Keeneland sold 38 horses for $8,769,000 compared to $11,640,000 for 59 horses last year.

The average of $230,763 was 17-percent higher than last year’s $197,288, while the median of $200,000 increased 33-percent from $150,000 in 2013.

Niall Brennan Stables was the leading consignor, selling six horses for $2.36 million.

Keeneland’s next sale is the 70th annual September Yearling Sale, which is scheduled for September 8-19.