Bloodstock agent Chad Schumer was very active during the Keeneland November Breeding Stock Sale, particularly on the sixth session, Day 1 of Book 4. On this day, he emerged as the leading buyer in gross totals, having purchased nine horses for a total of $390,000. Schumer acquired eight horses under the Schumer/KGS banner and one solo.
One of the notable purchases made by Schumer was Hip 1992, Puzzling, a winning daughter of Ghostzapper and a half-sister to grade 1 winner Dancing Forever. Speaking about this acquisition, Schumer expressed his excitement, stating, “We bought an absolutely exceptional mare in foal to Cody’s Wish. She’s an absolute beauty.” This mare was secured for a domestic breeding partnership, reflecting Schumer’s efforts to acquire quality mares throughout the week.
In addition to Puzzling, Schumer also bought a mare in foal to Cody’s Wish earlier in the sale, showing his confidence in the stallion’s potential as a freshman sire for weanlings. Schumer emphasized the importance of acquiring top-quality mares, especially those with strong pedigrees and physical attributes, in order to attract buyers in the competitive market.
Throughout the sale, Schumer focused on purchasing broodmares in foal to a variety of stallions, including Charlatan, Complexity, Cyberknife, and others. He highlighted the commercial aspect of his acquisitions, aiming to provide the best coverage for his clients across different countries. In total, Schumer acquired 21 horses, mainly broodmares, for $1,216,000, reflecting his commitment to securing quality assets for his clients.
Reflecting on the overall market conditions, Schumer noted the strength of the sale, particularly during this stage. He emphasized the selective nature of the market, where young, physically impressive mares with strong pedigrees command top prices. Schumer’s strategic approach to buying horses for multiple clients in different price ranges showcases his expertise and adaptability in navigating the competitive sales environment.
The sixth session of the sale yielded positive results, with 279 horses sold for a total of $9,807,400. The average price was $35,152, with a median of $25,000. Despite a 17.7% RNA rate, indicating horses that did not meet their reserve prices, the overall figures demonstrated a healthy market demand for quality bloodstock.
Notable transactions included the sale of Hip 2077—Thrill, a broodmare in foal to Up to the Mark, for $200,000 to John Gunther. Additionally, a weanling colt by McKinzie fetched $200,000 and was sold to Cherry Knoll Farm. Lane’s End Farm emerged as the leading consignor, further reinforcing the strong performance of quality horses at the sale.
Comparing this year’s results to the previous year, it is evident that the market continues to show resilience and growth, with increased average prices and total sales. The continued interest in top-quality bloodstock, as demonstrated by Schumer’s acquisitions, indicates a positive outlook for the breeding industry and future racing prospects.