Two-time North American Horse of the Year Curlin and champion older female Zenyatta are among seven Keeneland sale alumni named 2008 Kentucky-bred champions by the Kentucky Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders and the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association.

 

Curlin was retired in 2008 following a career that encompassed 11 wins in 16 starts, including seven Grade 1 stakes, and North America record earnings of more than $10.5 million. He earned honors as Kentucky-bred Horse of the Year and champion handicap horse. Zenyatta, winner of last fall’s Breeders’ Cup Ladies Classic (G1), was named Kentucky-bred champion handicap mare.

 

Other Keeneland sale graduates to earn Kentucky-bred championship honors are Stardom Bound (two-year-old filly); Big Brown (three-year-old colt); Forever Together (female turf horse); and Midnight Lute (sprinter). All won Eclipse Awards in their respective divisions.

 

Sovereign Duty was named Kentucky-bred champion steeplechase horse.

 

“Kentucky-bred horses are the most sought-after individuals in the world for their quality and talent,” said Director of Sales Geoffrey Russell. “Keeneland is very privileged to be represented by so many outstanding graduates.”

 

 

2008 Kentucky-bred Champions Sold at Keeneland:

 

Curlin: $57,000, 2005 September Yearling; Consignor- Eaton Sales, agent;  Buyer- Ken McPeek, agent.

 

Stardom Bound: $50,000, 2007 September Yearling; Consignor- Legacy Bloodstock, agent; Buyer- Michael Yates.

 

Big Brown: $190,000, 2007 April 2-Year-Olds in Training; Consignor- Eddie Woods, agent; Buyer- Hidden Brook, agent for Paul Pompa Jr.

 

Zenyatta: $60,000, 2005 September Yearling, Consignor- Winter Quarter Farm, agent for Maverick Productions Ltd.; Buyers- Mr. & Mrs. J.S. Moss.

 

Forever Together:  $30,000, 2004 November Breeding Stock, Consignor- Eaton Sales, agent, Buyer- Allistair Roden; 2005 September Yearling, Consignor- Paramount Sales, agent, Buyer- Pamela Edel.  

 

Midnight Lute: $70,000, 2004 September Yearling, Consignor- Trackside Farm, agent; Buyer- Caldera Racing.

 

Sovereign Duty:  $425,000, 2003 September Yearling, Consignor- Lane’s End, agent; Buyer- Overbrook Farm.