Dollars And Sense

The Storm Cat era of progeny is winding down to a close. However, the SuperSire struck again at the Keeneland September sale as one of his colts (Hip No. 342) was sold to Sheikh Mohammed al-Maktoum for $2.05 million, clearly the top seller of the sale, which up to that point, had been somewhat disappointing. The Sheikh outbid Coolmore Stud for the Storm Cat colt in what can only be described as the highlight of the sale thus far.

However, the numbers from the Keeneland Sale have been quite dismal so far. The two select sessions were down an unbelievable 48 percent from last year's total for 300 horses. So, while there are some signs nationally that the economy is recovering, you haven't seen it yet in the sales ring. It might be some time before you do see it.

Also, in other money matters, Harrah's Entertainment won the right to purchase Thistledown Racetrack from Magna Entertainment for $89.5 million. The deal, in actuality, is for $42 million in cash. The additional $47.5 million kicks in if slots are established at racetracks in Ohio, which is expected to happen. Global Gaming also got their stalking-horse bid of $27 million accepted for Lone Star Park, another Magna Entertainment track. Lone Star will be officially auctioned off on October 7.

Tune in tomorrow for more from They Are Off. For right now, I am Gone... GOODBYE!