Book 3 of the Keeneland September yearling sale opened to strong trade with a 26% increase in average to $58,579 on Saturday.

Day 6 of the world’s largest auction saw turnover reach $20.61 million.  The clearance rate over the first six sessions has improved 10 points to 74%.

Barbara Banke’s Stonestreet Stables landed the session-topper going to $425,000 for an Elusive Quality colt out of the Saint Ballado mare Pinafores Pride.  The colt was consigned by Anderson Farms and is a half brother to Canadian Group winner Southdale (Street Cry).

“We knew we had a nice colt, and he’s just done everything right from the beginning,” said David Anderson.  “We had a lot of lookers and it’s been a great horse sale.”

Bob Baffert bought the top-priced filly for his long-time client Mike Pegram.  The Hall of Fame trainer went to $400,000 for a War Pass – Avenging Tomisue filly from Lane’s End.  She is from the family of Aldebaran and Cornerstone Stud shuttler Good Journey.

Baffert also paid $300,000 for an Indian Charlie colt for Pegram.  He is from the family of champion filly Althea.

Book 3 continues on Sunday and the sale will run daily through to September 24.