Storm Cat colts among early leaders

by Jeff Lowe

Colts from the second to last crop of Storm Cat were among the most expensive purchases in the early stages Monday in the opening session of the Keeneland September yearling sale.

Jack Sims bought a full brother to Group 1 winner Sophisticat and Grade 2 winner and Central Kentucky sire Grand Reward for $450,000.

Consigned by Denali Stud, agent for the Robert and Beverly Lewis Trust, the colt is out of champion Serena’s Song, by Rahy, who also has produced Grade 2 winner Harlington, by Unbridled, and stakes winner Serena’s Tune, by Mr. Prospector.

Sophisticat sold for $3.4-million in the 2000 Keeneland July yearling sale, and Harlington was a $2.8-million purchase in the 2003 Keeneland September sale.

Sims said the Storm Cat colt was the most expensive horse he has purchased.

“I think it was a real bargain,” said Sims, who is from Evanston , Wyoming and involved in the construction business. “I figured he would have brought $1.5-million. I think now is the best time in my lifetime in the horse industry to buy horses. “

Sims said he has about 15 horses in training throughout the country and around nine broodmares.

“I hope he isn’t the most expensive horse I own; I’ve got one selling tomorrow that I hope bring more,” Sims said, referring to a Bernardini colt who is hip 410 in Tuesday’s second session.

A Storm Cat colt from Overbrook Farm’s dispersal sold for $325,000 to John Ferguson, chief bloodstock adviser to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum

The colt is out the Unbridled mare Referendum, a half sister to multiple Grade 1 winner Jersey Girl.

A bit later in the morning, Tom Tate bought a Storm Cat half brother to Grade 1 winner Frost Giant for $300,000 from the consignment of Lane’s End, agent.

Just after noon, Rick Porter went to $475,000 for a Storm Cat filly out of champion Wandesta (GB), by Nashwan.

Jeff Lowe is a Thoroughbred Times staff writer