Father Patrick colt tops Lexington opening session

A colt from the first crop of champion trotter Father Patrick was the highest priced yearling sold at the opening session of the Lexington Selected Yearling Sale on October 3, with Hip 35 (Rifleman) fetching $330,000.

Out of the multiple world champion filly Designed To Be, Rifleman was the subject of a fierce bidding war with Courant Inc eventually securing the outstanding youngster. Father Patrick's former conditioner, Hall of Fame trainer Jimmy Takter was one of the under bidders. (Click to watch the sales video of Rifleman)

The former US 2YO and 3YO Trotting Colt of the Year had five yearlings sell on the first night for an impressive average price of $120,000.

It was a great night too for fellow Nevele R stallion A Rocknroll Dance, with the leading North American first crop sire's sole entrant, Rock It Hallie, a filly out of a half-sister to Gallie Bythe Beach, selling for $100,000.