Belle Nuit leads Keeneland

LEXINGTON, Ky. - Keeneland's January all-ages sale opened Monday with few fireworks, posting a top early price of $475,000 as of 5:45 p.m.

Louis Brooks Ranch, Ltd., bought session-leader Belle Nuit for that price from the Taylor Made Sales Agency. The 13-year-old mare is a daughter of Dr. Carter out of the Tom Rolfe mare Belle Noel. Belle Nuit, a Grade 3-placed stakes winner, is a half-sister to Grade 1 winner Ms. Eloise, among other stakes runners. Already the dam of multiple graded stakes winner Belle Cherie, Belle Nuit sold in foal to Unbridled's Song.

Early in the day, Matagorda Farm's, agent, 5-year-old mare Siringas caused a stir when bidding rose to $750,000, but the Grade 3-placed runner went back to her owner after failing to reach her reserve price.

The sale is to continue through Friday.