Midway into Day 1 of Keeneland's January Horses of All Ages Sale Jan. 13, Hot Peppers (Hip 235), a graded stakes-winning mare by Khozan in foal to Constitution , commanded $460,000.
The 6-year-old mare consigned by ELiTE, agent was bred in Florida by Brent and Crystal Fernung, out of the mare Friends Pro. She hit the board in eight of her 11 starts, retiring with earnings of $424,950. She won the Victory Ride Stakes (G3) at Belmont Park in 2022 and followed that win with a game second in the Test Stakes (G1) at Saratoga Racecourse.
"She was grade 1-placed in the Test (Stakes)," said Liz Crow, of ELiTE Sales. "It's one of the most iconic races in the world, and she was also just a precocious, fast filly. Dirt speed sells really well. She also has a great cover, in foal to Constitution. That's a good price, I think."
Charlie McKinlay, manager at Darby Dan Farm, signed the ticket on behalf of Sara and Brandon Bray, who he said are just getting into the game. McKinlay said no immediate plans were made for the mare's next breeding, but she will head to Darby Dan Farm near Lexington.
"The grade 1 from Saratoga says it all right there on the page, and Constitution," said McKinlay.
Constitution was No. 5 on the leading sires list in 2024, with progeny earnings of $15,376,517, led by Louisiana Derby (G2) winner Catching Freedom. Constitution stands at WinStar Farm in Versailles for an advertised fee of $110,000.
"I thought it (price) was fair for her, it seems strong in the right places," he said of the market.
