When James Keogh launched Grovendale Sales in 1995, it wasn't with the idea that he would garner international praise. But 30 years later, the native of Ireland found himself back home receiving exactly that.
Honored by the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders' Association National Breeding and Racing Awards, Keogh was the recipient of the Wild Geese Award which is presented to a native son or daughter who excels on the global Thoroughbred landscape.
"As a proud Irishman to be recognized by your peers is extremely satisfying," Keogh told BloodHorse the day after the awards. "I've been very fortunate in my career to receive assistance along the way from a lot of wonderful people so I feel an obligation to help young people whenever the opportunity presents. Though we are in the horse business, it's every bit as much about the people as well as our love for the horse."
Keogh was feted along with other honorees Jan. 25 at the Heritage Killenard in Killenard, Ireland. He was joined by his wife Anne, who is BloodHorse's visuals director; daughter Georgia; brother Pat; and sisters Ann Godsall and Olivia Harrison
As in any industry recency matters, and in Keogh's case, his consignment has much to celebrate. Newly minted Eclipse winner Thorpedo Anna, named Horse of the Year and champion 3-year-old filly, was campaigned in the sales ring by Grovendale. Thorpedo Anna was a $40,000 purchase by trainer Kenny McPeek at the 2022 Fasig-Tipton Kentucky Fall Yearling Sale.
Among others to go through the Grovendale consignment are 2015 champion 2-year-old colt and 2016 Kentucky Derby (G1) victor Nyquist and sprint standout Cogburn , who last year set a new record time in the Jaipur Stakes (G1T).
