James Keogh has joined Lexington-based Select Sales Agency as a partner, it was announced July 9. His main role with the company will be as an account manager and consultant. A release said Keogh will also have a presence at major auctions, beginning with the Fasig-Tipton Kentucky July select yearling auction July 13-14.

Keogh moved from his native Ireland to the United States in 1982, joining Gainesway Farm. Keogh worked at Gainesway from 1982 to 1990 before beginning his own consignment, Grovendale. He partnered with Jim Fitzgerald in the Fitzgerald/Keogh Sales Agency from 2000 to 2003 before continuing with Grovendale through 2007. During his career as a Thoroughbred seller, Keogh has consigned more than $125 million worth of bloodstock and more than 70 stakes winners, according to the release.

Select Sales’ founding partners are Craig and Carrie Brogden and Dr. Sandra Willwerth of Machmer Hall Thoroughbreds and Tom Ryan of Cherokee Equine International. Andrew Cary, who is also the company's general manager, also is a new partner.

Select Sales began operations in 2009, offering its first consignment at the Fasig-Tipton July sale. According to the release, the new agency sold nearly $1.7 million worth of yearlings at the Keeneland September auction and was the 11th-leading consignor at the Keeneland November breeding stock sale with gross receipts of $3.27 million from 49 head sold.
 
"His incredible knowledge of pedigrees, wealth of experience, and professionalism will help take this company to the next level," Cary said. "He is a highly respected individual in the Thoroughbred community who will make all of us at Select Sales better at what we do, and his extensive contact list will help us bring in some outstanding stock to the upcoming sales. During these challenging economic times and with major changes at the Keeneland September sale upcoming, his expertise will be a vital factor in our success this year and in the future."