An Indian Charlie filly out of grade I winner and producer Take Charge Lady was purchased by Mandy Pope for $2.2 million at Wednesday's third session of the Keeneland September yearling sale.
The filly, the most expensive yearling sold through 2 1/2 sessions at this year's September sale and the most expensive sold at Keeneland September since 2010, is a half sister to Florida Derby (gr. I) winner Take Charge Indy and Travers Stakes (gr. I) winner Will Take Charge .
Take Charge Indy, by Dehere, won three grade I stakes races at Keeneland. The yearling filly was bred in Kentucky by Eaton Sales. She was consigned by Hill 'n' Dale Sales Agency.
This crop of yearlings is successful sire Indian Charlie's final crop.
Pope said there is more optimism in the country and the horse industry. In November, Pope paid $14.2 million for major broodmare prospects Havre de Grace and Plum Pretty.
"Obviously, with the stock market going up this past year—it did have a little down day the other day—but I think the country in general is feeling more optimistic," Pope said.
Todd Quast, who advises Pope, said an improved purse structure in racing also is carrying over to optimism at sales.
"The purse structure is helping it a lot, too. You can make a lot more money," Quast said. "You've got a chance, especially in New York, you have a chance of breaking even and making money."
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