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{{Short description|American auction house for Thoroughbred and Standardbred horses}}
{{None}}
{{more citations needed|date=January 2016}}
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[[File:F-T corplogo.jpg|thumb|Fasig-Tipton Logo]]
The '''Fasig-Tipton Company, Inc.''' is an [[auction]] house for [[Thoroughbred]] horses founded in 1898 by William B. Fasig and Edward A. Tipton. It is the oldest Thoroughbred auction house in [[North America]]. The company has offices in [[Lexington, Kentucky]], [[Elkton, Maryland]], [[Saratoga Springs, New York]], and [[Ocala, Florida]].


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[[File:Fasig-Tipton logo.gif|thumbnail|Fasig-Tipton logo]]
== History ==


The '''Fasig-Tipton Company, Inc.''' is an American [[auction]] house for [[Thoroughbred]] horses. Founded in 1898, it is the oldest auction company of its kind in [[North America]].<ref name="expl_Glengarry_Field">{{Cite web |title=Glengarry Field/ Cool Meadow and Fasig- Tipton |last=Riddle |first=Becky |publisher=Government of Kentucky |date= |access-date=21 March 2021 |url= https://explorekyhistory.ky.gov/items/show/617?tour=17&index=27}}</ref> The company has offices in [[Lexington, Kentucky]], [[Elkton, Maryland]], and [[Saratoga Springs, New York]]. In 2008, Fasig-Tipton Co. was purchased by Synergy Investments Ltd., a Dubai-based company headed by Abdulla Al Habbai. Of the 13 [[Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing|Triple Crown]] winners, two of the three which were offered at public auction were sold at Fasig-Tipton: 2015 winner [[American Pharoah]], sold at the 2013 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale and 1975 [[Seattle Slew]], sold at the 1973 Fasig-Tipton July Sale in Kentucky.<ref name="twin_Seattle_Slew">{{Cite web |title=Seattle Slew |author= |publisher=TwinSpires Racing, Sports & Casino |date= |access-date=21 March 2021 |url= https://www.twinspires.com/horse/seattle-slew}}</ref>
=== The Early Years ===
Fasig-Tipton was established in 1898 by William B. Fasig and Edward A. Tipton. From the its original offices in Madison Square Garden, the company sold top class horses of a wide variety, primarily road and driving horses and Standardbred and Thoroughbred racing stock.


=== Old Glory ===
==History==
[[File:CatOldGlory1903-9thAnnual.jpg|thumb|1903 "Old Glory" Sale Catalogue]]
[[File:CatOldGlory1903-9thAnnual.jpg|thumb|1903 "Old Glory" Sale Catalog]]
The '''Fasig-Tipton Company, Inc.''' is an [[auction]] house for [[Thoroughbred]] horses founded in 1898 by William B. Fasig and [[Edward A. Tipton]]. It is the oldest auction company of its kind in [[North America]]. Its first headquarters were in Madison Square Garden in New York, and Fasig-Tipton initially sold high-class road and carriage horses in addition to Thoroughbred and [[Standardbred]] racing stock.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fasigtipton.com/about/history|title=Fasig-Tipton - History|access-date=1 February 2016|archive-date=19 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160219072728/http://www.fasigtipton.com/about/history|url-status=dead}}</ref>
Fasig-Tipton’s flagship sale in the early 20th century was referred to as “Old Glory.” Held annually in late November or early December, the Old Glory sale offered a “Grand Aggregation of Thoroughbred Stallions, Mares, Racehorses, Yearling, and Weanlings,”<ref>{{Cite journal|url = |title = Volume 71|last = |first = |date = November 2, 1902|journal = Turf, Field & Farm|doi = |pmid = |access-date = }}</ref> as well as high quality Standardbred stock suitable for racing and breeding.


Shortly after the Old Glory sale was held in 1907, New York suffered another severe economic downturn in which bank closures threatening the sustainability of the horse sales business. Fasig turned the company over to his assistant, Enoch James Tranter. Tranter brokered a deal with the banks which allowed the young company to survive the financial instability.
Fasig-Tipton's main horse auction in the early 20th century was referred to as "Old Glory." Held annually in late November or early December, the Old Glory sale offered a "Grand Aggregation of Thoroughbred [[Stallion]]s, [[Mare]]s, Racehorses, [[Yearling (horse)|Yearlings]], and [[foal|Weanlings]],"<ref>{{Cite journal|title = Volume 71|date = November 2, 1902|journal = Turf, Field & Farm}}</ref> as well as Standardbreds. Shortly after the Old Glory sale of 1907, New York suffered a severe economic downturn, and bank closures threatened the sustainability of the horse sales business. Fasig turned the company over to his assistant, Enoch James Tranter, who brokered a deal with the banks which allowed the young company to survive the financial instability. Tranter's also made dramatic changes to the format of the sales catalogue: originally, the page for each horse offered might list up to 30 generations of [[pedigree chart|pedigree]] with limited or no produce record, as well as subjective descriptions written by the individual consignors. Tranter changed this so emphasis was placed on the performance and production history of the horse's closest relatives, limiting the page to three to four dams with detailed information about the horse's dam's performance. Tranter also insisted on health certificates for all horses entered into his sales and pregnancy certificates for broodmares offered in foal. Fasig-Tipton was the first horse sales company to do this.<ref name=":0" />


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===Saratoga===
Aside from keeping the company afloat in a tumultuous economy, Tranter’s most significant impact of the business of horse auctions was the format of the catalogue page. When Tranter took the reins, the page for each horse offered might list up to 30 dams with limited or no produce record, as well as subjective descriptions authorized by individual consignors. Tranter instituted a practice wherein emphasis was placed on the performance and production history of the horse’s closest relatives, thereby limiting the page to three to four dams with detailed information about the horse’s dam’s performance. In conjunction with the redesign of the catalogue, Tranter also insisted on health certificates for all catalogues horses and pregnancy certificates for broodmares offered in foal. Fasig-Tipton was the first horse sales company to require certification on its offerings.
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[[File:Humphrey S. Finney Pavilion.jpg|thumb|right|Humphrey S. Finney Pavilion]]
After World War I, Fasig-Tipton established a satellite office in Saratoga Springs, New York. The new pavilion was host to the Saratoga Selected Yearling Sale, which was held during the Saratoga race meet beginning in 1917.<ref name=":0">{{Cite book|title = Fair Exchange|last = Finney|first = Humphrey S.|publisher = Charles Scribner's Sons|year = 1974|isbn = 0684137070|location = New York|url-access = registration|url = https://archive.org/details/fairexchangereco0000finn}}</ref> Due to cargo limitations imposed on breeders during World War II, the Saratoga Sale was suspended from 1943 through 1945. In 1959, Fasig-Tipton was honored as the Saratoga Firm of the Year.{{citation needed|date=February 2016}}


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In 1968, the Humphrey S. Finney Sales Pavilion was built, named after an individual who worked for the company from the 1930s through the 1960s. In 2010, the pavilion and sales grounds were renovated to improve amenities for buyers, sellers, and horses.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.saratogian.com/article/ST/20100802/NEWS/308029986|title = Fasig-Tipton's renovated Humphrey S. Finney Sales Pavilion ready to host Saratoga Selected Yearlings Sale tonight|website = Saratogian News|publisher = The Saratogian|last = Donges|first = Patrick H.| date=24 August 2000 }}</ref> It is located approximately a quarter of a mile from the [[Saratoga Race Course]].
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=== Saratoga ===
After World War I, Fasig-Tipton established a satellite office in Saratoga Springs, New York. The brand new pavilion was host to the Saratoga Selected Yearling Sale, which was held during the Saratoga race meet beginning in 1917.<ref>{{Cite book|title = Fair Exchange|last = Finney|first = Humphrey S.|publisher = Charles Scribner's Sons|year = 1974|isbn = 0684137070|location = New York|pages = }}</ref> Over the years, the Saratoga Sale has produced a bevy of champions, including [[Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing|Triple Crown]] winner [[American Pharoah]], champions [[Black Tie Affair]], [[Conquistador Cielo]], [[De La Rose]], [[Dearly Precious]], [[Foolish Pleasure]], [[Honest Pleasure]], [[Open Mind (horse)|Open Mind]], [[Rubiano (horse)|Rubiano]], [[Saint Liam]], [[Sky Beauty]], [[Songbird (horse)|Songbird]], [[Tasso (horse)|Tasso]], and [[Tepin (horse)|Tepin]]. The sale has also produced classic winners [[Cavalcade (horse)|Cavalcade]], [[Colonial Affair]], [[Count Turf]], [[Da' Tara|Da’Tara]], [[Flying Ebony]], [[Funny Cide]], [[Gallahadion]], [[High Quest]], [[Kauai King]], [[Monarchos]], [[Nellie Morse]], [[Tonalist]], and [[Union Rags]]. Saratoga Sale grads have also had great success off the track, as marked by [[Natalma]], dam of influential sire [[Northern Dancer]], three-time leading sire [[Danzig (horse)|Danzig]], and two-time British leading broodmare sire [[Miswaki]].
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[[File:Humphrey S. Finney Pavilion.jpg|thumb|Humphrey S. Finney Pavilion]]
Due to cargo limitations imposed on breeders during World War II, the Saratoga Sale was suspended from 1943 through 1945. In 1943, Fasig-Tipton offered selected yearlings in a tent sale at Keeneland Racecourse in Lexington, Kentucky. That sale produced 1945 Kentucky Derby winner [[Hoop Jr.]]


The Finney Pavilion, the center of the sales during the month of August, is a small auditorium with seating on the bottom in front of an oblong walking ring, where the horses are shown and the auctioneer and spokesperson sit during the sales. The balcony area contains more seating and a press box, around which is an art exhibition put on by the Cross Gate Gallery, which is not affiliated with Fasig-Tipton. The grounds also hold a restaurant, a snack bar, eight large barns, an office and tool room, and a large walking ring attached to the pavilion for warming up and viewing the horses. Two alleys that front parts of the property are named Fasig Lane and Tipton Lane.{{citation needed|date=February 2016}}
The New York Bred Preferred Yearling Sale, offered annually the weekend after the Saratoga Sale, features some of the best Thoroughbreds the state has to offer. 2014 [[Breeders' Cup|Breeders’ Cup]] and [[Eclipse Award]] winner [[Dayatthespa]] is a graduate of the New York Bred Sale.


Sales held annually in Saratoga include the Saratoga Sale (selected yearlings), the New York Bred Sale (preferred yearlings), and the Saratoga Fall Sale (horses of all ages). The Fasig-Tipton auctions in Saratoga are typically held in early August. Historically the Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale kicks off the summer yearling sales in North America, preceded only by their own Kentucky July yearling sale. There are two nights of Select Sales where only the top yearlings in the country are selected to be sold. During these sessions one can only sit inside the pavilion if a reservation is made in advance. The public is allowed on the grounds and inside the pavilion to view the horses and artwork inside, but cannot sit unless prior arrangements are made. The New York Bred Preferred Yearling Sale is offered annually the weekend after the Saratoga Sale. During the Preferred sessions only selected New York bred horses are shown, and the public is invited to sit where they wish. The sales grounds and seating are open to the public throughout the sale but seating is limited during the Selected sessions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Welcome to Fasig-Tipton {{!}} Fasig-Tipton |url=https://www.fasigtipton.com/ |access-date=2023-02-13 |website=www.fasigtipton.com}}</ref>
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In 1968, the Humphrey S. Finney Sales Pavilion was built, named after a company fixture from the 1930’s through the 1960’s. In 1959, Fasig-Tipton was honored as the Saratoga Firm of the Year. In 2010, the pavilion and sales grounds were renovated to improve amenities for buyers, sellers, and horses.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.saratogian.com/article/ST/20100802/NEWS/308029986|title = Fasig-Tipton's renovated Humphrey S. Finney Sales Pavilion ready to host Saratoga Selected Yearlings Sale tonight|date = |access-date = |website = Saratogian News|publisher = The Saratogian|last = Donges|first = Patrick H.}}</ref>


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===Kentucky===
Sales held annually in Saratoga include the Saratoga Sale (selected yearlings), the New York Bred Sale (preferred yearlings), and the Saratoga Fall Sale (horses of all ages).


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[[File:Havre de Grace (horse).jpg|thumb|[[Havre de Grace (horse)|Havre de Grace]] selling for $10 million at the 2012 Fasig-Tipton November Sale]]
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=== Kentucky ===
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[[File:Hip76FTK11-12FTK71.jpg|thumb|Havre de Grace selling for $10 million at the 2012 Fasig-Tipton November Sale]]
In 1972, Fasig-Tipton established its now permanent headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky. The Kentucky office operates year-round, offering five sales catering to buyers, sellers, and breeders of all types. Currently, the Kentucky location offers open and selected yearling and mixed sales, as well as a horses of racing age sale.
In 1972, Fasig-Tipton established its now-permanent headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky. The Kentucky office operates year-round, offering five sales. Sales held annually in Kentucky include the Kentucky Winter Mixed Sale (horses of all ages), the July Sale (selected yearlings), the Summer Selected Horses of Racing Age Sale, the October Sale (Kentucky fall yearlings), and the November Sale (selected weanlings, two-year-olds, racing prospects, and broodmares).{{citation needed|date=February 2016}}


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Each November, the November Sale annually produces the highest average price of any breeding stock sale worldwide. The November Sale currently holds three world records for horses offered at public auction: top-priced broodmare, Broodmare of the Year [[Better Than Honour]], who sold for $14,000,000 in 2008;<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/47878/better-than-honour-sets-world-record|title = Better Than Honour Sets World Record|website = The Blood-Horse|last = Biles|first = Deirde B.}}</ref> top-priced broodmare prospect, champion [[Havre de Grace (horse)|Havre de Grace]], who sold for $10,000,000 in 2012;<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.drf.com/news/fasig-tipton-november-10-million-mare-havre-de-grace-paces-robust-mixed-sale|title = Fasig-Tipton November: $10 million mare Havre de Grace paces robust mixed sale|website = Daily Racing Form|last = Oakford|first = Glenye Cain}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url = https://www.forbes.com/sites/teresagenaro/2012/11/26/the-10-million-mare-horse-of-the-year-havre-de-grace-sets-an-auction-record/#2dbc95d41805|title = The $10 Million Mare: Horse Of The Year Havre de Grace Sets An Auction Record|work = Forbes|last = Genaro|first = Teresa}}</ref> and top-priced juvenile filly, [[Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies]] (G1) winner [[Stardom Bound]], who sold for $5,700,000 in 2008.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/47873/stardom-bound-sells-for-57-million|title = Stardom Bound Sells for $5.7 Million|website = The Blood-Horse|last = Biles|first = Deirde B.}}</ref>
The Kentucky division was an immediate source of high class racing stock. Graduates of Kentucky sales exhibited success at the highest levels, including 1975 [[Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing|Triple Crown]] winner [[Seattle Slew]], champions [[Artax (horse)|Artax]], [[Big Brown]], [[Blind Luck]], [[Bold Forbes]], [[Dubai Majesty]], [[Epitome (horse)|Epitome]], [[Genuine Risk]], [[Informed Decision]], [[Itsallgreektome]], [[North Sider]], [[Northern Spur]], [[Princess Rooney]], [[Silverbulletday]], and [[Trinniberg]]. Kentucky sales have also produced classic winners [[Creme Fraiche (horse)|Crème Fraiche]], [[Dancing Brave]], [[Go for Gin|Go For Gin]], [[Hoop Jr.]], [[Mine That Bird]], [[Rainbow Quest (horse)|Rainbow Quest]], and [[Unbridled]].


===Expansion===
⚫
Each November, the November Sale annually produces the highest average price of any breeding stock sale worldwide. The catalogue showcases graded stakes winners fresh off the track, graded stakes winning and/or producing broodmares, and selected weanlings. The November Sale currently holds three world records for horses offered at public auction: top-priced broodmare, Broodmare of the Year [[Better Than Honour]], who sold for $14,000,000 in 2008;<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/47878/better-than-honour-sets-world-record|title = Better Than Honour Sets World Record|date = |access-date = |website = The Blood-Horse|publisher = The Blood-Horse|last = Biles|first = Deirde B.}}</ref> top-priced broodmare prospect, champion [[Havre de Grace (horse)|Havre de Grace]], who sold for $10,000,000 in 2012;<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.drf.com/news/fasig-tipton-november-10-million-mare-havre-de-grace-paces-robust-mixed-sale|title = Fasig-Tipton November: $10 million mare Havre de Grace paces robust mixed sale|date = |access-date = |website = Daily Racing Form|publisher = Daily Racing Form|last = Oakford|first = Glenye Cain}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.forbes.com/sites/teresagenaro/2012/11/26/the-10-million-mare-horse-of-the-year-havre-de-grace-sets-an-auction-record/#2dbc95d41805|title = The $10 Million Mare: Horse Of The Year Havre de Grace Sets An Auction Record|date = |access-date = |website = Forbes|publisher = Forbes|last = Genaro|first = Teresa}}</ref> and top-priced juvenile filly, [[Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies|Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies]] (G1) winner [[Stardom Bound]], who sold for $5,700,000 in 2008.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/47873/stardom-bound-sells-for-57-million|title = Stardom Bound Sells for $5.7 Million|date = |access-date = |website = The Blood-Horse|publisher = The Blood-Horse|last = Biles|first = Deirde B.}}</ref>

Sales held annually in Kentucky include the Kentucky Winter Mixed Sale (horses of all ages), the July Sale (selected yearlings), the Summer Selected Horses of Racing Age Sale, the October Sale (Kentucky fall yearlings), and the November Sale (selected weanlings, two-year-olds, racing prospects, and broodmares).

=== Florida ===
[[File:FTGPscenics3-15FTK152.jpg|thumb|The Florida Sale, Under Tack Show]]
[[File:FTGPscenics3-15FTK152.jpg|thumb|The Florida Sale, Under Tack Show]]
Inaugurated in the 1950’s, the Florida Two-Year-Olds in Training Sale alternated between [[Calder Racecourse]] and [[Hialeah Park Race Track|Hialeah Park]]. In 2015, the selected sale moved permanently to [[Gulfstream Park]], taking advantage of the superior amenities and dirt track. The Florida Sale produced the most expensive Thoroughbred ever to sell at public auction, a colt which sold for $16,000,000 in 2006.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/32375/highest-price-ever-helps-fasig-tipton-set-juvenile-sale-records|title = Highest Price Ever Helps Fasig-Tipton Set Juvenile Sale Records|date = |access-date = |website = The Blood-Horse|publisher = The Blood-Horse|last = Biles|first = Deidre B.}}</ref>
Fasig-Tipton began holding sales in Florida in the 1950s. At first, the Florida Two-Year-Olds in Training Sale alternated between [[Calder Racecourse]] and [[Hialeah Park Race Track|Hialeah Park]]. In 2015, the selected sale moved permanently to [[Gulfstream Park]]. The Florida Sale produced the most expensive Thoroughbred ever to sell at public auction, a colt which sold for $16,000,000 in 2006,<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/32375/highest-price-ever-helps-fasig-tipton-set-juvenile-sale-records|title = Highest Price Ever Helps Fasig-Tipton Set Juvenile Sale Records|website = The Blood-Horse|last = Biles|first = Deidre B.}}</ref> later named [[The Green Monkey]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/43609/the-green-monkey-retired|title=The Green Monkey Retired|author=Deirdre B. Biles|date=11 February 2008|work=BloodHorse.com|access-date=1 February 2016}}</ref>
In 1986, Fasig-Tipton established a Midlantic division, based in Timonium, Maryland. The Midlantic Two-Year-Olds in Training Sale holds the record for most expensive Thoroughbred sold at public auction in Maryland, colt which sold for $3,550,000 in 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/259046/bernardini-colt-shatters-midlantic-record-at-3-55m |access-date=2023-02-13 |website=www.bloodhorse.com}}</ref>


===2008 acquisition===
Florida Sale graduates include champions [[Gio Ponti (horse)|Gio Ponti]], [[Left Bank (horse)|Left Bank]], [[Lord Avie]], [[Nyquist (horse)|Nyquist]], [[Risen Star]], [[Stevie Wonderboy]], and [[Wayward Lass]]. The sale also produced [[Breeders' Cup|Breeders’ Cup]] winners [[Court Vision]], [[Desert Code]], and [[More Than Real]] and Grade 1 winners [[Devil May Care (horse)|Devil May Care]], [[Jersey Girl (horse)|Jersey Girl]], [[November Snow]], and [[Technology (horse)|Technology]], among others.
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In 2008, Fasig-Tipton was purchased by Synergy Investments Ltd., a [[Dibai|Dubai]]-based company headed by Abdulla Al Habbai.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.drf.com/news/dubai-company-buys-fasig-tipton|title = Dubai company buys Fasig-Tipton|website = Daily Racing Form|last = Oakford|first = Glenye Cain}}</ref> The acquisition added international representatives in [[Australasia]], [[Europe]], [[South America]], and the [[Middle East]]. In addition, Fasig-Tipton modernized its sales facilities in Lexington, Saratoga, and Timonium, as well as made considerable technological upgrades.


'''Fasig-Tipton Digital'''
=== Maryland ===
In 1986, Fasig-Tipton established a Midlantic division, based in Timonium, Maryland. The location is ideally suited to supply the many surrounding racing jurisdictions and regional breeding programs with a vibrant marketplace for yearlings, two-year-olds, and breeding stock.


In March 2022, Fasig-Tipton launched its online auction platform, [https://digital.fasigtipton.com/ Fasig-Tipton Digital].
The Midlantic Two-Year-Olds in Training Sale holds the record for most expensive Thoroughbred sold at public auction in Maryland, a filly which sold for $1,250,000 in 2015.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://marylandthoroughbred.com/cms/index.php/news-events/news/737-record-set-on-first-day-of-fasig-tipton-midlantic-may-sale|title = Record set on first day of Fasig-Tipton Midlantic May sale|date = |access-date = |website = Maryland Thoroughbred|publisher = |last = |first = }}</ref>


==See also==
Midlantic sales graduates include champions [[Declan's Moon|Declan’s Moon]], [[Smoke Glacken]], and [[Xtra Heat]], as well as Grade 1 winners [[Afleet Alex]], [[Informed Decision]], [[Lion Heart (horse)|Lion Heart]], and [[Mizdirection]], among others.
*[[Keeneland]]
*[[Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association]]


=== Modern Era ===
==References==
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In 2008, Fasig-Tipton was purchased by Synergy Investments Ltd., a Dubai-based company headed by Abdulla Al Habbai.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.drf.com/news/dubai-company-buys-fasig-tipton|title = Dubai company buys Fasig-Tipton|date = |access-date = |website = Daily Racing Form|publisher = Daily Racing Form|last = Oakford|first = Glenye Cain}}</ref> The acquisition helped Fasig-Tipton increase its profile internationally, with representatives in Australasia, Europe, and South America. In addition, Fasig-Tipton has modernized its sales facilities in Lexington, Saratoga, and Timonium, as well as made considerable technological upgrades across the board as part of its long-term.


{{Reflist}}
In 2015, Fasig-Tipton added to its legacy when Saratoga Sale graduate [[American Pharoah]] became the first horse in 37 years to sweep the [[Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing|Triple Crown]]. Of the 12 [[Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing|Triple Crown]] winners, only two have ever been offered at public auction: 2015 winner [[American Pharoah]], sold at the 2013 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale and 1975 [[Seattle Slew]], sold at the 1973 Fasig-Tipton July Sale.


==External links==
== Sales Calendar (2016) ==
* {{Official website|http://www.fasigtipton.com/}}
* [http://www.fasigtipton.com/catalogues/2016/Midlantic-Winter-Mixed/Midlantic-Winter-Mixed-new.asp Midlantic Winter Mixed Sale], Timonium, MD, January 31
* [http://www.fasigtipton.com/catalogues/2016/Kentucky-Winter-Mixed/Kentucky-Winter-Mixed-new.asp Kentucky Winter Mixed Sale], Lexington, KY, February 8–9
* [http://www.fasigtipton.com/catalogues/2016/The-Florida-Sale/The-Florida-Sale-new.asp Florida Selected Two-Year-Olds in Training Sale], Gulfstream Park, FL, March 2
* Midlantic Two-Year-Olds in Training Sale, Timonium, MD, Mary 23-24
* The July Sale, Lexington, KY, July 12
* Summer Selected Horses of Racing Age Sale, Lexington, KY, July 12
* The Saratoga Sale, Saratoga Springs, NY, August 8–9
* The New York Bred Preferred Yearlings Sale, Saratoga Springs, NY, August 13–14
* Midlantic Fall Yearling Sale, Timonium, MD, October 4
* The Saratoga Fall Sale, Saratoga Springs, NY, October 17
* The October Sale, Lexington, KY, October 24–26
* The November Sale, Lexington, KY, November 7

==References==
<references />


[[Category:Horse auction houses]]
[[Category:Horse auction houses]]
[[Category:Saratoga Springs, New York]]
[[Category:Saratoga Springs, New York]]
[[Category:Economy of Lexington, Kentucky]]
[[Category:Retail companies established in 1898]]
[[Category:Companies based in Lexington, Kentucky]]

Latest revision as of 22:46, 5 December 2024

Fasig-Tipton logo

The Fasig-Tipton Company, Inc. is an American auction house for Thoroughbred horses. Founded in 1898, it is the oldest auction company of its kind in North America.[1] The company has offices in Lexington, Kentucky, Elkton, Maryland, and Saratoga Springs, New York. In 2008, Fasig-Tipton Co. was purchased by Synergy Investments Ltd., a Dubai-based company headed by Abdulla Al Habbai. Of the 13 Triple Crown winners, two of the three which were offered at public auction were sold at Fasig-Tipton: 2015 winner American Pharoah, sold at the 2013 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale and 1975 Seattle Slew, sold at the 1973 Fasig-Tipton July Sale in Kentucky.[2]

History

[edit]
1903 "Old Glory" Sale Catalog

The Fasig-Tipton Company, Inc. is an auction house for Thoroughbred horses founded in 1898 by William B. Fasig and Edward A. Tipton. It is the oldest auction company of its kind in North America. Its first headquarters were in Madison Square Garden in New York, and Fasig-Tipton initially sold high-class road and carriage horses in addition to Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing stock.[3]

Fasig-Tipton's main horse auction in the early 20th century was referred to as "Old Glory." Held annually in late November or early December, the Old Glory sale offered a "Grand Aggregation of Thoroughbred Stallions, Mares, Racehorses, Yearlings, and Weanlings,"[4] as well as Standardbreds. Shortly after the Old Glory sale of 1907, New York suffered a severe economic downturn, and bank closures threatened the sustainability of the horse sales business. Fasig turned the company over to his assistant, Enoch James Tranter, who brokered a deal with the banks which allowed the young company to survive the financial instability. Tranter's also made dramatic changes to the format of the sales catalogue: originally, the page for each horse offered might list up to 30 generations of pedigree with limited or no produce record, as well as subjective descriptions written by the individual consignors. Tranter changed this so emphasis was placed on the performance and production history of the horse's closest relatives, limiting the page to three to four dams with detailed information about the horse's dam's performance. Tranter also insisted on health certificates for all horses entered into his sales and pregnancy certificates for broodmares offered in foal. Fasig-Tipton was the first horse sales company to do this.[5]

Saratoga

[edit]
Humphrey S. Finney Pavilion

After World War I, Fasig-Tipton established a satellite office in Saratoga Springs, New York. The new pavilion was host to the Saratoga Selected Yearling Sale, which was held during the Saratoga race meet beginning in 1917.[5] Due to cargo limitations imposed on breeders during World War II, the Saratoga Sale was suspended from 1943 through 1945. In 1959, Fasig-Tipton was honored as the Saratoga Firm of the Year.[citation needed]

In 1968, the Humphrey S. Finney Sales Pavilion was built, named after an individual who worked for the company from the 1930s through the 1960s. In 2010, the pavilion and sales grounds were renovated to improve amenities for buyers, sellers, and horses.[6] It is located approximately a quarter of a mile from the Saratoga Race Course.

The Finney Pavilion, the center of the sales during the month of August, is a small auditorium with seating on the bottom in front of an oblong walking ring, where the horses are shown and the auctioneer and spokesperson sit during the sales. The balcony area contains more seating and a press box, around which is an art exhibition put on by the Cross Gate Gallery, which is not affiliated with Fasig-Tipton. The grounds also hold a restaurant, a snack bar, eight large barns, an office and tool room, and a large walking ring attached to the pavilion for warming up and viewing the horses. Two alleys that front parts of the property are named Fasig Lane and Tipton Lane.[citation needed]

Sales held annually in Saratoga include the Saratoga Sale (selected yearlings), the New York Bred Sale (preferred yearlings), and the Saratoga Fall Sale (horses of all ages). The Fasig-Tipton auctions in Saratoga are typically held in early August. Historically the Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale kicks off the summer yearling sales in North America, preceded only by their own Kentucky July yearling sale. There are two nights of Select Sales where only the top yearlings in the country are selected to be sold. During these sessions one can only sit inside the pavilion if a reservation is made in advance. The public is allowed on the grounds and inside the pavilion to view the horses and artwork inside, but cannot sit unless prior arrangements are made. The New York Bred Preferred Yearling Sale is offered annually the weekend after the Saratoga Sale. During the Preferred sessions only selected New York bred horses are shown, and the public is invited to sit where they wish. The sales grounds and seating are open to the public throughout the sale but seating is limited during the Selected sessions.[7]

Kentucky

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Havre de Grace selling for $10 million at the 2012 Fasig-Tipton November Sale

In 1972, Fasig-Tipton established its now-permanent headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky. The Kentucky office operates year-round, offering five sales. Sales held annually in Kentucky include the Kentucky Winter Mixed Sale (horses of all ages), the July Sale (selected yearlings), the Summer Selected Horses of Racing Age Sale, the October Sale (Kentucky fall yearlings), and the November Sale (selected weanlings, two-year-olds, racing prospects, and broodmares).[citation needed]

Each November, the November Sale annually produces the highest average price of any breeding stock sale worldwide. The November Sale currently holds three world records for horses offered at public auction: top-priced broodmare, Broodmare of the Year Better Than Honour, who sold for $14,000,000 in 2008;[8] top-priced broodmare prospect, champion Havre de Grace, who sold for $10,000,000 in 2012;[9][10] and top-priced juvenile filly, Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1) winner Stardom Bound, who sold for $5,700,000 in 2008.[11]

Expansion

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The Florida Sale, Under Tack Show

Fasig-Tipton began holding sales in Florida in the 1950s. At first, the Florida Two-Year-Olds in Training Sale alternated between Calder Racecourse and Hialeah Park. In 2015, the selected sale moved permanently to Gulfstream Park. The Florida Sale produced the most expensive Thoroughbred ever to sell at public auction, a colt which sold for $16,000,000 in 2006,[12] later named The Green Monkey.[13]

In 1986, Fasig-Tipton established a Midlantic division, based in Timonium, Maryland. The Midlantic Two-Year-Olds in Training Sale holds the record for most expensive Thoroughbred sold at public auction in Maryland, colt which sold for $3,550,000 in 2022.[14]

2008 acquisition

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In 2008, Fasig-Tipton was purchased by Synergy Investments Ltd., a Dubai-based company headed by Abdulla Al Habbai.[15] The acquisition added international representatives in Australasia, Europe, South America, and the Middle East. In addition, Fasig-Tipton modernized its sales facilities in Lexington, Saratoga, and Timonium, as well as made considerable technological upgrades.

Fasig-Tipton Digital

In March 2022, Fasig-Tipton launched its online auction platform, Fasig-Tipton Digital.

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Riddle, Becky. "Glengarry Field/ Cool Meadow and Fasig- Tipton". Government of Kentucky. Retrieved 21 March 2021.
  2. ^ "Seattle Slew". TwinSpires Racing, Sports & Casino. Retrieved 21 March 2021.
  3. ^ "Fasig-Tipton - History". Archived from the original on 19 February 2016. Retrieved 1 February 2016.
  4. ^ "Volume 71". Turf, Field & Farm. November 2, 1902.
  5. ^ a b Finney, Humphrey S. (1974). Fair Exchange. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons. ISBN 0684137070.
  6. ^ Donges, Patrick H. (24 August 2000). "Fasig-Tipton's renovated Humphrey S. Finney Sales Pavilion ready to host Saratoga Selected Yearlings Sale tonight". Saratogian News. The Saratogian.
  7. ^ "Welcome to Fasig-Tipton | Fasig-Tipton". www.fasigtipton.com. Retrieved 2023-02-13.
  8. ^ Biles, Deirde B. "Better Than Honour Sets World Record". The Blood-Horse.
  9. ^ Oakford, Glenye Cain. "Fasig-Tipton November: $10 million mare Havre de Grace paces robust mixed sale". Daily Racing Form.
  10. ^ Genaro, Teresa. "The $10 Million Mare: Horse Of The Year Havre de Grace Sets An Auction Record". Forbes.
  11. ^ Biles, Deirde B. "Stardom Bound Sells for $5.7 Million". The Blood-Horse.
  12. ^ Biles, Deidre B. "Highest Price Ever Helps Fasig-Tipton Set Juvenile Sale Records". The Blood-Horse.
  13. ^ Deirdre B. Biles (11 February 2008). "The Green Monkey Retired". BloodHorse.com. Retrieved 1 February 2016.
  14. ^ www.bloodhorse.com https://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/259046/bernardini-colt-shatters-midlantic-record-at-3-55m. Retrieved 2023-02-13. {{cite web}}: Missing or empty |title= (help)
  15. ^ Oakford, Glenye Cain. "Dubai company buys Fasig-Tipton". Daily Racing Form.
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