A Kentucky equestrian estate owned by the family of Ryanair co-founder Tony Ryan has come to market for $57.5m (£43m).
Castleton extends across 951 acres outside Lexington and is being sold as a fully operational horse farm, with 16 barns providing 268 stalls and ten residential properties.
At its heart is a seven-bedroom Greek Revival mansion dating from around 1840. The estate also features an iconic stone tower, ornate iron gates, tree-lined drives, a covered bridge and miles of historic dry-stone walls.
The property will also be offered as the final lot at Keeneland’s invitation-only Championship Sale on 28 October, during Breeders’ Cup week. Registered buyers will be able to bid remotely through Keeneland’s online platform.
TWO CENTURIES OF RACING HISTORY
Founded by John Breckinridge in 1793, Castleton has been associated with some of American racing’s most celebrated horses.
Image Credit: Pending Media for Bluegrass Sotheby’s International Realty
Former residents include 1896 Kentucky Derby winner Ben Brush, champion Thoroughbred Domino, five-time World Grand Champion Saddlebred Wing Commander and harness-racing champion Bret Hanover.
Image Credit: Pending Media for Bluegrass Sotheby’s International Realty
More recently, the farm has been home to three-time Eclipse Award winner Gio Ponti and Grade 1 winners Jack Christopher, Gormley and Chi Town Lady.
Castleton is regarded as one of the few American farms to have operated at the highest level across Thoroughbred racing, American Saddlebreds and harness racing.
The Ryan family acquired the estate in 2001 for a reported $14m. The property was subsequently restored and developed as a leading breeding operation.
“A magnificent seventh”
Shannon Arvin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Keeneland, says: “Every year, we ask ourselves how we can push the Championship Sale forward, giving our guests an unforgettable event and buyers something they can’t find anywhere else.
“This year’s auction closes with the offering of Castleton. We are excited to work alongside Sotheby’s on this once-in-a-generation offering and honoured to be part of the next chapter for the farm and the Ryan family’s legacy.”
Shane Ryan, owner of Castleton, says his family has been the sixth steward of the historic farm.
“So there has to be a magnificent seventh out there,” he adds. “It has been an honour and a privilege to hold the reins.
“We have been blessed to be part of Castleton’s history, and I would welcome whoever takes over those reins to wrap their arms around this place and truly enjoy it.
“If possible, live here – live here full-time. Make it your home and enjoy every moment of it. Enjoy the Grande Dame that is Castleton.”
Image Credit: Pending Media for Bluegrass Sotheby’s International Realty
Castleton is listed through Bluegrass Sotheby’s International Realty, while the Keeneland Championship Sale takes place on 28 October.
