Fasig-Tipton announced Tuesday significant changes to its 2026 Midlantic May 2-Year-Olds In Training Sale, eliminating timed workouts and restricting whip use during the under tack show.
The modifications aim to showcase horses’ natural athleticism while attracting a broader spectrum of buyers to the marketplace.
Under the new format, all under tack show performances will be untimed, with Fasig-Tipton no longer officially clocking breezes. Additionally, riders may carry crops for safety purposes but are prohibited from striking horses during workouts.
“These changes reflect our commitment to improving our two-year-old sales process,” said Fasig-Tipton President Boyd Browning. “We believe buyer focus has skewed too heavily toward stopwatch-based evaluations. This approach is intended to restore balance–emphasizing how a horse moves and presents itself on the track.”
The company’s decision follows an unplanned trial during the 2025 Midlantic May Sale when severe weather conditions forced adjustments to the final day of the under tack show, resulting in untimed gallops and breezes.
“It became an unexpected case study,” Browning explained. “Not only did the show present well visually, but the horses came out of their workouts in excellent condition–and the feedback from leading buyers and consignors was extremely supportive.”
The strategic shift also aims to create a more accessible sales environment that prioritizes equine welfare. By reducing emphasis on clock-driven evaluations and eliminating whip use, the company hopes to appeal to traditional participants while welcoming newcomers to the marketplace.
“Our aim is to better serve traditional buyers while also welcoming new owners, trainers, and end-users who are interested in acquiring horses that are physically ready and mentally sound for the racetrack,” Browning added.
The 2026 Midlantic May 2-Year-Olds in Training Sale is scheduled for May 18-19 in Timonium, Maryland, following the running of the Preakness Stakes.
