LEXINGTON, Ky. — Auctioneer Scott Caldwell has retired from Keeneland after more than five decades with the world-renowned thoroughbred sales company, bringing an end to a family legacy that spans three generations and nearly 70 years.

Caldwell's departure comes as the September Yearling Sale begins Monday, Sept. 14, marking his absence from the auction stand for the prestigious event. The 83rd edition of the internationally significant sale will run through Sept. 26, featuring 4,635 horses cataloged across 12 sessions.

The Caldwell family's connection to Keeneland began in 1957 when Scott's late father, Tom, joined the sales company as assistant to legendary auctioneer George Swinebroad. Scott began his career at Keeneland in 1974, transitioning from auctioneering cattle and livestock at his family's California stockyards. Following Swinebroad's death in 1975, Tom became Keeneland's Director of Auctions and served in that role until his death in 2001. Scott's late brother, Cris, later joined the company and auctioneered for Keeneland until his death in 2020.

"I have seen a few auctioneers in my day stay a little too long, and I didn't want to be that guy," Scott said. "I want people to be happy with my performance and wish I was still there versus 'Thank God he's gone.'"

During his tenure, Caldwell sold numerous standout thoroughbreds, including 2018 Triple Crown winner Justify, who sold for $500,000 at the 2016 September Sale. Caldwell has acknowledged that he may have underestimated Justify's value, given the horse's later success on the racetrack.

Tom Caldwell instilled in his sons the importance of advocating for sellers across all market levels. "It's about the horse," Scott recalled his father saying, emphasizing that consignors with less expensive horses deserved the same dedication as those with premium stock.

Scott, who lives in San Clemente, California with his wife Leslie, plans to focus on family and hobbies including bowhunting and sword fishing. He will continue auctioneering at select events in California, including automobile sales through CarMax and racing American Quarter Horses at the Los Alamitos Equine Sale.

"The legacy of the Caldwell family at Keeneland sales is one of the most notable chapters in our history," said Tony Lacy, Keeneland's Vice President of Sales. "The dedication of three members of the Caldwell family over two generations was instrumental in making Keeneland auctions the best anywhere."

Scott and Leslie are parents to two sons, Ramsay and Kenny—both automobile auctioneers—and have four grandchildren ranging in age from 12 to 21.