I also attempted to participate in the BAT ICO, sadly, my transaction never made it through either. I gave up after multiple attempts and after 1 hour passed.
According to the BAT website, the thing was sold out in 24 seconds. I'd have to imagine that there are some big holders of the BAT token now, that is the only way I can see it being sold so fast.
I heard approx 130 with a couple of mega whales.