Category Archives: Racing

Old Friends Breeders’ Cup Celebration

Breeders’ Cup Sprint Champion Gulch (Photo by EquiSport)

Sunday, November 1st
Tickets Available Now

GEORGETOWN, KY – JULY 15, 2015 – Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Farm in Georgetown, KY, will host a special Breeder’s Cup Celebration on Sunday, November 1st, 2015 from 12:00 pm to 3 pm.

Tickets are $25 for the general public, $15 for shareholders and Old Friends members and can be reserved now by contacting the farm at (502) 863-1775.

The day will include a BBQ buffet by Furlong’s Catering, farm tours, live music and both live and silent auctions of racing memorabilia, collectible stallion halters, photography and other artwork — much of which will celebrate winners of past Breeders’ Cup races.

Over the years, Old Friends has retired more than 25 Breeders’ Cup winners or contenders, among them:

Gulch – winner of the1988 BC Sprint
*Prized – winner of the 1989 BC Turf
*Black Tie Affair – winner of the 1991 BC Classic
*Fraise – winner of the 1992 BC Turf
Eldaafer, winner – 2010 BC Marathon
Amazombie, winner – 2011 BC sprint
*Sunshine Forever – 2nd in the 1988 BC Turf
Silver Charm – 2nd in the 1998 BC Classic
Game On Dude – 2nd in the 2011 BC Classic
Rail Trip – 3rd in 2011 BC Dirt Mile

*Now Deceased

“With the Breeders’ Cup here in Lexington at Keeneland this year we hope fans will include us in their plans and come out for the day to see these wonderful past Breeders’ Cup stars,” said Old Friends founder and president Michael Blowen. “It’s a great way to celebrate the new winners and also the history of the Championships.”

For additional information or to reserve a ticket, please call the farm at (502) 863-1775.

Old Friends is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that cares for more than 110 retired racehorses. Its Dream Chase Farm, located in Georgetown, KY, is open to tourists daily by appointment. Old Friends also has a satellite facility in Greenfield Center, New York, Old Friends at Cabin Creek: The Bobby Frankel Division, which is also open to visitors. For more information on tours or to make a donation, contact the main farm at (502) 863-1775 or see their website at www.oldfriendsequine.org.

MEDIA CONTACT: Cynthia Grisolia, (347) 423-7322, cindy@oldfriendsequine.org or Sylvia Stiller, (502) 863-1775, sylvia@oldfriendsequine.org

Vodacom Durban: Line Up Changes for July

Heavy Metal wins in Durban in 2013. (Image: timeslive.co.za)

With Africa’s biggest horse race just around the corner, there have been several changes to the starting line up for July 4th’s Vodacom Durban. The South African handicap, run over 11 furlongs and nearly 120 years old, has lost five of its original runners recently, including King Of Pain and Siren’s Call. With Inara, Same Jurisdiction and Louis The King also out of the running, it just goes to show that punters need to keep an eye on the sports pages. Replacements include Punta Arenas, priced at around 5000 as of early June, as well as Dynastic Power, favorite amongst the newcomers at around 2500.

Race Fever!

The often-humid east coast city of Durban, famous for (amongst other things) “bunny chow”, a delicacy consisting of a hollowed out loaf filled with curry, is a great spot to visit for horse race fans. Race fever surrounding the Vodacom Durban starts as early as April. Gambling is quite heavily controlled in South Africa, and Durbanites tend to make the most of South Africa’s traditionally more relaxed attitude to horse race betting. By contrast, casino gambling, including online via guide sites like Yebo Yes, which provides information on trusted and legal sites, is relatively strictly controlled. Brick-and-mortar casinos, as well as the SA National Lottery, are also popular but subject to strict licensing.

Visiting Durban

For overseas visitors, July is a good time to go, as the southern hemisphere city experiences mild temperatures – usually between the mid-60s and low 70s Fahrenheit. Durban’s Greyville Racecourse, the venue for the event, is a legendary track with excellent facilities and a thrilling atmosphere, provided largely by the 55,000 enthusiastic race fans that pack the stands. Visitors don’t have to eat bunny chow (though it’s definitely worth trying); there’s a great selection of restaurants and bars on-site on race day, including formal and buffet choices. Away from the track, the city and surrounding areas offer amazing days out, including the Bluff Nature Reserve, shipwreck scuba diving, golf at Windsor Park and uShaka Marine World, where you’ll enjoy one of the world’s top 5 aquariums and an amazing water park.

Watching from Home

If you’re planning to watch the action at home in the US, the current joint favorites are Legislate and The Conglomerate, priced at around 1200, with Power King third at 2000. Other replacement runners include Halve The Deficit, quite strongly backed at 3300 (joint fourth); Dynamic at 4000; and Mac De Lago, a relative outsider, at 10000. Remember though – these prices will inevitably change, and the starting line up could well do the same before July 4th!

American Pharoah Trainer Bob Baffert Makes Charitable Donation to Old Friends

Trainer Bob Baffert and his son, Bode, visit with Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Silver Charm at Old Friends. (Photo by Tim Wilson)

GEORGETOWN, KY – JUNE 8, 2015 – Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Facility in Georgetown, KY, will be the recipient of a $50,000 donation from Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert and his wife, Jill.

Baffert’s American Pharoah swept the coveted Triple Crown — the first in 37 years — when he won the Belmont Stakes on June 6.

Immediately following the horse’s victory the Bafferts pledged a $50,000 donation each to four charitable organizations: Old Friends, The Permanently Disabled Jockey Fund, The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and CARMAcares.

Old Friends is the retirement home of three of Baffert’s former trainees: Derby contender Danthebluegrassman, multiple grade 1 winning fan favorite Game On Dude and 1997 Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Silver Charm.

Baffert visited Old Friends just prior to this year’s Kentucky Derby where he saw Silver Charm for the first time in more than a decade.

“I want to share this; I want to make sure that those horses that we really love — we have to take care of them,” Baffert said following American Pharoah’s Belmont victory. “Win, lose, or draw, I was going to do it.”

“We are so grateful to Bob and Jill for this wonderful gift,” said Michael Blowen, president and founder of Old Friends. “The thrill and excitement of the first Triple Crown in 37 years would have been enough, but their generosity is unsurpassed, as is their love and dedication to the horses.” Blowen added.

“Everyone at Old Friends wishes to congratulate Bob and Jill and American Pharoah’s owners the Zayat family on their historic victory, and for sharing their wonderful horse with all of his fans.”

Old Friends is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that cares for more than 110 retired racehorses. Its Dream Chase Farm, located in Georgetown, KY, is open to tourists daily by appointment. Old Friends also has a satellite facility in Greenfield Center, New York, Old Friends at Cabin Creek: The Bobby Frankel Division, which is also open to visitors. For more information on tours or to make a donation, contact the main farm at (502) 863-1775 or see their website at www.oldfriendsequine.org.

MEDIA CONTACT: Cynthia Grisolia, (347) 423-7322, cindy@oldfriendsequine.org or Michael Blowen, (502) 863-1775, michael@oldfriendsequine.org

Old Friends to Launch Booster Campaign Featuring Artwork by Daily Racing Funnies

GEORGETOWN, KY – JUNE 8, 2015 – Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Facility in Georgetown, KY, is launching a quarterly Booster campaign that will offer a seasonal T-shirt with artwork by Daily Racing Funnies.

Booster is an online crowdfunding site for charitable causes that revolves around selling custom T-shirts directly to supporters. This first campaign, “Summertime”, will run for two weeks beginning June 8 and the goal will be to sell 50 t-shirts.

The first Booster shirt will feature Old Friends’ equine retirees enjoying such summertime activities as swimming, having a picnic, boating and enjoying barbequed carrots. A new shirt with a seasonal design will be available in Fall, Winter and next Spring.

To view the shirts or to order, visit http://www.booster.com/oldfriendsummertime.

The unisex T-shirts are made of 100 percent Gildan Ultra Cotton and the designs are rendered in full color. The price is $20 with $5 for shipping and handling and all proceeds go directly to Old Friends. There is no additional shipping and handling on multiple orders.

The San Diego-based Daily Racing Funnies has been creating whimsical horseracing-themed comics via its website including humorous looks at such champions as Take Charge Brandi, California Chrome and American Pharoah.

To learn more about Rick and Marcy (Mel) of Daily Racing Funnies, visit their website at www.dailyracingfunnies.com or join their Fan Page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/drfmel.

Old Friends is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that cares for more than 110 retired racehorses. Its Dream Chase Farm, located in Georgetown, KY, is open to tourists daily by appointment. Old Friends also has a satellite facility in Greenfield Center, New York, Old Friends at Cabin Creek: The Bobby Frankel Division, which is also open to visitors. For more information on tours or to make a donation, contact the main farm at (502) 863-1775 or see their website at www.oldfriendsequine.org.

MEDIA CONTACT: Cynthia Grisolia, (347) 423-7322, cindy@oldfriendsequine.org or Sylvia Stiller, (502) 863-1775, sylvia@oldfriendsequine.org

“Secret Lives of the Super Rich: The Triple Crown” at 10p ET/PT June 4, 2015

CNBC has been documenting American Pharoah’s journey as he races towards the Triple Crown this Saturday at the Belmont Stakes. We will take viewers behind the scenes with “Secret Lives of the Super Rich: The Triple Crown” at 10p ET/PT.

This special presents thoroughbred racing like you’ve never seen it before, with unprecedented access on and off the track, including thrill-filled moments inside the VIP winner’s circle. It’s an exclusive and up close look inside the unforgettable journey of the father and son team who own American Pharoah as they win the most prestigious races in America, take home millions in prize money, and race against history for the most elusive title in all of sports: The Triple Crown.

Below are a few clips from the special:

Triple Crown All-Access Pass
CNBC gives you an inside look into American Pharoah’s race against history.
http://www.cnbcprime.com/super-rich/video/superrich-triple-crown-all-access-pass/

Air Horse One
American Pharoah doesn’t fly coach — his ticket is first-class on a custom Boeing 727 that’s been transformed into the ultimate stable in the sky!
http://www.cnbcprime.com/super-rich/video/superrich-air-horse-one/

American Pharoah’s Owner Runs for the Roses
Get up close and personal with the 23-year-old owner of American Pharoah, Justin Zayat, as he experiences the gut-wrenching thrill of winning the Kentucky Derby.
http://www.cnbcprime.com/super-rich/video/superrich-american-pharaohs-owner-runs-for-the-roses/

AmericanPharoah3“Secret Lives of the Super Rich: The Triple Crown” Promo
A look inside the unforgettable journey of the father and son team who own American Pharoah as they race against history for the most elusive title in all of sports: The Triple Crown.
http://youtu.be/pu_seNBis5s

Tune-in Details: “Secret Lives of the Super Rich: The Triple Crown” premieres Thursday 10p ET/PT on CNBC.

Join the conversation on Twitter with #SuperRich and @CNBCSuperRich or on Facebook at facebook.com/CNBCPrime. Go to cnbcprime.com/super-rich/ for more details.

CNBC Plaza, 900 Sylvan Avenue, Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632

D.C.’s “Cutest Sport” Is on the Road to the Washington International Horse Show

WASHINGTON – May 20, 2015 – The Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) is pleased to announce the wildly popular WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Championship Series, presented by Charles Owen, will be off and running again in 2015. The entertaining event features pint-sized jockeys in colorful silks racing the cutest, fluffiest Shetland Ponies to the cheers of spectators of all ages.

The first stop in the series will be the historic Devon Horse Show and Country Fair in Devon, Pa., May 24 and May 25, and it will conclude with the finals at WIHS in October at Verizon Center in Washington, D.C.

Introduced in 2013 and expanded last year, the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase races, dubbed “D.C.’s newest — and cutest — sport” by Gillian Brockell of the Washington Post, are run like professional racing events with a bugler, race caller and photo finish, but in miniature — the jockeys are youngsters from seven to 14 mounted on traditional Shetland Ponies racing over a course of mini-hurdles.

For those unable to attend in person, the Devon races will be streamed live by EQSportsNet (eqsports.net) and archived on WIHS.org.

“We’ve had an overwhelming response to the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Series,” said WIHS Executive Director Bridget Love Meehan. “It’s been so much fun to create and build a fresh, fun and exciting event for spectators of all ages. Pony racing is also a great way for kids to get into equestrian sports. Not too many people know that Kent Farrington, one of the world’s top-ranked show jumpers and a frequent competitor at Washington, used to race ponies!”

Well-established in the United Kingdom, pony racing is growing in popularity in the U.S., thanks in part to Maryland-based U.S. Pony Racing, LLC (USPR), organizer of the WIHS exhibition series, which runs flat and jumping pony races at events throughout the region, including at Pimlico.

Before entering the USPR program, ponies are evaluated for their suitability and every child is fully prepared for race day. “We don’t want [the ponies] to be little race horses, we want them to be good ponies that kids can ride,” said Regina Welsh, USPR founder and director. “We want well-rounded kids and well-rounded ponies.”

Ongoing sponsor Charles Owen is no newcomer to pony racing. The Wrexham-based helmet maker has been a significant supporter of pony racing in the U.K. since 2005.

“Charles Owen is delighted to continue its support of the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Championship Series,” said Roy Burek, Managing Director of Charles Owen. “With our long association with pony racing in the U.K., we’re especially excited to be a part of its growth in the U.S. Devon and Washington offer an ideal showcase for this sport and we encourage equestrians and non-equestrians alike to come out to experience and enjoy it.”

The 57th annual Washington International Horse Show will be held October 20-25, 2015, at Verizon Center in Washington, D.C. For more information, please visit WIHS.org.

About the Washington International Horse Show (www.wihs.org)

Established in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show attracts more than 26,000 spectators to the six-day show, which includes Olympic-level competition along with community and charity events. More than 500 top horses and riders come to D.C. from all over the globe to jump for more than a half a million dollars in prize money. Event highlights include the Puissance high jump competition on Military Night (Friday), the $125,000 President’s Cup Grand Prix, a World Cup qualifier (Saturday night) and Kids’ Day (Saturday), a free, fun and educational community event. The Washington International Horse Show Association, Ltd. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. WIHS is an official USEF Heritage Competition and is recognized as a Top 25 Horse Show by the North American Riders Group. WIHS is rated CSI4*-W by the Fédération Equestre Internationale, the international governing body for horse sports.

Jennifer Wood Media, Inc.
info@jenniferwoodmedia.com
803.240.7488
jenniferwoodmedia.com

Family Fun Exhibitions Planned for Devon Horse Show and Country Fair

WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Championship Series comes to Devon. Photos By: Brenda Carpenter.

Devon, PA – May 18, 2015 – Visitors to this year’s Devon Horse Show and Country Fair will enjoy a feast for the senses both strolling the aisles of the country fair and watching top riders and drivers compete at the horse show. Inside the Dixon Oval, some entertaining and exciting exhibitions are planned, including the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Championship Series, trick and Roman riding, carriage racing and the Radnor Hunt foxhounds.

Rachel Jackson began trick riding when she was just 14 years old. Jackson plans to thrill the audience with her agility and courage atop her well-trained horses – all retired racehorses. Jackson is scheduled perform Friday, May 22, Saturday, May 23 and twice on Sunday, May 24.

On Memorial Day afternoon, cheer on your favorites as the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Championship Series comes to Devon! A popular tradition in Europe, pint-sized jockeys donning bright silks gallop their Shetland ponies over obstacles with one goal in mind – to win.

“We’re delighted with the excitement that continues to surround the WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase Championship Series since it first debuted at Washington International Horse Show in 2013 and expanded in 2014 to include a leg at the historic Devon Horse Show,” said Bridget Love Meehan, WIHS Executive Director. “We are looking forward to seeing the furry ponies and kids dressed in a rainbow of jockey silks light up the Dixon Oval again on their way to Washington in October! It’s a fun event for spectators and a great way for kids to get excited about equestrian sports.”

The Washington Post calls pony racing “the cutest sport.” The WIHS Shetland Pony Steeplechase is scheduled for Sunday, May 24 and Monday, May 25.

Carriage racing will feature cones and obstacles.
Carriage racing will feature cones and obstacles.

Back by popular demand, carriage racing returns to Devon this year. Competitors race their single or pair of horses and ponies through a series of cones and obstacles against the clock in an attempt to produce the fastest time. This is hair-raising, pulse-quickening entertainment engages the spectators to root for their favorite teams. Carriage racing is scheduled for Thursday, May 28, Friday, May 29 and Saturday, May 30.

The Radnor Hunt, founded in 1883, is the oldest continuously active foxhunt in the United States. The Hunt will present their pack of foxhounds to spectators for a colorful exhibition. The presentation will highlight the management and training of the hounds and the traditions of the hunt. The chase has been a staple of country life in and around Philadelphia for generations. The Radnor Hunt exhibition is scheduled for Saturday, May 23 at 8:50 p.m.

Note: the schedule is subject to change. Please check here for exhibition schedule updates.

Devon Horse Show and Country Fair Fast Facts

Young Devonaires Auction:
The Young Devonaires will host their Annual Auction! Come check it out online at: www.Devonhorseshow.org and during the show. Bid on stalls, a box for the Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon and so much more. Auction start date coming soon!

What:
The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair is the longest running and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the United States. With the grandeur of Philadelphia’s prestigious Main Line setting the stage, the event features a world-class field that annually ranks among the most prominent internationally. The event also includes the Country Fair that office world class shopping, rides and games for kids, multiple dining options and special entertainment events.

When:
May 21 – May 31, 2015

Where:
Devon Horse Show Grounds
23 Dorset Road
Devon, PA

Prize List and Exhibitor Information:
http://www.devonhorseshow.net/exhibitors/exhibitors-info/

Stabling:
Approximately 900 permanent stalls Many barns renovated within the last 5 years
Restroom facilities with showers

Parking:
Limited parking is available for spectators at the Main Lot on Dorset Road across from the Main Entrance.

Directions:

From Philadelphia International Airport
Follow signs to I-95 South and follow I-95 South approximately 5 miles. Merge onto I-476 North via exit 7 toward Plymouth Meeting. Follow I-476 North for approximately 13 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the Northeast
Follow I-95 South. Look for I-476 approximately 5 miles South of the Philadelphia
International Airport. Merge onto I-476 North via exit 7 toward Plymouth Meeting.
Follow I-476 North for approximately 13 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the South
Follow I-95 North toward Philadelphia. Once you’ve crossed into Delaware, keep right and take I-495 North via exit 5D toward Port of Wilmington / Philadelphia. Follow for I-495 North and merge onto I-95 North (Crossing into Pennsylvania). Follow I-95 North to I-476 North. Take I-476 N via exit 7 toward Plymouth Meeting. Follow I-476 North for approximately 13 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the East
Follow the Schuylkill Expressway / I-76 West to I-476 South. Merge onto I-476 South via exit 331A on the left toward Chester. Follow I-476 South for approximately 2 miles to exit 13, US-30. Turn left onto US-30 West. Follow US-30 West for approximately 3 miles and the Devon Horse Show will be on your left.

From the West
Follow the Pennsylvania Turnpike / I-76 E toward Philadelphia. Take exit 326 toward Valley Forge. Stay in right lane after the tolls. Merge onto US-202 South via exit 328A toward West Chester. Follow US-202 South for approximately 2 miles. Take the PA-252 North exit toward Devon. Make a left onto Valley Forge Road / PA-252. Continue to follow Valley Forge Road for approximately .5 miles and make a slight right turn onto Devon State Road. Follow Devon State road for approximately 1 mile until you reach a dead end. Make a left onto Old Lancaster Road and then an immediate right onto Waterloo Road. Turn left on to Lancaster Avenue / US-30 East and the Devon Horse Show will be on your right within .2 miles.

Mail:

Devon Horse Show Office
PO Box 865, Devon, PA 19333

Devon Horse Show Office
(GPS and UPS & FedEx Deliveries, not for US Postal Service) 23 Dorset Road, Devon, PA 19333

Devon Horse Show Entries
PO Box 158, Devon, PA 19333

Devon Country Fair Office
PO Box 925, Southeastern, PA 19399

Box Seating & Ticket Office
PO Box 742, Devon, PA 19333

Information:

Advertising – (610) 964-0550 x 222
Box Holders – (610) 688-2554
Devon Country Fair – (610) 525-2533
Devon Fall Classic – (610) 964-0550
Entries – (610) 964-2723
Fax – (610) 964-1608
Feed Orders – (610) 964-8407
Facility Rental – (610) 964-0550
Horse Show Office – (610) 964-0550

Information Booth:
Lost & Found – (610) 688-1312 (during show only)
Sponsorship – (610) 964-0550 x 211
Stable Office – (610) 688-2665
Tickets and Tables – (610) 688-2554

Vendors:
Horse Show – (610) 964-0550 x 222
Country Fair – (610) 525-2533

Website:
www.Devonhorseshow.org

Charity Partner:
To date, volunteers have raised over $14,000,000 for Bryn Mawr Hospital

Sponsorship Opportunities:
Chris Wightman
cwightman@devonhorseshow.org

Ring dimensions and footing:
Dixon Oval: 325′ x 150′
Gold Ring: 300′ x 130′
The Dixon Oval, Gold Ring, and the Schooling Area all have state of the art all weather footing by Equestrian Services International.

Management:
David Distler
Peter Doubleday

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Q-Racing Blog Launched

American Quarter Horse Association, May 15, 2015 – Sprint over to see a new weekly blog covering the world of racing American Quarter Horses at www.aqharacing.com. The Q-Racing Blog is an informative look at Quarter Horse racing, penned by special contributor Ty Wyant.

In the Q-Racing Blog, Wyant will offer a unique view of American Quarter Horse racing every week from his perspective of 40 years’ experience covering American Quarter Horse racing.

Wyant has a keen eye for the sprinters and his blog will cover topics ranging from leading horses to big races, to news from around the industry, and keep readers up on all the action leading to the year-end champions. Tune in to www.aqharacing.com every Friday to read the latest blog.

The Q-Racing Blog is a service of the American Quarter Horse Association and the Q-Racing Journal.

The award-winning Q-Racing Journal is a monthly digital publication for the Association’s racing owners, breeders and fans. Within the pages of the Q-Racing Journal you’ll find coverage of the American Quarter Horse racing industry, featuring news, history, industry topics, sales and race statistics. To subscribe to the Q-Racing Journal, call AQHA at 800-291-7323. A one-year subscription is $15, and a three-year subscription is $35. This includes 12 monthly digital magazines and two print copies (March Annual Review and December Stallion Issue) mailed to subscribers.

Q-Racing Video offers every live Quarter Horse race in America in one place. It operates on multiple viewing platforms, including computers, tablets and smartphones of all kinds, and offers access to years of race replays, searchable by track, date or horse name. With RTN Q-Racing Video, the races go wherever you do. The service costs $8.95 per month, and can be found at www.qracingvideo.com. Subscribers to the monthly Q-Racing Video subscription service also receive a free subscription to the digital Q-Racing Journal.

AQHA News and information is a service of the American Quarter Horse Association. For more news and information, follow @AQHARacing on Twitter, “like” Q-Racing on Facebook, and visit www.aqharacing.com.

American Quarter Horse Association
1600 Quarter Horse Drive
Amarillo, TX 79104

American Pharoah Wins 2015 Kentucky Derby

American Pharoah reigns supreme at the 2015 Kentucky Derby!

The 2-year-old champion ridden by Victor Espinoza beat out the field of 18 before a record crowd of 170,513 at Churchill Downs on Saturday, capping the two-week-long festival featuring bizarre hats, fancy dining and powerful thoroughbreds.

Firing Line came in second, followed by Dortmund. The win would be jockey Espinoza’s second straight at the Derby.

The speedy colt American Pharoah was the favorite heading into the 141st running of The Derby, with odds of 5-2. American Pharoah had won his past four races, and it was Espinoza who rode California Chrome to victory in 2014.

Experts’ second-favorite horse was Dortmund, with odds of 3-1. Both horses were trained by the Hall of Fame inductee Bob Baffert, who secured his fourth Derby win. Baffert could also take credit for the horse finishing third.

Dortmund set the pace at the start, closely followed by Firing Line and American Pharoah. But as the 1.25 mile race wore on, American Pharoah made a move for the lead and held it across the finish line first, securing a $2 million guaranteed minimum purse.

The race time was 2:03.02, run under sunny skies.

“I’m speechless,” American Pharoah’s owner Ahme Zayat said. “We are very blessed.”

“We were ready to rumble,” Baffert said. “I just love what I saw today from both of my boys.”

American Pharoah makes a bit of an oddball champion, having an abnormally short tail, and a misspelled name (Pharoah”). But who doesn’t enjoy a victor with some character?

The rest of the results follow, beginning with fourth place:

Frosted, Danzig Moon, Materiality, Keen Ice, Mubtaahij, Itsaknockout, Carpe Diem, Frammento, Bolo, Mr. Z, Ocho Ocho Ocho, Far Right, War Story, Tencendur, Upstart.

©2015 TheHuffingtonPost.com, Inc.
770 Broadway, New York, NY 10003

Racing Welfare Statement

American Quarter Horse Association, May 1, 2015 – Yesterday, legislation was introduced into the United States Congress to end interstate wagering. The American Quarter Horse Association opposes this bill because it threatens the existence of the horse racing industry in America and disregards the positive work the industry is doing regarding the welfare of the horse.

AQHA believes that equine welfare is of paramount importance, and as part of the industry effort, AQHA has implemented its Multiple Medication Violation System, addressed the misuse of medication and performance-enhancing drugs, funds equine welfare research, and supports the adoption of the national uniform medication program. In addition, AQHA continues dialog with racetracks and state jurisdictions to support increased testing and rule enforcement.

AQHA stands firm in its opposition of this bill while we and our industry partners continue to make significant and meaningful progress on welfare issues.

For more information on American Quarter Horse racing, visit www.aqharacing.com.

American Quarter Horse Association
1600 Quarter Horse Drive
Amarillo, TX 79104