All articles tagged with #thoroughbred racing
Cornucopian, a 4-year-old Thoroughbred trained by Bob Baffert and owned by SF Racing and partners, was euthanized after a catastrophic right-front fetlock injury suffered during the Bing Crosby Stakes (G1) at Del Mar; the decision was made after veterinary input, following his earlier dual G3 stakes wins at Santa Anita and Churchill Downs and as the 6-5 favorite in the Bing Crosby.
Right to Party, the Wood Memorial runner-up trained by Kenny McPeek, was scratched from the Kentucky Derby by state veterinarians due to a lameness assessment, with Robusta stepping in to start in his place at Churchill Downs. McPeek criticized the rising rate of regulatory scratches in Kentucky and questioned whether safety decisions are balanced with the industry’s health. Robusta, who last ran seventh in the Santa Anita Derby, will carry saddle towel 23 with Cristian Torres aboard; Corona de Oro remained eligible but did not draw in. The Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Commission emphasized horse safety as the priority and said it continually reviews its processes.
D. Wayne Lukas, a legendary Hall of Fame horse trainer known for his innovative approach and record-breaking career in thoroughbred racing, has died at age 89. He trained numerous winners including multiple Triple Crown races and revolutionized the sport with his modern methods, earning over $300 million in purses and multiple awards. His legacy includes pioneering training techniques and a significant impact on the racing industry.
Hall of Fame horse trainer D. Wayne Lukas, aged 89, has been hospitalized due to a severe infection and will not return to training horses, with his horses now under the care of assistant trainer Sebastian Nicholl. Lukas, renowned for his numerous victories including 15 Triple Crowns and 20 Breeders Cup wins, has had a profound impact on the sport and is celebrated as a legendary figure in horse racing.
Former Kentucky governor Brereton C. Jones has passed away at the age of 84. Jones, a Democrat, served as the 58th governor of Kentucky from 1991 to 1995 and was previously the lieutenant governor from 1987 to 1991. He was also a prominent figure in the thoroughbred racing industry, establishing the Airdrie Stud Farm with his wife and receiving recognition for his contributions to Kentucky's horse industry. Jones leaves behind his wife, Libby, and his son and daughter, Bret and Lucy.
Churchill Downs is celebrating Champions Day on May 3, which commemorates the 50th anniversary of Secretariat's Triple Crown win. The horse still holds the fastest time in all three races: the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, and Preakness Stakes. Gates open at 11:30 a.m., and the first post is at 12:45 p.m. There are 10 races, and the last one is at 5:25 p.m.