Location
There are many impressive Derby winners throughout the course of racing history. A lot has been said for some less for others who met with tragic fate. But what many of us tend to take for granted is the hours and lengths of time and determination these equines go through as well as their trainers, owners, and jockeys in order to make the magic we see on the track take place.
Every few years there emerges a horse that cannot be equaled a horse that seemingly was born to run to be a Champion and theses names we record in Halls of Fame in books or movies because we know that what they give to us is by far greater than what we could ever do for them. A derby winner is not just a horse they are for many the greatest friends and the truest inspiration we may ever know.
Gallant Fox
Sired by the great Sir Gallahad III, Gallant Fox entered the racing world at the age of two. This bay Stallion became the second in history to claim the winning title of the American Triple Crown. For three years he reigned a derby winner taking in a total of 572,417 dollars before retiring in 1930. His son Omaha took back his father’s title as American Triple Crown winner in 1935 at the age of three.
He is remembered with honors by being inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1957 a Champion of the sport of kings.
Seabiscuit
How could any of us ever forget Seabiscuit. At a time when America was facing one of its greatest trials in history (the Great Depression) Seabiscuit emerged against all odds to bring hope to the people and faith that even the impossible can become possible. Grandson of the most famous derby Champion in history Man o’ War Seabiscuit became a symbol of America. No one ever dreamed the little bay stallion that was hardly a pleasure to look at could become so famous and mean so much nor inspire so many as he did. His list of records and honors is an amazing testament to his determination and love he must have felt for racing.
Thousands upon thousands traveled to see him even after his retirement in 1940. His final resting place still remains a secret to this day however in 2007 a statue was placed at his home Ridgewood Ranch in remembrance of his greatness.
There was never a horse so widely covered through the media nor probably so widely loved as Seabiscuit because he was definitely more than just a derby winner and Champion he was the heart of the racing world.
