Here’s a question to ponder: Suppose that you’re an up-and-coming young jockey, not yet 25 years old and less than a decade into your career. Out of the blue, you’re called upon to ride arguably the greatest horse of all time in the final start of his illustrious career. Could you handle the pressure? It sounds like something out of a movie, but for jockey Edward “Eddie” Maple, this opportunity was real. And for the record, Maple did handle the pressure, which was arguably the turning point in what would become a legendary Hall of Fame riding career.
Tag: Legends
Ghostzapper: The Horse That Blazed a Brilliant Path in a Brief, But Potent Racing Career
Ghostzapper was not exactly a workhorse. He never raced more than four times in any of his four seasons. Yet in the relatively brief time he spent on the racetrack, Ghostzapper had few – if any – peers. In 2004, when he was named Horse of the Year, he was an undefeated graded stakes winner, versatile enough to win at seven furlongs, 1 1/8 miles, and 1 ¼ miles while registering blazing fast times in each of them.
Breeders’ Cup Fantastic Finishes: A Distaff Duel for the Ages
The 2016 Breeders’ Cup World Championships at Santa Anita Park did not lack for star power.
Never Underestimate a Champion: The Story of Groupie Doll
Never underestimate a champion. This age-old lesson was reiterated to handicappers and racing fans alike when the sensational, speedy mare Groupie Doll defied age and expectations in the 2013 Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint.
