More than one Coach Pope could be in Keeneland’s saddling paddock for the $650,000 Claiborne Breeders’ Futurity on Saturday.
Tag: Pop Culture
The Book I Never Intended to Write: How a Tribute to Garrett Gomez Became ‘Garrett’s Gift’
As the 10th anniversary of Garrett Gomez's death approached, I found myself watching the 2010 Breeders' Cup Classic again. Like every racing fan, I knew what was coming. Blame would turn for home with Garrett quietly waiting. Zenyatta would launch the breathtaking rally that had become her trademark. Trevor Denman's call would rise with the drama unfolding before him, and in one of the sport's most unforgettable finishes, Blame would hold on by a head, handing the great mare the only defeat of her remarkable career.
Semifinalists Announced for 2025 Dr. Tony Ryan Book Award
The Dr. Tony Ryan Book Award has selected six semifinalists in the competition that annually recognizes excellence in Thoroughbred sport literature. These titles, published in 2025, include three nonfiction historical studies from racing’s earliest years, a fictional pre-Civil War saga of racing and race in Mississippi, a deeply reported investigation of recent high-profile racing drug violations and the evolution of federal horse safety regulation, and a coffee table tome that profiles nearly 100 American racetracks, past and present.
‘A Life’s Calling’: Durkin Shares Stories of a Legendary Career in the Announcer’s Booth
“Rachel Alexandra raises the rafters here at the Spa!” “And here he is, the unconquerable, the invincible, the unbeatable Cigar!” “They’re coming down to the finish, and it’s all Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!”
