As we walked to baggage claim in the Louisville Airport last Thursday it was clear the Breeder’s Cup World Championships were taking place in Louisville that weekend. Everywhere you looked, thoroughbred racing photos, racing silks and Breeder’s Cup signage were prominently displayed. Upon arriving at the Omni Hotel which was the Breeder’s Cup Host site, you knew you were in for something special. You couldn’t walk anywhere in the hotel or the VIP/Horsemen’s Lounge without having a conversation with a prominent owner, trainer or jockey participating in the Breeder’s Cup.
The weekend kicked off on Thursday night with the “Taste of the World” celebration at the Speed Museum. Fifteen acclaimed chefs representing the cuisines of the countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa, United States and United Arab Emirates) of the Breeder’s Cup prepared unique dishes in a setting of world class art. Each dish was paired with unique cocktails and premium wines. It was interesting to see various celebrities, jockeys and trainers outside their environment, including our jockey Drayden Van Dyke.
On Friday, five of the fourteen Breeder’s Cup races were conducted. All five races showcased 2 year old colts or fillies and was billed as thoroughbred racing’s “Future Stars”. Saturday featured the remaining nine Breeder’s Cup races, including the $6 million Breeder’s Cup Classic which culminated the racing weekend.
Our (Woodford Racing) horse Catapult ran in the Grade 1, $2 million Breeder’s Cup Mile on Saturday. As we worked our way through the 85,000 attendees to the saddling area before our race, the magnitude of the event struck you. It was fun to speak with our trainer John Sadler, and listen to the race instructions he provided Drayden. As we followed our horse through the tunnel at Churchill Downs onto the track, a huge roar reminded you of the moment.
Trainer John Sadler
As the gates opened and the fourteen horses began their one mile journey over the Churchill Downs turf course we were overwhelmed. Catapult settled in fourth position into the first turn, not losing sight of the leaders. As the horses proceeded down the backstretch it was clear Catapult was ready to go when Drayden gave him his cue. As they went into the final turn, Catapult ranged up three wide and made his move. Down the stretch he dug in and battled horses on his inside and outside. With 100 yards to go in the race it looked like he might be the winner. The ultimate winner came up on Catapult’s outside and beat us by a 1/2 length. Catapult ran the race of his life, only to come up a 1/2 length short.
The Breeder’s Cup was a first class event we will never forget. It was a “once in a lifetime weekend”!