On September 3, 2017 we (Woodford Racing) unveiled a 2 year old colt named Campaign on closing day at Saratoga Race Course. At the time, we thought Campaign had potential and his second place finish that day gave us optimism. Unfortunately, Campaign incurred various setbacks and didn’t have his second start until July 2018. In his second career start he was bumped leaving the starting gate and had to avoid a fallen horse and rider during the race. While his sixth place finish was disappointing, he experienced enough trouble during the race to suggest the race was probably not a good barometer of his ability.
Campaign Finishes Second at Saratoga Sept. 3, 2017
Almost one year (September 1, 2018) from his initial start, Campaign was making the third start of his career and much had changed. He had a new trainer (Steve Asmussen), would be making his first start on the grass and competing at the marathon distance of 1 1/2 miles! The venue was Kentucky Downs which is a European style turf course on the border of Kentucky and Tennessee. Unlike traditional turf courses which are flat, Kentucky Downs has undulation and elevation change throughout the course.
Soon after the starting gate opened Campaign settled well back in the field of twelve horses. As the horses traversed the course Campaign bided his time. With a quarter of a mile to go, Campaign swung to the middle of the course and began to pass horses. As he drew off to win by 5 1/2 lengths, it was clear Campaign relished the turf and distance!
Normally you would think winning a race in rural Franklin, Kentucky would not be financially rewarding. Purses at Kentucky Downs though are supplemented by slot machine revenue which makes them extremely attractive. Campaign’s race had a purse of $130,000 which was like winning a stakes race!
While the year between Campaign’s first start and first victory was challenging, it did remind me of the old adage, “patience is a virtue”.
Celebrating Campaign with Champagne