March 2019

Bold Venture (1933-1958) was lightly regarded in the Kentucky Derby, not having one a single stakes race en route to the Run for the Roses. In today’s Race for the Kentucky Derby, he wouldn’t even be considered for a spot in the field, but in 1936, owners could enter their horse if they nominated him or her. This was the case with Bold Venture, who went off at odds of 20-1. He was being ridden by Ira “Babe” Hanford, an… Read MoreTriple Crown Near Misses: Bold Venture Bows a Tendon »

Gallant Fox. Count Fleet. Citation. Secretariat. Burgoo King?

If it weren’t for some lost paperwork, the horse named after a famous Kentucky stew could have been one of horse racing’s Triple Crown winners.

Read MoreTriple Crown Near-Misses: Burgoo King Loses His Paperwork »

The Florida Derby at Gulfstream on March 3 seemed like any other race. Spectacular Bid was made the 1–20 favorite against a field that included Lot o’ Gold, Medaille d’Or, Musical Phantasy, Sir Ivor Again, and Brach’s Dancer.

Read More40 Years Ago Today: Bid Dodges a Bullet in Florida Derby »