Antonucci, who operates a small stable in Florida, was only the 11th woman to saddle a horse in the “Test of the Champion” and the first since 2011. And she did it with a former $35,000 yearling.
“I don’t have words yet. I’m just so proud of the horse right now,” said Antonucci on FOX shortly after Arcangelo fended off a surging Forte by a length and a half.
Asked what her message is to those she will undoubtedly inspire, Antonucci responded, “Build your team and never give up. People will see you. Keep working your butt off.”
Tapit Trice closed for third, and Angel of Empire and Hit Show finished in a dead heat for fourth. Preakness Stakes winner National Treasure set the pace and maintained an advantage midway into the far turn before being passed by Arcangelo on the inside, and then faded to sixth.
Castellano, too, is a model for the value of perseverance. He had gone winless with 15 mounts in the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve before breaking through this year with Mage. He had taken the Preakness Stakes twice, and the Hall of Famer now has his personal Triple Crown.