Tom Pedulla is interviewing prominent owners, trainers and jockeys as they travel the Road to the $5 million Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve on May 3 at Churchill Downs.
Nestled on Versailles Road is a gorgeous expanse of racetrack, its grandstand rising from the greenery of the Bluegrass as cars speed toward the welcoming streets of Lexington, Ky. With its classic lines and hand-chiseled limestone, Keeneland Race Course is a beacon of what racing can be, a celebration of the horse as well as a home for the sport’s fans, its focus on the past, present, and future all at the same time.
Gabrielle Pearce developed a passion for horses at a young age, starting with ponies. As her confidence in the saddle grew, she transitioned to off-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs). One of her earliest experiences with an ex-racehorse was riding Mr. Martini, an older Thoroughbred known for his calm and level-headed demeanor. He became the perfect bridge between ponies and larger horses, helping Gabrielle build the confidence and skills necessary to become a successful rider.
The first edition of the Virginia Derby was held in 1998 and has now been contested for more than a quarter-century, but the Colonial Downs feature race takes on a new look Saturday.
It was a year ago that prominent Thoroughbred owner and St. John’s University alumnus and mega booster Mike Repole can recall being at Gulfstream Park with Red Storm men’s basketball coach Rick Pitino to watch the Curlin Florida Derby.
