There are a variety of reasons to explain why a long list of outstanding horses were thwarted in their bid to become the 12th Triple Crown champion.
Some are predictable; others are surprising.
Premature moves, exhausting paces, injuries, medications, and even a safety pin have all played a role in a drought that stood at 37 years until American Pharoah completed the sweep in 2015.
Never underestimate a champion. This age-old lesson was reiterated to handicappers and racing fans alike when the sensational, speedy mare Groupie Doll defied age and expectations in the 2013 Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint.
Entering the 2015 Breeders’ Cup World Championships, the first ever at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington, there were no shortage of compelling storylines, including the first Triple Crown winner since 1978, American Pharoah, attempting to close out his career with a win in the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
