Legends

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A Patient and Versatile Craftsman, Jonathan Sheppard Achieved Staggering Success

There are few certainties in life or in the sport of horse racing. But just as you could count on the changing of the seasons, you could count on Jonathan Sheppard sending out winners by the dozen, year after year, in tests of both pure speed and dexterity over jumps. He retired from training in the U.S. before the 2021 season, maintained a small stable in Ireland for a short while, and passed away at 82 on Aug. 27, 2023.

Breeders’ Cup Fantastic Finishes: A Comeback of Biblical Proportions

Athletes amaze fans with remarkable feats beyond imagination, which is a huge part of the allure of sports. Thoroughbred racehorses remind us frequently that on any given day you never know what you might witness at the racetrack.

Revered Race Caller Tom Durkin: A Master at His Craft

When Tom Durkin walks down Broadway in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., it is almost as if he is stepping back in time. Fans often stop him to remind him of one of his legendary race calls and to express their appreciation for his extraordinary career.

Those conversations mean the world to Durkin.

“You’re walking down the street and somebody stops you and has something really nice to say to you about you,” said Durkin. “I don’t know that a lot of people go through this world experiencing something like that. It’s one of the great blessings of my life.”

Mike Smith, Jerry Moss, 2009 Vanity Handicap, Hollywood Park, Eclipse Sportswire

Racing Mourns Loss of Jerry Moss, Who Raced Hall of Famer Zenyatta

After making a fortune finding and bringing musical acts to others, Thoroughbred owner Jerry Moss chose a similar approach when he landed on one of racing’s greats in Zenyatta — opting to share her with fans at every turn.

On Aug. 16 the owner who helped bring so many fans to the sport died at age 88 at his home in Bel Air, Calif., surrounded by family and friends.

The Unforgettable Showdown in the 1962 Travers

There’s nothing that stirs the heart and emotions of a horse racing fan more than a thrilling homestretch battle between two gallant Thoroughbreds. Photo finishes so close that only the camera can separate two unwavering rivals are among the most exciting and breathtaking elements of the sport.

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