Hundreds of fans gathered at the Kentucky Horse Park Oct. 11, 2025, to view the unveiling of a sculpture commemorating one of horse racing’s most touching stories. Renowned sculptor Jocelyn Russell created a life-size bronze of 2023’s Horse of the Year Cody’s Wish, who was named to honor the late Cody Dorman.
Dorman, a young man born with Wolf-Hirschhorn Syndrome, first met his equine namesake through the Make-a-Wish Foundation, and developed an enduring bond with the horse as Cody’s Wish became a two-time Breeders’ Cup winner.
Named “The Bond: Two Hearts, One Spirit,” the sculpture along with a wall displaying an iconic photograph of Dorman and Cody’s Wish will inspire visitors at the Horse Park for years to come. Attendees at the dedication were moved by remarks from Cody’s family, those connected with the horse, and the special song “Cody’s Wish,” written and performed by Bri Fletcher.
“Can I put it into words? Not really,” said Kelly Dorman, Cody’s father. “I don’t think words will do it justice.”
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