Legends

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John Asher, Kentucky Derby Museum, California Chrome, Bill Luster photo

John Asher: Dedicated Kentucky Derby Ambassador and Friend to All

The grounds of historic Churchill Downs features statues of figures essential to the track and its signature race, the Kentucky Derby: Aristides, the first victor; Barbaro, the fan favorite; and two men seated on benches, one talking and the other listening, beckoning visitors to eavesdrop on their conversation.

Jimmy Winkfield, 1902 Kentucky Derby, Alan-a-Dale, Keeneland Library, Hemment Collection

The Epic Journey of James ‘Wink’ Winkfield

He was on the doorstep of becoming America’s greatest Black race rider. One of just five men to win back-to-back Kentucky Derbys (1901-1902), he barely missed a third victory the following year.

But, the story of James “Wink” Winkfield being a great jockey would just be a slice of his existence. Has any jockey led a more incredible life?

The Legends of the Track: Iconic Horses in Horse Racing History

In the world of horse racing, we get the incredible opportunity to witness some of the most gifted animals showcase their talents on the track. Yet, there are certain names that go beyond just being winners – they become legends. These iconic horses, with their incredible speed, unstoppable spirit, and often riveting stories, have truly made a lasting impact on the hearts of racing fans. So, let's dive into the stories of several of these celebrated animals that have cemented themselves in the horse racing Hall of Fame.

Holy Bull, Darley, Anne M. Eberhardt, BloodHorse

Holy Bull: An Enduring Legacy of Brilliance

Holy Bull was that rare horse who could win one-turn races like the Hutcheson Stakes and the Grade 1 Metropolitan Mile as though sprinting were his life’s calling, and also capture a testing 1 ¼-mile race like the prestigious Travers Stakes, holding off no less than the eventual winner of that year’s Breeders’ Cup Classic.

He was owned and trained by top New Jersey-based horseman Warren A. “Jimmy” Croll. And how he came to own Holy Bull is a story in itself.

Hall of Fame jockey Isaac Burns Murphy, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division

Isaac Murphy: The King of 19th Century Jockeys

He was the Eddie Arcaro, the Willie Shoemaker of his era. More than 145 years ago, the son of a slave began to carve his indelible mark on the tree of American Thoroughbred history.

A slight man, Isaac Burns Murphy was known for his soft hands and bowlegs. Weighing in at 70 pounds when he launched his career, Murphy rode upright, rather than in a crouch, and he was a superb judge of pace. His mounts tended to close with devastating speed, often winning by a head or less. Those tight finishes came to be known as "Murfinishes."

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