Legends

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Woody Stephens and Cannonade at the 1974 Kentucky Derby.

Woody Stephens: Hall of Famer Won Remarkable Five Belmont Stakes in a Row

A list of Woodford Cefis Stephens’ accomplishments could pretty much fill a chapter of an encyclopedia.

In a career that started in the 1930s and lasted into the 1990s, the Hall of Fame trainer known as “Woody” was revered as one the sport’s most respected and beloved figures. He won eight Triple Crown races, saddled nine champions and received enough trophies from his stakes wins to stock a three-story museum.

Pioneering Jockey Patricia Cooksey Wouldn’t Change Anything

Any discussion of Patricia “P.J.” Cooksey’s trailblazing career as a jockey has to involve her boxing record, unsanctioned as those bouts were.

“I had three fistfights,” she said proudly, “and I’m 3-0.”

Cooksey was born in Youngstown, Ohio, and, with three older brothers to deal with, she learned to assert herself at an early age.

“They didn’t go easy on me or give me any breaks,” she said.

California Chrome and Arrogate Headline Strong List of Hall of Fame Finalists

Nine racehorses, six trainers, and one jockey account for the 16 finalists that will comprise the National Museum of Racing's 2023 Hall of Fame ballot, as chosen by the Museum's Hall of Fame Nominating Committee.

Triple Crown Turning Point: Sir Barton’s Cough That Changed History

In each champion’s life comes a turning point, a small moment that presages bigger ones, laying the groundwork for the greatness to come. It could be a decision to change a piece of equipment, a hiccup that alters a schedule, or a new face that shifts the perspective on a horse and what they are capable of. For America’s first Triple Crown winner, Sir Barton, this small something led to a simple decision that resulted in a historic achievement.

Underappreciated Horse Racing Stars of 19th Century: Ben Brush, Domino, and Henry of Navarre

Into each decade comes a handful of horses that help define that time for the fans who experience it. Alongside these familiar names are those who make their mark then but might fall by the wayside as years go by and their moments fall away. Remembering their accomplishments allows fans to put those periods in perspective, a new look at some horses who deserve recognition, in this case even a century after they competed.

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