HorseRacingHeroes

Almost every American horse racing fan knows a thing or two about Barbaro. This horse had courage, heart, and talent. He was a legend that will live on for many years to come. His accomplishments on the track spoke volumes, but his attitude and behavior off the racetrack showed his determination and perseverance. This horse was not a quitter – he was a hero.

The 2008 Kentucky Derby was a moment of change in the world of horse racing. After this tragic day, a whirlwind of media outcry and public attention was given to the sport of kings – in a negative light. At the forefront of this issue was the breakdown of Eight Belles, the ill-fated runner up in the run for the roses. For the first time in Kentucky Derby history, a horse was euthanized after being injured in the race. This event sent a shockwave of emotion across the country and protesters were seen at Triple Crown races shortly thereafter. Accusations and condemnation could be found across the country. Some of the fingers were being pointed at Larry Jones, Eight Belles’ trainer.

Thoroughbred race horses are magnificent animals, superb four-legged athletes that are often revered by their human fans. Many of them are known for their near-legendary exploits, but they are often the “touted” stars, the well-bred yearlings that grow up to meet the expectations of their pedigree.Are these equine super stars heroes? Perhaps, but it is the “distant cousin,” the poorly-bred claimer” that suddenly and unexpectedly accomplishes great things who might be more worthy of being referred to as a hero.

Kelly Breen is of horse racing’s premier trainers. He was initiated on the racetracks at a very young age of 13. His father, Jackie Breen had taken him to watch races and this is where his interest in the field of horse racing developed. As a young boy Kelly Breen dreamed of a career as a jockey. He set his dream in motion at the age of 18 when he became an assistant trainer. He assisted Ben Perkins Sr for a period of 6 years from 1994 to 2000.

Corey S. Nakatani is an American Thoroughbred horse racing jockey. He was born on October 21, 1970 in Covina, California, United States. As of 2006, Nakatani has won more than 3,000 races. He has won the Breeders cup a total of seven times, three of which were won consecutively between 1996 and 1998 in the Breeders' Cup Sprint. His list of wins also includes the Kentucky Oaks which he won twice. The first time he won it, his mount was Lite Light and the second time around, he was riding Pike Plate Dancer. He has won the Canadian International Stakes and the Dubai Golden Shaheen. He has won the Strub Stakes four times.

Desmond Sanford Hawley also known as "Sandy" Hawley is a Hall of Fame jockey. He is from Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. Sandy Hawley was voted the 1986 Avelino Gomez Memorial Award and that same year was inducted into the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the United States National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1992 and Canada's Sports Hall of Fame in 1998.