The summer of 2023 is upon us and The Chosen Vron is on the verge of a life-altering race. This remarkable horse, the son of the late Vronsky, has spent the past year conquering the California-bred ranks, winning seven consecutive races, both on the dirt and the turf. With a big, shiny chestnut coat, a white blaze on his nose, and prominent white stockings, his stride is fluid and effortless. Yet, every opponent he has faced since September 2022 has been unable to catch him.

Del Mar Entries and Results: A Gateway to Glory

After dominating the state-bred level, The Chosen Vron's connections decided to test him against the top sprinters in the Bing Crosby (G1) at Del Mar. The formidable group included 2020 Del Mar Futurity (G1) and 2021 Bing Crosby champion Dr. Schivel, Anarchist, who went on to win the Pat O’Brien (G2), Triple Bend (G2) winner Spirit of Makena, and cagey veteran C Z Rocket. There were also defending champion American Theorem and talented invaders Sibelius and Hoist the Gold. While the public was supportive, they were also a bit skeptical, sending The Chosen Vron off at odds of 9-2.

The Race Itself: A Battle to the Finish

A full field of 12 horses loaded into the gate, with The Chosen Vron in stall number four. After a perfect break, he found himself behind the front runners, stalking the pace. Everything was going smoothly until they hit the turn and one of the leaders suddenly backed out, causing jockey Hector Berrios to alter course. Undeterred, The Chosen Vron handled the situation beautifully and continued his run to the front. He split horses at the top of the lane and joined five others in the front. Two of them backed out by mid-stretch, leaving four lined up across the track. They dueled to the sixteenth pole, where The Chosen Vron poked his white blaze in front and held on in a driving finish, with just a neck separating the top three runners. The winners circle was filled with jubilant owners, family friends, and stable workers. In the middle stood a 70-year-old man, J. Eric Kruljac, wearing a yellow jacket and blue jeans, soaking in the moment. His horse had not only won a Grade 1 race but had also earned a spot in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint.

J. Eric Kruljac: A Horseman's Journey

J. Eric Kruljac is the epitome of a horseman. Born in San Jose in 1953, he was one of nine children. His grandfather was a cattle breeder and produce broker who also raced horses. Kruljac got the racing bug from his grandfather and began his own journey in the horse world. After a football injury ended his dreams of playing in the NFL, he became an investigator of workman’s comp claims. During this period, he began dabbling in horses and eventually shut down his investigating agency to focus on horses. He started buying horses and trained them with his older brother. Over the years, he has had his share of success, winning six stakes at Del Mar and several other notable races. His interest in horses began at a young age and has remained a passion throughout his life.

The Chosen Vron's Early Years: From Promise to Perfection

The Chosen Vron was foaled on March 28, 2018, at Harris Ranch in Coalinga, California. He was a pretty colt from the start, but he had some early development issues. He was easy to break and did everything right, but he was slow to develop. Kruljac and his partners had to give him time to grow up. The Chosen Vron broke his maiden at first asking in 2020 as a 2-year-old. He came back in 2021 and won four of his six races as a 3-year-old, including a couple of graded stakes. His consistent performances have been a source of pride for Kruljac and his team.

The Chosen Vron's 2022 and 2023 Campaigns: A Winning Streak

In 2022, The Chosen Vron only raced five times but won three of them, including the E.B. Johnston at Los Alamitos. This started his eight-race win streak that led into the 2023 Breeders’ Cup. However, he finished fifth in the Sprint. Kruljac believes that The Chosen Vron was covered up and might have had a little trouble getting out. After the Breeders’ Cup, Kruljac entered The Chosen Vron back in California-bred company and won the $100,000 Cary Grant Stakes at Del Mar. This was the start of a new six-race win streak, capped by a victory and successful defense of his title in the 2024 Bing Crosby (G1).

The Future: Middle East Races and Beyond

Kruljac has had some good horses in the past, but none as consistent as The Chosen Vron. He realizes that the races in the Middle East, the Breeders’ Cup races, and even the Bing Crosbys are tough, but he wouldn't trade places with anyone. He hopes to have his prized student ready to roll in the Middle East in Saudi Arabia or Dubai in 2025. For now, The Chosen Vron has been turned out for a few months due to a small issue in his leg detected by the veterinarians. Kruljac realizes that this horse is a blessing and has been the highlight of his life. He is not ready to retire completely but is getting closer. If he does retire, he will probably become a bloodstock agent again and work with his son Ian.