In a significant milestone for the equine world, Forte, the celebrated champion of 2022, has fathered his first foal. This week, a filly was born at Darby Dan Farm in Lexington, marking the beginning of Forte’s legacy as a sire. The filly, bred by Gary Holland’s Kamden Favorites, comes from the lineage of Gravy, a mare with impressive connections to stakes winners Financial Recovery and Blue Heart. Charlie McKinlay, the farm manager at Darby Dan, expressed immense satisfaction with the new arrival, describing her as a striking and well-proportioned filly. Forte’s illustrious career as a racehorse included multiple Grade 1 victories and an Eclipse Award for champion two-year-old male in 2022. His early retirement to Spendthrift Farm did not diminish his impact on the racing world, and now, as a sire, he continues to leave an indelible mark.

Forte’s journey to becoming a sire is rooted in his exceptional performance on the racetrack. As a two-year-old, he quickly established himself as one of the most promising talents in the sport. Under the guidance of trainer Todd Pletcher, Forte made his debut at Belmont Park, where he broke his maiden over five furlongs in May. What followed was a string of remarkable achievements. He captured three consecutive Grade 1 victories, including the prestigious Hopeful Stakes at Saratoga and the Breeders’ Futurity at Keeneland. These wins showcased his versatility and dominance, cementing his status as a top juvenile.

The pinnacle of Forte’s championship season came when he triumphed in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Keeneland. This victory earned him the 2022 Eclipse Award for champion two-year-old male, a recognition that solidified his place in racing history. Forte received the highest number of votes in any category, surpassing even Flightline, another notable contender. Entering his three-year-old season, Forte was widely anticipated to be a frontrunner for the Kentucky Derby. Despite being scratched from the Derby, he continued to excel, winning the Jim Dandy Stakes and finishing second in the Belmont Stakes. His final start saw him place fourth in the Travers Stakes, rounding off a career that netted him over $3 million in earnings.

With the birth of his first foal, Forte embarks on a new chapter as a sire. The filly’s arrival at Darby Dan Farm signifies the continuation of his legacy. Her lineage, combined with Forte’s proven track record, promises great potential for future generations. The horse racing community eagerly anticipates the development of this filly and others sired by Forte, hoping they will carry forward the excellence and distinction that have defined his name. The transition from champion racer to sire represents a natural progression for Forte, ensuring his influence on the sport endures beyond his own racing career.