Larry Johnson, a distinguished owner and breeder who made significant contributions to horsemen’s groups in Maryland and Virginia, passed away at the age of 78. Johnson's journey in breeding began modestly in 1978 with the acquisition of Ran’s Chick for $2,800. Despite never racing, Ran’s Chick became the cornerstone of Johnson's breeding program, producing over 40 stakes horses. His influence extended beyond breeding, as he held high-ranking positions in various horsemen's associations and was a leading earner of Maryland fund awards between 2017 and 2022. Johnson's dedication and optimism left an indelible mark on the industry.

Johnson's Impact on the Thoroughbred Industry

In the picturesque setting of Bluemount, Virginia, Larry Johnson operated Legacy Farm, where his legacy in horse breeding began. In 1978, Johnson purchased Ran’s Chick for a mere $2,800. Although she never raced, Ran’s Chick became Johnson’s foundation broodmare, giving rise to more than 40 stakes horses. Among her descendants are Future Is Now and Call Another Play, both homebred stakes winners for Johnson in 2024. Future Is Now triumphed in the Grade 2 Franklin Stakes at Keeneland and the Intercontinental Stakes (G2) at Saratoga. Call Another Play secured victories in the Weber City Miss and Geisha Stakes at Laurel Park and placed third in the Black-Eyed Susan (G2) at Pimlico. Michael Trombetta trained both horses.

Ran’s Chick is also the fourth dam of Mindframe, whom Johnson sold for $600,000 as a yearling to Repole Stable and St. Elias Stables. Mindframe achieved notable success, finishing second in the Belmont Stakes and the Haskell (G1) at Monmouth Park.

Johnson's patience and foresight were evident in his purchase of True Valour for $220,000 in 2020. After undergoing ankle surgery and a year off, True Valour returned under trainer Graham Motion, winning the King T. Leatherbury Stakes and placing third in the Jaipur (G1) at Belmont Park before finishing his career with a strong second place in Saratoga’s Troy (G3).

Beyond his breeding achievements, Johnson held key roles in several horsemen’s organizations, including vice presidency of the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and board membership in the Virginia Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association. Between 2017 and 2022, Johnson's horses earned over $20 million in Maryland fund awards, solidifying his status as a leading figure in the industry.

From a journalist's perspective, Larry Johnson's life story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and optimism in achieving long-term success. His ability to transform a modest investment into a thriving breeding program and his commitment to the horse racing community highlight the enduring impact one individual can have on an entire industry. Johnson's legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of breeders and owners to pursue their dreams with unwavering dedication and hope.