The world of horse racing has witnessed a significant milestone as the first foal of Cody’s Wish, the celebrated champion of 2023 and multiple Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile winner, was born on Tuesday at Phoenix Farm and Racing in Georgetown, Kentucky. This new arrival carries not only the genetic legacy of an exceptional racehorse but also the heartwarming story of an extraordinary bond between man and animal. The foal, owned by Frederick & May Construction, is the offspring of Hotshot Anna, a Grade 2 winner purchased for $400,000 at Keeneland’s November sale in 2022. The birth of this colt marks the continuation of a legacy intertwined with both racing glory and human compassion.
The Birth of a Legacy
The arrival of Cody’s Wish’s first foal signifies more than just the beginning of a new generation of champions. It represents the continuation of a remarkable journey that began when Cody’s Wish captured the hearts of many through his performances on the track. The colt, born at Ramiro Salazar’s Phoenix Farm and Racing in Kentucky, comes from a lineage of excellence. His dam, Hotshot Anna, has proven her mettle in prestigious races, making this foal’s potential even more exciting for breeders and racing enthusiasts alike.
Frederick & May Construction now holds the reins of this promising young horse, whose future may well mirror that of its sire. Cody’s Wish, during his career, achieved unprecedented success, winning 11 out of 16 starts and earning over $3.1 million. Trained by Bill Mott, he became a fan favorite not only for his impressive victories but also for his inspiring connection with Cody Dorman, a teenager with Wolf-Hirschhorn Syndrome. The emotional bond between the two touched countless lives, adding a profound layer to Cody’s Wish’s legacy. As this new foal takes its first steps, it carries forward the spirit of both its father and the boy who found solace in him.
An Enduring Bond Beyond the Track
The story of Cody’s Wish extends far beyond the racetrack, deeply rooted in a touching relationship that transcended sport. In 2019, through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Cody’s Wish met Cody Dorman, a young man born with a rare genetic disorder. Their meeting marked the start of an unforgettable friendship. Despite physical limitations, Cody formed an immediate and deep connection with the horse, symbolizing hope and resilience. This bond became a source of inspiration for many, highlighting the power of compassion and empathy in unexpected places.
Cody Dorman attended Cody’s Wish’s final race, where the horse triumphed in the Breeders’ Cup Mile at Santa Anita in 2023. Sadly, Cody passed away the following evening on his way home from the event. He was just 17 years old. The loss was felt deeply by the racing community, which had grown to admire both Cody and Cody’s Wish. The horse’s career, marked by 11 wins and seven graded-stakes victories, will forever be intertwined with the memory of a brave young man who found joy and purpose through an unlikely friendship. As the first foal of Cody’s Wish enters the world, it serves as a living testament to the enduring impact of their story.