In 2024, the world of horse racing witnessed a series of extraordinary events that will be etched in history. Trainer Ken McPeek achieved an unprecedented sweep of the Longines Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby, with Thorpedo Anna and Mystik Dan emerging victorious. The year also saw Flavien Prat's remarkable move from the West Coast to break records for graded stakes wins. Legendary trainer D. Wayne Lukas secured his seventh Preakness Stakes win at the age of 89, while Emma-Jayne Wilson surpassed Julie Krone's earnings record as a female jockey. These milestones, along with several others, made 2024 a memorable year for both enthusiasts and participants.
A Year of Unforgettable Racing Achievements
In the heart-stopping month of May, Ken McPeek orchestrated one of the most historic sweeps in horse racing. At Churchill Downs, the highly-rated Thorpedo Anna dominated the Longines Kentucky Oaks by nearly five lengths. Few could have predicted that Mystik Dan, a long shot at 18.61-1 odds, would edge through on the rail during the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve, clinching victory in a thrilling three-horse photo finish. This marked McPeek as the first trainer since 1952 to achieve this double triumph. Jockey Brian Hernandez Jr.'s tactical riding was pivotal, making him the first jockey since Calvin Borel in 2009 to sweep these prestigious races.
The fall season brought more accolades for McPeek when Thorpedo Anna delivered a commanding gate-to-wire performance in the $2 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Distaff at Del Mar, securing her sixth win in seven starts. Co-owner Mark Edwards praised her feisty spirit and exceptional speed, setting her up as a contender for Horse of the Year honors. Meanwhile, French-born jockey Flavien Prat's strategic decision to relocate eastward paid off handsomely. He shattered Jerry Bailey’s longstanding record for graded stakes wins and overall stakes victories, solidifying his status as the leading rider in North America.
The 150th Kentucky Derby will forever be remembered for its nail-biting conclusion. Before a crowd of over 156,000 spectators, Hernandez Jr. navigated Mystik Dan through a narrow opening on the inside rail, narrowly edging out Sierra Leone and Forever Young. The prolonged suspense of the photo finish added to the drama, culminating in a momentous victory for McPeek and Hernandez.
Legendary trainer D. Wayne Lukas continued to defy age by guiding Seize the Grey to victory in the Preakness Stakes, becoming the oldest trainer to win a Triple Crown race. His unwavering passion for the sport inspired fellow trainers and earned him admiration from across the industry. Additionally, Emma-Jayne Wilson broke new ground by surpassing Julie Krone's all-time earnings record for female jockeys, reflecting the growing equality in the sport.
The Impact and Legacy of These Milestones
From a journalist's perspective, 2024 was a testament to the enduring allure of horse racing. The year showcased not only the skill and determination of trainers and jockeys but also the unpredictable nature of the sport. Each milestone, whether it was McPeek's historic sweep or Prat's record-breaking achievements, highlighted the resilience and dedication of those involved. For fans, these moments provided unforgettable thrills and renewed enthusiasm for the future of horse racing. The legacy of these accomplishments will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of racing professionals and enthusiasts alike.