We’re going to take a look back at some of the most notable events that have taken place in horse racing history on this date.
1947: Horse Racing Legend Bill Hartack is Born
On February 13th, 1947, legendary jockey Bill Hartack was born. Hartack is widely regarded as one of the greatest jockeys of all time, and he won five Kentucky Derbys and two Preakness Stakes during his illustrious career. Hartack was known for his fearless riding style and his ability to get the best out of his horses, and he was a dominant force in horse racing for many years.
1962: Gun Bow Wins the San Vicente Stakes
On February 13th, 1962, Gun Bow won the San Vicente Stakes at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California. This prestigious race is for three-year-old Thoroughbreds, and it is one of the first major races of the year for this age group. Gun Bow was a talented horse with a strong racing record, and his win in the San Vicente Stakes was a testament to his abilities as a racehorse.
1981: Pleasant Colony Wins the Fountain of Youth Stakes
On February 13th, 1981, Pleasant Colony won the Fountain of Youth Stakes at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, Florida. This race is a major prep race for the Kentucky Derby and is considered one of the most important races of the year for three-year-old Thoroughbreds. Pleasant Colony was a talented horse with a bright future, and his win in the Fountain of Youth Stakes was a sign of things to come. He went on to win the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes that year, becoming one of the most successful horses of his generation.
1996: Louis Quatorze Wins the Cherry Hill Mile
On February 13th, 1996, Louis Quatorze won the Cherry Hill Mile at Garden State Park in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. This race is for four-year-olds and up and is considered one of the most important races of the year for this age group. Louis Quatorze was a talented horse with a strong racing record, and his win in the Cherry Hill Mile was a testament to his abilities as a racehorse.
2010: Eskendereya Wins the Fountain of Youth Stakes
On February 13th, 2010, Eskendereya won the Fountain of Youth Stakes at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, Florida. This prestigious race is for three-year-old Thoroughbreds and is considered one of the most important races of the year for this age group. Eskendereya was a talented horse with a bright future, and his win in the Fountain of Youth Stakes was a sign of things to come. He went on to have a successful racing career, becoming one of the most successful horses of his generation.