Triple Crown winner American Pharoah (Pioneerofthenile) has been named the 2015 recipient of the Secretariat Vox Populi (Voice of the People) Award. The award was established by Secretariat's owner Penny Chenery in 2010 to honor a horse “whose popularity and racing excellence best resounded with the American public and gained recognition for Thoroughbred racing.” American Pharoah won the contest's online poll by the largest-ever margin. “American Pharoah's 2015 racing campaign was a true gift to the fans inside and outside the sport who have been waiting so long for their next Triple Crown champion,” said Chenery. “In his efforts, we were able to once again witness greatness, and we were reminded that excellence can still be achieved. This racing hero has inspired a whole new generation of young fans, which I find most exciting for the future of the Thoroughbred racing. I congratulate American Pharoah's team on their amazing year, and I am delighted to present them with the Secretariat Vox Populi Award.” Previous recipients of the Vox Populi award are Zenyatta (2010), Rapid Redux (2011), fellow Zayat Stables colorbearer Paynter (2012), Mucho Macho Man (2013) and California Chrome (2014). The connections of American Pharoah will be presented with a custom trophy on Jan. 9 at Santa Anita Park.
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