When American Pharoah crossed the finish line in the 2015 Kentucky Derby, I immediately turned to my husband and said, “Let's go to the Belmont.” In my mind, the best horse so rarely gets the good trip in the Derby, I had a hunch he might end the Triple Crown drought. That evening, I purchased four general admission tickets to the Belmont.
Five weeks later, our kids (aged 12 and 10 at the time) stood on our soccer chairs inside the grandstand at Belmont Park and saw history with their own eyes–a moment they'll never forget. My 16.0 hh stature didn't allow me to “see” the finish, but the deafening roar of the crowd that day told me all I needed to know (I've never heard a louder noise before or since). Pure magic.
Fast forward to Derby 2026, and we decided to have a Derby block party. We set up a TV in our side yard, pre-planned potluck options, and had the neighbors over to watch the race. One family said their kids had never watched a horse race. Another family said they'd had the coverage of the races on all day and got tickled at their little girl's squeals of delight every time the “horsies” broke from the gate. I wondered why I hadn't done this years ago, as we so desperately need young fans.
What if those kids grow up in a world where they see 20 Triple Crown winners? I want my neighbors' children to have the opportunity my kids had–to witness something awe-inspiring.
Frequently, we have a 3yo (sometimes a filly!) who could take a three race series in a two-month span. It would still be hard, but much more attainable. The thing is, it's not just supposed to be hard…it's supposed to be damn near impossible. Bring-in-new-fans powerful. Magical.
The dissenting opinions are telling us to “put the horse first.” How about we let the trainers and owners put the horse first (as they already do), and let the powers-that-be put horse racing first?
Keep the magic.
Sincerely,
Erin N. Robinson
Stallion Director, Rockridge Stud
Sales Coordinator, Vinery Sales
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