The Kentucky Horse Park, in partnership with state and local officials, launched a season-long celebration honoring the 100th birthday of Man o' War, who was foaled Mar. 29, 1917. The Man o' War Celebration, presented by Windstream, will honor the life and legacy of this legendary racehorse throughout 2017 with a series of special events at the Kentucky Horse Park and throughout Central Kentucky, as well as a museum exhibit entitled Man o' War: The Mostest Horse That Ever Was.
“Man o' War is a Kentucky legend, he thrilled fans with never-seen before feats of speed and power. Nearly 70 years after his passing, the lure of the Thoroughbred has never been stronger,” said Don Parkinson, Secretary of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet. “We invite fans from near and far to come celebrate Man o' War, here at the Kentucky Horse Park and throughout the Bluegrass.”
Mayor Jim Gray expressed similar sentiments, saying, “This is an opportunity for Lexington, the Horse Capital of the World, to celebrate one of the world's greatest horses, Man o' War. We have young people who think Man o' War is the just the name of a road. They need to learn about one of Kentucky's outstanding athletes.”
Man o' War was foaled at Nursery Stud Farm during World War I came along as World War I, which is how he got his name. The chestnut won 20 of his 21 starts, including an undefeated 3-year-old season during which he broke track, American or even world records in seven of his 11 starts.
“What an incredible opportunity to highlight a racing legend and equally to engage our community,” said Laura Prewitt, Executive Director of the Kentucky Horse Park. We are delighted with all of the area businesses that have stepped up to support the Man o' War Celebration and in particular we would like to thank Windstream for being the presenting sponsor. They are a great community partner and we hope the events we have planned this year will encourage visitors of all ages to experience all that the Kentucky Horse Park has to offer.”
The Man o' War exhibit in the International Museum of the Horse will feature artifacts, photos and a timeline showcasing his legendary career as a racehorse, sire, and one of the Kentucky's most well-known residents. Additional events are planned throughout the season to celebrate Man o' War's enduring legacy for Kentucky residents and visitors from around the world. A current list of Man o' War events can be found here.
The Man o' War Celebration will conclude with a public re-broadcast of Man o' War's funeral Nov. 1, the anniversary of his death. Man o' War's, who died at the age of 30 in 1947, was laid to rest at Faraway Farm in Lexington, where he had stood at stud for most of his life. Later he was moved to the Kentucky Horse Park just prior to the park's opening in 1978, along with his statue by Herbert Haseltine and his famous offspring including 1937 Triple Crown winner War Admiral.
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