By Sue Finley
Vinnie Viola, the co-owner of this year's Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo (Curlin), was honored Tuesday at West Point as a recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Graduate Award.
The annual award, one of the most prestigious the school offers, is given to alumni whose character, distinguished service, and stature reflect the Academy's motto, “Duty, Honor, Country.” Viola, a highly successful businessman, philanthropist, and owner of the Florida Panthers in addition to his equine holdings, was recognized for his extensive contributions to the Academy, including his instrumental role in funding and establishing West Point's Combating Terrorism Center and the Modern War Institute.
The program for the event celebrated his achievements and dedication to the school.
“Few graduates have shaped the Academy–and the Army–quietly yet so profoundly as Vincent Viola,” it reads. “His vision and philanthropy have strengthened the Academy's intellectual foundation and ensured its excellence as both a military and academic institution. Beyond West Point, Viola has rendered invaluable service to the Army, with several Chiefs of Staff seeking his counsel on a range of issues.”
His friend and frequent racing partner Terry Finley, who graduated from West Point in 1986, was there to see him accept the award.
“Everybody knows if you go to the academy and you're a distinguished graduate, there are some high achievers who attend and who are servant leaders,” said Finley. “And I quite frankly don't know of a better servant leader than Vinny Viola. It was great that the whole West Point community had a chance to learn more about a great American.”
Finley said that around 100 of Viola's classmates were on hand for the ceremony. “That means that around one in seven of his classmates took the time to come to West Point,” he said. “His family and his wife, Teresa, were there. This was her award, too, and they couldn't have been more proud of their father and husband. It's crazy how humble he is, and how genuine.”
Notable past recipients include Apollo 8 commander Colonel Fran Borman, Apolo 11's Buzz Aldrin, General Norman Schwarzkopf, and Tuskegree Airmen commander General Benjamin O. Davis Jr.
Viola is a member of The Jockey Club board of stewards.
Not a subscriber? Click here to sign up for the daily PDF or alerts.
