Secretariat: the Kentucky Derby

I painted Secretariat running in the Kentucky Derby.

When Secretariat was finally three years old in 1973,  it was decided that he would participate in the Kentucky Derby, which is a part of the Triple Crown. The Triple Crown is a prestigious three race event specifically made for three-year-olds. It includes the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes.

 The first race in the Triple Crown is the Kentucky Derby, a one and a quarter mile race held at Churchill Downs, Kentucky. It was in this race that Secretariat first made world history and shattered one of the many world records he would break.

  At the beginning the race, Secretariat, as usual, was in last place. He then gradually passed many of the other horses. However, on the backstretch, a horse known as Sham(he and Secretariat were a favorite among fans) still held the lead, and many believed that he would win the Derby. Suddenly, Secretariat burst forward and passed Sham. He went on to win the race by 2 1/2 lengths with a time of 1 minute 59 seconds, a new track record.

 His record still stands today, and he is remembered as a legend among horse enthusiasts.  I believe that he is the most greatest horse that ever lived. I am sure that many of you agree with me.

Don't miss the other posts on the Triple Crown.