Battling Cancer While Training West Saratoga, Larry Demeritte Gets Major Boost From Horseracing Legend Carl Nafzger

“I gave up a lot to come here,” were Larry Demeritte’s words a few days back when he was interviewing with WLKY. Since 1996, Larry Demeritte has battled bone cancer, defying the grim prognosis revealed at the age of 19. Despite the odds, the trainer remained dedicated to horse training, a passion he pursued even as a newcomer among seasoned trainers at the Kentucky Derby. His resilience and determination have captured hearts at Churchill Downs in anticipation of the historic 150th edition of the Derby. Adding to the intrigue is the attention garnered by legendary trainer Carl Nafzger, drawn not just by his impressive track record but by his genuine connection with Demeritte.

A recent social media post from FanDuel Racing showcased Nafzger’s mentorship has made headlines. It is a special moment when, apart from looking at horses, the human element of their interaction is involved. The X post Showcases Nafzger boosting Dermeritte with incredible words, and mentions, “Larry, I’m proud of you.”. It further reads, “Hall of Fame and Kentucky Derby winning trainer Carl Nafzger visits with WEST SARATOGA and Larry Demeritte this morning at Churchill Downs.”

Going out on his own in 1981, Demeritte recorded his first win in 1984. According to Equibase, Demeritte has 180 career wins and $4.9 million in earnings out of 2,065 career starts. As Demeritte prepares for the Derby, his journey serves as a powerful reminder. Despite immense challenges, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of his dreams. Let’s take a look at it.

From cancer’s shadow to Derby dreams

Even when faced with a second bout of cancer in 2018, Demeritte refused to let it dictate his life. “I always say doctors can’t count,” he chuckles. Now, at 74, Demeritte continues to battle cancer while nurturing his latest project, West Saratoga, for the upcoming Kentucky Derby. Despite the odds stacked against him, Demeritte remains undeterred, driven by faith and destiny. “I believe in faith and I believe in destiny,” he asserts, inspiring all.

Born into a racing family in the Bahamas, Demeritte’s journey to the United States was fueled by a dream ignited by watching Secretariat win the 1973 Derby. Since then, he’s dedicated his life to the sport, overcoming countless challenges along the way.

For Demeritte, the Derby represents more than just a race; it’s a beacon of hope for those battling similar battles. “I feel like I am on a mission,” he reflects. “If I can encourage people with cancer…that’s what I want to do.”

As Demeritte prepares to make history as the first African-American trainer in the Derby since 1989, he remains grounded in gratitude for the opportunity. “This means more really than I can describe,” he muses, a poignant reminder of the depth of his journey and the countless lives he continues to touch.