?Beast of Churchill Downs?: Horse Racing World Awaits History-Making Triumph on the Track

The 2023 Sunshine Stakes, a Grade III race for three-year-olds and up, is set for November 4th at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The six-furlong dirt race offers a $300,000 purse. It’s a highlight of the fall meet, often used as a preparation race for the Breeders’ Cup Sprint at Del Mar, which follows two weeks later. The race date varies slightly from year to year, but it remains a favorite among equestrian sports enthusiasts and fans.

Churchill Downs has borne witness to countless legendary equine athletes throughout its storied history. Among these elite competitors, one name stands out, – Bango. This dark bay stallion has been rewriting the annals of horse racing history with his extraordinary achievements at Churchill Downs. He’s ready to make a record on November 4.

Passion for the race

Bango’s passion for racing is undeniable. On a Thursday in May 2023, under the watchful eyes of his groom, Abraham Garcia, Bango readied himself for the thrill of the track. Known for his fiery spirit and occasional temper, Bango is a force to be reckoned with.

Greg Foley, his trainer, trusts only a select few to handle this powerful 6-year-old, aware of the risks involved with his spirited disposition. At times, even Bango’s hot walker, Tony Ordonez, finds the stallion too unpredictable to graze on the backside of Churchill Downs.

However, when it comes to racing at his home turf, Churchill Downs, Bango, transforms into a true champion. Owner Fred Schwartz notes that Bango carries an air of confidence and dominance as he strides out of his stall, truly believing he is the “Beast of Churchill Downs”.However, Bango’s remarkable journey as a racehorse began with his unique lineage.

Bango’s quest for racing immortality

Bango’s mother, Josaka, was a racehorse herself, with Smart Strike as her sire and Giant’s Causeway as her grandsire. She may have only raced three times in her career, but her legacy was about to take an unexpected turn. A freak injury led her to become a broodmare, and on March 7, 2017, Josaka gave birth to Bango, a dark bay colt sired by Congrats.

The origins of Bango’s name are a nod to his owner’s Wisconsin roots. In 1977, when Fred Schwartz began attending the Kentucky Derby, “bango” had already become part of the Wisconsin basketball lexicon. Legendary Milwaukee Bucks announcer Eddie Doucette introduced the term to celebrate moments of excellence on the basketball court, making it a perfect moniker for the spirited colt.

Read More: ?I almost cried?: Equestrian Enthusiasts Speak Out on the 2023 Rodeo Mishap

On November 4, Bango will have the opportunity to etch his name in the record books as the winningest horse in Churchill Downs’ history. As Bango gallops towards his destiny, there is no doubt that he embodies the essence of a true racing legend and a source of inspiration for all aspiring champions.

WATCH THIS STORY:?Rodeo Fans Thrilled as Horse Riding Champion Banks $1.5 Million Victory