Earning Almost $4 Million to Posing With Babe Ruth: Celebrating 107th Century of America’s Greatest Racehorse

In December 1920, when racehorse kingpin Sir Barton appeared against Man o’ War, the futile chase evoked enough fanfare among the crowd. At that moment, Sir Barton tended to be the greatest ever. On the other hand, Man o’ War didn’t know what a defeat could taste. So, despite losing a large puff from the hoof in the race, the 3-year-old colt Man o’ War didn’t let the audience know about his excruciating pain.

Rather, celebrating the victory by tossing the tail was the usual body language for him. However, earning stellar records was the most beloved of that racehorse. Even after a hundred years of his birth, Man o’ War still holds some staggering records in the sport. Here’s a look at all those colossal achievements. 

The lores Man o’ War once crafted on the race courses

Born on March 29, 1917, Man o’ War wore the racehorse self in 1919. But on his retirement just after 16 months, the chestnut horse already fortified himself in the best position in the American horseracing fables. In the meantime, he achieved 20 victories in 21 starts, a staggering sum of USD 4 million, and an almost similar stature to Yankees spearhead Babe Ruth. 

So, to commemorate the equine’s birthday, BloodHorse’s X-handle shared a tribute post last evening. However, Man o’War’s journey on the race course remained a vivid affair. In Saratoga, the racehorse legend received the most success. In 1919 and 1920, he almost reached the unbeatable tagline in the competitions he entered.

However, in the same track, Man o’ War had to face her only defeat, full of controversies. But on the same dirt, the belligerent Kentucky-born horse defeated several triple crown winners and with a great length. Moreover, his bloodlines as well continued to create records of the races. In this modern era also, Man o’War’s bloodline strives to win titles. 

The racehorse’s legacy 

Despite being bred by August Belmont II, Hall of Fame trainer Louis Feustel particularly trained the racehorse. Under his training and the keen ship from Samuel Riddle, Man o’War reached phenomenal height. However, Riddle made the equine retire hurriedly in his 4 years of age protesting against bearing a 138 pounds weight. But in the meantime, Man o’ War sired multiple winners. 

Among those, the Triple Crown winner War Admiral, 1929 Kentucky Derby winner Clyde Van Dusen, and 1938 Grand National Steeplechase winner Battleship remained noteworthy. In this era, the 2x Breeders’ Cup Classic champion, Tiznow represented the same bloodline. But in another way as well, Man o’ War’s legacy received a heartful gesture in his birthplace, Lexington. 

The racehorse figure succumbed to a heart attack on November 1, 1947. But to preserve his legacy, the locals set up a statue in Kentucky Horse Park. Moreover, in downtown Lexington, artist Augustin Zarate painted a mural of the colt in 2017. 

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