Does Bob Baffert Have a Record of Kentucky Derby Wins? Exploring Top 5 Trainers with the Most Victories

As the much-awaited equestrian event approaches, all eyes are on the courtroom as Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert awaits a vital decision: whether he can enter horses at the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby. Baffert’s latest legal battle comes in the wake of the controversy surrounding Medina Spirit’s post-race drug positive test.

This led to Churchill Downs suspending the renowned trainer, altering the outcome of the 2021 Derby. Despite the initial rulings, Baffert’s suspension was extended through 2024, prompting scrutiny and legal wrangling. But now, the question arises: If Bob Baffert is suspended this season, then who can take his place?

Top 5 Kentucky Derby trainers

Beyond Baffert’s saga, a closer look at the top five equestrian trainers with the most wins in the Kentucky Derby offers insight into the rich tapestry of horse racing history. From iconic figures to unsung heroes, these trainers undoubtedly have left an enduring legacy on the sport.

Bob Baffert

Baffert’s journey to prominence began in 1997 when he accomplished his first Kentucky Derby victory with Silver Charm. This marked the beginning of a remarkable streak as Baffert went on to claim five additional Kentucky Derby victories with Real Quiet (1998), War Emblem (2002), American Pharoah (2015), Justify (2018), and Authentic (2020). Despite his impressive list of accolades, his recent legal troubles have cast a shadow over his illustrious equestrian career. However, Baffert, with his six wins, is now preparing thoroughbreds for the sport’s most prestigious race.

Ben “Plain Ben” Jones

Next on the list is a revered figure in the world of horse racing. With a career spanning several decades, Jones has etched an indelible mark on the sport. Jones’ journey to the Derby began way back in 1938 with his first victory when Lawrin first crossed the finish line under his guidance. After this, he accomplished back-to-back Derby victories with the help of his remarkable roster of Kentucky Derby winners, including Lawrin (1938), Whirlaway (1941), Pensive (1944), Citation (1948), Ponder (1949), and Hill Gail (1952).

D. Wayne Lukas

Lukas stands as one of the most accomplished trainers in Kentucky Derby history. Beginning with the Derby success journey, Lukas went on to make headlines achieving remarkable feats. One such win was becoming the first trainer to win the Triple Crown Classic race with two different horses in a single season. Since then, he continued to add on wins with his winning horses: Winning Colors (1988), Thunder Gulch (1995), Grindstone (1996), and Charismatic (1999), each of whom secured their place in racing history under Lukas’s guidance.

Herbert J. Thompson

Fourth on the list is Herbert Thompson, revered for his remarkable achievements. His journey to Derby glory began in 1921 when Behave Yourself surged to victory under his tutelage. Over the span of 12 years from 1921 to 1933, he led a quartet of horses to Derby triumph, earning him an extraordinary winning streak. The major reason for his significant achievement has been his winning horses during the period, including Bubbling Over (1926), Burgoo King (1932), and Brokers Tip (1933).

Horace A. “Jimmy” Jones

The son of esteemed trainer Ben Jones, Jimmy inherited a passion for the horse racing sport and quickly made his mark as a formidable trainer. His tenure as the head trainer of Calumet Farm catapulted him to prominence, wherein he accomplished remarkable success with the most illustrious champions, Iron Liege, in 1957 and Tim Tam in 1958.

Read More: Kentucky Derby Prep Race: Everything You Need to Know About 2024 Santa Anita Derby: Odds, Entries, Date, Time, and More