“The Persistence and Longevity That Maryland Is Known For”: 2 Supertars in the Equestrian Community Recieve Rare Honor

The Equestrian world has recently made headlines in the world of equine racing.  The prestigious Maryland Thoroughbred Hall of Fame welcomed its 2023 inductees. Two exceptional equine champions have captivated fans and left an indelible mark on the spectators.

Along with this, each boasting an extraordinary journey, are Ben’s Cat and Mountain Dew. As we prepare to celebrate their remarkable achievements first let us cherish the enduring impact these legendary horses have made on Maryland’s horse racing heritage. And what makes them different from the crowd.

Ben’s Cat is the ultimate marvel in the equestrian world

According to Paulick Report News, the Maryland Horse Breeders Association and Maryland Racing Media Association joined hands to honor these remarkable geldings, Ben’s Cat and Mountain Dew. Ben’s Cat epitomizes the spirit of perseverance and triumph. Despite facing challenges early on, he overcame a broken pelvis and went on to achieve incredible success.  This son of Parker’s Storm Cat and Leatherbury’s homebred mare Twofox didn’t make his first start until age 4.

But by the time he retired in 2017, he had earned 17 state-bred championship titles. It includes four consecutive Horse of the Year awards. With an impressive 26-stakes win and earnings of $2,643,782, Ben’s Cat cemented his legacy as a multiple graded stakes winner, becoming a beacon of excellence on the East Coast’s turf sprinting scene. With its establishment in 2013, the Maryland-bred Thoroughbred Hall of Fame works to honor and celebrate the excellence of state-bred Thoroughbred horses.

Mountain Dew comes as an unmatched trailblazer

Mountain Dew, owned by Janon Fisher Jr., underwent a remarkable transformation from star fox hunter to timber racing sensation in the 1960s. The son of  Hunters Moon IV and Fisher’s homebred War Admiral mare Laelia showcased unmatched longevity and talent at the prestigious Maryland Hunt Cup. Here he won an impressive three times and placed second in three other runnings. Notably, he recorded three Hunt Cup wins and was a prominent figure in the hunt racing community, securing six victories in the Maryland Grand Nationals.

Read More: Watch: $170,000,000 Worth Jockey Caps off a Perfect Season With a Thrilling Finish at Popular Equestrian Event

Mountain Dew’s spirit has nailed the record of never falling in 24 sanctioned timber races. Furthermore, as fans eagerly anticipate the ceremony at Timonium Race Course on September 2. We honor the extraordinary contributions of Ben’s Cat and Mountain Dew to Maryland’s horse racing along with 33 previous inductees. These remarkable geldings stand as shining examples of resilience, talent, and the enduring spirit of the equestrian world. Their legacies will continue to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts. It makes their induction into the Maryland-bred Thoroughbred Hall of Fame truly a moment to cherish.

Watch this story: Worth a Staggering $199,334,219 Retired Equestrian Legend Leads to a Rare Honor