Bill Mott Celebrates Sovereignty’s Stunning Kentucky Derby Victory: A Dream Come True for the Trainer!

Bill Mott remembers the day that changed his life. Back in 1967, 14-year-old Bill sat in a GMC pickup in Fort Pierce, South Dakota, glued to the AM radio. He was captivated by the broadcast of the Kentucky Derby as Proud Clarion raced to victory. It sparked a passion for horse racing that would shape his future.

Determined, Mott persuaded his veterinarian father, Tom, to invest $320 in a racehorse. They transformed a pasture near his father’s clinic into a training track. Bill’s hard work paid off when he won his first race before even graduating high school.

The Kentucky Derby is about more than just racing. It embodies hard work, resilience, and good luck. Mott’s journey shows just how essential it is to dream big. His son, Riley, describes him as “the most down-to-earth person.” Bill’s dedication is clear, as he faced plenty of challenges along the way. In 1976, for example, he had only six starts and one win, earning just $3,000. Yet, he pressed on.

In 2019, Mott experienced a twist of fate when his horse, Country House, won the Derby after Maximum Security was disqualified. Fast forward to 2025, and Mott found himself reliving those early dreams as he watched his horse, Sovereignty, take a near-perfect ride. “I never even dreamed I would ever be here,” he admitted, reflecting on how far he had come.

In racing, success often requires not just talent, but the right team. Mott’s partnership with jockey Junior Alvarado has been fruitful. Earlier, Alvarado rode Mott’s Cody’s Wish, which won Horse of the Year in 2023. Together, they readied Sovereignty for a Derby run, navigating through obstacles like Alvarado’s injury earlier in the year, where he fractured his shoulder in a race accident. Mott assured him that when he recovered, Sovereignty would be waiting for him.

Mott further showcased his insight when discussing the importance of preparation. “He’s proven he can run over the track,” he said confidently about Sovereignty. “He has to prove he can go a mile and a quarter, but he indicates there’s a good chance.” He recognized that the right timing and a bit of luck can change everything, especially in horse racing where each race is unpredictable.

With Sovereignty crossing the finish line first in the Derby, Mott felt a mix of emotions. He stood in disbelief, soaking in the moment he had dreamed of for decades. “I never get enough of it,” he said, smiling. “It’s like going to outer space.”

While Mott’s journey illustrates the grit and determination needed in horse racing, it also reflects broader themes of dreams, resilience, and the joy of realizing those dreams. The sport continues to evolve, drawing new fans and competitors, but at its core, it remains a testament to the enduring power of passion and perseverance.