Legendary Horse Trainer D. Wayne Lukas, 89, Passes Away: A Tribute to the 15-Time Triple Crown Champion

D. Wayne Lukas, a legendary figure in horse racing, has passed away at 89. His family announced that he died peacefully at home in Louisville, Kentucky, after battling a severe MRSA infection.

Lukas dedicated his life to the sport, training countless horses and guiding future trainers. His family shared that he cherished his time in the winner’s circle with fans, offering encouragement and sharing his passion. “Whether he was boasting about a maiden 2-year-old as the next Kentucky Derby winner or offering quiet words of advice before a big race, Wayne brought heart, grace, and grit to every corner of the sport,” they said.

He won an astonishing 15 Triple Crown races, including the Kentucky Derby four times. Only his friend Bob Baffert has more wins in these prestigious races. In addition, Lukas holds a record-tying 20 victories in the Breeders’ Cup World Championships.

“The whole secret of this game is reading the horse,” Lukas once said. This insight highlights the unique bond trainers form with their horses. While anyone can hire the best jockeys or exercise riders, it’s the connection with the horse that truly makes the difference.

Lukas was affectionately known as “Coach” because of his early career coaching high school basketball. Even as he approached his 90th birthday, he was still active at the racetrack, preferring to be hands-on rather than relying solely on assistants.

Born in Wisconsin on September 2, 1935, Lukas began his career with quarter horses before shifting to thoroughbreds in the late 1970s. His first significant win was the Preakness in 1980 with Codex. Over his illustrious career, Lukas has secured nearly 5,000 victories, and his horses have earned over $310 million from more than 30,600 starts.

Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs Inc., expressed sorrow at Lukas’s passing, stating, “Today we lost one of the great champions of Churchill Downs. We will miss his humor and wisdom.” His impact on the sport was profound, shaping the way racing is viewed by fans and participants alike.

In recent years, Lukas experienced a career revival, partly due to finding passionate owners willing to invest in talent. Last year, he won the Preakness with Seize the Grey. When asked about his motivation, he said, “If you have a passion, you eliminate all excuses.” This emphasis on attitude and perseverance resonates with many in the industry, highlighting the dedication necessary for success.

Lukas’s legacy is a testament to the deep connections formed in horse racing. His insights and passion will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.

For more information about horse racing, visit the Associated Press horse racing section.

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