Horse of the Year 2017: A Tale of Triumph and Grace
The year 2017 was a remarkable one for the equine world, with a plethora of exceptional horses showcasing their prowess in various disciplines. However, one horse stood out among the rest, capturing the hearts of equestrians and horse enthusiasts alike. That horse was none other than the magnificent Gun Runner.
Gun Runner: A Rising Star
Gun Runner, a chestnut colt bred by Besilu Stables, was foaled in 2013. Trained by Steve Asmussen and ridden by Florent Geroux, this son of Candy Ride quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of Thoroughbred racing. His impressive performances throughout the year culminated in him being named the 2017 Horse of the Year.
An Impeccable Record
Gun Runner's 2017 campaign was nothing short of spectacular. He won six of his seven starts, with his only defeat coming in the Grade 1 Dubai World Cup, where he finished second to the formidable Arrogate. His victories included the Grade 1 Arkansas Derby, the Grade 2 Stephen Foster Handicap, and the Grade 1 Whitney Stakes, among others. His earnings for the year totaled an impressive $3.9 million.
Horse of the Year Criteria
The Horse of the Year title is awarded to the horse that has had the most outstanding achievements in a given year. The criteria for this prestigious award include a horse's performance in major races, consistency throughout the year, and the quality of the opposition faced. Gun Runner excelled in all these aspects, making him a clear choice for the 2017 title.
Other Notable Horses of 2017
While Gun Runner was the standout horse of the year, it would be remiss not to mention some of the other exceptional equines that made their mark in 2017. Arrogate, the 2016 Horse of the Year, continued his impressive form, winning the Grade 1 Pegasus World Cup and the Grade 1 Travers Stakes. West Coast, trained by Bob Baffert, also had an outstanding year, winning the Grade 1 Travers Stakes and the Grade 1 Pennsylvania Derby.
In the world of jump racing, the remarkable mare Lady's Day was a standout performer. Trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Ruby Walsh, she won the Grade 1 Mares' Novices' Hurdle and the Grade 1 Mares' Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. In the dressage world, the stunning stallion Totilas continued to dominate, winning multiple Grand Prix events and solidifying his status as one of the greatest dressage horses of all time.
Legacy of Gun Runner
Gun Runner's 2017 campaign was not just about winning races; it was about setting a new standard for consistency, class, and courage. His performances inspired a new generation of horse enthusiasts and reminded the world of the incredible athleticism and heart that these magnificent animals possess. As he retires to stud, Gun Runner leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and captivate for years to come.
In the ever-evolving world of equine sports, 2017 was a year marked by exceptional performances from a variety of horses. However, it was Gun Runner who stood tall above the rest, capturing the title of Horse of the Year with his remarkable consistency, courage, and class. As we look forward to the future, we can only imagine the incredible feats that the horses of tomorrow will achieve.
