Kenny McPeek: Innovator and Champion in Horse Racing

Kenny McPeek: A Renaissance Man in Horse Racing

Kenny McPeek stands out as a true Renaissance figure in the world of horse racing. Over the years, he has invested more than $6 million of his own funds into developing a groundbreaking smartphone application that brings the excitement of the sport right to fans’ fingertips. Beyond his digital innovations, McPeek has built an impressive real estate portfolio that spans from the rolling hills of Kentucky and the sunny landscapes of Florida to the breathtaking vistas of upstate New York.

His barn operates as a full-service establishment, meticulously caring for thoroughbreds from the moment they are born, guiding them through their initial training, racing careers, and beyond. With a keen artist’s eye, McPeek excels at identifying potential superstars at yearling auctions across the United States, Europe, and South America. Among his many achievements, he has trained over a dozen horses that have collectively earned millions on the racetrack. However, his crowning achievement remains the legendary Curlin.

McPeek purchased Curlin for a modest $57,000, and the horse went on to astonish the racing world by earning over $10.5 million, earning the title of Horse of the Year not just once, but twice. Today, Curlin stands as one of the most sought-after stallions globally, commanding an impressive fee of over $250,000 for a single mating.

This Saturday, during the 155th running of the Travers Stakes, McPeek is set to embark on a bold and traditional venture. He will enter his remarkable 3-year-old filly, Thorpedo Anna, into the $1.25 million “Midsummer Derby,” with hopes of making history as the first filly to triumph over the boys in this prestigious race since Lady Rotha accomplished the feat in 1915.

“I am striving to establish Thorpedo Anna as one of the greats,” McPeek stated passionately about the filly, who boasts an impressive record of six wins in seven races. “But my ambition extends beyond just this race; I aim to attract new fans to our sport, generating excitement and showcasing the breathtaking beauty and exhilaration of horses in full flight.”

McPeek’s year has already been nothing short of extraordinary. During the first weekend of May, Thorpedo Anna claimed victory in the coveted Kentucky Oaks on Friday, followed by McPeek’s Mystik Dan winning the prestigious Kentucky Derby on Saturday. This remarkable training feat has not been accomplished since the legendary Ben Jones achieved it in 1952. Moreover, McPeek has a history of success with fillies; his talented Swiss Skydiver triumphed in the 2020 Preakness Stakes and went on to earn the title of 3-year-old filly champion.