Merry Maker Named Steeplechase Champion
It was a big step forward for Merry Maker, who after running once in 2021 and twice the following year (fourth- and sixth-place finishes), began 2023 with a win in an allowance race.
Concepcion Wins Eclipse as Apprentice Jockey
The 18-year-old Puerto Rican native got off to a quick start at Camarero, debuting Jan. 1 and winning each of his first two races. Moving stateside, he won his first ride at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots Jan. 19.
Elite Power Goes Back-to-Back for Male Sprinter Title
From the start of the Eclipse Awards in 1971 through last year, just two horses were honored with multiple championships as North America's top male sprinter: Housebuster (1990-91) and Roy H (2017-18). Now, Elite Power joins their ranks.
Fourth Top Trainer Title to Mott for Unforgettable Year
A stable deep in champion-caliber runners delivered a fourth Eclipse Award as outstanding trainer to William "Bill" Mott. Cody's Wish gave the Hall of Fame trainer a season he'll never forget.
Encore Eclipse for Female Sprinter Goodnight Olive
In storybook fashion, Goodnight Olive has done the unfathomable, giving owners First Row Partners (Steve Laymon) and Team Hanley (Jay Hanley) a second Eclipse Award for 2023 in the female sprinter category.
Versatile Up to the Mark Named Champion Male Turf Horse
The 2023 recognition of Up to the Mark as champion male turf horse will ensure that one of the top seasons in North American grass racing in terms of distance versatility at the highest level of racing will long be…
Ortiz Jr. Captures Fifth Eclipse as Outstanding Jockey
This is the fifth Eclipse Award for outstanding jockey received by Ortiz in the past six seasons. Ortiz ties Laffit Pincay Jr. for second-most all-time. He is two away from Jerry Bailey, who won the award a record seven times…
Inspiral's Strength Rewarded as Top Female Turf Horse
Cheveley Park Stud's remarkable mare, Inspiral, has gone from strength to strength, and 2023 proved to be her strongest yet, capping the year with a victory in the Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1T) Nov. 4 at Santa Anita…
Travers Win Lifts Arcangelo to 3-Year-Old Male Eclipse
Blue Rose Farm's Arcangelo capped the year with wins in the Belmont Stakes (G1) and Travers Stakes (G1), triumphs that separated him from the rest of a highly competitive 3-year-old division and delivered him the Eclipse Award for 3-year-old male.
Godolphin Retains Owner/Breeder Title for 2023
The operation claims its third consecutive title as leading owner and leading breeder.