Count Fleet
Reigh Count - Quickly by Haste
Count Fleet was an exceptional American Thoroughbred racehorse who dominated the racing scene during the World War II era. Foaled in 1940, he was bred and owned by Fannie Hertz (wife of John D. Hertz, founder of the Hertz rental car company) and trained by Don Cameron.
Count Fleet’s career was marked by extraordinary performances and historical significance. As a three-year-old in 1943, he became the sixth horse to win the American Triple Crown, capturing the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes. His Triple Crown campaign was particularly impressive – he won the Derby by three lengths, the Preakness by eight lengths, and delivered a stunning performance in the Belmont Stakes, winning by an astounding 25 lengths, a margin that would stand as a record until Secretariat’s famous run 30 years later. Count Fleet’s dominance extended beyond the Triple Crown races. He won all six of his starts as a three-year-old and finished his career on a 10-race winning streak.
Despite racing during wartime restrictions, Count Fleet compiled an impressive record of 16 wins from 21 starts. His career was cut short by injury following his Belmont Stakes victory, but his impact on the sport continued long after his retirement. As a breeding stallion, Count Fleet sired numerous champions, including 1951 Kentucky Derby winner Count Turf, and became a significant influence in Thoroughbred pedigrees. He was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1961. Count Fleet’s combination of speed, stamina, and competitive spirit, coupled with his success during a challenging period in American history, has secured his place as one of the greatest racehorses of the 20th century.
Count Fleet was the longest living triple crown winning horse on record. He died at 33 years old in 1973.
