Curlin

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Curlin was an outstanding American Thoroughbred racehorse who dominated the racing scene in the late 2000s. Foaled in 2004, he was bred by Fares Farm and initially raced for Midnight Cry Stable before being purchased by Jess Jackson’s Stonestreet Stables. Curlin was trained by Steve Asmussen throughout his illustrious career.

Curlin’s rise to prominence was swift and impressive. He didn’t race as a two-year-old but burst onto the scene as a three-year-old in 2007. After winning his debut by 12 3/4 lengths, he quickly progressed to Grade 1 company, finishing third in the Kentucky Derby and then winning the Preakness Stakes. He later won the Breeders’ Cup Classic, securing his first Horse of the Year title.

Curlin’s four-year-old campaign in 2008 further cemented his legacy. He won the Dubai World Cup, becoming the then highest-earning North American racehorse of all time. He also captured other prestigious races like the Stephen Foster Handicap and Jockey Club Gold Cup, earning his second consecutive Horse of the Year title. Curlin retired with a record of 11 wins from 16 starts and earnings of over $10.5 million, which at the time was a North American record.

Known for his powerful build and determined running style, Curlin showed remarkable versatility, excelling on dirt tracks both in the United States and abroad. After his racing career, he became a successful sire, producing multiple Grade 1 winners including Vino Rosso and Exaggerator. Curlin’s combination of on-track success and his impact in the breeding shed have secured his place as one of the most significant Thoroughbreds of the early 21st century.

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