Known as "Big Red," this legendary chestnut Thoroughbred was born in 1917 and raced in 1919 and 1920. Man O' War passed away on November 1, 1947 after suffering a heart attack. More than two thousand people attended the funeral, which was broadcast by radio. The great stallion was the first horse to be embalmed and he lay in state for several days in a specially made casket lined with his racing colors (black and gold), the first horse ever buried this way. He is now buried at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.
Some of Man O' Wars' famous decendants
War Admiral - Horse of the Year & Triple Crown Winner - 1937
Some of Man O' Wars' famous decendants
War Admiral - Horse of the Year & Triple Crown Winner - 1937
Son of the legendary Man o' War, the small (15.2 hands) but majestic War Admiral thrilled crowds and claimed top honors in 1937. In a stellar career of 3 years, War Admiral won 21 of 26 races. The brown colt lost to his Western rival, Seabiscuit, in 1938 at Pimlico in a match race that has been called the greatest sporting event in American history.
War Admiral like his father became a successful stallion siring many winners. He died in 1959 and was honored with a well-deserved place beside his sire at the base of the heroic statue in Kentucky. His tremendous Belmont Stakes effort speaks for itself.
Seabiscuit - Horse of the Year - 1938
The first horse to top $400,000 in winnings, this grandson of Man O' War was a hard-luck hero for Depression-era America. Despite his short legs, bent knees, and an odd gait, Seabiscuit was a winner and became a national celebrity. In 6 years of triumphs and disasters, Seabiscuit earned 33 wins, 15 second places, and 13 thirds in 89 amazing races. His winning match race with War Admiral in 1938 is considered the greatest sporting event in American history.
Kelso - 5 Time Horse of the Year - 1960 to 1964
Kelso - 5 Time Horse of the Year - 1960 to 1964
The brown gelding, a great-grandson of Man O' War, raced 8 seasons and earned more top honors than any other horse before or since. Born in 1957 in Maryland, he won 39 races and earned the praise of one of his famous jockeys, Eddie Arcaro, as well as had his own fan club. He was the first 3 year old to be named Horse of the Year and not win a Triple Crown race.
