American · California, USA · Born 18 March 2011American Thoroughbred racehorse who won the 2014 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, narrowly missing the Triple Crown at Belmont Stakes.
Born on March 18, 2011, in California, this bay colt emerged from one of horse racing's most compelling underdog stories. Bred by Perry Martin and Steve Coburn, two friends from modest backgrounds who pooled their resources to enter the sport, California Chrome represented the antithesis of traditional blue-blood racing pedigree. His dam, Love the Chase, was purchased for just $8,000, while his sire, Lucky Pulpit, stood for a modest $2,500 stud fee. The horse's racing career began modestly but quickly gained momentum under trainer Art Sherman, who at age 77 became the oldest trainer to win the Kentucky Derby. California Chrome captured the 2014 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, positioning himself for a potential Triple Crown sweep before finishing fourth in the Belmont Stakes. His connections' emotional reactions and working-class backgrounds endeared him to racing fans nationwide, generating widespread media attention and public support. Following his Triple Crown campaign, California Chrome continued competing at the highest level for three more years. He won the 2014 Hollywood Derby and subsequently traveled internationally, capturing prestigious races including the Dubai World Cup in 2016. His career culminated with victories in multiple Grade 1 events, earning him Horse of the Year honors in both 2014 and 2016. He retired with earnings exceeding $14 million from 27 starts, winning 16 races across four seasons of competition. California Chrome's impact extended beyond his racing accomplishments. His success validated smaller operations competing against established breeding powerhouses, inspiring countless connections from similar backgrounds. The horse's charismatic demeanor and photogenic appearance, combined with his owners' genuine enthusiasm and accessibility, helped attract new fans to thoroughbred racing during a period when the sport sought broader appeal. His story demonstrated that exceptional horses could emerge from unexpected sources, reinforcing racing's democratic ideals while captivating audiences worldwide through his determination and competitive spirit.
Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner, nearly capturing Triple Crown
How They Played
Versatile runner excelling at both speed and stamina over various distances
Lasting Impact
One of the most popular racehorses of the 2010s, earning over $14 million in prize money
Career Honours
- Kentucky Derby Winner 2014
- Preakness Stakes Winner 2014
- Dubai World Cup Winner 2016
- Pacific Classic Winner 2014
- Triple Crown Award Winner 2014 (won first two legs of Triple Crown)
- Santa Anita Derby Winner 2014
- American Horse of the Year 2014
- American Horse of the Year 2016
- Champion Three-Year-Old Male 2014
- Champion Older Male Horse 2016
- San Bernardino Stakes Winner 2015
- Will Rogers Stakes Winner 2014
American Athletes