John Henry

A thoroughbred of humble origins with a cantankerous disposition, John Henry’s longevity on the race track was matched only by his enduring popularity in retirement.

From his early days racing in bargain basement claiming races to his retirement as the richest horse in history, the small brown gelding raced 83 times and developed from a claimer into an immensely popular two-time Horse of the Year.

John Henry won 17 Grade 1 stakes during eight years of racing that saw him rise from a $1,100 yearling purchase to a horse that won 39 races and set the sport’s all-time earnings record of $6,597,947 at retirement.

He raced at 19 different tracks – including one in Japan – and became the most beloved horse of his era in a career that was nothing short of legendary.