Fayette County farm eyes another Kentucky Derby win: What it takes

FAYETTE COUNTY, Ky. (FOX 56) — It’s every horse owner’s dream to have a horse run in the Kentucky Derby.

For Spendthrift Farm in Fayette County, they have one running in the 152nd Kentucky Derby, Further Ado.

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The farm also has six horses running bred from sires they own.

All of the work to make it starts before the horse is even born.

“It all starts with the breeding, making sure you get a healthy colt or filly on the ground,” said Spendthrift Farm Stallion Sales Manager Mark Toothaker. “Then you start dreaming about, you know, what the possibilities, you know, for this horse to go on and have a chance to make it to one of these marquee races.”

After the horses are born and ready to start training, around two years old, working with the right trainer makes all the difference.

“They babysit these horses 24/7 and, we’re thankful for their expertise and what they do,” Toothaker added.

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Spendthrift knows all too well about winning it big. In 2020, their horse Authentic won the 146th run for the roses.

While he is retired, they are hoping Further Ado can join him in the history books.