In 1983, a horse named All Along shocked the racing world with an incredible series of wins. Over just 42 days, this determined mare went from being overlooked to becoming one of the most celebrated horses in history. Her story is one of hard work, resilience, and an unmatched will to win. Let’s take a closer look at her remarkable journey.
All Along’s Early Challenges
All Along, a filly born in France in 1979, was bred for greatness but struggled to live up to expectations early in her career. She had some good moments in 1982, like winning the Prix Vermeille, a major race in France. However, she faced big disappointments too. In the Japan Cup at the end of 1982, she almost won but was beaten by a neck.
When 1983 began, things didn’t look promising. All Along lost her first two races of the year. Her trainer, Patrick Biancone, decided to take a different approach. He gave her a break during the summer, letting her relax and reset. By September, Biancone aimed for a comeback, starting with the Prix Foy in France. To everyone’s surprise, All Along was back in form.
Winning the Prestigious Arc de Triomphe
The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, one of the biggest races in Europe, came next. All Along entered the race as a longshot at 17-1 odds. Her new jockey, 22-year-old Walter Swinburn, gave her a perfect ride. All Along charged through an opening on the inside rail and won by a length, shocking the racing world. This victory set the stage for her legendary 42-day run.
The International Turf Triple Challenge
After winning the Arc, her trainer and owner decided to chase a $1 million bonus offered for any horse that could win three major turf races in North America:
- Rothmans International in Canada
- Turf Classic at Aqueduct, New York
- Washington, D.C. International in Maryland
Victory at the Rothmans International
All Along’s first stop was Canada for the Rothmans International. She proved her strength by winning comfortably. This win discouraged some American horses from competing against her in the next race, the Turf Classic.
Dominating the Turf Classic
In New York’s Turf Classic, All Along delivered her most impressive performance. She won by a massive 8 ¾ lengths, turning the race into what her trainer described as a “public gallop.”
Finishing the Challenge at the D.C. International
By the time she reached the Washington, D.C. International, All Along was starting to feel tired. It was her fourth major race in six weeks. However, Walter Swinburn rode her brilliantly, making a bold early move to take the lead. All Along stayed strong and won by 3 ¼ lengths, completing her incredible sweep of the Turf Triple Challenge.
Making History: Horse of the Year
All Along’s achievements in the fall of 1983 made history. She became the first horse from outside North America to be named Horse of the Year in the U.S. She was also the first female horse to win this honor under the Eclipse Awards system and the first to win it by racing only on turf.
All Along’s Legacy
After her historic season, All Along continued to race in 1984. She placed in top races like the Breeders’ Cup Turf before retiring. In 1990, she was inducted into the Racing Hall of Fame, a well-deserved honor for such an extraordinary horse.
All Along’s magical 42-day run in 1983 stands as one of the most impressive achievements in horse racing history. Despite facing tough competition and challenges, she proved her greatness with four major wins in three countries. Her story is a reminder of how determination and heart can lead to incredible success, no matter the odds.
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