Ken McPeek, a highly successful horse trainer, is beginning to plan for life beyond the racetrack. With over 40 years in the business, McPeek has achieved incredible milestones, including winning the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks in 2024 with Mystik Dan and Thorpedo Anna, respectively. Now, at 62, he’s considering a career shift within the next decade.
McPeek’s Career Milestones
Ken McPeek began his training career in 1985 and has built a reputation as a skilled trainer with a knack for spotting undervalued talent. In 2024, he reached new heights, becoming the first trainer since 1952 to win the Kentucky Derby and Oaks in the same year. Thorpedo Anna, a $40,000 yearling purchase, has become a star under his care, earning Breeders’ Cup Distaff glory and being a strong contender for Horse of the Year.
McPeek’s success hasn’t come easily. He endured years without a Breeders’ Cup win despite multiple second- and third-place finishes. His persistence paid off in 2024, with Thorpedo Anna finally breaking the streak.
A Vision for the Future
While McPeek remains passionate about training, he’s thinking ahead. He doesn’t see himself training horses into his 80s like the legendary Wayne Lukas. Instead, he plans to create an “exit strategy” by his early 70s, potentially mentoring a young trainer to carry on his legacy.
McPeek also wants to dedicate more time to improving the horse racing industry. He developed the Horse Now app, which helps fans and professionals stay connected to the sport. The app grows by 5,000 users monthly, a positive step as racing grapples with an aging fan base.
Passion for the Sport’s Growth
McPeek has a deep commitment to promoting horse racing. He’s won the Big Sport of Turfdom award twice for his efforts to engage with the media and fans. He also made headlines by entering Thorpedo Anna in the Travers Stakes (G1) against male horses, a move that drew significant attention to the sport.
Looking ahead, McPeek hopes to address the challenges horse racing faces in attracting new fans. He’s concerned about the sport’s shrinking audience and wants to help it regain its place in American culture.
A Legacy in Progress
Ken McPeek’s dedication to horse racing goes beyond training winners. His ability to find and develop exceptional horses, like Swiss Skydiver and Thorpedo Anna, has left a lasting impact. At the same time, his efforts to modernize the sport through technology and innovation show his commitment to its future.
As McPeek transitions into the next phase of his career, he’s determined to leave horse racing in a better place than he found it. His vision for growth, paired with his ongoing passion, ensures that his influence will continue long after his days as a trainer are over.
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