At first look, My Dream Zapper appears to be an ordinary stakes-level racehorse. This runner-up from the Gold Rush Futurity at Arapahoe Park is set to compete in Remington Park’s top youth thoroughbred race, the Springboard Mile.
Keen observers noted that My Dream Zapper was wearing goggles during his second-place finish on November 16th. Trainer Stetson Rushton, aged 31, spotted something unusual after a four-furlong workout at Arapahoe, near Denver, on October 23. “Three-quarters of my horse’s eyes turned white,” Rushton explained, suspecting an impact injury to the right eye from the recoil of a previous procedure.
Following three nights of treatment at a large animal hospital in Colorado, My Dream Zapper was discharged with a strict regimen. Besides applying prescribed ointment four times daily, Rushton was advised to keep the horse’s eyes covered to prevent further damage.
With treatment underway, the challenge was how to return My Dream Zapper to the Gold Rush Futurity starting gate. The colt had dominated his last two races at Arapahoe Park by a combined 11 ½ lengths and was a top favorite for the six-furlong race. Rushton’s solution? Goggles.
He researched and ordered various options before finding success with eQuick eVysor goggles. “They felt bulky at first, but they fit tightly and securely, better than expected,” Rushton remarked. During training, the horse earned the nickname “Scuba Steve” for his ski goggle look, drawing some amused attention.
Before race day, Rushton had to secure approval from Arapahoe Park officials, who raised safety concerns about vision and equipment stability. After assessment, they quickly gave the green light.
In the race, My Dream Zapper broke from third outside, taking the lead mid-stretch but finishing a close second to Briggs Army Power by half a length. Rushton believes the goggles may have limited his awareness of nearby horses but was pleased with the top-three finish.
Unfortunately, My Dream Zapper won’t wear goggles in the upcoming Springboard Mile on December 20th, as the eye fully healed by Thanksgiving, though a slight shadow remains visible under light.
Owned by Kevin Wagoneer, this will be My Dream Zapper’s first attempt at the Springboard Mile’s longer stretch, a race awarding Kentucky Derby points to the top five finishers (10-5-3-2-1). Rushton expressed confidence, saying, “I’d be very happy to finish in the top five. He always gives 100%.”
Fan Take: This story highlights how innovation and careful care can keep a promising racehorse on track despite injury, showcasing the dedication behind the scenes. For horse racing fans, My Dream Zapper’s journey reflects resilience and creative problem-solving, qualities that enrich the sport and its thrilling competitions.
