Trainer Sarah Shafer proudly refers to American Law as her standout horse. This impressive horse made a significant impact in the eighth race on Sunday at Oaklawn, a one-mile contest featuring four competitors, competing for the $200,000 Creme Crown Jewel scheduled for November 15 at Churchill Downs.
Ridden by two-time Oaklawn champion Cristian Torres, American Law led the race and narrowly defeated Dr. Storm by a neck, securing Shafer’s first win as a trainer. With a payout of $24.60, American Law marked the 13th starter in Shafer’s career. Shafer, 42, a former jockey, started her independent training career in Kentucky in June after gaining valuable experience as an assistant and exercise rider for renowned trainers like Mike Maker, Safi Joseph Jr., and Mike Trombetta.
American Law is Shafer’s fourth race since she claimed the 7-year-old Constitution gelding for $40,000 on behalf of prominent New York owner Jason Provenzano at Ellis Park on July 20. Shafer commented Thursday morning that American Law thrives at the mile distance at Oaklawn, and with Cristian Torres knowing the horse well, everything aligned perfectly for their win. Torres, who rode the horse three times at Oaklawn last season including a past victory, celebrated by pointing to Shafer after crossing the finish line.
Torres expressed his happiness for Shafer, mentioning their strong bond with the horse and how much she deserves the win. American Law is one of nine horses Shafer currently trains at Oaklawn. Shafer’s journey to becoming a trainer has been unconventional; originally from West Grove, Pennsylvania, she was deeply involved in rodeo and horse shows before shifting toward thoroughbred racing after an unexpected opportunity with trainer Brian Malone.
She gained experience with Pennsylvania breeders and went on to compete in steeplechase races, including the prestigious Maryland Hunt Cup in 2015 and 2016. Transitioning to flat racing in 2013, Shafer became a practice jockey before riding her first winner in 2016. However, a severe injury in late 2016 ended her riding career, leading her to become a top assistant trainer for Mike Trombetta and later other prominent trainers.
Shafer’s career highlights include working at major venues like Saratoga and traveling internationally with horses such as Drain the Clock for the Dubai Golden Shaheen. She began training horses at Oaklawn in late 2022, and American Law was the first horse she trained for owner Jason Provenzano. Shafer plans to launch her own training operation in September 2024, with Provenzano ready to support her transition.
Though American Law struggled in a recent 1 1/8-mile Creme Crown Jewel race, Shafer remains optimistic, having seen steady progress from the horse since July. She rides in the mornings and aims to base herself year-round between Arkansas and Kentucky. With over $500,000 in career earnings, American Law continues to be a valuable competitor in Shafer’s growing stable.
Fan Take: This milestone win for Sarah Shafer highlights the promising new generation of trainers rising through the ranks, bringing fresh energy and dedication to the sport. American Law’s success not only cements Shafer’s reputation but also underscores the evolving landscape of horse racing, where passion and perseverance can lead to remarkable breakthroughs.
