The Hernandez family experienced an early Christmas celebration on December 21 when the 2-year-old Louisiana mare Joe Crazy achieved a stunning victory at the Fairgrounds. Trained by Brian Hernandez Jr. and raced by Klein Racing, the mare dominated her first sprint on state turf by an impressive 9 1/4 lengths, marking breeder Jamie Hernandez’s inaugural win.
Jamie recalled tearful joy among her children upon the mare crossing the finish line, calling the win deeply rewarding. She acknowledged Brian Hernandez Jr.’s illustrious career—including a Kentucky Derby win—but highlighted this victory as a significant personal achievement.
Joe Crazy’s success reflects a long-standing bond between the Hernandez and Klein families, with both Jamie and Brian contributing greatly to the lineage of the mare’s sire, Country Day, and dam, Joe On. Klein Racing’s homebred Joe On endured a challenging recovery from a spiral fracture in her left hind leg, which required pins and rods for stabilization. Despite doubts about her racing future, Joe On successfully returned to training and competition under Hernandez’s care.
Similarly, Joe On’s offspring, Joe Crazy, also raced under Brian Hernandez’s guidance, echoing a past victory by Joe On herself at the Fairgrounds. Joe On’s career was cut short by a front leg fracture but she was rehabilitated by Hernandez again. Country Day, another key figure in this story, had notable successes including a runner-up finish in the 2011 G2 Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint and multiple wins with Brian Hernandez Jr.
Jamie fondly recalled working with top horses like the Sons of Speightstown during her track and field days and reflected on the close, almost familial ties with their partners, summing up this milestone as a full-circle moment.
Fan Take: This heartwarming story highlights the perseverance and passion behind horse racing, showing how deep family and friendship ties can lead to extraordinary achievements. For Horse Racing fans, it’s a reminder that the sport is not just about competition but also about community, resilience, and legacy, promising a bright future for the next generation of champions.
