Alex Bregman and his Chicago Cubs teammates celebrated a big win as the third baseman’s horse triumphed in a race at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. However, their excitement was brief, as the horse was subsequently claimed by new owners following the race.
The 3-year-old colt, Act of Parliament, overcame a shaky start under jockey Axel Concepcion to rally and win by three-quarters of a length on Thursday, paying $8.68 to win. “It was electric,” said trainer Will Walden. “Having Alex and the whole team here, and then seeing the horse finish like that, made it a memorable night.”
The Cubs were visiting the historic Louisville track on their day off before heading to Cincinnati for a three-game series starting Friday. Cubs MVP contender Pete Crow-Armstrong gave Act of Parliament a motivational talk in the paddock before the race, while manager Craig Counsell led the colt into the winner’s circle afterward.
Several Cubs rookies embraced the racing theme by dressing up—pitcher Ryan Rolison wore a horse costume, and Pedro Ramirez appeared as a jockey. Bregman Family Racing, the ballplayer’s stable, purchased Act of Parliament for $65,000.
The colt earned $27,108 with his first career victory but was lost by Bregman in the claiming race. Act of Parliament was claimed for $20,000 through a random draw that resolved a six-way tie among prospective new owners. Afterward, the horse was transferred to a new trainer.
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Fan Take: This story highlights the exciting intersection of professional sports and horse racing, bringing new attention and fans to the sport. It underscores the unpredictability and drama of claiming races, which add an extra layer of thrill for racing enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
