LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A trainer who achieved his lifelong dream of entering horses in the Kentucky Derby last year has passed away at the age of 75. His wife, Inga, shared that he died from cardiac arrest on Monday night following a prolonged battle with cancer, according to the Louisville Courier Journal.
Originally from the Bahamas, he moved to the United States in 1976 and attended the Kentucky Derby the following year, witnessing Seattle Slew’s historic Triple Crown victory. Last year marked his 150th Derby involvement and made him only the second Black trainer to compete in the Derby since 1951, after Hank Allen finished sixth with Northern Wolf in 1989.
He expressed pride in his journey, hoping his story would inspire others to believe that anyone with a dream could reach the Derby stage. His horse, West Saratoga, finished 12th. Bought for $11,000, this colt became the standout of his modest 11-horse stable at the Lexington Thoroughbred Center, earning $473,418 over 13 races.
“My motto is, ‘I don’t buy cheap horses. I buy good horses cheaply,'” he said last year.
Diagnosed with cancer in 1996, he underwent chemotherapy while continuing his career, rooted in a family tradition from the Bahamas where his father was also a trainer. In recent years, he remained active in Derby undercards, preparing persistently for success.
Starting his independent training career in 1981, he secured 184 wins out of 2,138 races, amassing over $5.3 million in earnings. His final race saw Mendello place fourth at Horseshoe Indianapolis on May 13.
Kentucky’s Merciful Conservation Society of Kentucky Jumpers praised him, stating, “We are proud Larry fulfilled his dream with West Saratoga and the Kentucky Derby. Despite limited resources, Larry demonstrated his ability to compete with much larger stables and budgets. He was a great ambassador for horse racing, known for his compelling story, warm personality, and infectious smile. The sport has lost one of its brightest lights.”
Fan Take: This trainer’s journey is a powerful reminder of how passion and perseverance can break barriers in horse racing. His legacy not only honors diversity in the sport but also inspires future generations to chase their dreams regardless of the obstacles.
