As the year comes to a close, our usual practice has been to share the top 10 most popular articles from the Paulick Report website over the last 12 months. However, this year we’re taking a fresh approach. Recently, we highlighted the top 10 stories we are most proud of, and now we present the Top 10 Good News stories of 2025 as chosen by the Paulick Report team.
1. In a touching story titled “Horses are my calling,” exercise rider and assistant trainer Bethany Taylor shares her journey with Cole Battle as they prepare for the 2025 Kentucky Derby. Despite a tragic horse-riding accident that paralyzed her mother, Bethany remains dedicated to riding horses every morning, finding solace and strength in the sport.
2. Five months after suffering a spinal cord injury in a racing accident, Tyler Connor has transitioned from being a jockey to working as a jockey agent. Demonstrating resilience, Tyler celebrated his first win as an agent in November 2025 while continuing to make progress in his recovery.
3. Jockey Junior Alvarado revealed a heartfelt moment where he whispered words of gratitude and congratulations to Sovereignty, the winner of the 2025 Kentucky Derby. This touching exchange was captured in a video that highlights the bond between jockey and horse as Sovereignty plans a comeback in 2026.
4. A groundbreaking surgery in 2023 replaced a mare’s jawbone with an innovative implant, allowing her to race again after two years. This medical breakthrough not only saved the horse’s life but could also inspire new treatments to prevent amputations in human soldiers suffering from severe bone injuries.
5. Jockey Rico Walcott, who battled two brain tumors and underwent surgeries, made a triumphant return to racing in 2025, winning 11 races. Despite ongoing challenges, Walcott’s passion for horse racing remains undiminished, embodying perseverance and determination.
6. Trainer Diana Hoberecht battled stage 4 breast cancer while preparing her horse, Kittanset, for the Thoroughbred Makeover. Their journey showcased incredible mutual support and determination, highlighting the deep connection between horse and trainer through adversity.
7. Former jockey and Kentucky farm manager Trish Regard joined the Peace Corps to gain perspective and make a meaningful contribution. She traveled to Sierra Leone to help educate communities about zoonotic diseases, demonstrating a commitment beyond the racetrack.
8. Ryan Brady from Ohio credits the Hall of Famer Smarty Jones with helping him and his mother bond during parallel cancer battles. Their story of love, loss, and hope celebrates the emotional power of horse racing to inspire and heal.
9. Killpen Rescue’s Amazing Hawaiian, one of three yearlings saved from a Louisiana bail yard, stunned spectators with a winning debut at Churchill Downs. This victory underscores the transformative power of compassion and second chances in the racing industry.
10. During a race at Parx, jockey Michel Sanchez’s quick thinking possibly prevented a serious accident. When Abner Adorno’s horse lost control, Sanchez halted his own race to guide the situation carefully, demonstrating exceptional sportsmanship and care.
Fan Take: These uplifting stories matter deeply to horse racing fans because they highlight the resilience, compassion, and innovation within the sport. They remind us that beyond the competition, horse racing is about connection, healing, and the unwavering spirit to overcome challenges—qualities that will continue to shape its bright future.
