Renowned Trainer Wesley Ward Makes Strategic Shift Toward Classic Racing Domination - (2025)

Updated: 03/12/2025

Wesley Ward, renowned for his expertise in developing fast sprint horses, recently made a strategic shift towards acquiring yearlings that exhibit potential for longer distances and classic-level races in American Thoroughbred racing.

One notable acquisition that exemplifies this change in focus is the full brother to the 2022 Preakness Stakes (G1) winner, Early Voting, purchased for a whopping $2.2 million at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale. With aspirations to compete in prestigious races, including the American classics, Ward's keen eye for talented young horses has led to this significant investment in a promising future champion.

The colt, sired by the acclaimed Gun Runner, a leading stallion known for producing top-quality progeny, was the center of attention during the second day of Book 1 at the Keeneland auction.

Ward, along with his client Roy Israel and the colt's breeder Three Chimneys Farm, secured this prized yearling, recognizing its potential to excel on the racetrack.

The decision to invest in a horse with such a strong pedigree and physical attributes reflects Ward's strategic vision of broadening his stable's capabilities beyond sprint races.

Exploring the Pedigree

The bay colt's dam, Amour d'Ete, an unraced mare, has a lineage that boasts an impressive array of accomplished siblings and relatives in the racing world. Notably, Amour d'Ete is a full sister to Irap, a three-time graded stakes winner, as well as a half-sister to the champion sprinter and esteemed sire, Speightstown, through the mare Silken Cat. The track record of Amour d'Ete's offspring further solidifies the family's racing prowess, with all four foals that have raced attaining victories.

In addition to producing Early Voting, the full brother to the recently acquired colt, Amour d'Ete is also responsible for El Megeeth, a Constitution filly who set a track record at Gulfstream Park. El Megeeth's impressive performance underscores the quality of progeny bred from this exceptional mare, further enhancing the appeal of the bloodline and reinforcing the potential for success in future racing endeavors.

Embracing Change for Classic Contention

Ward's decision to expand his focus from developing sprint horses to grooming contenders for classic races reflects a pivotal moment in his illustrious career. With a reputation for producing fast and agile runners, Ward's strategic shift towards nurturing horses capable of excelling in longer distances signifies a new chapter in his training philosophy. The acquisition of the Gun Runner colt, emblematic of Ward's evolving approach, symbolizes a deliberate step towards influencing the classic racing landscape.

Expressing his excitement about training a horse of this caliber, Ward acknowledged the significance of acquiring a yearling with the potential to compete at the highest level of Thoroughbred racing. The $2.2 million investment in the colt not only underscores Ward's commitment to excellence but also reflects the shared vision of a partnership dedicated to fostering equine talent and realizing ambitious racing goals.

A Promising Future

As the Gun Runner colt joins Ward's stable, positioned for a transformative journey towards classic races and illustrious victories, the anticipation surrounding his potential unfolds. With a trainer renowned for his astute eye for talent and a proven track record of developing top-performing racehorses, the colt's future holds the promise of success on racetracks worldwide. As Ward embarks on this new chapter, guided by his expertise and unwavering dedication to equine excellence, the stage is set for the emergence of a formidable contender in the realm of American Thoroughbred racing.

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