When Patience Meets Success: The Story Of “Next” Racehorse

In today’s fast-paced world, where immediate results are often glorified, the six-year-old gelding Next stands as a testament to a different path — one that values persistence and the rewards of unconventional journeys.

Next harks back to a bygone era, embodying an old-fashioned charm that’s rare in modern racing. His style is unorthodox, his talent specialised, reminiscent of nostalgic relics like handwritten letters or the timeless crackle of vintage vinyl records. From this niche, Next has crafted his empire, a testament to the power of carving a unique place in the world.

His trainer, Doug Cowans, often describes Next’s abilities as nothing short of poetic, marvelling at the horse’s elegance and mastery. Owner Michael Foster echoes this admiration in his own way, declaring that buying Next was “the best decision of his life.” Reflecting on the serendipity that brought Next into his stable, Foster feels fortunate to have been part of the journey.

A True Endurance King

Next’s unparalleled stamina has made him a standout in the niche world of long-distance dirt racing—a discipline often overshadowed in U.S. horse racing. Over the past year, he has propelled this neglected category into the spotlight with stunning performances. The grey gelding has clinched victories in six consecutive races and eight of his last nine, with a total winning margin of over 106 lengths. His dominance has transformed routine victories into extraordinary spectacles.

In his latest triumph at Saratoga, Next left his rivals far behind, winning by an astonishing 22 lengths. Racecaller Frank Mirahmadi summed up the moment with a flourish, celebrating the horse’s unchallenged supremacy. Despite the race’s lack of stiff competition, it was an unforgettable highlight of the meet, reinforcing Next’s status as a force of nature.

An Accidental Phenomenon

Next’s rise to greatness was almost accidental. In 2022, Cowans saw potential in him after observing some promising performances at Turfway Park. Taking a chance, he claimed the gelding for $62,500—a gamble that has since proven priceless. At the time, Next’s career appeared to be in decline; he had even finished last in the 2020 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. However, Cowans noticed something extraordinary: Next possessed an uncommon level of stamina that hinted at his potential for longer distances.

Taking a calculated risk, Cowans entered Next in a 1.5-mile race at Delaware Park. Though the event was moved to dirt due to rain, Next breezed past the competition, setting a track record with an 18-length victory. That race marked the beginning of a remarkable transformation.

A Dream Realised

Every race since then has been a milestone for the team. For Cowans, the standout moment was the 2022 Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Stakes at Keeneland during Breeders’ Cup weekend—Next’s first graded win, achieved in spectacular fashion. Reflecting on their journey, Cowans credits his years of experience for allowing him to tailor a training regime that keeps Next in peak condition. 

“Basically, he trains himself at this point. I know what he likes to do and it’s all about keeping him happy,” he says. “He’s a very laid-back guy, straightforward to train, although you’d better have some peppermints ready when you walk past his stall.”

“To have a horse like him is great for the team, all the guys who have been with me for a long time. The attention the horse is getting is good for the whole barn.”

For Foster, each victory feels special, but the G2 Brooklyn Stakes at Aqueduct stands out. Despite a shorter-than-usual distance, Next’s nine-length win showcased his versatility, hinting at even more untapped potential. However, Cowans remains cautious, noting that altering Next’s rhythm could jeopardise his incredible stamina. 

“That reduction in distance opened up the field to more horses, but it made no difference,” he says. “He beat them by nine lengths, ran fractions that suggested he might be able to cut back to ten furlongs. It gave me a new way to look at him.”

A Living Legend

Next’s consistency and resilience have earned him a devoted following. Onlookers at training sessions now pause to watch him breeze, captivated by his effortless power. Cowans notes how Next relishes the attention, often posing for photos and basking in his growing celebrity.

Looking ahead, Next’s schedule remains carefully planned due to the scarcity of long-distance races in the U.S. While Cowans has ruled out international travel, he is considering entering Next in the Breeders’ Cup Turf at Del Mar, favouring the distance and surface over the shorter, more competitive Classic. The final decision will depend on Next’s performance in the upcoming G3 Greenwood Cup.

Foster, ever the proud owner, remains focused on preserving Next’s well-being. 

“He’s already been a dream come true,” says Foster. “I’m so proud of the horse and we’re just going to take things one race at a time. We won’t do anything that might affect his spirit, the way he is.”

“He’s a freak of nature, a very athletic horse. I’m not saying he’s Secretariat, but that horse was found to have a very large heart, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Next was built in the same way.”

“He was great at five years of age, he’s doing great again at six, and hopefully he’ll be even better next year at seven. We do right by the horse, and he’ll do right by us.”

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Story

Next may never win the title of Horse of the Year, but his story resonates on a deeper level. For Cowans and Foster, Next represents the essence of racing—a celebration of unique talent and perseverance. 

“It’s hard to explain what an honour, what a privilege it is to own him. I’ll never have another horse like Next. It’s a bit of a Seabiscuit-type story, isn’t it?”

For Foster, owning Next isn’t about the money—it’s about the privilege of witnessing something extraordinary. 

This is a once-in-a-lifetime story and it’s getting better all the time,” he says.

Next isn’t just a horse- he’s a phenomenon, a living legend. And we’re just grateful to be along for the ride.