Lee with May Day is getting ready for Breeders’ Cup

Joe Lee’s name may not be widely recognized, but his expertise in horsemanship is truly commendable. Now making a name for himself with May Day Ready, a promising contender in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf, Lee has had a rich career, working alongside some of the industry’s top trainers worldwide.

At 62, Lee's journey began after graduating from the University of Kentucky in 1989. He initially assisted esteemed trainer D. Wayne Lukas, during a time when Kiaran McLaughlin and Todd Pletcher were also serving on the team. His career took him to Dubai in 1993, where he expanded his skill set over seven years. An 11-year tenure in Japan followed, working for his father-in-law, a former champion jockey-turned-trainer. After a stint running his own feed company, Lee returned to McLaughlin, eventually deciding to establish his own stable.

May Day Ready, boasting a perfect record of 3-for-3, has brought much-deserved attention to Lee’s Belmont Park operation. "I've mostly been the quiet guy behind the scenes," he shared, reflecting on his career. He credits his success to working with exceptional horses and people.

With strong family support—his wife and four children actively involved—Lee continues to nurture talent within his family as he prepares May Day Ready for the upcoming Breeders' Cup, expressing optimism as her training progresses.