Mighty Heart, the victorious contender of the 2020 Queen's Plate and Prince of Wales races, has made his triumphant return to the racing scene.
Now under the training of Jonathan Thomas, the magnificent seven-year-old gelding is currently stationed at Turfway Park in the picturesque state of Kentucky.
On the 10th of February, Mighty Heart gracefully embarked on his first post-break workout, effortlessly breezing through 3 furlongs in an impressive 37.20 seconds over the Tapeta surface.
Previously, this exceptional son of Dramedy, proudly owned by Lawrence Cordes hailing from Uxbridge, ON, had been diligently honing his skills at Margaux Farm in Midway, KY, before finding his new abode in Thomas' esteemed stable.
Mighty Heart's last appearance on the racetrack dates back to the Challenger Stakes at Tampa Bay Downs in March 2023, where he secured a respectable seventh position. However, it was the preceding year that truly showcased his remarkable prowess, clinching a well-deserved victory in an allowance race at Tampa Bay and securing his second Horse of the Year accolade at the prestigious Sovereign Awards, following his unforgettable campaign in 2020.
During that extraordinary season, Mighty Heart astounded racing enthusiasts by triumphing in the Queen's Plate, clocking in near record-breaking time, and subsequently conquering the Prince of Wales Stakes on the esteemed Fort Erie dirt track. Following an announcement of his retirement, Mighty Heart found solace in the peaceful confines of the esteemed Ballycroy Training Centre, where he was tempted with lucrative breeding offers from the heartland of Kentucky, as revealed by Cordes' daughter, Angela Perrin.
However, the noble steed chose a different path, opting for a well-deserved sabbatical to rejuvenate his spirit and revel in his equine essence. Now, with an unwavering passion for the sport, Mighty Heart has fervently returned to training, embracing his true calling with unparalleled enthusiasm.
As he embarks on his journey as a seasoned seven-year-old, no lofty expectations are burdening his slender shoulders. Instead, his devoted team aspires to grant him the freedom to relish in his innate talent and rediscover the joy of doing what he does best.
Accompanied by the seasoned expertise of Thomas, renowned for his illustrious association with Augustin Stable, Mighty Heart's return to the racing circuit is eagerly anticipated. Having amassed an impressive sum of $1.13 million in career earnings, this majestic equine marvel is poised to captivate audiences once again with his awe-inspiring performances.