D. Wayne Lukas, a legendary figure in horse racing, has passed away at the age of 89. His family confirmed that he died peacefully at his home in Louisville, Kentucky, after battling a severe MRSA blood infection, which affected his heart and digestive system.
Lukas was a beacon in the horse racing community, known for nurturing generations of horsemen and women. His family remembered him as a passionate advocate for the sport who invited fans to experience the excitement of winning. “Wayne brought heart, grace, and grit to every corner of the sport,” they stated. In his final days, he focused on family and his faith.
Throughout his illustrious career, Lukas achieved remarkable success, winning 15 Triple Crown races, including the Kentucky Derby four times. He shares a close bond with fellow trainer Bob Baffert, who has more Triple Crown wins. Lukas also holds a record for 20 wins at the Breeders’ Cup World Championships.
In his own words, Lukas emphasized the importance of understanding horses. “The whole secret of this game is being able to read the horse,” he said. He believed this insight set trainers apart in the competitive world of racing.
Affectionately nicknamed “Coach,” Lukas had a background in high school basketball before turning to horses. Even as he approached his 90th birthday, he remained hands-on, often riding his pony to the track each morning.
Born on September 2, 1935, in Wisconsin, Lukas began his career with quarter horses before making a significant mark in thoroughbred racing in the late 1970s. He won his first Preakness Stakes in 1980 with the horse Codex and accumulated nearly 5,000 wins in his career, with his horses earning over $310 million.
Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs, mourned Lukas’s passing, recognizing him as one of the most influential figures in the sport over the last half-century. “We will miss his humor, his wisdom, and the excitement he brought to fans on big race days,” Carstanjen stated.
In recent years, Lukas revitalized his career by partnering with eager owners willing to invest in top-notch horses. He won last year’s Preakness with Seize the Grey. When asked about his enduring passion for the sport, Lukas shared his philosophy: “If you have a passion, you eliminate all excuses.” He encouraged others to rise to the occasion and maintain a positive attitude, stating that “the most important decision you’ll ever make in your life is your attitude decision.”
Lukas leaves behind a legacy not only of achievement but also of inspiration, reminding us all to chase our passions with vigor and commitment.
