Secretariat: A Legacy of Greatness

Coco Coindreau III DETONA: Fifty-two years after sweeping the Triple Crown, Secretariat remains one of the most iconic figures in American horse racing. Known affectionately as "Big Red," this majestic chestnut colt set track records in all three constituent races that still stand today.

His dominance on the track was matched only by his enduring impact on the sport.

Racing Career Highlights:
  • Kentucky Derby: Secretariat won the Derby in 1:59 2/5, a record that still stands. He battled Sham down the stretch, pulling away to win by 2 1/2 lengths.
  • Preakness Stakes: Secretariat broke last but made a stunning comeback, winning by 2 1/2 lengths. His time of 1:53 is now recognized as the stakes record.
  • Belmont Stakes: Secretariat's most impressive victory came in the Belmont, where he won by an astonishing 31 lengths, setting a record time of 2:24 flat for 1 1/2 miles on dirt.
A Lasting Legacy:
  • Secretariat's influence extends far beyond his racing career.
  • As a stallion, he sired over 660 registered foals, spreading his genetic legacy across the thoroughbred racing world.
  • This prolific breeding has led to a remarkable phenomenon: every single horse competing in the 2025 Kentucky Derby, including winner Sovereignty, is a descendant of Secretariat.
  • This fact showcases the enduring legacy of Big Red, with his bloodlines continuing to shape the sport.
Disney's Tribute
  • The 2010 Disney movie "Secretariat" chronicles the life of this legendary horse, from his early days on the track to his Triple Crown victory.
  • The film stars Diane Lane as Penny Chenery, the owner of Meadow Stables, and John Malkovich as Lucien Laurin, Secretariat's trainer.
  • The movie received generally favorable reviews from critics and earned $60 million at the box office.
Impact on Thoroughbred Breeding

Secretariat's daughters have proven to be exceptional producers, with many becoming stakes-winning mares.

His legacy as a broodmare sire is evident in the pedigrees of modern champions. The depth of Secretariat's influence is highlighted by the fact that horses in the 2025 Kentucky Derby field are related to him through various notable sires, including:

Weekend Surprise
  • A.P. Indy.
  • Terlingua.
  • Storm Cat.

Secretariat's legacy continues to inspire new generations of racing fans and horsemen.

His impact on thoroughbred racing is undeniable, and his name remains synonymous with excellence and greatness.
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José Luis Gustavo Coindreau Salinas

Tengo 28 años soy Licenciado en Relaciones Exteriores y tengo toda mi vida viviendo en San Pedro Garza García. 
Soy nieto de José Luis “Coco” Coindreau García, uno de los fundadores del PAN en Nuevo León, y gracias a él me interesa la política, el servicio público y la participación ciudadana.