The world of horse racing is often seen as a “sport of kings,” dominated by wealthy owners, multi-million dollar pedigrees, and elite breeding operations. Then, a chestnut colt with four white feet and a blaze of glory galloped onto the scene and turned that notion on its head. This is the California Chrome Horse Story, a tale of humble beginnings, improbable dreams, and a connection with the public that made him much more than just a champion; he became “the People’s Horse.” His journey from an unlikely foal to a global superstar is a powerful reminder that greatness can come from anywhere.
The Unlikely Beginning of a Champion
Every legend has an origin story, and California Chrome’s is as modest as they come. He wasn’t the product of a high-profile breeding program. Instead, he was the hopeful creation of two friends, Perry Martin and Steve Coburn, who raced under the now-famous moniker, “Dumb Ass Partners” (DAP) Racing. The name itself was a tongue-in-cheek response to a groom who had questioned their wisdom in purchasing Chrome’s dam, Love the Chase, for a mere $8,000.
A Humble Pedigree
Love the Chase was an unremarkable mare who had won only one race. They bred her to a stallion named Lucky Pulpit, whose stud fee was just $2,500. On paper, the pairing was unremarkable. In the high-stakes world of thoroughbred breeding, it was a long shot, a gamble fueled more by hope than by statistical probability. When Love the Chase gave birth to a flashy chestnut colt in 2011, no one could have predicted he would go on to earn over $14.7 million and capture the hearts of millions. This modest start is a cornerstone of the California Chrome horse story, making his later success all the more spectacular.
The “Dumb Ass Partners”
The story of his owners is as integral as the horse’s. Coburn and Martin were everyday guys with regular jobs who shared a passion for horse racing. They weren’t millionaires or oil tycoons; they were dreamers who took a chance. Their down-to-earth, approachable nature resonated deeply with the public. They wore cowboy hats, spoke their minds, and showed genuine, unbridled emotion with every victory, making fans feel like they were part of the incredible journey.
The California Chrome horse story began with this humble foal, seen here with his mother, Love the Chase, in a sunny pasture.
Rise to Stardom: The Road to the Derby
California Chrome was sent to veteran trainer Art Sherman, a man whose own career had been long and respected, but who hadn’t had a Kentucky Derby contender in decades. Sherman and his team immediately saw something special in the young colt. He wasn’t just fast; he was smart, athletic, and had a fluid, efficient stride that devoured ground with ease.
In late 2013 and early 2014, Chrome began to dominate the West Coast racing circuit. He strung together a series of impressive victories, including a commanding win in the Santa Anita Derby, one of the most important prep races for the Kentucky Derby. With each win, the buzz grew louder. This California-bred horse, with his unfashionable pedigree and working-class owners, was not just a contender; he was the favorite for the most famous horse race in the world. He was ridden with perfect confidence by jockey Victor Espinoza, and the trio of horse, trainer, and jockey became an unstoppable force.
Chasing the Triple Crown: A Story of Triumph and Heartbreak
The Triple Crown is the most elusive prize in horse racing, requiring a three-year-old thoroughbred to win the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes, all within a grueling five-week period. In 2014, California Chrome stood on the precipice of achieving this legendary feat.
Kentucky Derby and Preakness Glory
On the first Saturday in May, California Chrome delivered a stunning performance at Churchill Downs. He stalked the leaders before Espinoza made his move, and the colt powered away from the field to win the Kentucky Derby with authority. The dream was alive. Two weeks later, at the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore, he faced new challengers and proved his Derby win was no fluke. He fought off a determined effort from a horse named Ride On Curlin to claim the second jewel of the Triple Crown. The racing world was electric with anticipation; a Triple Crown was just one race away.
The Belmont Stakes Upset
The Belmont Stakes, known as the “Test of the Champion,” is the longest and most demanding of the three races. The entire world watched as California Chrome broke from the starting gate, but the fairytale ending was not to be. He was bumped at the start, suffering a cut to his heel, and ultimately finished in a dead heat for fourth place. The dream of a Triple Crown was over. The disappointment was palpable, not just for his connections but for the millions of fans who had joined his incredible ride.
A Career Beyond the Triple Crown
While the Triple Crown remained just out of reach, the California Chrome horse story was far from over. Many horses would have been retired after such a demanding campaign, but Chrome was different. He came back as an older horse and proved his class on the world stage, solidifying his status as one of the greats of his generation.
His most notable post-Triple Crown achievement came in 2016 when he traveled to the Middle East and spectacularly won the Dubai World Cup, the world’s richest horse race at the time. He overcame a difficult post position and a slipping saddle to demolish an international field, a performance that showcased his immense heart and tenacity. He was named American Horse of the Year for a second time in 2016, a testament to his longevity and continued excellence. He raced until he was six years old, finally retiring in January 2017 after the Pegasus World Cup.
Where is California Chrome Now? A Well-Deserved Retirement
After his celebrated racing career, California Chrome embarked on a new chapter as a stallion. His job was now to pass on his speed, stamina, and perhaps most importantly, his heart, to a new generation of racehorses. He initially stood at stud in Kentucky before a deal was made for him to stand in Japan, a move that surprised and saddened many of his American fans.
However, in 2023, it was announced that “Chrome” was returning home. He was pensioned from stud duties and now resides at the Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farms in Georgetown, Kentucky. Here, he lives a life of leisure, grazing in green paddocks and greeting the thousands of fans who still come to see the beloved champion. He is happy, healthy, and enjoying the peaceful retirement he so richly deserves.
As equine behaviorist Dr. Eleanor Vance notes, “Champions like California Chrome possess more than just physical talent. They have a unique mental toughness and a presence that other horses, and even people, respond to. His story is a classic example of how a horse’s spirit and determination can capture the public’s heart just as much as his speed.”
The Enduring Legacy of the “People’s Horse”
Why did the California Chrome horse story resonate so deeply with so many people? It was a combination of factors. He was the underdog who made it to the top. His owners were relatable, ordinary people living an extraordinary dream. The horse himself had a certain charisma; he was known for his intelligence and generally calm demeanor, but on the track, he was a fierce competitor.
He brought a surge of positive attention to horse racing at a time when the sport needed it. He wasn’t just a horse; he was a phenomenon. He reminded everyone that you don’t need a royal pedigree or a billion-dollar bank account to achieve greatness. All you need is a little bit of luck, a lot of heart, and a dream worth chasing. California Chrome was, and always will be, the People’s Horse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Did California Chrome win the Triple Crown?
No, California Chrome did not win the Triple Crown. After winning the first two legs, the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes, in 2014, he finished in a dead heat for fourth place in the final leg, the Belmont Stakes.
How much money did California Chrome win?
California Chrome retired with career earnings of $14,752,650, making him the richest Kentucky Derby winner in history and, at the time of his retirement, the all-time leading money winner in North American horse racing.
Who were the owners of California Chrome?
California Chrome was initially owned and bred by Perry Martin and Steve Coburn, who raced as “Dumb Ass Partners” (DAP) Racing. Later in his career, Taylor Made Farm bought a minority share, and he raced under the partnership of “California Chrome, LLC.”
Where is California Chrome today?
As of 2023, California Chrome is living in retirement at Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farms in Georgetown, Kentucky. He is no longer used for breeding and is available for the public to visit.
What was California Chrome’s personality like?
California Chrome was known for being an intelligent and generally easy-going horse around the barn. He was curious and often enjoyed interacting with people. On the racetrack, however, he was a focused and determined competitor with a powerful will to win.
Conclusion
The California Chrome horse story is more than just a list of races won and money earned. It’s a modern-day fairytale that proves the impossible is sometimes possible. From a foal bred by “Dumb Ass Partners” for just over $10,000 to a global icon, Chrome’s journey was a thrilling ride that united millions of fans. He showcased incredible talent, courage, and a champion’s heart, leaving an indelible mark on the sport of horse racing and securing his place as one of the most beloved equine athletes of all time. His legacy is a testament to the idea that with enough grit and heart, even the biggest dreams can come true.
