Terry Bradshaw Celebrates Victory at Churchill Downs with Filly ‘Taken by the Wind’
Terry Bradshaw, a name synonymous with football excellence, has added another feather to his cap. The four-time Super Bowl champion and Hall of Famer recently celebrated a significant victory at Churchill Downs, where his two-year-old filly, Taken by the Wind, triumphed in the $251,250 Grade 3 Pocahontas Stakes. This win not only showcases Bradshaw’s prowess in the world of horse racing but also marks a new chapter in his storied career.
A Stellar Performance
On a day that will be remembered in both horse racing and sports history, Taken by the Wind secured a commanding victory, finishing the one-mile race in a swift 1:36.50. The filly, ridden by leading jockey Irad Ortiz Jr., showcased her potential by winning by an impressive 5 1/4 lengths. According to reports from the Associated Press, this victory earned her $136,710 in prize money and 10 crucial points on the Road to the 2026 Kentucky Oaks, a prestigious race that draws the best fillies in the country.
Bradshaw purchased Taken by the Wind for a modest $20,000 at the 2024 Fasig-Tipton Kentucky Fall Yearling Sale. This investment is already paying dividends, as the filly remains unbeaten in her first two starts, signaling a promising future ahead.
Celebrating on National Television
Bradshaw’s excitement was palpable as he shared his victory on Fox NFL Sunday. Host Curt Menefee congratulated him, leading to a light-hearted exchange about a missed opportunity. Bradshaw had previously offered Menefee a chance to co-own the horse, but Menefee declined, a decision he might now regret. “You don’t know what you’re talking about,” Menefee had said, a remark that now seems ironic given the filly’s success.
As Bradshaw beamed with pride, he also revealed plans for a family trip to California for the upcoming Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar on October 31. This event is one of the most prestigious in the horse racing calendar, and Bradshaw’s enthusiasm for the sport is evident.
Insights from the Race
Irad Ortiz Jr. provided insights into the race, explaining how he managed the filly’s performance. “She broke well. As with her previous start, I allowed her to settle on the rail. There was an opening as she turned to go home, so she went through it and let herself in. She ran like an older filly today. She is really thrilling,” Ortiz stated, highlighting the filly’s maturity and skill.
The victory also marked a significant milestone for trainer Ken McPeek, who celebrated his fifth win in the Pocahontas Stakes. McPeek’s expertise in training young horses has been well-documented, and his partnership with Bradshaw is proving fruitful.
Bradshaw’s Passion for Horse Racing
Terry Bradshaw’s foray into horse racing is not entirely new. He previously owned Mission Impazible, a horse that earned over $1.2 million and competed in the 2010 Kentucky Derby. Bradshaw has expressed a keen interest in the breeding side of horse racing, stating, “I’m really into the breeding side of things.” He prefers to purchase fillies, believing they hold more value for breeding after their racing careers.
This passion for horse racing mirrors his competitive spirit on the football field. Bradshaw’s ability to identify talent and potential is evident in his latest acquisition, Taken by the Wind, who is quickly becoming a rising star in the racing world.
The Road Ahead
The Road to the Kentucky Oaks is a points-based system that allows horses to accumulate points to qualify for the $1.5 million Kentucky Oaks, a race that has been a staple in American horse racing since its inception in 1875. With her recent victory, Taken by the Wind is well on her way to securing a spot in this prestigious event.
As the Breeders’ Cup approaches, Bradshaw’s excitement is palpable. The event, which takes place at Del Mar Racetrack in California, is set for October 31 to November 1. It will feature some of the best horses from around the world, and Bradshaw’s filly will be among them, representing not just her owner but also the spirit of competition that defines both horse racing and football.
Conclusion
Terry Bradshaw’s recent victory at Churchill Downs with Taken by the Wind is a testament to his enduring competitive spirit and passion for horse racing. As he transitions from the football field to the racetrack, Bradshaw continues to demonstrate his knack for identifying talent and potential. With a promising future ahead for his filly, fans of both football and horse racing will be eagerly watching to see what comes next for this dynamic duo.
