07/30/2025
John Henry wasn’t born to be a champion. In fact, by most accounts, his story should have been one of obscurity, not greatness. Foaled on March 9, 1975, in Kentucky, this plain bay c**t by Ole Bob Bowers out of Once Double was far from a show-stopper. He was small, rough around the edges, and had a bad temperament. The name "John Henry" was a reflection of his working-class origins, inspired by the American folk hero who outworked the steam drill.
With crooked legs and an unremarkable pedigree, John Henry was sold for just $1,100 as a yearling, a bargain even by the standards of the 1970s. No one saw the greatness lurking within the scrappy c**t, and his early career was as unremarkable as his beginnings. He bounced between owners, trainers, and racetracks, struggling to make a name for himself. But the fire inside him was waiting to ignite.
What John Henry lacked in size and pedigree, he more than made up for with grit, determination, and an iron will. Under trainer Ron McAnally, John Henry finally found his stride, and the world began to take notice. With the guidance of McAnally and the skill of jockeys like Chris McCarron, John Henry transformed into a racing powerhouse.
John Henry’s versatility was unmatched. He excelled on both dirt and turf, winning major stakes races across the United States. Despite his small stature and humble origins, he became a fierce competitor with a signature closing kick that thrilled crowds time and time again. He had a knack for knowing exactly when to surge, often winning by a narrow but decisive margin.
In 1981, at the age of six, John Henry made history by becoming the oldest horse to be named Horse of the Year, a title he would claim again in 1984 at the age of nine. His resume included 39 wins in 83 starts, with 30 stakes victories and earnings of over $6.5 million, making him the richest racehorse in the world at the time.
But John Henry was more than just a champion on the track—he was a horse of the people. Fans adored his underdog story and his relentless drive to win. Despite his cantankerous personality—he was known to bite and had no patience for nonsense—his toughness and determination made him a legend.
John Henry retired in 1985 at the age of 10, but his story didn’t end there. He spent his retirement at the Kentucky Horse Park, where he became a living icon. Visitors from all over the world came to see the scrappy little horse who defied the odds and became a champion.
On October 8, 2007, John Henry passed away at the age of 32, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the sport of horse racing. His story is a testament to heart, grit, and the power of perseverance—a reminder that greatness can come from the most unlikely places. John Henry may not have been born a champion, but he proved that determination and spirit can overcome any obstacle, earning him his rightful place as one of racing’s all-time greats.
