Go For Wand: Thoroughbred Legends

Go For Wand was a champion Thoroughbred racehorse who captured the hearts of racing fans with her exceptional speed and determination. Her legendary career spanned from 1989 to 1990, during which she achieved remarkable victories, including the Kentucky Oaks, Belmont Stakes, and Breeders' Cup Distaff.

Go For Wand: Thoroughbred Legends

by Aaron Jameson

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	551 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	80 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Early Life and Career

Go For Wand was born on April 14, 1989, at Claiborne Farm in Paris, Kentucky. She was sired by Deputy Minister and out of the mare Wand, making her a half-sister to the champion racehorse Summer Squall. From a young age, Go For Wand displayed an extraordinary athleticism and a fiery spirit that set her apart from her peers.

Her racing career began in 1989 at Saratoga Race Course, where she made her debut with a promising third-place finish. She quickly progressed, winning her next two starts and establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with on the racetrack.

Kentucky Oaks Triumph

In 1990, Go For Wand's star truly ascended when she captured the Kentucky Oaks, the prestigious race for three-year-old fillies. Ridden by Jacinto Vasquez, she overcame a difficult post position to lead from start to finish, winning by an impressive margin of three and a half lengths. Her victory in the Oaks solidified her status as one of the top horses in the country.

Belmont Stakes Glory

Following her Kentucky Oaks triumph, Go For Wand set her sights on the Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown. In a thrilling race that captivated the racing world, she faced off against the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner, Summer Squall.

In a dramatic finish, Go For Wand surged past Summer Squall in the stretch to win by a neck, becoming the first filly since 1924 to win the Belmont Stakes. Her victory was a testament to her exceptional talent and the unwavering determination of her team.

Breeders' Cup Distaff Dominance

Later that year, Go For Wand capped off her remarkable season with a dominant performance in the Breeders' Cup Distaff at Belmont Park. Breaking from the gate like a rocket, she established a commanding lead and held off a strong challenge from her rivals to win by two lengths.

This victory not only cemented her legacy as one of the greatest fillies of all time but also showcased her versatility as a racehorse. She had proven herself capable of winning at various distances and on different track surfaces.

Retirement and Legacy

After her historic season in 1990, Go For Wand was retired to stud at Claiborne Farm. She produced several successful offspring, including the Grade 1 winner Wandesta.

Throughout her racing career, Go For Wand won 13 of her 15 starts and earned over $3 million in prize money. Her exceptional achievements and indomitable spirit have earned her a place among the legends of Thoroughbred racing. She is remembered as a symbol of speed, determination, and the unwavering bond between horse and rider.

Go For Wand's legendary career continues to inspire and captivate racing enthusiasts worldwide. Her remarkable victories, including the Kentucky Oaks, Belmont Stakes, and Breeders' Cup Distaff, cemented her status as one of the greatest Thoroughbreds of all time. Her story serves as a testament to the exceptional athleticism, determination, and passion that define the sport of Thoroughbred racing.

Go For Wand: Thoroughbred Legends

by Aaron Jameson

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	551 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	80 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE