The victorious accepts the traditional blanket of roses in the winner's circle at the Kentucky Derby. Not every Thoroughbred hero has become immortal with an amazing win record. Some have gained recognition with wins against all odds. The filly Regret won the 1915 Kentucky Derby against a field of colts. That feat was not repeated until 1980, with the victory of Genuine Risk.
Some horses seem to flourish on one particular track or in one area of the country.
While their race records are not stellar, they have captured the hearts of local audiences and live as legends. Seabiscuit, an average horse in the Eastern United States, was taken to California later in his career and became the father of California racing. More recently, Saratoga fans have adopted Fourstardave as their local champion. When he retired in 1995, a street in town was named for him. Champions are sometimes remembered for their part in a great rivalry.