This
is El Gran Fernando, the bay son of Kentucky Derby and Breeder's Cup
Classic winner Ferdinand. El Gran Fernando raced 51 times at three
different tracks and compiled a win-place-show record of 7-4-9 for
earnings of $167,795. He showed an affinity for racing on the turf as
four of his seven victories came in allowance tests on the grass.
"Fernando", ran in his last race on Oct.25,1998 and now is owned by
Raina Gunderson. (seen in the photo above)
El Gran Fernando is
just one example of how former racehorses can lead full and productive
lives. It is not uncommon to see retired Thoroughbreds competing in
sports such as polo, three-day eventing, show jumping, steeplechasing
and dressage. The breed is also well-suited to recreational and
pleasure riding and with appropriate training, can adapt to the
lifestyle between two to six months.
If you are interested in
adopting a rescued or retired race horse please contact the South
Florida SPCA and they would be happy to introduce you to several
beautiful horses that deserve a second chance in life.
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