Industry Pays Tribute to D. Wayne Lukas

[Wandering Eyes]

Following the news of his passing, tributes  to legendary trainer D. Wayne Lukas poured in from across the industry Sunday.

“A four-time winner of the Kentucky Derby, today we lost one of the great champions of Churchill Downs and one of the most significant figures in Thoroughbred racing over the last 50 years. We will miss his humor, his wisdom and his unmatched capacity to thrill the fans with the performances of his horses on our sport's biggest days.”

Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs Incorporated

“D. Wayne Lukas was a legend–a masterful trainer with passion, attention to detail and a tireless pursuit of success, as well as a mentor whose barn produced a number of racing's most successful trainers. His impact at Keeneland–where he was a presence for nearly 50 years–is not likely to be seen again.

“Since buying his first horse here in 1977, he influenced yearling sales through his emphasis on conformation and body type, while affecting the way horses were bred and prepped to produce yearlings that would appeal to him. After Wayne won his first Keeneland race in 1980, he set numerous records during our Spring and Fall Meets and across the country with a powerful stable of runners, many of which he and his clients had purchased here.

“On behalf of Keeneland, we extend our deepest condolences to Wayne's wife, Laurie, and his entire family.”

Shannon Arvin, Keeneland President and CEO

“The Maryland Jockey Club mourns the loss of legendary trainer D. Wayne Lukas, a true titan of Thoroughbred racing. His unmatched accomplishments, unwavering dedication, and enduring influence on the sport have left an indelible mark on racing history. With seven wins in the Preakness Stakes, D. Wayne was not only a champion on the track, but a mentor and inspiration to generations of horsemen and women. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the entire racing community. His legacy will forever be part of Maryland Racing and the Preakness Stakes.”

Bill Knauf, President and General Manager of TMJC

“Along with the Thoroughbred racing community, the team at Breeders' Cup Limited mourns the passing of Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas.

“From the inaugural 1984 running of the Breeders' Cup World Championships, where he saddled three starters, to the 2024 edition, where he sent out his last Breeders' Cup contender, Wayne set the bar with his constant pursuit of the pinnacle of our great sport.

“At the time of his passing, he held the record for most Breeders' Cup wins by a trainer with 20, an achievement matched in 2024 by Aidan O'Brien. For 14 years, from 1983 to 1997, he was the trainer with the most Breeders' Cup earnings.  His record stands at $22,760,520, with a 20-22-17 record from 169 starters.

“Not only did Wayne leave his mark on the Breeders' Cup and the sport of Thoroughbred racing with his innovative training approach, but his legacy continues through the many horsemen who came up under his astute guidance before finding tremendous success on their own. The dedication, discipline, passion, and insight with which he ran his operation will serve as an inspiration for many generations.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and entire team during this difficult time.”

Breeders' Cup Limited

“The Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association joins with our colleagues across the country and the entire racing community in mourning the passing of one of the most iconic and influential horsemen in our sport's history–D. Wayne Lukas.

“Much has already been said and written about his extraordinary life, but simply put, he was a transformational figure in the modern era of Thoroughbred racing. His competitive spirit, professionalism, and unmatched record of success made him a household name well beyond the racetrack–one of the few in our industry recognized across all of sports.

“Coach was a horseman of remarkable skill and unwavering integrity. He never courted controversy, once saying, “Just tell me the rules and I'll follow them.” That philosophy, paired with his drive and vision, helped shape generations of horses, horsemen, and fans.

“It is difficult to imagine a Triple Crown or Breeders' Cup without his presence.

“We extend our deepest condolences to his family and all those who had the privilege of learning from and working alongside him.”

Alan M. Foreman, Chairman/CEO Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association

“Our thoughts are with the Lukas family and the countless others that have been fortunate enough to know the Coach.

“It is hard to imagine Thoroughbred racing without the presence of D. Wayne Lukas. His passion for the sport was unparalleled, and his legacy will live on in the champions he trained and the numerous men and women he mentored along the way. His horsemanship reshaped the sport, and his impact will be felt for generations to come. If there's a Mount Rushmore of horse trainers, D. Wayne Lukas is on it.”

Tom Rooney, President and CEO of National Thoroughbred Racing Association

“1/ST joins the entire Thoroughbred community in mourning the loss of Hall of Fame legend D. Wayne Lukas. With a career that spanned seven decades and redefined excellence, Wayne  stood as a true icon of the sport.

“Throughout his storied career, Wayne's notable accomplishments included: 20 Breeders' Cup victories, including the 1999 Breeders' Cup Classic at Gulfstream Park with Cat Thief; 15 Triple Crown race winners, including seven Preakness Stakes triumphs; Four Santa Anita Derby wins at Santa Anita Park; Two Florida Derby wins at Gulfstream Park; In 2024, at 88 years old, he became the oldest trainer ever to win a Triple Crown race, securing the 149th Preakness Stakes with Seize the Grey.

“Beyond the victories and trophies, Mr. Lukas inspired generations with his relentless work ethic, sharp eye for talent, and unwavering belief in what was possible. His legacy lives on, not only in the horses he trained and the records he broke, but also in the many horsemen and women he mentored and elevated along the way.

1/ST Racing

“D. Wayne Lukas's vision and creativity transformed horse racing forever. He achieved success on a scale without precedent and developed a generation of trainers who continue to shape the future of the sport. New York's racing community and fans will miss Wayne, and we look forward to celebrating his life and legacy this summer at Saratoga Race Course.”

David O'Rourke, NYRA President & CEO

“Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched. Though we've lost a legend, the sport he shaped remains richer for his presence, and his rich legacy will endure.

“The impact D. Wayne Lukas had on the sport of Thoroughbred racing is one that cannot be encapsulated by words alone. He revolutionized his craft more than any individual in modern times and is directly responsible for the ideologies carried by many of the top horsemen who dominate the industry today. His presence and wisdom transcended any space he entered, be it the racetrack, the winner's circle, or the public auction arena.

“He forever changed the industry and, most importantly, he indelibly changed lives. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who loved him.

Ocala Breeders' Sales Company

“D. Wayne Lukas was a legendary trainer, mentor, and a dear friend. His integrity, passion, and devotion to his horses inspired everyone around him. I'll always be grateful for the time we shared. The Kentucky Derby Museum mourns with his family and with the entire racing community, and we are honored to be forever connected to Wayne's legacy.”

Patrick Armstrong, Kentucky Derby Museum President & CEO

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