Ruffian was an American Thoroughbred racehorse who won all her first ten career starts. She is best known for her dramatic match race against Foolish Pleasure, which she lost by a nose in one of the most famous races in American horse racing history.
Early Life and Career:
- Born on April 17, 1972, Ruffian was bred by Stuart S. Janney Jr. and trained by Frank Y. Whiteley Jr.
- She displayed exceptional speed and athleticism from an early age, winning her debut race in 1974 at Aqueduct Racetrack in New York.
- Over the next year, Ruffian dominated her competition, winning several major stakes races, including the Belmont Futurity Stakes, the Comely Stakes, and the Coaching Club American Oaks.
The Match Race:
- In July 1975, Ruffian faced off against Foolish Pleasure, another undefeated champion, in a highly anticipated match race billed as the "Race of the Century."
- The race took place at Belmont Park in front of a massive crowd. Ruffian took the lead early, but Foolish Pleasure made a strong push in the final stretch.
- In a dramatic finish, Foolish Pleasure edged out Ruffian by a nose, handing her the only defeat of her career.
Injury and Passing:
- Unfortunately, Ruffian suffered a catastrophic injury during the match race. She broke her right foreleg and sustained severe damage to her sesamoid bones.
- Despite attempts to save her, Ruffian's condition worsened, and she was euthanized on July 6, 1975, just a day after the race.
- Her passing sent shockwaves through the horse racing world and the broader public, who had been captivated by her remarkable talent and spirit.
Legacy:
- Ruffian's impact on the sport of Thoroughbred racing was immense. She captivated fans with her outstanding performances and touched the hearts of millions of people with her tragic story.
- Ruffian was posthumously inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1976, becoming only the second filly to receive this honor.
- Her legacy continues to inspire and resonate with horse racing enthusiasts and animal lovers alike.
Ruffian also brought widespread attention to the issue of horse welfare and safety in racing. Her untimely death led to increased scrutiny of racetrack conditions and veterinary care for horses.
Ruffian's story remains an iconic part of American horse racing history, representing both the incredible triumph of athletic achievement and the heartbreak of sudden tragedy.