Legendary horse trainer D. Wayne Lukas passed away at his home in Louisville, Kentucky. Lukas, known for his remarkable career in horse racing, won a total of 15 Triple Crown races, which included four Kentucky Derby titles and a recent victory at the Preakness with Seize the Grey last year. His health had been deteriorating due to a severe MRSA blood infection, causing damage to his heart and digestive system, along with exacerbating pre-existing chronic conditions. Lukas chose to forego aggressive treatment and spent his final days surrounded by family at home.
Following Lukas’ hospitalization, his assistant trainer, Sebastian “Bas” Nicholl, took over the care of his horses. Nicholl expressed deep admiration for Lukas and his lasting impact on the horse racing industry. Lukas, born in Wisconsin in 1935, started his career with quarter horses before making a successful transition to thoroughbred racing in the late 1970s. Throughout his illustrious career, Lukas achieved numerous milestones, including a record-tying 20 wins in the Breeders’ Cup World Championships.
Bob Baffert, Lukas’ close friend and fellow horse trainer, holds the record for the most Triple Crown victories. Lukas, a four-time winner of the Kentucky Derby, leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of horse racing. Churchill Downs Incorporated CEO Bill Carstanjen paid tribute to Lukas as a great champion and an influential figure in Thoroughbred racing over the past five decades. Lukas will be remembered for his humor, wisdom, and the thrilling performances of his horses that captivated fans on racing’s biggest stages.
