The Player

Living his best life!

Star of the show? Angus certainly thinks so! ⭐🐴 He has quickly made himself right at home at the Kentucky Horse Park, where he’s loving life in the Breeds Barn. Angus adores the attention from guests (especially children!) and has already become a favorite among visitors. Even better, he’s settled in with his new buddy Sam the Quarter Horse, and the two are getting along wonderfully.

Read more about his incredible story! 🔗Link in comments!

Hi everyone I am now at my new home!

Please join us in welcoming The Player to the Kentucky Horse Park Breeds Barn! 🎉🐴

This 13-year-old Kentucky-bred Thoroughbred gelding is by Street Hero out of Hour Queen (by Gilded Time) and was trained and co-owned by William "Buff" Bradley and Carl Hurst. Known for his bold front-running style (and his love of naps and sitting on his haunches like a dog!), The Player captured hearts both on and off the track.

He retired with 5 wins from 14 starts and $453,000 in earnings, highlighted by victories in the 2017 Hagyard-Fayette Stakes (G2) and the 2018 Mineshaft Handicap (G3).

But his greatest victory didn’t happen in the winner’s circle.

In 2018, during the New Orleans Handicap (G2), The Player suffered a catastrophic right front sesamoid injury. On the equine ambulance, Buff made him a promise:
“I’ll do my part… you do yours.”

After surgery requiring plates, 16 screws, and a 178-day stay at the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine equine hospital, “Angus," his rock-star barn name inspired by Angus Young, did exactly that.

His calm, kind nature and habit of laying down for hours at a time became key to his miraculous recovery.

Though he will never be ridden again, The Player can walk, run, and even playfully buck on his fused fetlock. After standing at Crestwood Farm and siring over a dozen foals (including his first winner, Rosie’s Angus), he now begins a new chapter.

At the Breeds Barn, we’re honored to share his story of near-tragedy, resilience, and the extraordinary bond between a horse and the people who refused to give up on him. ❤️

After standing for five seasons at Crestwood Farm, the 12-year-old could be embarking upon a new career as a Thoroughbred racing ambassador: https://tinyurl.com/3j8kdycb

Angus is big brother to a Vino Rosso filly. Video in comments