For five years, Dave Bushey dreamed of seeing Bush Racing stable, founded by his father Bryan, compete in the prestigious Claiming Crown event, a blue-collar owner’s equivalent to the Breeders’ Cup. That dream came true on November 15 when their horse Point Dume raced in the $200,000 Jewel at Churchill Downs. Despite Bryan’s stage 4 pancreatic cancer diagnosis in spring 2024 and the hardships that followed—including a near-fatal hospital stay—his passion for horse racing remained a source of strength and joy for the family. The Busheys’ journey highlights the importance of family, community, and perseverance, with Bryan’s positive spirit inspiring others battling cancer.

Bush Racing stable has grown from a “one-horse stable” to about 15 horses, focusing on claiming races where they find potential stars like Point Dume, a former $450,000 yearling who recently won the M.P. Ballezzi Appreciation Mile Stakes. The stable’s success is credited to constant communication, careful race placement, and a strong team culture that values and supports backstretch workers. Bryan’s tradition of hosting cookouts and celebrating the team underscores their commitment to community. For the Busheys, the experience of being together at the Claiming Crown and continuing to fight cancer is a victory beyond the racetrack.