D. Wayne Lukas, a legendary Hall of Fame thoroughbred trainer, passed away on June 28 at age 89, leaving an unparalleled legacy in American horse racing. Known as the forefather of the modern training approach, Lukas revolutionized the industry with meticulous attention to detail and a corporate-like management style. Over his career, he amassed 4,953 wins, including 15 Triple Crown race victories and 20 Breeders Cup wins, earning over $300 million in purses. Beyond his own success, he mentored numerous Hall of Fame trainers and jockeys, profoundly shaping the sport’s future.

Lukas was also a motivational speaker and poet, inspiring those around him with his philosophy that “people have opinions, horses have the facts.” His influence extended beyond horses to the people he trained, instilling a standard of excellence and resilience. Remembered fondly by peers like Bob Baffert and Gary Stevens, Lukas’s impact on horse racing was transformative, making the sport more professional and competitive. His life and career are celebrated in the book Sermon on the Mount, capturing the stories of those he touched. The racing world mourns the loss of a true icon whose presence will be deeply missed.