Keeneland Remembers John T. Ward Jr.

John T. Ward Jr. served the sport he loved with integrity, passion and class as both a trainer and an industry executive. A third-generation horseman, he achieved the heights of racing success as a trainer, winning the Kentucky Derby (G1) with Monarchos and Breeders’ Cup Distaff (G1) with champion Beautiful Pleasure.

He captured six stakes at Keeneland, led by the 2002 Breeders’ Futurity (G2) with Sky Mesa. Ward also leaves a legacy of tireless commitment to bettering all aspects of the industry as former Executive Director of the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, founding member and past President of the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association, former Chairman of the Association of Racing Commissioners International and a leader in the advancement of the Kentucky Thoroughbred Development Fund. Keeneland extends its deepest condolences to his family and friends.