The winner of the run for the roses, Mine That Bird, will be a guest at the Kentucky Derby Museum during peak season this year. This means that a winner of the Derby will actually be stabled on Museum grounds. That winner will be front and center to greet all fans and visitors.
The winner of the 2009 Derby is an ideal host for the job. Mine That Bird is a personable horse, loves people, and fans enjoy his story.
“As most Derby winners retire to stud, the opportunity to share a legendary horse with the fans at the museum is rare,” said Kentucky Derby Museum executive director Lynn Ashton. “However, as a gelding and a fan favorite with his 50-1 longshot win, Mine That Bird is a great fit for all involved. We appreciate Mark Allen and Dr. (Leonard) Blach’s generous offer to share him with us and the fans.”
Mine That Bird formally retired in late 2010 and has been stabled in New Mexico at Mark Allen’s Double Eagle Ranch, living the good life and enjoying the peace and quiet.
The horse will arrive at the Kentucky Derby Museum on April 15, staying as the resident Thoroughbred through July 4.
Mine That Bird is co-owned by Mark Allen and Dr. Leonard Blach – both are extremely fond of their horse. Says Blach, "Mark and I think the Derby Museum is a great fit for Bird. He loves people and he deserves the attention as a Derby winner. He's had a nice break on the ranch but with the upcoming movie, we want to give him the star treatment."
Mine That Bird will have his story told in "50-1." The film is in the can and faces only editing and final wrap-up. According to director/producer Jim Wilson, 50-1 highlights the unique blend of circumstances that led the members of Mine That Bird’s team to victory in the Derby. The gelding won the Derby, placed second in the Preakness Stakes and came in third in the Belmont Stakes.
The Kentucky Derby Museum has previously showcased Perfect Drift who ran third in the 2002 Derby, and the Phantom on Tour who placed sixth in the 1997 Derby.
Source: Blood Horse
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