Rich Strike, the unexpected 2022 Kentucky Derby (G1) winner, is set to start a new chapter as a stallion. The 5-year-old son of Keen Ice is poised to begin his stud career at Mountain Springs Farm in Eastern Pennsylvania, with final details of a purchase agreement expected to be completed soon. If the deal goes as planned, Rich Strike could arrive at the farm within a week.

Rick Dawson, who campaigned Rich Strike with trainer Eric Reed, shared his enthusiasm for the horse’s future. The ownership transition involves Rich Miller, the owner of Mountain Springs Farm near Palmyra, Pennsylvania, along with his partners.

“I’ve been looking for the right opportunity for Rich Strike, and selling him to Rich Miller and his partners seems like a great opportunity,” Dawson explained. “Pennsylvania has a strong racing and breeding program in place, and it’s getting better all the time.”

From Claiming Horse to Derby Hero

Rich Strike’s journey is a remarkable one. Originally claimed for $30,000, the colt rose to prominence with a stunning victory in the Kentucky Derby at 80-1 odds, one of the biggest upsets in the race’s history.

He concludes his racing career with a record of 2-1-3 from 14 starts and earnings exceeding $2.5 million.

Exceptional Bloodlines

Bred by Calumet Farm, Rich Strike comes from a distinguished lineage. He is out of Gold Strike, a Grade 3 winner and the 2005 Canadian Champion 3-Year-Old Filly by leading broodmare sire Smart Strike. Gold Strike is also the dam of Grade 2 winner Llanarmon (by Sky Mesa) and the granddam of Grade 1-placed, multiple Grade 3 winner Neecie Marie (by Cross Traffic).

With his exceptional pedigree and inspiring racing story, Rich Strike is set to make his mark in Pennsylvania’s thriving breeding program.

Image Rich Strike FB