by TDN America
Cover image courtesy of Sarah Andrews
Legendary American Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas has been hospitalized in Louisville, Kentucky and will not return to training, according to Lukas family members.
In a release sent out by Churchill Downs, the family shared that Lukas had been battling a severe infection that had worsened his condition, and has reportedly declined an aggressive treatment plan in favor of returning home to spend his remaining time with his loved ones.
In a succession plan put in place by Lukas Enterprises, Inc., horses previously under Lukas's care have been transferred to his assistant Sebastian 'Bas' Nicholl.
“Wayne built a legacy that will never be matched,” Nicholl said. “Every decision I make, every horse I saddle, I'll hear his voice in the back of my mind. This isn't about filling his shoes–no one can–it's about honoring everything that he's built.”
“Wayne built a legacy that will never be matched, Every decision I make, every horse I saddle, I'll hear his voice in the back of my mind.” - Sebastian 'Bas' Nicholl
The Industry reacts
“Wayne is one of the greatest competitors and most important figures in Thoroughbred racing history. He transcended the sport of horse racing and took the industry to new levels," said Mike Anderson, president of Churchill Downs Racetrack.
“He (D.Wayne Lukas) transcended the sport of horse racing and took the industry to new levels.” - Mike Anderson
“The lasting impact of his character and wisdom–from his acute horsemanship to his unmatched attention to detail–will be truly missed. The enormity of this news is immense, and our prayers are with his family and friends around the world during this difficult time.”
The Kentucky Horseman's Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) issued a statement. “There will never be another D. Wayne Lukas. Not even close. He single-handedly changed horse racing by combining a marketing approach with horsemanship. The Lukas 'coaching tree' is just one component of a legacy that will endure as long as there is horse racing.
Mike Anderson | Image courtesy of Churchill Downs
“Even as he approaches his 90th birthday, we long viewed The Coach as indestructible, including getting on his pony for morning training, winning the Preakness Stakes at age 88 and–every year–looking forward to seeing his new crop of 2-year-olds race.
“We will be keeping wife Laurie, grandson Brady and granddaughter Kelly in our hearts during this difficult time and hope they take comfort in knowing how many lives D. Wayne touched. That includes the owners he put on a magical ride, but also the little kids he invited into the winner's circle when he won a race. Wayne showed us not only how to be a horseman as well as a showman but also an ambassador for the sport and industry he and we all love so much. When it comes to D. Wayne Lukas, the best two words we can say are 'thank you'.”
“When it comes to D. Wayne Lukas, the best two words we can say are 'thank you'.” - Mike Anderson
The National HBPA, on Behalf of the Organization and Its Affiliates, also issued a statement. “We, the affiliates of the National HBPA, along with the entire horse racing community, are keeping Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas in our thoughts and prayers after learning the news of his illness coming to light,” said NHBPA CEO Eric Hamelback.
“Wayne Lukas is more than just a legendary name in Thoroughbred racing, he is an icon whose impact on this sport spans generations. His unmatched accomplishments, from multiple Eclipse Awards to countless Classic victories, have set a standard of excellence that few will ever reach. Beyond his victories on the racetrack, Wayne's mentorship of countless horsemen and women has helped shape the very fabric of our industry.
“Wayne Lukas is more than just a legendary name in Thoroughbred racing, he is an icon whose impact on this sport spans generations.” - Eric Hamelback
“One of my strongest appreciations of the Coach was in 2022 when he graciously served as our keynote speaker at the NHBPA National Conference at Oaklawn Park. Wayne graciously shared his wisdom, insights, and passion for the sport with all in attendance. His words that day inspired those in attendance and he reminded us of his formula for success: enduring values, hard work, integrity, and vision – and yes more hard work. His strength and determination, have defined his remarkable career, continue to inspire us all.
Eric Hamelback | Image courtesy of National HBPA
“On behalf of the NHBPA and horsemen across the country, we extend our deepest support and well-wishes to Wayne and his family during this difficult time.”
