Alydar

Alydar (1975-1990) was an American Thoroughbred racehorse known for his rivalry with Affirmed, with whom he competed in all three 1978 Triple Crown races.

Career

Alydar was foaled at Calumet Farm in Lexington, Kentucky. He was owned by Calumet Farm and trained by John M. Veitch. A striking chestnut colt, Alydar quickly gained attention for his talent and speed. He won several important races as a two-year-old in 1977, including the Sapling Stakes, the Great American Stakes, and the Champagne Stakes.

Triple Crown Rivalry

In 1978, Alydar faced Affirmed in the Kentucky Derby. Affirmed won by 1 1/2 lengths, with Alydar closing ground late. The Preakness Stakes followed, and again Affirmed prevailed, this time by a neck after another late charge by Alydar. The Belmont Stakes saw the most dramatic finish of the three races. Alydar trailed Affirmed for much of the grueling 1 1/2 mile race, but made a determined move in the final turn. Affirmed managed to hold him off by a head, securing the Triple Crown. Alydar's consistent second-place finishes behind Affirmed solidified his place in racing history as one of the greatest horses to never win a Triple Crown race.

Later Career and Stud Record

After the Triple Crown series, Alydar continued to race, winning several important stakes races including the Travers Stakes and the Whitney Handicap. He retired to stud at Calumet Farm and proved to be a successful sire. His offspring included Easy Goer, Criminal Type, Althea, and Strike the Gold.

Death

Alydar died on November 15, 1990, after sustaining a leg injury in his stall. The circumstances surrounding his death were controversial, leading to speculation of foul play, although these allegations were never proven.