Before Dawn (horse)

Before Dawn was an American Thoroughbred racehorse foaled in 1916. She was bred and owned by Harry Payne Whitney and trained by James Rowe Sr. Known for her speed and stamina, Before Dawn was a notable filly of her era, although her racing career was relatively short.

She is best remembered for winning the 1919 Kentucky Oaks. In that race, she defeated a strong field of fillies, solidifying her reputation as a top competitor. Beyond the Oaks, she achieved victories in other significant stakes races, further demonstrating her talent and earning her recognition within the racing community.

Before Dawn retired from racing and became a broodmare. The details of her progeny are less readily available compared to her own racing accomplishments, but she contributed to the lineage of Thoroughbred breeding. While not considered a historically dominant figure in the sport compared to some other legendary mares, Before Dawn is remembered as a significant Kentucky Oaks winner and a competitor of considerable merit in the early 20th century. Her legacy lies in her racing achievements and her role in the breeding history of the Thoroughbred breed.