What is the full name and primary identity of the subject of the article?

The subject of the article is Gato Del Sol, an American Thoroughbred racehorse.

When was Gato Del Sol foaled, and what was his color?

Gato Del Sol was foaled on February 23, 1979, and he was a gray horse.

What was Gato Del Sol's lifespan, and when did he pass away?

Gato Del Sol lived from February 23, 1979, to August 7, 2007, making him 28 years old when he died.

Where was Gato Del Sol bred and foaled?

Gato Del Sol was bred and foaled at Stone Farm in Paris, Kentucky.

Who were the owners and breeders of Gato Del Sol?

Gato Del Sol was owned and bred by Arthur B. Hancock III, the proprietor of Stone Farm, in partnership with Leone J. Peters, a Manhattan real estate broker.

Who was Gato Del Sol's sire, and what was his notable background?

Gato Del Sol's sire was Cougar II, a Chilean horse who achieved significant success in North America and was later inducted into the U.S. Racing Hall of Fame.

Who was Gato Del Sol's dam, and what notable relatives did she produce or have?

Gato Del Sol's dam was Peacefully. She also produced the Prix Morny winner Tersa and was distantly related to the Melbourne Cup winner Beldale Ball.

What was Gato Del Sol's sex, and what is the common term for a male horse used for breeding?

Gato Del Sol was a stallion, which is the term for an adult male horse, particularly one used for breeding.

Who trained Gato Del Sol throughout his racing career?

Gato Del Sol was trained by multiple individuals: initially by Edwin J. Gregson, then by Charles E. Whittingham, and later by Howard M. Tesher.

What was Gato Del Sol's overall racing record and total earnings?

Gato Del Sol had a record of 7 wins, 9 places, and 7 shows in 39 starts, earning a total of $1,340,107.

What were Gato Del Sol's major race wins listed in the article?

Gato Del Sol's major wins included the Del Mar Futurity in 1981, the Cabrillo Handicap in 1983, the Caballero Handicap in 1985, and the prestigious Kentucky Derby in 1982.

How did Gato Del Sol perform in his two-year-old season in 1981?

In 1981, Gato Del Sol lost his first two races at Hollywood Park but then won his third start at Del Mar Racetrack. He also placed third in the Balboa Stakes before winning the Del Mar Futurity.

What was Gato Del Sol's status leading up to the 1982 Kentucky Derby?

Going into the 1982 Kentucky Derby, Gato Del Sol had been winless in his three-year-old campaign, although he had secured a second-place finish in the Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland Race Course.

Describe Gato Del Sol's performance and odds in the 1982 Kentucky Derby.

In the 1982 Kentucky Derby, Gato Del Sol was considered an underdog, starting at odds of 21-1, the third longest odds in the race. Despite trailing early in the 1 1/4 mile race, he made a significant move under jockey Eddie Delahoussaye, eventually taking the lead and winning by 2 1/2 lengths.

What was the significance of Gato Del Sol's payout in the 1982 Kentucky Derby?

Gato Del Sol paid $44.40 to win, which was noted as the 10th highest payoff in the history of the Kentucky Derby at that time.

What decision did Gato Del Sol's handlers make regarding the Triple Crown races after his Kentucky Derby win?

Following his Kentucky Derby victory, Gato Del Sol's connections opted to skip the Preakness Stakes due to its shorter distance. Instead, they chose to rest him for the longer Belmont Stakes, marking the first time in 23 years that a Kentucky Derby winner did not attempt the Triple Crown.

How did Gato Del Sol perform in the Belmont Stakes after winning the Kentucky Derby?

Gato Del Sol finished second in the Belmont Stakes, a significant fourteen lengths behind the winner, Conquistador Cielo.

Who took over training duties for Gato Del Sol after his performance on the New York circuit in 1982?

After Gato Del Sol finished eighth in the Suburban Handicap on the New York circuit, his training was taken over by Howard Tesher.

What significant race did Gato Del Sol compete in alongside winners of the other two American Classics in 1982?

Gato Del Sol competed in the Travers Stakes in 1982, an event that also featured the winners of the Preakness Stakes (Aloma's Ruler) and the Belmont Stakes (Conquistador Cielo).

What happened to Gato Del Sol after the 1982 Travers Stakes?

Gato Del Sol finished fifth in the 1982 Travers Stakes and sustained an ankle injury from the race, which concluded his season.

How did Gato Del Sol transition his racing career in 1984?

In 1984, Gato Del Sol switched from racing on dirt to competing on turf, though he went winless that year, including an eighth-place finish in the Breeders' Cup Turf.

What was Gato Del Sol's final career race and win?

Gato Del Sol's final race was the 1985 Caballero Handicap at Hollywood Park Racetrack, which he won. He also finished second in the Shoemaker Breeders' Cup Mile Stakes that year.

What was Gato Del Sol's success like as a sire after his retirement?

Gato Del Sol had little success as a sire during his stud career.

Where did Gato Del Sol end up after being sold, and why was he eventually bought back by his original owners?

After being sold, Gato Del Sol ended up at a breeding operation in Germany in 1993, where he continued to underperform. In 2000, his original co-owner, Arthur Hancock III, and his wife Staci bought him back to prevent him from suffering the same fate as another champion horse, Exceller, who was killed in a slaughterhouse in Sweden.

When and why was Gato Del Sol euthanized?

Gato Del Sol was euthanized on August 7, 2007, due to health complications at the age of 28.

What is the lineage of Gato Del Sol, specifically his sire and dam?

Gato Del Sol's sire was Cougar II, and his dam was Peacefully.

What is the significance of the stallion Nearco in Gato Del Sol's pedigree?

Gato Del Sol is inbred 4S x 5D to the stallion Nearco, meaning Nearco appears in the fourth generation on his sire's side and the fifth generation on his dam's side (via Nasrullah). Inbreeding, also known as linebreeding, is a practice in horse breeding where an ancestor appears multiple times in the pedigree.

Who was Arthur B. Hancock III, and what is his connection to Gato Del Sol and other famous horses?

Arthur B. Hancock III was the owner and breeder of Gato Del Sol, operating Stone Farm. He also co-bred Risen Star, winner of the 1988 Preakness and Belmont Stakes. Later, Hancock owned Sunday Silence, another significant racehorse.

What was unique about Gato Del Sol's Kentucky Derby win in relation to the Hancock family?

Gato Del Sol's victory marked the first Kentucky Derby win for Arthur Hancock III and was the first Derby winner owned by a member of the famed Hancock family, whose primary business was breeding rather than racing ownership.

How did Gato Del Sol serve as a namesake for the University of Kentucky Solar Car Team?

Gato Del Sol lent his name to the solar-powered cars developed by the University of Kentucky Solar Car Team, indicating a connection between the farm and the university's initiatives.

What is the meaning of the term "Thoroughbred" in the context of Gato Del Sol?

Thoroughbred refers to a specific breed of horse known for its athleticism, speed, and spirit, commonly used in horse racing. Gato Del Sol was an American-bred horse of this breed.

What does the term "stallion" signify regarding Gato Del Sol's role in horse breeding?

As a stallion, Gato Del Sol was a mature male horse capable of breeding, and he was retired to stud duty after his racing career.

What is the significance of the Kentucky Derby within American horse racing?

The Kentucky Derby is one of the most prestigious and well-known races in American horse racing, often referred to as the "Run for the Roses," and it is the first leg of the Triple Crown. Gato Del Sol's win there was his most famous achievement.

What is the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing in the United States?

The Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing in the United States consists of three specific races: the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. Winning all three in the same year is a rare and highly celebrated achievement.

What does it mean for a horse to be "inbred" in its pedigree?

Inbreeding means that an ancestor appears multiple times within a horse's pedigree. In Gato Del Sol's case, he was inbred to Nearco, which is a common practice in breeding to concentrate desirable traits.

What was the significance of Cougar II, Gato Del Sol's sire?

Cougar II was a successful Chilean-bred stallion who achieved significant acclaim in North America and was recognized with induction into the U.S. Racing Hall of Fame, indicating a strong lineage for Gato Del Sol.

What was the outcome of the 1982 Travers Stakes, and who won it?

The 1982 Travers Stakes was won by the Canadian outsider Runaway Groom. This victory was historically significant as it marked the first time a horse defeated the winners of all three American Classics (Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes) in the same race.

What specific handicap races did Gato Del Sol win?

Gato Del Sol won the Cabrillo Handicap in 1983 and the Caballero Handicap in 1985.

What was the name of the horse that Gato Del Sol was partially named after?

Gato Del Sol was the partial namesake of the post-rock outfit Gastr Del Sol, a band headed by Louisville native David Grubbs.

What is the significance of the "gray" color description for a horse like Gato Del Sol?

Gray is a coat color in horses characterized by a mixture of white and dark hairs, often resulting in a lighter overall appearance. Gray horses can lighten significantly as they age.

What does the term "jockey" refer to in horse racing?

A jockey is a professional rider, typically small and lightweight, who rides horses in horse races. Eddie Delahoussaye was the jockey who rode Gato Del Sol to victory in the 1982 Kentucky Derby.

What is the purpose of a "stud record" for a racehorse?

A stud record details a stallion's performance and offspring after his racing career. It documents his success or lack thereof as a sire, influencing his value and placement in breeding operations. Gato Del Sol's stud record indicated little success.

What does it mean for a horse to be "pensioned"?

When a horse is pensioned, it means it has been retired from active racing or breeding duties, usually due to age or health, and is allowed to live out its days in comfort. Gato Del Sol was pensioned on the farm where he was foaled.

What was the "American Classic Race" that Gato Del Sol won?

The American Classic Race that Gato Del Sol won was the Kentucky Derby in 1982. The American Classics are a series of prestigious races for three-year-old horses.

What was the name of the farm where Gato Del Sol was foaled and later pensioned?

Gato Del Sol was foaled and later pensioned at Stone Farm.

Who was the trainer of Gato Del Sol during his 1981 season?

Gato Del Sol's trainer during his 1981 season was Edwin J. Gregson.

What was the name of the horse that Gato Del Sol finished second to in the 1982 Belmont Stakes?

Gato Del Sol finished second to Conquistador Cielo in the 1982 Belmont Stakes.

What is the significance of the "pedigree" information provided for Gato Del Sol?

The pedigree provides Gato Del Sol's lineage, detailing his sire, dam, and ancestors, which is crucial in horse breeding for understanding genetic potential and potential traits.

What does the notation "4S x 5D" in Gato Del Sol's pedigree signify?

The notation "4S x 5D" indicates that Gato Del Sol is inbred to the stallion Nearco, appearing four generations away on his sire's side (4S) and five generations away on his dam's side (5D).

What was the name of the horse that Gato Del Sol was bought back to prevent from suffering a similar fate?

Gato Del Sol was bought back by Arthur Hancock III and his wife Staci to prevent him from suffering the same fate as Exceller, another American champion horse who was killed in a slaughterhouse in Sweden.

What was the name of the horse that won the 1982 Kentucky Derby, according to the provided text?

Gato Del Sol won the 1982 Kentucky Derby.

Gato Del Sol Wiki: The Gallop of Greatness: Gato Del Sol's Derby Triumph

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Background and Breeding

Origins and Lineage

Gato Del Sol, a striking gray stallion, was foaled on February 23, 1979, at the esteemed Stone Farm in Paris, Kentucky. His lineage traces back to notable figures in thoroughbred racing. He was sired by Cougar II, a distinguished Chilean-bred stallion renowned for his North American successes and subsequent induction into the U.S. Racing Hall of Fame. His dam, Peacefully, was herself a producer of significant winners, including the Prix Morny victor Tersa, and held a distant relation to the Melbourne Cup winner Beldale Ball. This robust pedigree suggested considerable potential for Gato Del Sol.

Ownership and Partnership

The ownership and breeding of Gato Del Sol were a collaborative effort between Arthur B. Hancock III, the proprietor of Stone Farm, and Leone J. Peters, a prominent Manhattan real estate broker and a long-standing client of Hancock. This partnership was not new to producing champions; they had previously bred Risen Star, who achieved victories in the 1988 Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes, underscoring their acumen in thoroughbred breeding and racing.

Initial Training

Under the tutelage of renowned trainer Edwin J. Gregson, Gato Del Sol began his formative racing career. Gregson's expertise was instrumental in shaping the early development of the young stallion, preparing him for the demanding world of professional horse racing.

Racing Career Overview

A Journey Through the Tracks

Gato Del Sol's racing career spanned five years, from his debut as a two-year-old in 1981 through his final race in 1985. His journey was marked by significant victories, including the prestigious Kentucky Derby, and notable performances in other major classic races. His record of 7 wins in 39 starts, accumulating $1,340,107 in earnings, reflects a competitive career against formidable opposition.

Financial Acumen

The total earnings of $1,340,107 represent a substantial achievement in the era, highlighting Gato Del Sol's success and the financial rewards associated with top-tier thoroughbred racing. This figure underscores the economic significance of his racing achievements.

1981: The Two-Year-Old Season

Initial Engagements

Gato Del Sol commenced his racing career in 1981 at Hollywood Park Racetrack. His initial outings were challenging, as he did not secure a victory in his first two races. However, his potential began to manifest during his third start at Del Mar Racetrack, where he achieved his first win. Following this success, he secured a third-place finish in the Balboa Stakes before achieving a significant early career milestone: victory in the Del Mar Futurity.

1982: The Three-Year-Old Season

The Kentucky Derby Triumph

The pivotal year for Gato Del Sol was 1982. Entering the prestigious Kentucky Derby, he had not yet secured a victory that season, though he had demonstrated promise with a second-place finish in the Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland Race Course. Against the favored Air Forbes Won, the Wood Memorial Stakes winner, Gato Del Sol was considered an outsider, starting at odds of 21-1, the third longest odds in the nineteen-horse field.

Under the expert guidance of jockey Eddie Delahoussaye, Gato Del Sol executed a remarkable performance. Trailing the field early in the 1¼ mile race, he began his ascent after the half-mile mark. By the mile pole, he had advanced to fifth position. In the homestretch, he continued to gain ground, engaging in a spirited contest with several rivals. Ultimately, Gato Del Sol surged to the lead in the final furlong, pulling away to win by 2½ lengths. His victory paid $44.40 to win, marking one of the highest payoffs in Derby history.

Strategic Decisions Post-Derby

Following his monumental Derby win, Gato Del Sol's connections made a strategic decision to bypass the Preakness Stakes. This choice, influenced by the shorter distance of the Preakness and the desire to prioritize the longer Belmont Stakes, marked the first time in twenty-three years that a Kentucky Derby winner opted not to pursue the Triple Crown. This decision highlighted a shift in strategic thinking regarding race scheduling and horse welfare.

Belmont Stakes Performance

In the Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown, Gato Del Sol finished second. He was fourteen lengths behind the impressive colt Conquistador Cielo, owned by Henryk de Kwiatkowski. This performance, while not a victory, demonstrated Gato Del Sol's stamina and competitive spirit over the demanding 1½ mile distance.

Training and Further Races

Gato Del Sol continued his racing campaign on the New York circuit for the remainder of 1982. After an eighth-place finish in the Suburban Handicap, his training was transferred to Howard M. Tesher. Subsequently, Gato Del Sol secured a victory in an allowance race at Saratoga Race Course on August 7. This served as preparation for the prestigious Travers Stakes, which featured a highly competitive field including the winners of all three American Classics: Gato Del Sol (Kentucky Derby), Aloma's Ruler (Preakness Stakes), and Conquistador Cielo (Belmont Stakes). Despite the formidable competition, the Canadian outsider Runaway Groom emerged victorious. Gato Del Sol finished fifth in this race and sustained an ankle injury that concluded his racing activities for 1982.

Later Career (1983-1985)

Return to the West Coast

Gato Del Sol made his return to racing in mid-May 1983 on the West Coast. During this season, he competed in nine races, achieving two victories. One notable win was the Cabrillo Handicap at Del Mar Racetrack, showcasing his continued ability to perform at a high level.

Transition to Turf

In 1984, a strategic shift occurred as Gato Del Sol began racing on turf. While he did not secure any wins during this period, he participated in significant races, including an eighth-place finish in the Breeders' Cup Turf. This transition demonstrated adaptability in his racing strategy.

Final Victories

His fifth year of racing, 1985, saw Gato Del Sol compete in two races. He achieved a second-place finish in the Shoemaker Breeders' Cup Mile Stakes and concluded his racing career with a victory in the Caballero Handicap at Hollywood Park Racetrack. These performances marked the end of his distinguished racing tenure.

Retirement and Stud Record

Early Stud Career

Upon retiring from racing, Gato Del Sol commenced stud duty at Stone Farm. However, his success as a sire was limited, and he did not achieve the widespread acclaim as a breeding stallion that he had as a racehorse. He was subsequently sold and eventually relocated to a breeding operation in Germany in 1993, where his underperformance continued.

A Return to Familiar Ground

In 2000, a poignant turn of events saw his original co-owner, Arthur Hancock III, and his wife Staci repurchase Gato Del Sol. This act was motivated by a desire to ensure his well-being and prevent him from facing a fate similar to that of another American champion, Exceller, who was tragically sent to a slaughterhouse in Sweden. This decision reflected a deep respect for the horse and a commitment to his care.

Final Years and Euthanasia

Pensioned, Gato Del Sol spent his remaining years on the farm where he was originally foaled. He passed away on August 7, 2007, at the age of 28, due to health complications. His euthanasia was a measure taken to alleviate his suffering, concluding a life that had significantly impacted the world of horse racing.

Pedigree Analysis

Ancestral Connections

Gato Del Sol's pedigree is a testament to the intricate lineage of thoroughbreds, showcasing influential sires and dams. His sire, Cougar II, and dam, Peacefully, contribute to a rich genetic tapestry. The detailed pedigree chart below illustrates his ancestry, including notable stallions like Nearco and Bold Ruler, and highlights the inbreeding to Nearco (4S x 5D), a common practice in breeding to concentrate desirable traits.

Pedigree of Gato Del Sol (USA), gray stallion, 1979
Sire Cougar (CHI) 1966	Tale of Two Cities (GB) 1951	Tehran	Bois Roussel
		Tehran	Stafaralla
		Merida	Jock
		Merida	Torissima
	Cindy Lou (CHI) 1955	Madara	Nearco*
		Madara	Sun Princess
		Maria Bonita	Afghan
		Maria Bonita	Las Palmas
Dam Peacefully (USA) 1973	Jacinto (USA) 1962	Bold Ruler	Nasrullah*
		Bold Ruler	Miss Disco
		Cascade	Precipitation
		Cascade	Marita
	Morning Calm (USA) 1962	Hail To Reason	Turn-To
		Hail To Reason	Nothirdchance
		Yellow Mist	Hierocles
		Yellow Mist	Silver Fog (Family: A1)

* Gato Del Sol is inbred 4S x 5D to the stallion Nearco, indicating his presence in the fourth generation on the sire's side and the fifth generation (via Nasrullah) on the dam's side of his pedigree.

Notable Trivia

Hancock Family Legacy

Gato Del Sol's victory marked a significant milestone as the first Kentucky Derby win for Arthur Hancock III, a member of the distinguished Hancock family associated with Claiborne Farm. While the family's primary business was breeding, this win added a notable owner's title to their legacy. Arthur Hancock III later achieved a second Derby victory as the owner of Sunday Silence.

Naming Inspiration

The influence of Gato Del Sol extended beyond the racing world. Stone Farm, his birthplace and a sponsor of the University of Kentucky Solar Car Team, named its solar-powered cars after him, demonstrating his broader cultural impact.

Artistic Connection

The post-rock band Gastr Del Sol, led by Louisville native David Grubbs, drew partial inspiration for its name from Gato Del Sol, highlighting an unexpected connection between thoroughbred racing and the avant-garde music scene.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Gato Del Sol" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about gato_del_sol while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

province of tierra firme

u.s. news world report best colleges ranking

hede von trapp

beverley mclachlin

nkvd prisoner massacres

aircraft

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Gato Del Sol Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence for educational and informational purposes, drawing upon publicly available data. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, it is not a substitute for professional academic research or consultation. The content is based on a specific snapshot of information and may not reflect the most current developments or nuances.

This is not professional advice. The information provided herein is intended for academic understanding and does not constitute professional advice in any field, including horse breeding, racing, or financial investment. Readers are encouraged to consult primary sources and qualified experts for any critical decisions or further research.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Gallop of Greatness

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Background and Breeding 🐎

🌍 Origins and Lineage

🤝 Ownership and Partnership

🧑‍🏫 Initial Training

Racing Career Overview 🏆

🏇 A Journey Through the Tracks

💰 Financial Acumen

1981: The Two-Year-Old Season 🌱

🏁 Initial Engagements

1982: The Three-Year-Old Season 🌟

🥇 The Kentucky Derby Triumph

🤔 Strategic Decisions Post-Derby

🥈 Belmont Stakes Performance

🔄 Training and Further Races

Later Career (1983-1985) ⏳

📈 Return to the West Coast

🌿 Transition to Turf

🏆 Final Victories

Retirement and Stud Record 🏡

👨‍🦳 Early Stud Career

❤️ A Return to Familiar Ground

🕊️ Final Years and Euthanasia

Pedigree Analysis 🧬

🌳 Ancestral Connections

Notable Trivia 💡

🏆 Hancock Family Legacy

🚗 Naming Inspiration

🎶 Artistic Connection

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Background and Breeding

Origins and Lineage

Ownership and Partnership

Initial Training

Racing Career Overview

A Journey Through the Tracks

Financial Acumen

1981: The Two-Year-Old Season

Initial Engagements

1982: The Three-Year-Old Season

The Kentucky Derby Triumph

Strategic Decisions Post-Derby

Belmont Stakes Performance

Training and Further Races

Later Career (1983-1985)

Return to the West Coast

Transition to Turf

Final Victories

Retirement and Stud Record

Early Stud Career

A Return to Familiar Ground

Final Years and Euthanasia

Pedigree Analysis

Ancestral Connections

Notable Trivia

Hancock Family Legacy

Naming Inspiration

Artistic Connection

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice