The 2025 horse racing season is set to shine a bright light on Bob Baffert. What’s the reason for that? He is making his way back to Churchill Downs, with his horses already secured for that highly sought-after position in the Kentucky Derby. There is considerable speculation surrounding Baffert’s potential seventh victory in the Run for the Roses; however, significant doubts remain due to the numerous challenges he has encountered in the prep races.
However, the present attention may have shifted to a competing horse from Bob Baffert. Following the Grade 1 Apple Blossom at Oaklawn Park, the focus of the horse racing community has shifted to the 2024 Horse of the Year, Thorpedo Anna.
Although she had a somewhat sluggish beginning, the 4-year-old filly swiftly found her rhythm, positioning herself just behind the early frontrunner, Wild Bout Hilary. As seen on Kentucky Derby’s official X profile, with jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. at the reins, she seized control as they approached the stretch, effortlessly distancing herself to secure victory by 4¼ lengths over Free Like a Girl, while Where’s My Ring claimed third place.
Thorpedo Anna wins again! pic.twitter.com/LB8LpxyQib
— Kentucky Derby (@KentuckyDerby) April 12, 2025
With a top weight of 124 pounds, Thorpedo Anna finished the 1 1/16-mile race in a swift 1:44.27 on a fast track, marking her 10th win in 12 starts and elevating her career earnings to nearly $4.8 million. What do the supporters think of Thorpedo Anna’s win, then?
Horse racing fans are supportive of the horse that took away Bob Baffert’s spotlight
It’s rare to witness a horse eclipsing Bob Baffert in terms of popularity, especially in the months leading up to the Kentucky Derby. Nonetheless, with Thorpedo Anna accomplishing this feat, a fan expressed, “Wonderful to have this champion at Oaklawn! Hate to see her leave us! We wish Thorpedo Anna the best on her next travels and races.” Another fan expressed their thoughts on the competition, saying, “They would have had to tie her back legs together to beat her. She is everything you want in a HoTY.” In a similar vein, another supporter commented, “She’s just in a different league.”
Without a doubt, this victory has undoubtedly filled her trainer with pride for Thorpedo Anna. After the race, Kenneth McPeek remarked, “Little nerve-wracking at that price, but just really proud of her, as always. She’s going to come right back in the [GI] La Troienne Stakes in three weeks [May 2]. We think we’ve got her in good-enough shape. She’s a bit of an old-school filly and we’re nominated. That’s the plan.” According to her trainer, she will be back on the track in a few weeks, competing in another Grade 1 race.
The filly undoubtedly left an impression, as this enthusiast emphasized her achievement, declaring, “Horse of the year.” In a comparable sentiment, another enthusiast remarked,“2024 Horse of the Year! Still winning!” In just a few weeks, the spotlight will not only be on Baffert at Churchill Downs, but Thorpedo Anna will also make her presence felt at the iconic racecourse for the Grade 1 La Troienne Stakes.
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