Breeders’ Cup Photo ©
Today’s announcement that 2014 Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr. I) winner Bayern has been retired brings to a close the career of a remarkably talented but inconsistent colt that was brilliant at times and disappointing at others.
The four-year-old son of Offlee Wild won four graded stakes races in 2014 to stamp himself as a leading candidate for Horse of the Year honors, but failed to regain his best form this year, going 0-for-5 while never seriously contending in any of his races. In his most recent race, he secured an easy lead in the September 26th Awesome Again Stakes (gr. I) at Santa Anita, but failed to capitalize on his advantage and tired to finish third.
But rather than focus on Bayern’s failures this year, let’s instead look back on some of the epic performances from the prime of his career. Let’s relive his astonishing romp in the Woody Stephens Stakes (gr. II), his easy score over Kentucky Derby winner California Chrome in the Pennsylvania Derby (gr. II), and his courageous win in the Breeders’ Cup Classic by watching the replays of those races. Happy retirement, Bayern!
The 2014 Woody Stephens Stakes (gr. II)
The 2014 Pennsylvania Derby (gr. II)
The 2014 Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr. I)
