The 2025 racing season had its ups and downs for the legendary horse Thorpedo Anna, but her resilience shone through in the Personal Ensign Stakes, leaving fans in awe. This thrilling victory all but sealed her second consecutive Eclipse Award, specifically for the older dirt female division champion, following her 2024 Horse of the Year title.
Trainer Ken McPeek praised her tenacity, saying, 'Thorpedo Anna is as tough as they come.' And this was evident in the Personal Ensign, where she showcased her grit.
In a nail-biting race at Saratoga Race Course, Thorpedo Anna surged ahead as they turned for home, only to be pursued by the relentless Dorth Vader. The latter had already dispatched three other competitors and was now hot on Thorpedo Anna's heels. The two horses battled it out in the stretch, with Dorth Vader momentarily taking the lead. But Thorpedo Anna, with Brian Hernandez Jr. in the saddle, fought back with determination to claim a breathtaking victory.
The 2024 season was a testament to her dominance, winning six out of seven races, including the prestigious Kentucky Oaks and Breeders' Cup Distaff against older females. Her sole defeat came in a valiant effort against Fierceness in the Travers Stakes at Saratoga, proving she was a force to be reckoned with.
Kicking off her 4-year-old campaign at Oaklawn Park, Thorpedo Anna continued her winning streak in the Azeri Stakes and Apple Blossom Handicap, carrying extra weight and still emerging victorious. However, her four-race win streak came to an abrupt end in the La Troienne Stakes at Churchill Downs, where a rough start hindered her performance.
But Thorpedo Anna, bred in Kentucky from the renowned Fast Anna, quickly rebounded with a win in the Fleur de Lis Stakes at Churchill and then the crucial Personal Ensign. She concluded the season with a less successful run in the Spinster Stakes at Keeneland.
McPeek reflected on her 2025 season, stating, 'Thorpedo Anna delivered some exceptional performances. Her wins were outstanding, especially given the pressure of being the one to beat.' He added, 'The La Troienne incident was unfortunate, but she showed her class. I couldn't be prouder.'
In a significant development, Hill 'n' Dale Equine Holdings acquired a 50% stake in Thorpedo Anna, while Magdalena Racing, Mark Edwards, and breeder Judy Hicks maintained their involvement. Her dam, Sataves, was honored as the 2024 Broodmare of the Year by the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, solidifying Thorpedo Anna's legacy. The champion mare retired in October to embark on her broodmare career at Hill 'n' Dale.
The other contenders for the title included Breeders' Cup Distaff winner Scylla and Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Sprint champion Splendora. But Thorpedo Anna's remarkable comeback and consistent performances solidified her place as the division's champion.
Controversy Alert: Was Thorpedo Anna's 2025 season a true testament to her greatness, or did her early-season dominance overshadow a less-than-perfect finish? Share your thoughts on what makes a champion truly exceptional in the comments below!
