Wintergreen, a bay stallion foaled in 1906, is best known for his remarkable victory at the 1909 Kentucky Derby. This American Thoroughbred racehorse made history by becoming the first horse bred in Ohio to win the prestigious race. His journey to the top was marked by dedication from his breeder and owner, Jerome B. Respess, and the skilled training of Charles Mack.
Breeding and Early Career
Wintergreen was bred by Jerome Bristow Respess at his Ohio stud farm. Respess, a multimillionaire
with interests in the brewing industry, was passionate about horse racing and invested in breeding quality horses. Wintergreen's sire, Dick Welles, was named after Richard H. Welles, the father of Orson Welles, adding a touch of historical intrigue to Wintergreen's lineage.
Wintergreen's racing career spanned from ages two to seven, during which he competed in numerous races. Although he did not win any stakes races before or after the Kentucky Derby, Wintergreen was a consistent performer, earning a total of $12,820 throughout his career. His record of 61 races included 16 wins, 14 places, and 8 shows, showcasing his competitive spirit and resilience.
The 1909 Kentucky Derby Victory
The 1909 Kentucky Derby was held at Churchill Downs on May 3, marking the 35th running of the event. Wintergreen, ridden by jockey Vincent Powers, completed the race in 2:08.20, securing first place. His victory was significant not only for his owner and trainer but also for the state of Ohio, as he was the first horse bred there to win the Derby.
Wintergreen's win was followed by Miami in second place and Dr. Barkley in third. The winner's purse was $4,850, a substantial reward for the time. Wintergreen's performance on the dirt track of Churchill Downs was a testament to his training and the quality of his breeding.
Legacy and Tragic End
Wintergreen's victory at the Kentucky Derby was a milestone for Ohio-bred horses, encouraging other breeders in the state to pursue excellence in horse racing. His success demonstrated that horses from non-traditional racing states could compete and win at the highest levels.
Tragically, Wintergreen's life ended in 1914 when he was killed in a fire at the Latonia Race Track in Covington, Kentucky. Despite this unfortunate end, Wintergreen's legacy as a champion and trailblazer for Ohio-bred horses remains significant. His victory in the 1909 Kentucky Derby continues to be celebrated as a pivotal moment in the history of horse racing.
