Brown surpasses $20 million in earnings for 2015

When Majestic Affair crossed the wire second – he was subsequently elevated to first – in Wednesday’s third race at Aqueduct, it enabled trainer Chad Brown to surpass the $20 million mark in purse earnings for 2015.

It is the first time in eight full seasons of training that Brown has surpassed the $20 million mark ($20,035,489). Only trainers Todd Pletcher (eight times since 2005) and Steve Asmussen (2007-09) have earned at least $20 million in purses in one year.

“We’re happy to join such an exclusive club,” Brown said from Florida. “We had the right group of horses, loyal clients, and dedicated staff, led by my four assistants – Cherie DeVaux, Jorge Abreu, Reynaldo Abreu, and Jose Hernandez – that do most of the work – and my entire operation of over 100 dedicated employees that are both talented and a pleasure work with. It’s a real team effort.”

Majestic Affair was beaten a head in the race but was carried out by Lucky Lotto. Following an objection by jockey Kendrick Carmouche and a stewards’ inquiry, Majestic Affair was placed first and Lucky Lotto demoted to second. That was the 199th win of the year for Brown, also a personal high.

Brown also said that Lady Eli, his undefeated turf filly, returned to the track Tuesday at Palm Meadows to jog. She jogged again on Wednesday.

“It’s a start. I was really happy with her,” Brown said.

Lady Eli has overcome laminitis, a hoof disease she developed after stepping on a nail following her victory in the Belmont Oaks on July 4.