McPeek to receive Big Sport of Turfdom Award

Kenny McPeek, trainer of 2024 Horse of the Year candidate Thorpedo Anna and Kentucky Derby winner Mystic Dan, will receive this year’s Big Sport of Turfdom Award, the award’s presenter, the Turf Publicists of America, announced Monday.

The award, which will be presented to McPeek at a luncheon during the University of Arizona Global Symposium on Racing on Dec. 10, is the TPA’s highest honor. McPeek also won the award in 2002.

McPeek had a career year in 2024, becoming only the third trainer in history to win the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby in the same year, with Thorpedo Anna and Mystic Dan, respectively. Thorpedo Anna went on to dominate her division, with four more Grade 1 wins, including the Breeders’ Cup Distaff.

“Ken and his team have had an outstanding year with multiple triumphs on not only our sport’s biggest stage in the Kentucky Derby but also in additional Grade 1 victories across the country with Thorpedo Anna’s phenomenal campaign,” said Najja Thompson, president of the TPA. “He is most deserving of this award chosen by our membership for always being welcoming and open to the media and a great ambassador for our industry and sport.”

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