1920 Dwyer Stakes

1920 Dwyer Stakes

Photography of horse sports

This photograph captures the American Thoroughbred John P. Grier (Eddie Ambrose up) trailing Man o’ War (Clarence Kummer up) in the 1920 Dwyer Stakes at the old Aqueduct track. John P. Grier, Man o' War's only opponent, nosed in front for a moment in the final eighth, but Man o’ War sprang away in the last 70 yards to win by 1 1/2 lengths and set an American record for 1 1/8 miles.

Newspaper headlines from around the world heralded Man o’ War (1917-1947) as “matchless,” the “wonder horse,” a “speed miracle,” and “peerless.”

After winning 20 of his 21 races, Man o’ War, owned by Samuel D. Riddle and trained by Louis Feustel, retired to stud duty in Kentucky. He was the leading North American sire in 1926. He remained a prominent Kentucky tourist attraction during his retirement years, and his funeral was broadcast live across the country.

Man o' War's statue and remains at the Kentucky Horse Park continue to draw thousands of visitors to the Bluegrass every year. A century after his birth, he is still ranked by many as the greatest American racehorse.

Clarence Kummer was inducted into the U.S. Racing Hall of Fame in 1972, In 1920, he rode Man o’ War to nine wins in nine starts and was the country’s top jockey by earnings. He won the Preakness (1920, 1925) and the Belmont Stakes (1920, 1928) twice each.

Charles Christian Cook

1920-07-10

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black and white photograph

still image

glass plate negative