Go for Wand, a name synonymous with brilliance and tragedy in horse racing, evokes strong emotions. Here's a breakdown of her significance:
Racing Prowess
- Exceptional Speed: Go for Wand was known for her blistering speed and stamina, dominating races from a young age.
- Multiple Graded Stakes Wins: She racked up an impressive list of victories in prestigious Grade 1 races.
- Champion Two-Year-Old Filly: Go for Wand earned this title in 1989, showcasing her precocious talent.
The Tragic 1990 Breeders' Cup
- Fatal Injury: During the 1990 Breeders' Cup Distaff, Go for Wand suffered a catastrophic leg fracture in the stretch.
- Euthanasia on Track: Due to the severity of the injury, she was euthanized on the track, a heartbreaking scene witnessed by a large audience.
- Lasting Impact: Her death remains one of the most poignant moments in Breeders' Cup history, a stark reminder of the risks involved in horse racing.
Legacy
- Hall of Fame: Go for Wand was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, solidifying her place among racing's greats.
- Symbol of Potential: She represents the potential for greatness and the fragility of life, leaving an enduring legacy despite her short career.
- Go for Wand Handicap: A race named in her honor is run annually at Saratoga Race Course, keeping her memory alive.
Go for Wand's story is a powerful one, encompassing both incredible achievement and devastating loss. She is remembered as a champion who captured the hearts of racing fans.
