Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith is set to ride So Happy in the Kentucky Derby.
Smith’s Derby Ride Follows Santa Anita Win
Smith, who won the Triple Crown with Justify in 2018, is looking to win his third Kentucky Derby.
He rode So Happy to victory in the Santa Anita Derby last month, securing their spot in the Kentucky Derby.
Smith believes Dena, the late wife of So Happy’s trainer, is guiding him and So Happy, especially after their showing at Santa Anita.
“I called on Dena at the eighth pole. I said, ‘Oh, pick us up, man. Pick us up and get us home.’ And he just took off, man,” Smith said after their victory in April.
Trainer Competing After Wife’s Death
So Happy’s trainer, Mark Glatt, will be competing in the race for the first time in his 30-year career.
Glatt’s participation comes months after the death of his wife of 25 years, Dena, who died of heart failure at age 57 this past February.
“She was right by my side, and a big part of what I do professionally, as well as being my life partner,” he said.
Glatt felt Dena’s absence after the win at Santa Anita. “Dena didn’t walk to the winner’s circle with me. And, you know, that was tough,” he said after the race.
“It was bittersweet because she wasn’t here to share my biggest career win,” he added.
Glatt Feels Wife’s Support
Glatt believes Dena remains by his side as he gears up for Derby day, set for May 2.
“I think she’d be very proud of an accomplishment like this. We’re still together, you know, even if it’s just in spirit,” he said before the race.
He also said Dena will be looking on during the race. “I absolutely think she’s above and pushing us through this and hopefully enjoying the ride along with us,” he said.
- Post time for the Kentucky Derby is 6:57 p.m. ET.
- The race will air on NBC and USA Network, with coverage beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET.
- The race will also be streamed on Peacock.
Glatt is focused on winning the Kentucky Derby. “We’re here to not just participate. We’re here to hopefully get the job done,” he said.