In horse racing, the front runner is a horse who takes the lead at the start of the race and maintains that lead until crossing the finish line. The Front Runner, which placed first in a national Art of Horse Racing competition, captures the thrilling run down the home stretch, at precisely that moment when the winning jockey glances back to check on his closest competitor. Horse racing is an ancient sport that began in 4500 B.C. among the nomadic tribesmen of Central Asia, who first domesticated the horse. Often referred to as "The Sport of Kings," it is the second only to baseball as America's most popular spectator sport.
Artist Statement:
As old as time, the drive and passion for running like the wind is carried in the blood of the mighty thoroughbred. Relive that excitement as The Front Runner, alone and out front since the gate, is finally challenged, but refuses to give up his place at the front of the pack; with a mighty snort and toss of his head he grabs the bit and powers ahead to finish first, a wire to wire win!
This wonderful pony embodies all those thrilling moments these wonderful animals have given us over the years; those classic duels between Affirmed and Alyadar, Easy Goer and Sunday Silence and the memorable individuals who stunned us with their greatness: Secretariat, Northern Dancer, Cigar, John Henry and Seattle Slew. And who can forget the fillies: Zenyatta, Genuine Risk, Winning Colors and the immortal Ruffian. All have amazed us with their power and passion leaving us eagerly awaiting the next superstar to dance on the tracks!
- Title: The Front Runner
- Artist: Kim Ratigan
- Medium: Resin
- Measures: 6½"
