### The Quest for the Kentucky Derby Trophy: A Journey of Persistence
If you want a sense of how difficult it is to win the Kentucky Derby, just ask Las Vegas businessman Ron Winchell. At 53 years old, Winchell has been chasing a victory in this iconic horse race alongside his late father, Verne, who founded the Winchell’s Donuts chain. For nearly a century, the Winchells have experienced the highs and lows of horse racing, with their 13 entrants in the Derby—both homebreds and sales purchases—coming as close as second place. Yet, the coveted Derby trophy still eludes them.
### A Legacy of Racing
The Winchell family has a storied history in thoroughbred racing, winning numerous prestigious races over the years. However, the Kentucky Derby and the accompanying Triple Crown races—the Preakness and Belmont Stakes—remain the final frontiers. Winchell reflects on the allure of the sport: “That’s one of the things I love about racing. We keep trying.” This dedication is evident as they prepare for another shot this year.
### Meet Tiztastic: A New Hope
On Saturday, Winchell will attempt to change his fortunes with Tiztastic, a 3-year-old colt co-owned with Mrs. John Magnier, Michael Tabor, and Derrick Smith. This son of Tiz the Law is trained by Hall of Famer Steve Asmussen and will be ridden by Joel Rosario. Tiztastic earned his entry into the Derby with a convincing 2¼-length victory in the $1 million Louisiana Derby on March 22, positioning him as a 20-1 shot on the morning line.
### A Rollercoaster Journey
Tiztastic’s rise is especially sweet for Winchell, coming on the heels of a significant disappointment. His previous horse, Magnitude, a winner of the Risen Star Stakes, suffered an ankle injury that dashed hopes for Derby participation. “I was resigned to not having a Derby starter for the second year in a row,” Winchell said. But Tiztastic shone brightly, surprising everyone after four consecutive losses prior to his breakout performance.
### Overcoming Early Struggles
Initially, Tiztastic did not seem destined for Derby glory. After losing his first race at Saratoga last summer, he switched to turf and found success, winning two races including a million-dollar juvenile stakes. The decision to transition back to dirt was a gamble that paid off, culminating in his dazzling Louisiana Derby victory that finally put him on the Derby map.
### Reflections on Epicenter
In discussing Tiztastic, Winchell is careful not to compare him to Epicenter, last year’s near-champion who suffered a heart-wrenching defeat. Epicenter had an impressive run leading up to the Derby, winning four of his previous five starts, only to be edged out in the final stretch by a shocking 80-1 long shot. Winchell acknowledges, “It’s hard to compare anyone to Epicenter.” The horse’s accolades, including being voted North America’s top 3-year-old at the Eclipse Awards, provide some consolation for his missing the Derby trophy.
### Evaluating Tiztastic’s Chances
While Tiztastic may not yet boast Epicenter’s accomplishments, Winchell feels optimistic about his potential. Described as a “laid-back, very mellow horse,” Tiztastic’s temperament might serve him well in the high-pressure environment of Churchill Downs. Coupled with two recent wins in million-dollar races, Winchell holds out hope for a standout performance during the Derby.
### Looking Ahead
Regardless of the outcome on Derby day, Winchell is already eyeing future races. His sights are set not only on the Preakness Stakes but also on a promising colt named Clever Again. Furthermore, Magnitude is expected to resume workouts soon after surgery, signaling a hopeful return to racing.
### A Glimmer of Hope
With enthusiasm for the upcoming year’s crop of talented 2-year-olds, Winchell remains hopeful that Tiztastic might finally break the family’s long-standing Derby drought. “I’d like to think there’s one out there with my name on it,” he said, hinting at both the hope and determination that define his family’s racing legacy. The anticipation builds as they prepare for Kentucky Derby’s early post time of 3:57 PM. Could this year be the charm for Winchell, who hopes that post position 14 brings luck?