Sir Taurus, the now 30-year-old trotting stallion whose sons and daughters once dominated the New York Sire Stakes, will make a rare visit away from his home at Blue Chip Farm on Saturday, July 5.
Sir Taurus will be headed to Goshen (N.Y.) Historic Track to watch some Grand Circuit racing action. First post on Saturday will be 1 p.m.
The bay stallion that sports a distinctive white blaze has sired nearly 700 foals. His progeny has earned a combined $23.7 million in purses. His best known performer is Approved Action, who won $715,676. Of his 546 starters, 145 won races in better than 2:00.
Sir Taurus was born on March 20, 1984, at Lindy Farm in Somersville, Connecticut. He raced for two years, 1986 and 1987, winning $484,810 and stakes races such as the Hanover Stakes and multiple New York Sire Stakes. He was trained and driven by Jimmy Takter for the Antonacci family and the late Dan Gernatt.
He celebrated his landmark birthday in March with a carrot cake featuring real carrots on top and a rousing chorus of ‘Happy Birthday’ from children at the Cornwall Presbyterian Church Sunday School. Throughout his life, Sir Taurus, in addition to his fatherhood duties, has greeted visiting school children and scout groups at the farm. His easygoing nature allowed him to be the first horse ever touched for perhaps thousands of children.
At Goshen, he will spend some time in a stall behind the grandstand and come out to greet visitors at 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30. In deference to his age and change in surroundings, Sir Taurus will be happy to be photographed on July 5, but no petting please.
Sir Taurus is one of 43 horses featured in the new book, ‘Standardbred Old Friends.’ The book features horses of distinction, most Hall of Fame members, some noted for long and productive blue collar careers, all now in the twilight of their lives.
The book will be on sale to benefit Goshen Historic Track near Sir Taurus’ stall. Author Ellen Harvey will be available to sign copies of the coffee table book that features the photos of acclaimed equine photographer Barbara Livingston. The track is located at 44 Park Place in Goshen.
This story courtesy of Harness Racing Communications, a division of the U.S. Trotting Association. For more information, visit www.ustrotting.com.