"Trainer Matthew Sims Shatters Expectations as Longshot Brunacini Clinches Perryville Stakes Victory, Cementing a Family Legacy at Keeneland's Elite Racing Stage."
In the realm of horse racing, success often stems from a combination of perseverance, skill, and a touch of luck. For 34-year-old trainer Matthew Sims, these elements converged perfectly on October 19th when his horse, Brunacini, achieved a stunning upset victory in the $259,000 Perryville Stakes (G3) at Keeneland. Despite the long odds of 28-1, Brunacini outpaced a highly skilled field, not only earning a spot in the winner's circle but also securing Sims his first graded stakes victory of his emerging career.
Achieving a Career Milestone in Less Than Two Years
Sims, who started his career as a trainer only in early 2023, was thrilled with the achievement. “It was a neat milestone—to have that in under two years of training on my own,” Sims reflected after the race. He wasn’t just celebrating the win; he was appreciating the result of tireless work, the dedication of his team, and the unwavering support from his clients. This was more than just a race—it was a defining moment that validated Sims’ journey in the highly competitive world of horse racing.
"Being able to demonstrate what my team and I are capable of on such a prominent stage is incredible," he added. "It required a lot of luck, tremendous support from clients, and the faith of my fellow horsemen. I feel very blessed."
The Sims Family Legacy at Keeneland
Keeneland has always held special importance for the Sims family. Matthew's father, Philip Sims, has been a prominent figure at the historic Lexington track for nearly twenty years, achieving two Grade 1 victories in his distinguished career—both at Keeneland. His first Grade 1 victory was in 2009 with Hot Cha Cha, who won the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup (G1T). He added another victory in the Spinster Stakes (G1) in 2014 with Don’t Tell Sophia.
For Matthew, Keeneland is more than just a racetrack—it's home. Having worked as an assistant trainer under his father during the careers of Hot Cha Cha and Don't Tell Sophia, he learned the ropes alongside one of the sport's finest horsemen. Now on his own, Matthew shares a barn with his father at Keeneland, continuing the family legacy in a place where they've shared so many moments of success.
“Achieving my first graded stakes win at Keeneland is truly special. I couldn't imagine doing it anywhere else,” Sims expressed. “Having the opportunity to achieve this in front of an amazing crowd, alongside family, friends, and those I see daily, makes it even more extraordinary.”
Brunacini’s Rise to Glory
Brunacini, the 3-year-old colt who created this pivotal moment for Sims, was mostly ignored by bettors in the Perryville Stakes. Confronted with a competitive field filled with established contenders, few believed the colt had a real chance. However, under the guidance of Sims and his team, Brunacini displayed the heart and determination needed to achieve the unexpected.
"He's always had the talent, but seeing it come together in a race like this was truly special," Sims remarked about Brunacini's performance. "We knew he had potential, but watching him excel against such a strong field—it's an experience I will always remember."
The unexpected victory was both thrilling and important, as Brunacini made a strong push in the last moments to seize the lead in the final stretch. Racing enthusiasts at Keeneland witnessed an exciting conclusion as the underdog colt surged past his competitors to secure the $259,000 prize.
The Significance of Keeneland's Stage
There's a reason Keeneland is renowned for its world-class racing. Hosting some of the sport's most prestigious meets each April and October, the Lexington track attracts the best horses, trainers, and jockeys from all over the world. A victory at Keeneland holds greater significance—it represents success on one of the sport's grandest stages.
For Matthew Sims, this makes his win at the Perryville Stakes even more significant. Achieving his first graded stakes victory at Keeneland—where his family has already established a legacy—was a dream realized.
'It's almost the biggest stage in the world,' Sims said. 'To achieve this here, at Keeneland, where I've spent so much of my life—it's really hard to express how special it is.'
A Promising Future Awaits
Now that Matthew Sims has his first graded stakes victory, his future seems incredibly promising. Although he's just beginning, his success with Brunacini shows that he's ready to establish his reputation in the sport. By building upon his family's legacy while creating his own path, Sims' journey is one that racing enthusiasts will want to follow in the coming years.
Regarding Brunacini, the colt's remarkable win in the Perryville Stakes positions him for even more significant opportunities in the future. With effective management and ongoing development under Sims, this could mark the start of a remarkable journey for the once-overlooked longshot who surpassed expectations at Keeneland.
