From humble beginnings to Triple Crown glory, Funny Cide’s journey is a timeless tale of heart, determination, and the power of the underdog spirit.
Funny Cide, the scrappy gelding from upstate New York, captured the hearts of racing fans worldwide and forever changed the landscape of American horse racing. Born in 2000 and bred by the unassuming Sackatoga Stable, Funny Cide was far from the typical prospect for greatness. Unlike the elite thoroughbreds that dominate the sport, he wasn’t bred from a prestigious bloodline or purchased for a staggering price. Instead, his story became one of triumph against the odds—a testament to heart, determination, and the unwavering belief of a dedicated team.
Funny Cide’s rise to fame began in 2003 when he became the first horse in 25 years to win both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes in the same year. This remarkable achievement set him apart in a sport often dominated by high-priced, meticulously bred favorites. His Derby victory, where he defeated the heavily favored Peace Rules, was nothing short of magical. Trained by the unassuming Barclay Tagg and ridden by the accomplished jockey Jose Santos, Funny Cide proved that greatness isn’t always about pedigree or price tags—it’s about grit, consistency, and the will to win.
The racing world had its doubts about Funny Cide. Purchased for just $75,000 at a time when million-dollar horses were the norm, many questioned whether he could compete at the highest levels. Yet, from the moment he stepped onto the track, he demonstrated that heart could triumph over pedigree. His victories weren’t just wins for him; they were victories for every underdog who dared to dream.
Funny Cide’s legacy extends far beyond his wins. He became a symbol of hope and inspiration, proving that talent, spirit, and a strong team could defy expectations. His story resonated with fans who saw in him a reflection of their own struggles and aspirations. Even after his retirement, Funny Cide’s name continues to inspire, reminding the racing world that the greatest champions are often those who never fit the mold.
Early Life and Background
Funny Cide’s story began in the quiet pastures of upstate New York, where he was born on April 18, 2000, at the Sackatoga Stable. Unlike the high-profile colts bred in Kentucky’s elite horse farms, Funny Cide’s beginnings were modest. His sire, Distorted Humor, was a successful racehorse, and his dam, Belle’s Good Cide, had a steady but unremarkable racing record. Together, they produced a foal who would defy expectations and rewrite the rules of success in horse racing.
Raised in a no-frills environment, Funny Cide was nurtured with care and practicality. The Sackatoga Stable, a small operation run by a group of friends, focused on hard work and hands-on care rather than opulence. This unpretentious upbringing laid the foundation for Funny Cide’s resilience and work ethic.
Under the guidance of trainer Barclay Tagg, Funny Cide’s early training was methodical and grounded in consistency. Tagg, known for his no-nonsense approach, recognized the colt’s potential not through flashy speed but through his determination and mental toughness. Jockey Jose Santos, who would later play a pivotal role in Funny Cide’s career, also saw something special in the horse—a quiet will to win that set him apart.
Funny Cide’s racing debut at Saratoga Race Course in 2002 was modest, finishing third in a Maiden Special Weight race. But with each subsequent race, he showed steady improvement, gradually revealing his ability to dig deep and deliver when it mattered most. By the time he entered the 2003 Kentucky Derby, Funny Cide was no longer just another horse on the track—he was a contender with a story that was about to captivate the world.
Rise to Fame: The 2003 Triple Crown Campaign
Funny Cide’s 2003 Triple Crown campaign is the stuff of legend. It began with his stunning victory at the Kentucky Derby, where he defied the odds to win by 1 ½ lengths over the heavily favored Empire Maker. The crowd at Churchill Downs erupted in cheers as the underdog gelding crossed the finish line, proving that heart and determination could overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Two weeks later, Funny Cide triumphed again at the Preakness Stakes, securing his place as a serious contender for the Triple Crown. His dominant performance at Pimlico Race Course further solidified his status as a fan favorite and a symbol of hope for underdogs everywhere.
The Belmont Stakes, however, would prove to be a heartbreaking near-miss. Despite a strong start, Funny Cide faded in the final stretch, finishing third behind Empire Maker and Ten Most Wanted. Though he fell short of the Triple Crown, his valiant effort only added to his legacy. Funny Cide’s journey wasn’t just about winning—it was about proving that greatness could come from the most unexpected places.
Later Career and Retirement
After his Triple Crown bid, Funny Cide continued to race, showcasing the same grit and determination that had defined his early career. Though he never quite recaptured the magic of 2003, he remained a competitive force, earning respect and admiration from fans and competitors alike.
In 2007, Funny Cide retired to WinStar Farm in Kentucky, where he transitioned to life as a stallion. While his breeding career didn’t produce the same level of champions as his racing career, his presence at WinStar was a constant reminder of his enduring legacy. Visitors flocked to see the horse who had captured the nation’s heart, and Funny Cide greeted them with the same charm and humility that had made him a fan favorite.
On February 16, 2021, Funny Cide passed away at the age of 21. His death marked the end of an era, but his legacy lives on. Tributes poured in from across the racing world, celebrating the horse who had redefined what it meant to be a champion.
Legacy: The People’s Horse
Funny Cide’s impact on horse racing extends far beyond his victories. He became a symbol of hope and inspiration, proving that success isn’t always about pedigree or privilege—it’s about heart, determination, and the belief that anything is possible.
His story resonated with fans from all walks of life, drawing attention to the sport and inspiring a new generation of racing enthusiasts. Funny Cide’s legacy is a reminder that the greatest champions are often those who defy expectations and challenge the status quo.
In the pantheon of American thoroughbreds, Funny Cide will always stand out as the horse who broke the rules and captured the hearts of millions. His journey from humble beginnings to Triple Crown glory is a timeless tale of perseverance, heart, and the enduring power of the underdog spirit.
Funny Cide’s legacy lives on, not just in the record books but in the hearts of those who believe that with enough heart and determination, even the unlikeliest of champions can achieve greatness.
