niatross race record

Yr Starts  Wins   Earnings  Record  Track Taken

1980 - 26 - 24  $1,414,313  1:52.1  Hollywood Park

1979 - 13 - 13     $604,900  1:55.4  Meadowlands

 Life - 39 - 37 $2,019,213  1:49.1 Lexington (Time Trial)

Third in History 

Niatross became only the third horse in history to be named Horse of the Year as a two-year- old. His purse earnings of $604, 900 was a record for a two-year-old of any breed. His eleven sub two minute victories as a two-year-old set a new standard as well.

Record, What Record? 

As a three-year-old Niatross continued to rewrite the record books.

• He set 15 World Records. 
• He smashed 10 Track Records.
• His 24 sub two minute victories in one season was a record.
• He won 19 consecutive races, suffered two defeats, then stormed back to win his last 18 races.
• He became the first horse of any breed to win over $2,000,000 in two seasons of racing. 
• He retired as the richest standardbred ever.

My Humble Opinion 

The most amazing fact (in my humble opinion) about Niatross, is, that in his 37 career victories  (including over 20 stakes) Niatross was never involved in a photo finish. That's what makes his Time Trial significant.  The clock was his only true foe.

Driver Ed 

Niatross was driven by trainer/owner Clint Galbraith in 38 of his 39 races including Niatross' race  against the clock (time trial). Galbraith's stepson Don drove Niatross in a two year old race in 1979.

Barred? 

Niatross was barred from wagering or raced in non-betting races 16 times (including a baby race and the start at Saratoga when he fell over the hubrail). In races where wagering was allowed on Niatross, he went off at *1-5 three times, *1-9 eight times, and *1-10 five times. There were two starts Niatross was NOT the betting favorite. 

What horse was the favorite in both? (Whamo*)

* Note: Whamo, Niatross' arch rival, unfortunately died overthe winter and the rivalry was never to be.