The sports world is mourning the loss of D. Wayne Lukas, a towering figure in horse racing history, who passed away at the age of 89. Lukas, widely regarded as one of the most successful and influential trainers the sport has ever seen, left behind a legacy that extended far beyond the racetrack.
In a special tribute on the final day of the 2025 spring meet at Churchill Downs, the track deviated from its traditional “Call to the Post.” Instead, they honored Lukas with an emotional rendition of the Kentucky classic, “My Old Kentucky Home,” filling the air with remembrance and respect.
The outpouring of condolences reached beyond the horse racing circle. University of Kentucky men’s basketball head coach Mark Pope expressed his sorrow, describing Lukas as a “legendary winner” and recalling the kindness Lukas had shown him over the years. Taking to social media, Pope wrote, “Sad to hear about D. Wayne Lukas’ passing. He was a legendary winner and always treated me well! Sending my thoughts to his family and loved ones.”
Lukas, who died on June 28, 2025, after suffering complications from a serious MRSA bloodstream infection, played a major role in shaping Kentucky’s sports heritage. Throughout his extraordinary career, Lukas amassed close to 5,000 career victories and claimed multiple Kentucky Derby wins, setting a standard that many in the sport aspire to.
Over six decades, Lukas achieved remarkable milestones, including a staggering 15 wins in Triple Crown races, a testament to his enduring excellence and influence. His impact resonated not just within the racing community but across the broader Kentucky sports landscape.
Remarkably, even in his later years, Lukas remained a dominant presence in the sport. Just last year, he set another record by becoming the oldest trainer to win a Triple Crown race when his horse, Seize the Grey, triumphed at the Preakness Stakes.
In his final days, Lukas chose to remain in his Kentucky home, surrounded by family, faith, and peace. His family released a heartfelt statement saying that he passed away peacefully at home, where he felt closest to the things that mattered most: his loved ones and his faith. They found comfort in knowing he is now reunited with his late son Jeff, whose memory remained dear to him throughout his life.
Lukas’ death marks the end of an era for Kentucky sports. From horse racing to basketball and beyond, communities across the state now mourn the loss of an unforgettable icon whose competitive spirit and impact will never be forgotten.
