Online voting is officially open for the 12th annual Secretariat 'Vox Populi' Award. Won by Horse of the Year Authentic (Into Mischief) last year, the Vox Populi was created by Secretariat's late owner Penny Chenery and recognizes the racehorse whose popularity and racing excellence best resounded with the public and gained recognition for the sport during the previous year.
Fans can vote on one of six nominees selected by the award's committee or choose a write-in option. This year's nominees, along with their most recent winning race, are: GI NetJets Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies winner Echo Zulu (Gun Runner); GI Travers S. champ Essential Quality (Tapit); GI Pennsylvania Derby winner Hot Rod Charlie (Oxbow); GI Breeders' Cup Classic winner Knicks Go (Paynter); GI Spinster S. victress Letruska (Super Saver); and GI Big Ass Fans Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile scorer Life Is Good (Into Mischief).
“Our nominees this year represent some of the brightest moments for the sport in 2021,” said Chenery's daughter, Kate Chenery Tweedy. “We look forward to the fans celebrating their favorites by voting for the horses who thrilled them, who inspired them, and who provided them the most joy during another challenging year.”
In addition to 2020's Authentic, previous Vox Populi winners have included inaugural 2010 winner Zenyatta (Street Cry {Ire}), Ben's Cat (Parker's Storm Cat), and two-time honoree California Chrome (Lucky Pulpit).
For more information about the Vox Populi Award, visit Secretariat.com. Voting will be open through Nov. 30 and the winner will be announced in December.
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