John Nerud (1913–2015) stands among the most influential trainers in the history of American Thoroughbred racing. His career spanned several decades and helped shape modern training methods, race planning, and championship competition. One of the most important moments in his career came in 1957, when he trained the exceptional colt Gallant Man, a horse whose performances left a lasting mark on the sport.
Gallant Man’s Early Promise and the 1957 Kentucky Derby
Gallant Man entered the 1957 racing season as one of the most highly regarded three-year-olds in the United States. Bred in Kentucky and owned by Ralph C. Lowe, the colt had already demonstrated speed, stamina, and consistency against top-level competition.
The Kentucky Derby that year became one of the most discussed races in racing history. Gallant Man finished second after jockey Bill Shoemaker stood up slightly early, believing the finish line had been reached. Official race records confirm that Gallant Man lost by a narrow margin. While the result was disappointing, it did not define the colt’s season. Instead, it set the stage for a remarkable comeback under Nerud’s careful management.
The 1957 Summer Campaign
Following the Kentucky Derby, John Nerud adjusted Gallant Man’s campaign with a focus on longer distances and peak conditioning. The results were historic.
Belmont Stakes
The Belmont Stakes of 1957 became Gallant Man’s most celebrated victory. Competing over 1.5 miles, he won decisively by eight lengths. His winning time of 2:26⅗ set a new American record for the distance.
This performance was widely recognized by racing authorities and stood as the national benchmark for 16 years. The record remained intact until it was surpassed by Secretariat in 1973, a testament to the exceptional quality of Gallant Man’s run.
Travers Stakes
Later that summer, Gallant Man competed in the Travers Stakes at Saratoga Race Course, often referred to as the “Midsummer Derby.” He secured another major victory, defeating a strong field that included several elite three-year-olds.
The 1957 crop was considered one of the strongest of its era, featuring future champions such as Bold Ruler and Round Table. Gallant Man’s success against this competition further established his standing among the top Thoroughbreds of his generation.
Jockey Club Gold Cup
Gallant Man’s achievements extended beyond his age group. In the Jockey Club Gold Cup, he defeated older, more experienced horses, demonstrating versatility and endurance. Victories against older rivals are widely regarded as a key indicator of a horse’s overall quality, and this win added to his distinguished résumé.
Recognition and Career Legacy of Gallant Man
Gallant Man retired with an outstanding record and later earned induction into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. His Belmont Stakes performance remains one of the most important races in American racing history, frequently referenced in discussions of elite distance runners.
John Nerud’s Broader Influence on Horse Racing
While Gallant Man brought John Nerud widespread recognition, Nerud’s influence extended far beyond a single horse.
Tartan Farms and Dr. Fager
Nerud played a central role in developing Tartan Farms, owned by William L. McKnight, into one of the most successful operations in North American racing. Under Nerud’s guidance, Tartan Farms produced Dr. Fager, one of the most accomplished Thoroughbreds of the 20th century.
In 1968, Dr. Fager achieved an unprecedented feat by earning four Eclipse Awards in a single year: Horse of the Year, Champion Sprinter, Champion Handicap Horse, and Champion Turf Horse. This achievement remains unique in racing history.
Role in the Breeders’ Cup
John Nerud was also a founding force behind the creation of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. Established in 1984, the Breeders’ Cup transformed international racing by bringing together elite horses from around the world in a single annual event. Nerud’s vision helped elevate the sport’s global profile and modernize its championship structure.
Longevity and Professional Respect
Nerud lived to the age of 102 and remained mentally sharp and engaged with the racing industry well into his later years. He was widely respected for his disciplined training methods, emphasis on horse welfare, and long-term approach to developing champions.
Conclusion
The partnership between John Nerud and Gallant Man represents one of the most important chapters in American horse racing history. Gallant Man’s record-setting Belmont Stakes and dominant 1957 campaign showcased the effectiveness of Nerud’s training philosophy and strategic insight. Beyond this single season, Nerud’s broader contributions—including his work with Dr. Fager and the founding of the Breeders’ Cup—cemented his legacy as a transformative figure in the sport.
Together, John Nerud and Gallant Man exemplify excellence, resilience, and lasting impact in Thoroughbred racing.