If thoroughbred racing disappears from Illinois, as seems very likely, it will be no fault of Richard Duchossois, who did more than anyone (and more than anyone could have expected) to prop up that struggling sport for the past four decades.
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| RICHARD DUCHOSSOIS |
In 1981, Duchossois helped to create the world’s first million-dollar race, the Arlington Million.
In 1985, he was instrumental in staging the “Miracle Million” using tents and temporary bleachers on Arlington’s infield, just 23 days after the grandstand and clubhouse were completely destroyed by fire.
In 1989, he opened the rebuilt Arlington facility, which was far more magnificent than purely economic considerations would have dictated. Perhaps following his heart more than his head, Duchossois attended to every detail concerning the physical setting, amenities, and overall experience of his customers.
In 1985, he was instrumental in staging the “Miracle Million” using tents and temporary bleachers on Arlington’s infield, just 23 days after the grandstand and clubhouse were completely destroyed by fire.
In 1989, he opened the rebuilt Arlington facility, which was far more magnificent than purely economic considerations would have dictated. Perhaps following his heart more than his head, Duchossois attended to every detail concerning the physical setting, amenities, and overall experience of his customers.
In 1996, he offered a million-dollar purse to lure the great Cigar to Arlington, where the latter tied the all-time record (since broken) by winning his 16th consecutive race.
In 2002, he brought the Breeders’ Cup World Thoroughbred Championships to Arlington.
In 2002, he brought the Breeders’ Cup World Thoroughbred Championships to Arlington.
For Duchossois, none of these accomplishments equaled the victory of his mare Eclaire de Lune in the 2010 Beverly D Stakes. He was 88 years old and running out of time to win the race created for and named after his late wife. “I’d rather win this race than the Kentucky Derby,” he said as he wiped away tears of joy. “This one means more to me.”
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