DEL MAR, California–History can be a sprint from one anachronism to the next, but every now and then it hands us spectators something unique across generations. You know, one of those full circle moments where we can witness a learner transforming into a future master.
A little over 40 years ago at the inaugural Breeders’ Cup World Championships hosted by Hollywood Park, Monsieur Alain de Royer-Dupre saddled Lashkari (GB) (Mill Reef) for His Highness The Aga Khan. The 3-year-old took home the very first Breeders’ Cup Turf, which was one of many important international races the legendary French trainer collected over the course of his illustrious career.
The expert horseman, who competed in dressage at the Grand Prix level before turning to Thoroughbreds, became the principal trainer for His Highness in the early 1980s. Not only was he a master in his own right, but he also influenced the next generation of would-be trainers…