Secretariat Last Hurrah Photo

Description

This very rarely seen Bob Coglianese image emanates from the New York Racing Association Archives. November 6, 1973 marked the official “Secretariat Farewell Day” at Aqueduct Race Course. The event provided a perfect bookending to Secretariat’s racing career which began on the same course only 16 months earlier.

In an amazing show of love and affection, Nearly 33,000 race fans showed up on a cold blustery today to share their goodbyes with Secretariat who would soon be heading into retirement at Claiborne Farm. To their delight, Ron Turcotte paraded Big Red through the length of the stretch, allowing those in attendance one last glimpse of their beloved Meadow Stable champion.

The photo captures groom Eddie Sweat and Secretariat beneath a striking wintry sky in the Aqueduct walking ring just prior to the farewell ceremony. The crisp and vibrant color image marks the first and only public appearance when Secretariat would be photographed with braided mane, perfectly playing his part in the pomp and circumstances of the day.

Photo may be available with the option of being hand-signed by Ron Turcotte, please inquire upon purchase. Measures 8″ x 10″ with larger sizes available by request.