Clifford (horse)

Clifford (1890–1917) is a deceased racehorse who was best known for being inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 2014.

Clifford was a bay or brown horse who to many was perceived as ugly and weak. The New York Times said “As a yearling he was one of the poorest-looking animals of the lot in which he was offered for sale, and nothing great was expected of him," but as he turned into a legend the times said "one of the most brilliant performers the American turf has ever known," He was born in Nashville, Tennessee at Jackson’s Belle Meade Stud. He was owned by Clifford Porter who named the horse after his first name. He was sired by the stallion Bramble, and his dam was champion mare The Duchess.

Clifford had an unexceptional maiden season, winning a maiden special weight but not returning to the races that year.

The biggest and best year for Clifford was the 3-year-old-season. In this season he won a total of 18 races from 24 starts. With 11 consecutive races in 5 weeks and carrying over 25 more pounds than his rivals. He also won multiple big races such as the Phoenix Handicap Latonia Spring Prize. But most importantly the Eclipse Award for champion 3 year old colt award.

As a 4-year-old Clifford went on to win another 10 races from 16 starts. The biggest win being in the Second Special.

This year Clifford was able to repeat the Second Special. He also won the Omnium, Club Members and Oriental handicaps.

The 6-year-old-season was far from the best year for Clifford. Only winning 3 of 6 races, even though he finished in the money every single time. Despite this he managed to win the Memorial Handicap and the Flight Stakes.

The big win for his final season was the Long Island Handicap after which he then retired after coming up sore after his 3rd place Finnish in the Omnium Handicap.

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Wikipedia