Rae Hobson Memorial Library, Republic, KS

05/11/2026

05/03/2026

KENTUCKY OAKS 2026 — THE RACE OF THE QUEENS🐎
There was a story hidden beneath Always A Runner's saddle long before she stepped into the gate.
Last fall, a serious case of pneumonia had put her entire career in doubt. A month in a veterinary clinic, a hyperbaric chamber — and then silence. No racing at two. Chad Brown had received the worst phone call of his season.
On Friday night, under the lights of Churchill Downs — switched on for the first time in Oaks history — that story found its ending.
Always A Runner, a daughter of Gun Runner, won the 152nd Kentucky Oaks in front of 103,290 fans, crossing the wire in 1:48.62. Meaning was second, Counting Stars third. Just her third career start. Three races, three wins.
Jockey José Ortiz had never ridden her in competition before that night — only a morning workout. His words after: "Chad told me to go out there and feel her in the work. He said I'd feel a sports car — like a Ferrari. He was right."
For trainer Chad Brown, it was his first Oaks victory.
The lily garland on her neck. The Twin Spires lit up against the night sky. A filly born to run — who was always running, even when no one was watching yet🐎