American Pharoah is the heavy favorite for the 2015 Kentucky Derby. (Getty)
With a runaway victory in the June 6 Belmont Stakes, American Pharoah became the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978.
American Pharoah became the 12th horse to accomplish the feat.
Purchased in August 2013 for $300,000 when a yearling, American Pharoah was sent to train with Bob Baffert, one of the best in the business.
Considering American Pharoah’s pedigree, it was no wonder owner Ahmed Zayat wanted the newest member of his stable to get the best training.
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Here’s what you need to know about American Pharaoh:
1. American Pharoah Is Owned by Ahmed Zayat
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A native of Egypt, Zayat is the CEO of Zayat Stables, LLC, a thoroughbred company with stables all over the country.
The 52-year-old used to head Al Ahram Beverages, an Egyptian beverage company. He later led its sale to Heineken International.
Zayat lives in New Jersey with his wife Joanne and their 4 children. They have residences all over the world, including New York, Egypt and London.
The Kentucky Derby was Zayat’s first Triple Crown race victory.
2. Victor Espinoza Is American Pharoah’s Jockey
American Pharoah is ridden by Victor Espinoza, who rode California Chrome to Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes wins in 2014.
Espinoza also won the first two legs of the Triple Crown in 2002 with War Emblem, and then again in 2015.
Espinoza has over 3,200 career wins.
3. American Pharoah Has Strong Bloodlines
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American Pharoah’s sire is Pioneerof the Nile, who finished second in the 2009 Kentucky Derby. His grandsire is Empire Maker, the 2003 Belmont winner and Derby runner-up. Empire Maker’s father was 1990 Derby winning-champion Unbridled.
American Pharoah’s dam, Littleprincessemma, is a daughter of stakes-winning sprinters Yankee Gentleman and Exclusive Rosette.
He was foaled on February 2, 2012.
The 2015 Derby winner has serious pedigree.
4. He Has Won 7 Straight Races
With the exception of his maiden race, American Pharoah has dominated with 7 straight wins, including the Triple Crown events.
He has won the Del Mar Futurity (2014), the FrontRunner Stakes (2014), the Rebel Stakes (2015) and, most recently in April, the Arkansas Derby (2015).
Entering the Derby, American Pharoah had career earnings of $1.4 million, including $1.05 million in 2015.
5. American Pharoah Has Won an Eclipse Award
American Pharoah has already won a major Eclipse Award, taking the 2014 American Champion Two-Year-Old Male Horse.
He beat out Texas Red by 126 votes to 111.