Hall of Fame Trainer:
Bill Mott
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Mott supports his wife’s work with SWH. “I admire the people involved and what they are trying to accomplish,” he said respectfully. Mott’s father and uncle served in World War II and his brother is a Vietnam War Veteran. He spoke with reverence and honor about the Service Members. “To keep our country as safe as it has been, it is a remarkable feat. We owe that to our military.” When recently asked about the significance of Memorial Day for him, he replied, “I have the utmost respect for anyone who serves our country and sacrifices so much to do so.”
Mott is as excited with his accomplishments today as he was at 15 years old, when his first horse won at a bush league racetrack in South Dakota. “The thrill of it is the same,” Mott said. That win “sealed the deal” about his future profession as a racehorse trainer.
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He will always be remembered for his training of Cigar, winner of a record-tying 16 consecutive races in 1995-96.
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In 1998, Mott earned his place in the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame at only 45 years old, making him the youngest inductee.
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He has over 5,000 career wins!
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In 2010, Mott received his first Triple Crown victory with Drosselmeyer's upset of the Belmont Stakes.
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Mott has had 14 Triple Crown starters: seven in the Kentucky Derby, two in the Preakness and five in the Belmont.
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In May 2019, Country House won the 145th Kentucky Derby after Maximum Security was disqualified. It was a bittersweet win but a victory, nonetheless.
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On August 19, 2021, SWH will honor Bill Mott at their Annual Blue Spangled Gala.
