Breaking News: Thorpedo Anna, the reigning Horse of the Year, has officially retired from racing, leaving fans both saddened and excited for her future!
This announcement, made on October 15, 2025, marks the end of an era for the remarkable filly, who will now transition to a career as a broodmare at John Sikura's Hill 'n' Dale Farms at Xalapa near Paris, Kentucky. This move comes after trainer Kenny McPeek revealed that Thorpedo Anna, despite being examined by veterinarians, including Dr. Larry Bramlage, showed signs of mild bone bruising, typical for horses competing at her level. Although she could have returned to training within 90 days, the decision was made to retire her.
Her retirement was widely anticipated, especially after her fourth-place finish at the Spinster Stakes (G1) at Keeneland on October 5th, where she finished 8 1/2 lengths behind the winner.
But here's where it gets interesting: A 20% share in Thorpedo Anna will be offered at Keeneland's Championship Sale on October 29th at Del Mar. This presents a unique opportunity for buyers to invest in her future as a broodmare. Shannon Arvin, president and CEO of Keeneland, emphasized the filly's captivating presence on the track and the extraordinary chance for fans to participate in her next chapter.
Thorpedo Anna's 2025 season saw her secure a 4-for-6 record, with victories in the Azeri Stakes (G2), Apple Blossom Handicap (G1), Fleur de Lis Stakes (G2), and Personal Ensign Stakes (G1).
Her 3-year-old season was nothing short of spectacular, winning 6 out of 7 races. Her impressive wins included the Kentucky Oaks (G1) at Churchill Downs and the Breeders' Cup Distaff (G1) at Del Mar, which solidified her title as Horse of the Year. She was also recognized as the Eclipse Award-winning 3-year-old filly of 2024.
Thorpedo Anna's racing career includes a record of 12-2-0 in 16 starts, amassing earnings of $5,440,913. She achieved 10 graded stakes wins. The 4-year-old daughter of Fast Anna was co-owned by Brookdale Racing, Magdalena Racing, Mark Edwards, and Judy Hicks, with Hill 'n' Dale Equine Holdings joining the ownership this summer.
And this is the part most people miss: Thorpedo Anna was purchased by McPeek for $40,000 at the 2022 Fasig-Tipton Kentucky October Yearling Sale. Her dam, Sataves, was named Broodmare of the Year in 2024. Sikura expressed excitement about Thorpedo Anna's transition, highlighting her status as one of the most accomplished fillies in history. McPeek expressed gratitude for the fans' support throughout her career.
Controversy & Comment Hooks: What do you think about Thorpedo Anna's early retirement? Do you agree with the decision to retire her now, or do you think she could have continued racing successfully? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
