Nyquist More Than Rewarded Ryan's Confidence

Bloodstock agent Mike Ryan examined more than 1,000 yearlings in the months leading up to the 2014 Keeneland September Yearling Sale, but there was one that made a bigger impression than the others. 

"I had seen him at Dromoland Farm on several occasions during his development, but I remember the last time I saw him with Gerry Dilger's consignment," the veteran horseman said of the flashy bay who was later named Nyquist . "I'd seen quite a few by Uncle Mo  that I was impressed with, but seeing him as a mature yearling, he took my breath away. He was a phenomenal physical." 

Ryan had little inkling that the colt he pinhooked later that year with his partners would set the standard for his division two years running, earning champion honors at 2 before sweeping into Churchill Downs undefeated to win the 2016 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (G1). 

Campaigned by Reddam Racing and trained by Doug O'Neill, Nyquist sailed into the annals of history with ease and rewarded the confidence of all those who helped elevate the colt to the top levels of competition.  

REPLAY: Nyquist Wins Kentucky Derby 142

"He was managed extremely well, and his races were just phenomenal," Ryan said. "Of course, the crowning achievement was to see him cross the wire in front in the Kentucky Derby. That doesn't often happen. Sure, we're in this business to make a living, but we want to buy horses that perform well, and it's very gratifying when you see a horse like him go to the top. It makes it that much more special." 

A respected horseman known for having one of the keenest eyes for talent in the business, Ryan continues to breed, scout, and develop Thoroughbred talent. Nyquist's victory kicked off a special couple of seasons for the agent. Ryan and several of his partners made a return trip to the first of the American classics one year later with Always Dreaming , who won his own renewal of the Kentucky Derby in impressive fashion. 

"Nyquist started a really special two years for us," Ryan said. "His win in the Derby, to that time, was our greatest achievement in breeding and racing. But to come back and do it two years in a row was off the charts. It's very humbling and special." 

Nyquist is now part of the Darley stallion roster, and his first 2-year-olds are making their way onto the racetrack this year. Ryan, who still makes it a point to see as many horses as he can before the sales, has high hopes for the progeny of the budding freshman stallion. 

"(Nyquist) is one of my all-time favorite horses because he was classy from day one," Ryan said. "It's exciting now that he has 2-year-olds on the track, and I hope he'll be as good of a sire as he was a racehorse—and I believe he will." 

Subscribe to BloodHorse Daily to view expanded photos of Nyquist's victory in the April 30 edition!