Wise Dan to Receive Comeback Award

Two-time Horse of the Year Wise Dan has been selected to receive the inaugural Rood & Riddle Comeback Award from the Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital near Lexington.

The award given to an equine athlete who overcame a major health complication and returned to elite competition will be presented at Hats Off to Kentucky's Horse Industry Day on July 30 at the Kentucky Horse Park.

A homebred for Morton Fink trained by Charlie LoPresti, Wise Dan compiled a 23-2-0 record from 31 starts for earnings of $7,552,920 before being retired in 2015 while attempting a comeback at age 8.

“We are pleased to present the inaugural Rood & Riddle Comeback Award to Wise Dan. Wise Dan exemplifies the characteristics of an outstanding athlete who suffered a major health issue and returned to compete successfully,” said Dr. Tom Riddle.

Wise Dan was cared for throughout his career by Rood & Riddle veterinarians, primarily Dr. Larry Bramlage, who looked after his orthopedic needs, and Dr. Scott Hopper, who performed colic surgery on the gelding in 2014.

“Wise Dan is a remarkable athlete and we are excited for him to receive this award. For him to recover from major surgery and come back to the level of competition he did and in such a short time is truly remarkable,” said LoPresti. “Rood & Riddle played a large part in Wise Dan’s success, specifically Drs. Bramlage and Hopper. We are thankful to the entire Rood & Riddle team.” 

The Rood & Riddle Comeback Award trophy presentation will be part of the opening ceremonies for the Rood & Riddle Kentucky Grand Prix at the Kentucky Horse Park. Prior to the trophy presentation, Wise Dan will make an appearance in the Rolex Stadium. Drs. Hopper will present the award to trainer Lopresti and farm manager Amy LoPresti.