Graded stakes winner DECORATED SOLDIER (racing photo by Michael Burns) was retired by owners Racer’s Edge and Maxis Stables and trainer Norm McKnight recently. The personable chestnut 6-year-old by Proud Citizen – Lakenheath by Colonial Affair, nicknamed Cortez, was adopted by Melia Blakely of Orillia, ON who has re-trained many off-track Thoroughbreds.
Decorated Soldier won seven of 23 races and $399,818. He was claimed by Racer’s Edge and Maxis Stables for $20,000 from trainer Steve Asmussen in the spring of 2018 and won the Grade 3 Seagram Cup Stakes at Woodbine and the $200,000 Presque Isle Mile. He was bred by Green Lantern Farm in Kentucky and was originally a $120,000 yearling purchase.
Decorated Soldier at work in his new home.
He was unplaced in five races this year including a $15,000 claiming race at Woodbine. Ten days later he was trotting around a ring with Blakely riding him.
“He is super cool,” said Blakely, who has posted many photos of her new acquisition on her Facebook page.
By Jennifer Morrison
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