This lineup features original Kentucky Derby ticket stubs from every Triple Crown winner — with one special exception. While I don’t yet have the 1919 stub from Sir Barton’s historic run, I’ve included a rare 1920 Sir Barton vs. Man o’ War match race ticket as a unique placeholder. All other stubs are originals from the horses’ respective Derby wins. Journalism seems to have a chance to crack this list.
1919 – Sir Barton: The first Triple Crown winner. Using a 1920 Sir Barton vs. Man o’ War match race ticket in place of the Derby stub.
1930 – Gallant Fox: Only Triple Crown winner to sire another (Omaha).
1935 – Omaha: The second Crown winner — and the only one bred in the U.S. but raced overseas.
1937 – War Admiral: Son of Man o’ War and a fierce competitor, despite smaller stature.
1941 – Whirlaway: Known for his erratic running and blazing speed — the “Flying Tail.”
1943 – Count Fleet: Dominated the Belmont by 25 lengths, a record until Secretariat.
1946 – Assault: Overcame a physical disability to become one of racing’s most unlikely champions.
1948 – Citation: First horse to earn over $1 million and a true post-war superstar.
1973 – Secretariat: Set records in all three Triple Crown races — still unmatched today.
1977 – Seattle Slew: First horse to win the Triple Crown while undefeated.
1978 – Affirmed: Triumphed over rival Alydar in three thrilling photo finishes.
2015 – American Pharoah: Ended a 37-year drought and went on to win the Breeders’ Cup Classic — the only horse ever to claim the Grand Slam. Breeders’ Cup ticket included.
2018 – Justify: Only horse to win the Triple Crown without racing as a 2-year-old — retired undefeated.
