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Book'em Danno Reigns Supreme: NJ Horse of the Year Again
18 Mar
Summary
- Book'em Danno named NJ-bred Horse of the Year for third consecutive year.
- Danno won four of five starts in 2025, earning Eclipse Award honors.
- Riding Pretty and Gold Trust also earned top honors in their categories.
Book'em Danno has once again been named the New Jersey-bred Horse of the Year, marking his third consecutive victory for this prestigious title. The gelding also secured honors as the champion older male and champion sprinter.
Under the ownership of Atlantic Six Racing LLC and training of Derek Ryan, Book'em Danno delivered an outstanding 2025 campaign. He won four of his five races, earning an Eclipse Award as the champion male sprinter. His victories included the Boston Handicap, the True North Stakes, the Vanderbilt Stakes, and the Forego Stakes.
Other notable equine athletes recognized included Holly Crest Farm's Riding Pretty, who was named champion older female for the second year in a row. Mike Dini's Gold Trust earned the title of champion turf runner after winning three of his five starts. Furthermore, Adorabella was honored as Broodmare of the Year for the fourth consecutive year, and Sea Wizard was named New Jersey Stallion of the Year for the third time.
Bred in New Jersey by Gregory Kilka and Bright View Farm, Book'em Danno is by Bucchero out of the mare Adorabella. Riding Pretty, bred by Holly Crest Farm, is a daughter of Jack Milton. Gold Trust, bred by Ballybrit Stable, LLC, is by Handsome Mike. The Thoroughbred Breeders' Association of New Jersey presented these accolades, celebrating a remarkable year in the state's racing circuit.
