Alydar

Alydar was a prominent American racehorse, known for his intense rivalries, particularly with the 1978 Triple Crown winner, Affirmed. Alydar was foaled in 1975 and was the son of Exclusive Native and Won't Tell You.1

Alydar and Affirmed first met in 1977, engaging in several close races throughout their juvenile year, with Affirmed winning more of their encounters. Their rivalry intensified in 1978 when they competed in the Triple Crown races. Alydar finished second to Affirmed in the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes, and again in the Belmont Stakes, making him the first horse to place second in all three races. Despite these losses, Alydar achieved a victory over Affirmed in the Travers Stakes later that year, though Affirmed was disqualified. Alydar's offspring, including Alysheba, also achieved success in racing.12