LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Bill Mott’s journey in horse racing began unexpectedly in a GMC pickup truck in 1967, bolstered by the fervent commentary of a radio announcer broadcasting the Kentucky Derby. At just 14 years old, Mott was captivated as Proud Clarion clinched the prestigious race that year. Inspired by the experience, he persuaded his veterinarian father to invest in his first racehorse, launching a lifelong passion that would eventually culminate in multiple Derby victories.
For Mott, now a seasoned trainer, the Kentucky Derby embodies more than just a race; it is a narrative of hard work, resilience, and the audacity to chase dreams. His son, Riley, embodies this sentiment, stating, “He’s the most down-to-earth person I’ve ever met. I try to emulate him every day.”
The path to success has been anything but easy. In 1976, Mott’s six races yielded just one win, equating to $3,000 in earnings. However, a pivotal moment came in 2019 when Mott’s horse, Country House, won the Derby despite crossing the finish line second—thanks to the disqualification of another competitor. This complex victory shaped Mott’s perspective on triumph in the sport.
As the 151st Kentucky Derby approached, Mott reflected on the dreams of his youth while preparing to send his horse, Sovereignty, onto the track. “I never even dreamed I would ever be here,” he said, contrasting the realization of his ambitions with the modest aspirations of his teenage self. Mott, now 72, expressed that being at Churchill Downs felt surreal, akin to an extraordinary journey into the unknown.
Sovereignty’s performance during the Derby was a testament to both Mott’s training acumen and the partnership he built with jockey Junior Alvarado. Their collaboration had already yielded significant success, including a prior victory with Cody’s Wish, named Horse of the Year in 2023. Despite facing adversity, including a recent injury that sidelined Alvarado temporarily, Mott remained steadfast in his belief in their partnership.
Alvarado’s return to the saddle for the Derby showcased his confidence as he skillfully navigated Sovereignty through the field, even when the horse initially lagged behind. “I knew I got them, so let me just wait a little bit more,” Alvarado recalled, demonstrating both patience and strategy as the race unfolded.
The culmination of years of hard work was palpable as Mott’s family shared in the celebration. It was a moment filled with emotion as Mott watched Sovereignty emerge as a genuine champion, crossing the finish line first. “I never get enough of it, you know,” Mott shared, allowing the significance of the moment to wash over him.
For Mott, each victory carries the weight of dreams realized and aspirations fulfilled. He stood among his family, stunned by the magnitude of their achievement and absorbing the celebration that surrounded him. The journey from a young boy enraptured by a radio broadcast to a two-time Derby winner encapsulates the essence of perseverance and the rewards that come from relentlessly pursuing one’s dreams.