Commando (horse)


Commando was an American Hall of Fame Champion Thoroughbred racehorse.

Racing career

Bred at Castleton Stud by owner James R. Keene, Commando raced at age two, winning five of his six starts and finishing second in the other as a result of jockey error. At age three, Commando raced only three times, winning the Belmont Stakes and the Carlton Stakes. In the Belmont Stakes at Morris Park Racecourse he faced two opponents, only one of whom, The Parader was seen as a serious rival. Commando made almost all the running before going clear in the straight and winning easily. Although he finished second, an injury in the Lawrence Realization Stakes ended his racing career.
DateTrackRaceDistance
Finish
Chart commentNotes
6-25-1900Sheepshead BayZephyr Stakes6 1 "Much the best"Futurity course
Track: good
6-30-1900Sheepshead BayGreat Trial Stakes6 1 "Eased up"Futurity course
7-6-1900Brighton BeachMontauk Stakes61 "Outclassed rest"
8-7-1900Brighton BeachBrighton Junior61 "best"
9-11-1900GravesendJunior Championship61 "Eased up at end"
10-2-1900Morris ParkMatron Stakes6 2 "Poor ride"Eclipse course
5-23-1901Morris ParkBelmont Stakes111 "Tired at end"
6-1-1901GravesendCarlton Stakes81 "Never extended"
7-4-1901Sheepshead BayLawrence Realization132 "Tired badly, game"Track: muddy

Stud record

Retired to stand at stud at Castleton Farm, Commando proved to be a successful sire. Unfortunately he died on 13 March 1905 at age seven after developing tetanus from a cut sustained to his foot. He was buried at Castleton Farm. Although his breeding career was limited to four seasons, Commando produced 10 stakes winners from 27 foals and posthumously topped the U.S. sire list in 1907. Among his progeny were Hall of Fame champions Colin and Peter Pan.

Honors

In 1956, Commando was inducted posthumously into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. A painting of Commando by equine artist Charles L. Zellinsky is on display as part of the Museum's collection.

Pedigree