Tribute to Secretariat’s 1973 Historic Kentucky Derby Win

Samuel J. Cachola Honors Equine Artistry and Legacy. End Quote

The Plaid Horse offered me a glimpse of what my best could look like just as Penny and Secretariat did for the world over 50 years ago.

(1888PressRelease) June 23, 2025 - QUANTICO, Va. — In a stirring confluence of art and equestrian history, The Plaid Horse proudly showcases the evocative work of poetic artist and Marine Corps veteran Samuel J. Cachola. His latest piece, “When the Trumpets Sound,” is a poetic essay that delves into themes of listening, leadership and love within the equestrian realm. This work pays homage to Secretariat’s legendary 1973 Kentucky Derby victory, a moment that forever changed the landscape of horse racing.

Secretariat’s record-breaking win at Churchill Downs where he completed the 1¼ mile race in 1:59.40, a track record that still stands, served as a central inspiration for Cachola’s composition. The artist’s unique perspective as a veteran brings depth and resonance to the portrayal of this iconic event.

“The Plaid Horse aims to support the entire equestrian community, as well as anyone with an appreciation for and curiosity about horses and the sport. As a Marine Corps veteran inspired by the equine world, Mr. Samuel Cachola’s compositions reflect the kind of literary work involving horses that we encourage and are proud to share,” said The Plaid Horse’s Senior Editor and Blog Editor Marley Lien-Gonzalez.

To fully experience Cachola’s tribute and explore more about Secretariat’s enduring legacy, visit the full essay at ThePlaidHorse.com.

Cachola commented, “I’m both grateful and blessed. To see something so deeply personal—what was once just a whisper shared with me—now in print, to be viewed as a poet, and treated as an artist for the first time… it’s a feeling that lives in the sacred space between humility and honor. And to have it all unfold on the heels and hooves of two of my heroes—Penny Chenery and Secretariat—makes it that much more profound. The Plaid Horse offered me a glimpse of what my best could look like—just as Penny and Secretariat did for the world over 50 years ago. Their support honors the artistry behind the science and continues to showcase the pursuit of purposeful excellence.”

A proud alumnus of The Big Red Barn Retreat’s Warrior PATHH program, Cachola credits the experience for helping him find the courage to share his voice.

“The Big Red Barn Retreat’s Warrior PATHH program with its emphasis on Post Traumatic Growth is where I found the strength to stop hiding my gift,” added Cachola. “And now, I humbly offer it forward.”

To learn more or to donate to The Big Red Barn Retreat, visit TheBigRedBarnRetreat.org.

Founded in 2003, The Plaid Horse is America’s Premier Horse Show Magazine, with distribution spanning over 1,000 horse shows, clinics, events and competitions across the U.S. and Canada. Its commitment to celebrating equestrian excellence is exemplified in its support of artists like Cachola, who bridge the worlds of art and horsemanship.

About Samuel J. Cachola: After serving with the United States Marine Corps and the Defense Intelligence Agency for 25 years, Samuel J. Cachola spent the first 50 years of his journey invested in overcoming, understanding, preparing and honing his ability to persevere, protect and serve. He has led and owned several real estate companies in his local community with a focus on serving and supporting community heroes. Like many, he has been dealt a few cards over time that he wished he could have traded in but would never do so knowing the wisdom, and appreciation for the lessons garnered would also be returned. He is a staunch advocate for love. At age 49, he discovered his creative passion for poetry for the first time in his life.

About The Plaid Horse: The Plaid Horse: The Plaid Horse is America’s Premier Horse Show Magazine. The Plaid Horse was founded in 2003 to serve the equestrian community. In the past year, distribution has included over 1,000 horse shows, clinics, events, scholastic and collegiate competitions and more. Shows in the last year have included: The Maryland 5 Star, the Pennsylvania National Horse Show, Capital Challenge Horse Show and The Las Vegas National Horse Show. Issues of The Plaid Horse Magazine can be found at horse shows and select tack shops all over the US and Canada and also available via subscription.

Media Contact:
Cachola Team
editor ( @ ) samueljcachola dot com

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Visit Samuel J. Cachola Website

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