John Henry

John Henry DVD

2011-02-03T21:25:00.002-05:00

2011 Comments and Thoughts

2011-01-05T21:17:00.000-05:00

Please post comments and thoughts for 2011 here.

October 2010

2010-09-30T22:01:00.001-04:00

Please post thoughts and comments for October here. It will be three years this month that John crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

September 2010 Comments

2010-08-31T21:40:00.000-04:00

Please post thoughts and comments here.

July Comments and Thoughts

2010-07-07T22:45:00.001-04:00

Please post thoughts and comments for July here.

Thanks!

June 2010 Comments

2010-06-04T21:41:00.001-04:00

Please post thoughts or comments here.

Here are three more!

2010-05-15T01:29:00.000-04:00

JH Documentary Premiere May 2, 2010

2010-05-15T01:18:00.005-04:00

Here are some pictures of attendees from the May 2nd showing of the film.

John Henry Documentary Update

2010-04-20T23:05:00.002-04:00

JOHN HENRY LIVES!!!

Open Sky Entertainment and Launchpad Releasing to debut doc on the late, great racehorse John Henry at the Kentucky Derby

Los Angeles, CA, April 19, 2010

For Immediate Release:

Open Sky Entertainment, in cooperation with Launchpad Releasing, is rolling out their new documentary film entitled “JOHN HENRY: A STEEL DRIVING RACEHORSE.” The film, about the most successful horse in U.S. horseracing history, will make its theatrical debut on May 2nd at the Kentucky Horse Park. The film will simultaneously be available to purchase on DVD at the film’s official website, www.johnhenrymovie.com as well as several other, major online retailers and retail chains to be announced.

There will be two shows, in the theatre at the Kentucky Horse Park (4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, Kentucky 40511), one at 6pm and one 8pm on Sunday, May 2, 2010. There will be special DVD give-aways at both shows. Space is limited so email your RSVP to tickets@johnhenrymovie.com to reserve your seat today.

About the film:

Open Sky producers Glenn Garland and Christopher Duddy describe their documentary as “a great American hero rag to riches story with great inspiration for all generations.” The film is directed by Cameron Duddy and Christian Koby, both noted music video directors. Rebecca Gebhard served as producer. Max Eisenberg (“A CALL TO REMEMBER,” “BEVERLY HILLS 90210,” “HOME IMPROVEMENT”) is both a writer and producer.

John Henry lived from March 9, 1975 – October 8, 2007; which made him over 100 (in horse years). He earned over $6.5 million during his racing years, between 1977 and 1984. He was the winner of 30 stakes races, was voted “Horse of the Year” in both 1981 and 1984, and was even included in 1984’s “People Magazine’s Top People” roundup story.

The “John Henry” film chronicles the life and legacy of this remarkable animal, and includes interviews with celebrities, dignitaries and other notables that knew him (or won big money from his successes) as well as interviews with the famous jockeys who rode him, including Chris McCarron and Laffit Pincay Jr.

About his goals for the film, Producer Chris Duddy says: "We are very excited to share the story of this legendary racehorse and the life and times of this true American hero. We hope this film will inspire all generations with its timeless, true rags to riches American story. I think not only the racehorse fan, but all Americans who have a dream should see this inspirational film."

Press Contact:

Christian Koby, Director, christian.koby@yahoo.com, 925-785-1477

April 2010 Comments

2010-04-02T22:34:00.001-04:00

Please post comments, thoughts for April here.

Thanks!

John

Happy Birthday John Henry

2010-03-09T01:20:00.001-05:00

John Henry

It is not about just "a horse;" but about perseverance, dedication, motivation, hard work, and tenacity. It is about John Henry succeeding, winning, setting records, and capturing the hearts and spirit of thousands of fans all across the country for many years. And even now, 22 years after retirement, John still is an inspiration to many. John was not born into thoroughbred racing royalty; but worked, struggled, and fought valiantly for what he earned and accomplished. John Henry's passion, will, determination, intelligence, and "heart" made him a true champion, and definitely a legend!

John Henry was an animal who inspired human beings by his free spirit, honor, intelligence, humor, love of life, and everything else life has to offer. John has proved to us time and time again, that persistence, bravery and courage can overcome misfortune and adversity; and that even the "common man" or "common horse" has the potential to be a great champion, hero, and true friend. All of us can learn from the never-ending lessons he taught us. As it was said about him: “Even though he did not always win, he never gave up.”

March 2010 Comments

2010-02-26T22:21:00.001-05:00

Please post comments and thoughts for March 2010 here.

Thanks!

John

Comments for February 2010

2010-01-29T23:11:00.000-05:00

Comments, thoughts for February 2010

Barbaro

2010-01-26T01:58:00.004-05:00

In Loving Memory of Barbaro

April 29, 2003 – January 29, 2007

Pictures of the Barbaro statue at Churchill Downs

January 2010 Comments

2010-01-02T22:39:00.001-05:00

Please post comments for January 2010 here.

Thanks!

John

December 2009 Comments

2009-12-04T23:00:00.000-05:00

Please post comments, thoughts here.

Thanks!

John K

November 2009 Comments

2009-11-03T23:09:00.003-05:00

Please post comments, thoughts for November here.

Thanks!

John

Update from Christian Koby

2009-11-03T23:08:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone!
It has been a long time coming but "John Henry: The Steel Driving Racehorse" The movie, is on the brink of being released and put on the market to be purchased. A new website has been launched where a new trailer, clips, bios etc. can be viewed. I encourage everyone to check it out! The movie will be available to be purchased from the site shortly. In the meantime I hope you enjoy!!! and I can't wait to finally share this film with all of you, with whom many of you were a part of, and honor John's life, career and thousands of devoted fans and admirers. the site can be seen here. johnhenrymovie.com
I will update you with further information as it comes in.

Sincerely,
Christian Koby

October 2009 Comments

2009-10-03T17:53:00.000-04:00

Please post comments for October here.

Thanks!

September Comments

2009-09-05T00:56:00.001-04:00

Please post your thoughts and comments for September here.

Thanks!

The Inaugural Arlington Million 1981

2009-08-21T01:13:00.007-04:00

On Sunday August 30, 1981, 30,367 fans watched at Arlington Park, as John Henry won the inaugural race over The Bart. The finish was immortalized by the statue of John and The Bart located in the paddock area. Thanks to Wendy U. in MI for the use of her photos!

August 2009 Thoughts and Comments

2009-08-02T02:22:00.001-04:00

Please post comments for August here.

Thanks!

John K

July 2009 Thoughts and Comments

2009-07-02T22:38:00.001-04:00

Please post thoughts and comments for July here.

Thanks!

John K

June 2009 Comments

2009-06-20T01:35:00.001-04:00

Please post comments and thoughts for June here.

Thanks!

John K

Comments for May and some pictures from my last trip to KY

2009-05-10T20:18:00.013-04:00

Please post comments for May here. From my trip last weekend, I posted a few pics from the KHP, and Churchill Downs.

April 2009 Comments

2009-04-01T00:27:00.001-04:00

Please post comments, thoughts for April here.

Thanks!

John K

Phil Marino - John Henry's First Trainer

2009-03-06T21:32:00.006-05:00

Thanks to Tammy S in KY, for use of the photos.

Phil Marino, John Henry's first trainer, passed away Thursday, February 26, 2009. Steve Haskin wrote a nice article regarding Phil; the link is copied below.

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/horse-racing-steve-haskin/archive/2009/03/03/Phil-Marino-Remembered.aspx

March 2009 Comments

2009-03-06T21:30:00.001-05:00

Please post thoughts, comments for March here.

Thanks!

February 2009 Comments

2009-02-03T01:01:00.002-05:00

Please post your comments and thoughts here.

Thanks!

John K

January 2009 Thoughts

2009-01-01T03:44:00.001-05:00

Please post your thoughts and comments for January 2009 here.

Thank you.

John K

December 2008 Comments

2008-12-04T18:43:00.003-05:00

Please post your thoughts and comments for December here.

Thank you!

John K

From Bob C in PA

2008-11-12T00:56:00.005-05:00

From Bob C in PA, the card is on John's grave. Thanks Bob!

A Few Pictures from the KHP on October 21, 2008

2008-10-29T20:52:00.006-04:00

A few pictures from my trip to the KHP on Tuesday October 21, 2008.

In Memory

2008-10-09T02:30:00.000-04:00

Photos from the Dedication of John's Statue - October 8, 2008

2008-10-08T21:48:00.007-04:00

Here are a few photos from the KHP at today's dedication. Thanks to Elizabeth in KY for taking and sending me these pics to post on John's blog.

October 2008 Comments

2008-09-29T03:31:00.002-04:00

Please post your thoughts and comments for October here.
Thank you!

John K

September 2008 Comments

2008-09-01T01:26:00.000-04:00

Please post your comments for September here.

August 2008 Comments

2008-08-01T22:50:00.001-04:00

Please post your comments and thoughts for August here.

Thanks!

Dr. John

July 2008 Comments

2008-07-08T23:10:00.000-04:00

Please post thoughts, comments for July here.

John Henry Memorial Stakes Race Trophy

2008-07-03T23:51:00.004-04:00

In anticipation of the soon (we hope!) to be named John Henry Gr 1 stakes race, Bob C has already designed the trophy to be presented to the winning horse.

Thanks Bob! John will be proud!

Dr. John

John's Statue

2008-07-01T00:13:00.007-04:00

Shelley is making excellent progress on John's statue. These photos were taken Saturday June 28, 2008.

John Henry Memorial Adoption Fair

2008-06-30T00:25:00.019-04:00

Pictures from the 1st JH Memorial Fair held at the KHP on Saturday June 28, 2008. About 400 people were in attendance for this worthy event.

June 2008 Comments

2008-06-01T14:23:00.001-04:00

Please post your comments for the month of June here.

A Reminder from Bob P

2008-05-23T23:46:00.002-04:00

Everyone,

A good reminder from Bob P.

John's guestbook is still open and photos and memos can still be posted.
http://www.legacy.com/Kentucky/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=95833612

Also Chicago Barn to Wire has a nice John Henry page with a lot of links.
http://www.barntowire.com/Gallery/Gallery-JohnHenry.html

The link to Lydia Williams Shedrow Memorial to John.
http://theshedrow.com/gallery/johnhenry

Just so no one will forget him..................
Bob P.

Thanks Bob!

Dr. John

A Few Pictures from May 4, 2008

2008-05-15T01:01:00.003-04:00

A few pictures from my visit to the KHP on Sunday May 4, 2008.

Dr. John

Comments, Thoughts for May 2008

2008-05-07T00:10:00.001-04:00

Please post your comments, thoughts for May here. Thank you!

Dr. John

More Pictures

2008-04-18T00:53:00.018-04:00

More pictures from Santa Anita and John's birthday March 9, 2008.
Thanks to Judy G for sending the pictures!

April Comments and Thoughts

2008-04-09T23:24:00.000-04:00

Please post your comments and thoughts here.

Against All Odds

2008-03-21T18:39:00.004-04:00

Above are three pictures that I took on Sunday March 16, 2008. They are of the John Henry and The Bart statue in Arlington Park, Arlington Illinois. Sorry for the poor quality, the pictures were taken through the glass window.

Dr. John

More Pics From Sunday March 9, 2008

2008-03-13T23:10:00.003-04:00

More pictures from Sunday's celebration. Thanks to Bob and Mary for these photos!

Photos From John's Memorial Birthday Celebration

2008-03-11T01:12:00.004-04:00

Photos from John's celebration on Sunday March 9, 2008.

John Henry's Birthday March 9

2008-02-22T20:57:00.002-05:00

I am sure all of you are aware that John's birthday will be here soon. Please feel free to post your comments and thoughts here.

Thank you.

Dr. John

NOTICE - These Photographs are Copyrighted

2008-02-02T23:25:00.000-05:00

Notice - ALL photographs on this Blog are COPYRIGHTED. These photos are exclusive property of the respective photographers who have taken those photos, and accordingly are owned entirely by those individuals, and may not be used in ANY way without their PRIOR consent and written permission. Individuals found stealing the photographs from this blogsite will be subject to legal prosecution.

Comments, thoughts, ideas

2008-01-12T18:35:00.000-05:00

Please post your comments, thoughts, ideas here.

The State of Kentucky's Most Intriguing Person of 2007

2007-12-14T01:44:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone,

Please vote for John Henry as Kentucky's most intriguing person in 2007. The deadline to vote is December 19, 2007.

http://www.kentucky.com/601/story/255923.html

Thanks!

John

Photo by Tammy modified by Bob C in PA

2007-11-21T18:39:00.000-05:00

JH Documentary

2007-11-02T02:11:00.000-04:00

For information on the upcoming JH documentary, check out http://www.myspace.com/johnhenrythemovie or http://johnhenryracing.wordpress.com

Pictures from John's Memorial on October 19, 2007

2007-10-22T02:02:00.000-04:00

Tributes to John Henry

2007-10-18T01:01:00.000-04:00

Please post your tributes to John Henry here.

Thanks!

John K

A JH Video from 9-22-07

2007-10-04T01:41:00.000-04:00

Check out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMq29uTz7P0

Thanks Bob and Mary!

A Few Pictures from Last Weekend 9-30-07

2007-10-04T01:33:00.000-04:00

More Photos from Last Weekend

2007-09-28T01:45:00.000-04:00

Photos from 9-20-07 thru 9-22-07 description: From the BOTTOM to the TOP. 008 Cathy w/ John peeping out; 039 Lewis Cenicola, unknown, Donna Cenicola; 043 Judy Gadwood, Lewis and Donna Cenicola; 57 Lewis, John, Cathy; 075 Donna Cenicola, Mary Pero(Fla), Robin (HOC,background), Judy Gadwood(Ca), Garnetta Graham(Lex); 094 Barbara and Lewis 097, ???? and John 101; Maryjean Wall(Lex Herald Leader Newspaper) and John; 106, Mary (Simmons?) from Rerun; 123 Cigar (not to be left out); 005 ???? and Lewis, John 007; Lewis and John 032; John Henry 127; John holding Mary Pero hostage for a cookie 135, Mary points out John’s only grey hairs; 013 Garnetta Graham(Lex) and John

Thanks Mary and Bob!

Pictures from the past weekend 9-22 to 9-24

2007-09-26T04:17:00.000-04:00

Here are a few pictures from this past weekend.

John Henry Stories

2007-09-23T15:14:00.000-04:00

Please Post Your Favorite John Henry Story Here!

Thanks!

Dr. John

John Henry Update September 17, 2007

2007-09-17T22:08:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone,

I just spent the past three days (9-14 to 9-16) with John Henry. He had a good day on both Saturday and Sunday. He was eating just about everything: including hay, carrots, mints, apples, his feed, chocolate muffins, donuts, grass, and Oreo crisps. He was also drinking lots of water. When I left on Sunday at 7 pm, he was in his paddock eating grass. He has the "look" in his eye, and his disposition is "typical John Henry." Please keep up the prayers, positive thoughts, and best wishes! Thanks!

Here are two pics from Sunday.

Dr. John

Update from Cindy at the Kentucky Horse Park

2007-08-17T22:54:00.000-04:00

To John Henry’s Loyal Fans:

3:15pm Friday, August 17, 2007

We just wanted to let you know that despite rumors to the contrary, John Henry is doing just fine! He has been receiving fluid therapy this week, which his veterinarian prescribed as a precautionary measure, to make sure he is getting the electrolytes he needs during this record heat wave. His blood work from this morning came back in the normal range and the plan is to discontinue the fluids after today’s dose. He was out for a walk today. He is eating his hay voraciously, and has been all week, although like most animals and people who are outside in this excessive heat, he is not eating as much as usual. Also like most animals and people who are outside right now, he is moving slower than usual and has lost a minor amount of weight from sweating. He receives daily medications for Cushings, which he has been on since he was diagnosed with the disease 1 ½ years ago. He has always exercised himself in the paddock, so it was not necessary to provide additional exercise until recently. I would respectfully suggest that all of us who love John Henry should rejoice that he has been graciously and generously granted 32 years of life and a resurgence of health and vitality, many years beyond his life expectancy. Every day is a gift. Let’s be very grateful and enjoy each moment!

Thank you Cindy for the detailed update! We all appreciate hearing the great news!

Dr. John

John Henry's Restaurant - Tempe AZ

2007-08-13T23:40:00.002-04:00

When in the Phoenix AZ area, stop at John Henry's Restaurant. Yes, it is named after our beloved John Henry.

A little bit of history~

Established in August of 1992 by owners John Lake and Neven Bajlo, John Henry's has become the favorite of discerning clientele who truly appreciate exceptional service, excellent fare and fine wines served in a relaxed, romantic atmosphere. Decorated in rich green and oak, we feature our namesake, legendary winning racehorse, John Henry, in our spacious split-level main dining room. Intimate candlelit table settings, fresh flowers and discreet but attentive service encourage romance for our diners as they appreciate the musical stylings of entertainer, Jared Howe. The theme continues in our comfortable lounge where our friendly staff serve premium wines, excellent cognacs and single-malt scotches in addtion to the wide selections of beer and spirits. The perfect setting for special occasions and business meetings when only the VERY BEST will do.

Check out their web site:

http://www.johnhenrysrestaurant.com

Thanks!

John

Post Your Favorite JH Story Here

2007-08-07T22:50:00.000-04:00

Please post your favorite John Henry story here.

John in the Parade of Breeds

2007-08-02T18:30:00.000-04:00

Update from Cindy at the KHP 8-2-07.

"Thought you guys would like to see a photo taken of John Henry yesterday (not 20 years ago), which ought to brighten your day. He decided to make an appearance in the Parade of Breeds (not the Hall of Champions). Now that he is going on excursions around the park, he is a different horse. If I hadn’t watched him walk out of John Henry’s stall yesterday, I’m not sure I would’ve believed it’s the same horse. He looks 10 years younger, at least. I think he is enjoying the blessings of many, many prayers that have been prayed on his behalf. He feels good, looks good, and there is a light in his eyes that hasn’t been there for a long time. He even takes his medication now without hours of bribery." Photo by Steve Faust.

Thanks Cindy and Steve!

John on 7-26-07

2007-08-02T14:12:00.000-04:00

Thoughts from Verna Lehmann - Breeder of John Henry

2007-07-19T02:26:00.000-04:00

I asked Verna Lehmann, John Henry's breeder, if she would say a few words about him. Verna cordially agreed, and this is what she had to say:

"Until I took John Henry's registration pictures, did I know how rebellious he was. Even though three veterinarians suggested we sell him as he was 'back in the knees,' and would never race. How little we knew what his future would be.

The way he maneuvered around as I snapped photos of him, I should have had an inkling his knees were not going to stop him from racing. He ran the fields as he was boss of all out there, and the others tried to stay their distance. He later proved he had what it took to WIN, and be the 'Greatest'."

Verna M. Lehmann
of Golden Chance Farm
1965-1990 then owner with late husband Robert E. Lehmann

Comments from Jean Callaway

2007-07-17T23:05:00.000-04:00

I asked Jean Callaway to write a few words about John, and she graciously agreed. Jean said:

"When John was young, it was constantly said that "He will never make it". After all he was small and had bad confirmation, back at the knees. Now at the age of 32 after becoming the first horse in the world to earn $6,500,000, he has proven them wrong. It took a lifetime, but he did it."

Jean Callaway

John Henry Documentary - Update from Christian Koby

2007-07-16T22:33:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone!

I am so pleased to be a part of this great new site. Thanks Dr. John! I'd also like to announce that a new and long overdue cinematic John Henry tribute is currently in the works. My name is Christian Koby, Co-Director to "John Henry: An American Hero" a full length documentary film dedicated to, That's right! Racings' Grand Old Man himself, John Henry. Together, with my directing partner Cameron Duddy and Producer Rebecca Gebhard, we have spent the past several months traveling back and forth from Kentucky, New York, California and many places in between capturing John Henry's story, investigating why he is so universally loved, and pinpointing what makes him such a sensation whether it be on the track or in our lives. John's life and career is legendary!

Our goal is not only to portray that; but to relive John's many accomplishments and struggles from the personal experiences of the men and women who were there with him by his side. Through the words of Verna Lehmann, Ron McAnally, Chris McCarron, and the many other owners, trainers, and jockeys involved throughout his life, we have pieced together the arduous journey that secured John's legacy as history's greatest rags to riches phenomenon. We explore the scientific, spiritual and biological theories to John's "freak of nature" cardiovascular system and ornery behavior.

We attended his 32nd birthday, the first ever John Henry Day at Santa Anita Race Track, talked to many of his super fans, including our own Dr. John, and recorded examples of how deep John has enriched their lives proving to us that he still has the power to inspire after twenty two years of retirement. John's story did not end when he retired to the KY Horse Park in 1985, but continued to beat the odds even up to this day. It's such a great story with a message that relates to the young and old, horse fan or not, and I can't tell you how happy we are to be a part of it. We've met and shared with so many great people and I hope we can continue to do so utilizing this site. I can't wait to share the movie with everyone and hope you look forward to seeing it. Please feel free to comment, or ask questions concerning our upcoming Documentary "John Henry: An American Hero", and my team or I will gladly reply, or check out these sites to read more about it.

Thank You,

Christian Koby, Co-Director, John Henry: An American Hero

http://www.movieweb.com/news/38/18338.php
http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117961021.html?categoryid=13&cs=1
http://www.cinematical.com/2007/03/14/documentary-in-the-works-for-horseracing-legend-john-henry/

Post Your Favorite John Henry Story Here

2007-07-10T01:08:00.000-04:00

Feel free to post your favorite John Henry story here.

Pictures from John's 32nd Birthday Party 3-9-07

2007-06-26T16:29:00.001-04:00

Comments from Steve Haskin

2007-06-26T16:18:00.000-04:00

I asked Steve Haskin, author of the fantastic book, John Henry: Racing's Grand Old Man, if he would write a few words about John. Steve graciously agreed, and his comments follow.

"It's great to see old John with a blog, so people familiar with the horse, and even those who have just read about him, can interact and discuss one of the most amazing horses in history. In writing a book about John Henry, I came to learn how deeply he affected people and just how many lives he touched. So many people had their hands on John, and he always managed to slip through their fingers, as if destined to wind up with Ron McAnally, who, like John, was unwanted as a youngster. It had to be fate that brought these two together, as no one until McAnally was able to provide the kind of atmosphere for John to shed many of the demons that had plagued him in his early days and made him near-impossible to deal with. He remains irrascible to this very day, but McAnally gave him an emotional foundation that allowed him to co-exist with humans.

I can spend all day going over John's remarkable accomplishments and records, but that is what this blog is for. Scientific and psychological studies made of John revealed a horse unlike any other, and it was his uniqueness -- physiologically and mentally -- that made him great. I hope people enjoy sharing their experiences and thoughts about John. One thing about him, he was never dull. I imagine the same will be said of this blog." --- Steve Haskin

John Henry looking out on 6-5-07

2007-06-25T04:41:00.000-04:00

Why Are We Here?

2007-06-25T04:21:00.000-04:00

It is not about just "a horse;" but about perseverance, dedication, motivation, hard work, and tenacity. It is about John Henry succeeding, winning, setting records, and capturing the hearts and spirit of thousands of fans all across the country for many years. And even now, 22 years after retirement, John still is an inspiration to many. John was not born into thoroughbred racing royalty; but worked, struggled, and fought valiantly for what he earned and accomplished. John Henry’s passion, will, determination and "heart" make him a true champion, and definitely a living legend!

Welcome to the John Henry Blog Site

2007-06-25T04:11:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone,

Welcome to the John Henry Blog site! The purpose of this site is to talk about our favorite thoroughbred, John Henry. Stories, questions, comments are welcome! John Henry recently celebrated his 32nd birthday on March 9, 2007. That is the equivalent of 100+ in human years.

Welcome aboard!

Dr. John