Tawny Port and Clement Family Celebrate Racing Legacy at Saratoga
A Legacy of Hooves and Hearts: Celebrating Racing's Enduring Spirit
Tawny Port's Remarkable Journey: From Derby Alumnus to Resurgent Contender
Tawny Port, a seasoned 7-year-old thoroughbred, stands out as the sole remaining active participant from the 2022 Kentucky Derby, a fact that recently became prominent with White Abarrio's retirement. John Fort, owner of Peachtree Stable, proudly notes Tawny Port's past triumphs over White Abarrio in both the Kentucky Derby and the Ohio Derby (G3). After nearly three years without a win, Tawny Port's recent victory in the two-mile Belmont Gold Cup Invitational (G2) at Saratoga signals a hopeful return to form, positioning him as a strong contender for an upcoming Grade 1 event.
The Clément Family Legacy: A Testament to Longevity and Excellence in Racing
Miguel Clément, Tawny Port's trainer, attributes the horse's sustained performance to his robust constitution and regular winter breaks, suggesting that Tawny Port might even be delivering his best performances at age seven. This resilience mirrors the long-standing legacy of the Clément family in horse racing. The upcoming Grade 1, $750,000 Christophe Clément Turf Stakes at Saratoga, formerly known as the Sword Dancer, has been renamed to honor Miguel's late father, Christophe Clément, who was posthumously inducted into the Hall of Fame. This renaming underscores the family's deep-rooted influence and contributions to the sport.
An Enduring Partnership: Fort's Deep Connection with the Cléments
John Fort's relationship with the Cléments spans decades, characterized by mutual respect and a shared passion for racing. Fort, a Thoroughbred owner since 1979, recalls profound conversations with racing legends like Woody Stephens and acknowledges Christophe Clément's principled approach to his profession. He fondly recounts an instance where Christophe declined a commission, emphasizing his dedication to improving horses rather than simply profiting from transactions, a testament to his integrity and character.
Tawny Port's Current Form: Thriving on the Turf Circuit
Miguel Clément detailed Tawny Port's recent strong performances, including two second-place finishes in high-stakes races at Kentucky Downs last summer, followed by a narrow loss in the Canadian International. He asserts that Tawny Port is currently training exceptionally well at Saratoga. Despite competing for three summers under the Cléments after transitioning from Brad Cox's barn, and having 19 of his 32 career starts on grass, Tawny Port has yet to secure a win at the 1 1/2-mile distance, though he has consistently demonstrated competitiveness.
Facing Formidable Competition: The Challenge of the Christophe Clément Turf Stakes
The Christophe Clément Turf Stakes presents a significant challenge for Tawny Port, as he will compete against a field of highly capable rivals. This includes Ole Crazy Bone, Fort George, and Minaret Station—the top three finishers from the Bowling Green (G2)—along with Program Trading, winner of the United Nations (G2). The field also features Minaret Station as the morning-line favorite, the Frankel colt Ancient Egypt, and the accomplished filly Survee. Miguel Clément believes Tawny Port, named after Fort's favorite dessert wine, is well-prepared for the distance, even as he faces tough odds with Kendrick Carmouche as his fifth jockey in five races.
A Son's Tribute: Miguel Clément Reflects on His Father's Honor
Miguel Clément, who took over the family stable in May 2025, acknowledges the emotional significance of the race being renamed in his father's honor. He expressed deep gratitude to the New York Racing Association (NYRA) for recognizing his father's contributions with a race of such prestige. He conveyed that a victory for Tawny Port would be immensely meaningful to him and his family, serving as a poignant tribute to Christophe Clément's enduring legacy in the sport.