Free Drop Billy is one of the most recognizable horses at the Breeders' Cup. With the big white blaze across his face, there is no mistaking him.
Soon, he might be known just as well for his accomplishments on the track as he is for his striking appearance.
Free Drop Billy comes from a strong racing family. He's by former Belmont Stakes winner Union Rags and his half-brother Hawkbill won more than $800,000 while racing in Europe. On his mother's side, Free Drop Billy is related to Cozzene who won nearly $1 million on the track and was the leading sire in North America in 1996. Last year, Free Drop Billy was purchased at Keeneland for $200,000.
The colt made his first start in June and won by three lengths. He came back with a 1-length defeat at the hands of Firenze Fire (who is also one of the top two-year-olds of 2017) in the Sanford Stakes at Saratoga. Free Drop Billy then came a neck short in the Hopeful Stakes but responded with a four-length victory in the G1 Claiborne Breeders' Futurity at Keeneland last month.
Free Drop Billy was listed in the morning line as the second choice in the Juvenile behind the favored Bolt d'Oro.
Free Drop Billy
Sire: Union Rags
Dam: Trensa (by Giant's Causeway)
Trainer: Dale Romans
Breeder: Helen K. Groves Revocable Trust
Auction: $200,000 (Keeneland September Sale 2016)
Racing Highlights: Claiborne Breeders' Futurity (Keeneland)
Race to Watch: Breeders' Cup Juvenile