Indianapolis, January 25, 2026
Sir Bajhy, an Indiana-bred Thoroughbred, has been named the Indiana Horse of the Year, following a remarkable season with earnings of $295,055. The horse excelled in prestigious races, showcasing the prowess of local breeders and trainers in the state’s racing community. Owned by Southwest Racing Stables and trained by Genaro Garcia, Sir Bajhy’s accolades were recognized at the annual ITOBA Banquet that celebrates excellence in Thoroughbred racing in Indiana. The recognition highlights the importance of the local racing industry in supporting the economy and local community.
Indianapolis, Indiana – Sir Bajhy Named 2025 Indiana Horse of the Year
Indianapolis, Indiana – Sir Bajhy, an Indiana-bred Thoroughbred, has been honored as the 2025 Indiana Horse of the Year. The bay gelding, foaled on May 6, 2022, earned a total of $295,055 in 2025, with notable victories in the $100,000 Hoosier Breeders Sophomore Handicap and the $250,000 Unreachable Star Handicap at Horseshoe Indianapolis.
Key Achievements
- Hoosier Breeders Sophomore Handicap: Secured a decisive win in this prestigious race.
- Unreachable Star Handicap: Dominated the competition to claim victory.
- Total Earnings: Accumulated $295,055 throughout the racing season.
Breeding and Ownership
Sir Bajhy is sired by Bahjatty, a stallion known for producing quality racehorses. His dam, Proud Dreamer, was named Indiana’s Breed Development Broodmare of the Year. The horse is owned by Southwest Racing Stables, Bruce Murphy, and Lori Murphy.
Trainer and Jockey
Under the guidance of trainer Genaro Garcia and jockey Marcelino Pedroza Jr., Sir Bajhy showcased exceptional performance throughout the season.
Industry Recognition
The Indiana Thoroughbred Breed Development Program acknowledged Sir Bajhy’s achievements at the Indiana Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (ITOBA) Banquet held on January 17, 2026. The event celebrated excellence in Indiana’s Thoroughbred racing and breeding program, with awards presented in 21 categories, including Horse of the Year.
Background on the Awards
The ITOBA Banquet serves as a platform to honor outstanding contributions to Indiana’s Thoroughbred industry. The Breed Development Program offers various incentives, including over $21 million in awards to Indiana Breeders and Stallion Owners in 2025.
Looking Ahead
With a successful 2025 season, Sir Bajhy’s connections are optimistic about his future prospects in the racing circuit. The horse’s consistent performance and earnings position him as a prominent figure in Indiana’s Thoroughbred racing community.
Conclusion
Sir Bajhy’s recognition as the 2025 Indiana Horse of the Year highlights the thriving Thoroughbred industry in Indianapolis and its significance in bolstering local economies. As Sir Bajhy continues his journey on the racetrack, the efforts of local breeders, owners, and trainers remain vital for future successes in Indiana’s racing landscape. It’s an exciting time for the state, and we encourage readers to engage with and support the local racing and breeding community.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Sir Bajhy?
- Sir Bajhy is an Indiana-bred Thoroughbred gelding, foaled on May 6, 2022.
- What are Sir Bajhy’s notable achievements?
- In 2025, Sir Bajhy won the $100,000 Hoosier Breeders Sophomore Handicap and the $250,000 Unreachable Star Handicap, earning a total of $295,055.
- Who are Sir Bajhy’s breeders and owners?
- Sir Bajhy was bred by Bruce Murphy and Lori Murphy. He is owned by Southwest Racing Stables, Bruce Murphy, and Lori Murphy.
- Who trained and rode Sir Bajhy?
- Trainer Genaro Garcia and jockey Marcelino Pedroza Jr. were responsible for Sir Bajhy’s training and racing performances.
- What is the significance of the ITOBA Banquet?
- The ITOBA Banquet is an annual event that honors excellence in Indiana’s Thoroughbred racing and breeding industry, with awards presented in various categories, including Horse of the Year.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Horse’s Name | Sir Bajhy |
| Breed | Thoroughbred |
| Foaling Date | May 6, 2022 |
| Notable Wins | $100,000 Hoosier Breeders Sophomore Handicap, $250,000 Unreachable Star Handicap |
| Total Earnings in 2025 | $295,055 |
| Breeders | Bruce Murphy and Lori Murphy |
| Owners | Southwest Racing Stables, Bruce Murphy, Lori Murphy |
| Trainer | Genaro Garcia |
| Jockey | Marcelino Pedroza Jr. |
| Awards | 2025 Indiana Horse of the Year |
| Event | ITOBA Banquet |
| Event Date | January 17, 2026 |
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