The resolution recognizes Mystik Dan, an Arkansas-owned horse, as the winner of the 2024 Kentucky Derby, which took place on May 4, 2024, at Churchill Downs. Mystik Dan, owned by 4G Racing and co-owned by the Gasaway and Hamby families, achieved a remarkable victory with an 18-1 odds, winning by a nose in a close finish against competitors Sierra Leone and Forever Young. This victory marks a significant achievement, as it is the 10th time in Kentucky Derby history that the race has been decided by such a narrow margin.
Additionally, the resolution highlights Mystik Dan's strong connections to Arkansas, noting that all of his graded stakes races prior to the Derby were held at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, where he had notable placements. The horse's trainer, Kenny McPeek, also has Arkansas roots, having been born in Fort Chaffee and currently residing in Hot Springs. The Senate resolution concludes with a commitment to present a copy of the resolution to the horse's owners in recognition of their accomplishment.