Kentucky Trainer Brad Cox Continues Winning Ways

Cox's stable of Kentucky-bred horses has found success in major races across the country.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Kentucky-based horse trainer Brad H. Cox has solidified his status as a leading figure in Thoroughbred racing, boasting an impressive record of wins in prestigious events like the Kentucky Oaks, Belmont Stakes, and Breeders' Cup. The 45-year-old native of Louisville has amassed over 2,500 career wins and earned multiple Eclipse Awards for Outstanding Trainer, showcasing his ability to prepare horses for top-level competition across various divisions and distances.

Why it matters

Cox's sustained success highlights the continued prominence of Kentucky-bred racehorses and the state's deep-rooted tradition in Thoroughbred racing. As one of the sport's rising stars, Cox's achievements have earned him national recognition and cemented his reputation as a master of his craft.

The details

Cox has won the Kentucky Oaks three times, with victories by Monomoy Girl (2018), Shedaresthedevil (2020), and Good Cheer (2025). He has also found tremendous success at the Breeders' Cup, training numerous winners across multiple divisions, including Essential Quality, Aunt Pearl, Covfefe, and Monomoy Girl. Beyond the Kentucky Oaks and Breeders' Cup, Cox has secured wins in other major races such as the Belmont Stakes, Arkansas Derby, Blue Grass Stakes, and Travers Stakes.

  • Cox was born on March 3, 1980 in Louisville, Kentucky.
  • As of February 23, 2026, Cox's career win total stands at 2,555.
  • Cox won the Kentucky Oaks in 2018, 2020, and 2025.
  • Cox earned the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Trainer in 2020 and 2021.
  • Cox recently won the Dubai World Cup in 2025 and the Florida Derby in 2025.

The players

Brad H. Cox

A 45-year-old horse trainer based in Kentucky who has rapidly ascended to become a leading figure in Thoroughbred racing, boasting over 2,500 career wins and multiple Eclipse Awards.

Monomoy Girl

A standout racehorse trained by Cox who won the Kentucky Oaks in 2018 and went on to earn multiple Eclipse Awards.

Novogratz Racing Stables Inc.

The ownership group that currently has the three-year-old colt Start Out in training with Brad Cox.

Start Out

A three-year-old colt owned by Novogratz Racing Stables Inc. and trained by Brad Cox.

Essential Quality

A horse trained by Brad Cox who won the 2021 Belmont Stakes.

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What’s next

Cox's continued success and the promising prospects in his stable, such as the three-year-old colt Start Out, suggest he will remain a dominant force in Thoroughbred racing for years to come.

The takeaway

Brad Cox's remarkable achievements, including multiple wins in the Kentucky Oaks, Belmont Stakes, and Breeders' Cup, have cemented his status as one of the top horse trainers in the industry. His ability to consistently produce winning horses across various divisions and distances has earned him widespread recognition and solidified Kentucky's reputation as a hub for elite Thoroughbred racing.