Scrappy T

After the Withers, Scrappy T was entered in the grade one Preakness Stakes. He was listed on the morning line as the eleventh choice at 20-1 in a full field of fourteen stakes winners in the second jewel of the Triple Crown. The vast majority of public support was wagered on the top three finishers in the Derby: Afleet Alex, Giacomo, and Closing Argument.

As the gates opened, Scrappy T had the best break and cleared the field. Going into Pimlico's famous club house turn, speedy Going Wild led the field followed by High Limit, Scrappy T, and Galloping Grocer. Down the back stretch, High Limit pulled in front and led for a half mile followed by Going Wild. Jockey Ramon Dominguez wrestled with Scrappy T to settle down and conserve some energy back in third. On the far turn, Scrappy T took the lead. In the meantime, favorite Afleet Alex weaved through traffic and came up on the outside flank of Scrappy T. Dominguez hit Scrappy T with a left-handed whip. Tasting his first left-handed whip, Scrappy T veered right suddenly and blew the turn while Afleet Alex was attempting to pass him. The horses collided, with Afleet Alex knocked to his knees. Jeremy Rose righted Afleet Alex and rode him to a four and three quarter length win with Scrappy T second ahead of Derby winner Giacomo and millionaire Sun King by five and six lengths respectively. He earned $200,000 for the runner-up finish and skipped the Belmont Stakes.

Scrappy T retired before the 2008 season began. As a gelding, he could not go to stud. He now lives on the William Mason Farm on the family property in Powhatan, Virginia, fox hunting with his handler, Danielle Mason.^[1]

After a spirited fox hunting career alongside his handler, Danielle Mason, Scrappy T eventually found his way to Suffolk, Virginia. There, he was stabled at Happy Valley Farm under the attentive care of Jamee Albright. During his time at the farm, he was leased by Missy Paradee Marven, who quickly realized that Scrappy T was more than just a lease—he was meant to be hers. She officially welcomed him into her life with a heartfelt purchase in February 2020.

Shortly afterward, Missy moved Scrappy T to Seahorse Run, a charming nearby farm also in Suffolk, owned and operated by Laura Gladden. It was here that he began a new chapter, exploring the art of dressage with local trainer Laura Celia. As he settled into his new routine, it became clear that this deserving horse had earned a slower pace of life.

Scrappy T now enjoys a well-earned semi-retirement, spending his days taking light hacks around the farm, indulging in his favorite treats, and soaking up all the love and attention from those around him.