Back in 1982 a grey filly won the Coaching Club American Oaks (gr.I), Ruffian Handicap (gr. I), Monmouth Oaks (gr II) and was even third against the boys in the Jockey Club Gold Cup. She returned the next year at 4 to beat the boys in the Gulfstream Park Handicap and retired sound. Christmas Past was her name and she was laid to rest last month in Kentucky at 29 years old. A daughter of Grey Dawn II out of a Bold Ruler Mare she didn't set the breeding world on fire but had 6 winners of 10 foals, none of major races. In her day she was a homebred champion for Cynthia Phipps.
Sometimes it's easy to overlook the old champions once out of the limelight, especially with a new crop of three year olds coming on and a hint of early roses still a hope for many. These old horses set the standards though and deserve credit where it's due.
Keywords: champion filly, Christmas Past, Grey Dawn II, Thoroughbreds
