American Pharoah Parades at Del Mar

SAN DIEGO (KUSI) – After a summer vacation at Del Mar, it’s time for American Pharoah to say goodbye.

Few would have guessed that the colt who placed fifth in his debut race at the Thoroughbred Club would go on to be the first Triple Crown winner since 1978. But more than a few turned out on Sunday, as Pharoah paraded through the grounds before heading back east to prepare for what will likely be his final race, the Breeders’ Cup Classic.

"It’s pretty exciting that the fans came out to see him," said trainer Bob Baffert. "It’s probably one of the last times you’ll get to see him in Southern California, so it’s good sharing the horse with everybody. He’s meant a lot to a lot of people, including ourselves, so it was nice to see such a great turnout."

Jose Martin, a paddock handler who also works out horses in the mornings, tried to get inside the horse of honor’s mind.

"He would be real happy to see everybody that came down to see him," said Martin. "When you’re in a top class, you’re happy when you hear everybody that wants to see you."

And perhaps no one is more qualified to speak for the Pharoah than Baffert. What would his prize horse say to the crowds?

"Glad you got to see me"

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