In 1973, the magnificent thoroughbred racehorse Secretariat was named Athlete of the Year.
Secretariat: A Unique Athletic Achievement
Secretariat, often referred to as "Big Red," achieved the extraordinary distinction of being named Sports Illustrated's Sportsman of the Year in 1973. This marked a historic moment as he was the first non-human recipient of this prestigious award, which typically recognizes human athletes for their outstanding achievements. His unparalleled performance on the track captivated the nation and transcended the world of horse racing, making him a symbol of athletic excellence.
A Year of Unprecedented Accolades for Secretariat
The year 1973 was truly monumental for Secretariat. Beyond his groundbreaking recognition as Sportsman of the Year, he accumulated a string of other significant honors that solidified his legendary status. For 1973, Secretariat was once again named Horse of the Year, underscoring his dominance in the sport. He also received multiple prestigious Eclipse Awards, recognizing him as the American Champion Three-Year-Old Male Horse and the American Champion Male Turf Horse.
These awards highlighted his versatility and superiority across different racing surfaces and distances.
Here's a summary of his major accolades in 1973:
| Award/Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year | First non-human recipient of this prestigious award, recognizing his transcendent athletic achievements and impact. |
| Horse of the Year | Reaffirmed his position as the top racehorse in North America. |
| Eclipse Award | Recognized as the American Champion Three-Year-Old Male Horse for his outstanding performance in his age group, particularly his Triple Crown sweep. |
| Eclipse Award | Also awarded as the American Champion Male Turf Horse, demonstrating his capability and success on grass tracks, further showcasing his versatility. |
Why Secretariat Stood Out in 1973
Secretariat's 1973 season was defined by his historic victory in the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, a feat not achieved since Citation in 1948. He won the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes, setting track records in all three races that still stand today for the Derby and Belmont. His 31-length victory in the Belmont Stakes is widely considered one of the greatest performances in racing history, cementing his place as one of the greatest racehorses of all time. His charisma, speed, and undeniable talent made him a national sensation, earning him the "Athlete of the Year" title in the public consciousness and by Sports Illustrated.
