Swaps wins the 1955 Kentucky Derby (Keeneland Library, Robert Morgan Collection)
By Nick Costa
Introduction
As the 70th anniversary of Swaps’ historic 1955 Kentucky Derby victory approaches, we celebrate a milestone that forever changed the landscape of horse racing. Swaps, often referred to as the “California Comet,” was more than just a champion—he was a trailblazer for West Coast racing, whose success paved the way for future stars. Known for his unparalleled speed, versatility, and poise on the track, Swaps became the embodiment of excellence in American Thoroughbred racing.
Behind Swaps’ meteoric rise were two iconic figures, trainer Mesh Tenney and owner Rex Ellsworth—two cowboys from the Golden West—who recognized the horse’s extraordinary talent early on. Guided by their skilled hands, Swaps defied the odds and dominated the Derby field, bringing the trophy back to California in an era when Eastern horses were seen as superior.
Art Sherman, who had a front-row seat to Swaps’ journey from a raw, green colt to a racing legend, reflects on those early days and the monumental rise of a horse whose legacy continues to resonate today. Decades before Sherman would find his own Derby success with California Chrome, he was a young man learning from Tenney and Ellsworth, witnessing firsthand the greatness of Swaps—a horse whose legacy was built on more than just wins, but on pure brilliance.
Early Impressions of a Champion
Sherman first encountered Swaps as a young horse at the Ellsworth ranch in California. His early connection with Swaps set the stage for a remarkable partnership. “I got involved with Swaps because I was under contract to Mr. Ellsworth for three years,” Sherman recalled. “I started at the ranch and soon found myself working at the racetrack.”
Sherman’s early work with Swaps was formative for both horse and rider. “Swaps was awfully green,” Sherman explained. “He just didn’t know anything.” Despite this, Swaps’ calm temperament and athleticism hinted at the greatness to come. Though inexperienced, Swaps was never difficult, showing the quiet strength and intelligence that would later make him a champion.
The Journey to Churchill Downs
By the time the Derby rolled around, Swaps had already made quite an impression on the racing world. He had won six of his first nine starts and was coming into the “Run for the Roses” on a four-race win streak. This momentum made him a serious contender on Derby Day and built anticipation for what would unfold at Churchill Downs.
As Sherman spent more time with Swaps, he gained insight into the traditional methods of Tenney and Ellsworth. The duo, known for their old-school style, made the unconventional choice to transport Swaps by railroad to Churchill Downs. This method contrasted sharply with the modern preference for flying horses to major races. Their goal was clear: to make Swaps the first California-bred horse to win the Derby since Morvich in 1922.
Sherman fondly remembers Swaps’ calm demeanor, even during the long train ride to Churchill Downs. “He handled it all with such grace,” Sherman said. “He had almost half a train car to himself, so of course, he had a lot of room to get up and walk around. He adapted pretty good. Just a cool, good-natured horse. I could lay right next to him.” He added, “That experience taught me the resilience of a true champion, something I carried with me for years to come.”
The Build-Up to the 1955 Kentucky Derby
The lead-up to the Derby was marked by an intense East vs. West rivalry. Swaps, representing the West, faced formidable Eastern competitors like Nashua and Summer Tan. The stakes and tension were high as Derby Day approached.
Sherman recalls the atmosphere in Swaps’ barn as the calm before the storm. “It was different for us,” Sherman remembered. “We were in their territory, and they saw us as just plain ol’ cowboys, no match for their top horses. We didn’t have any fancy methods or big expectations from people. We came from the West, where it was just about the horse and doing the best we could. The Eastern horsemen didn’t think much of California-bred horses, but we had confidence in Swaps. We knew we had something special.”
Despite the rivalry and hype, Sherman remembers feeling remarkably calm during the lead-up to the race. “I didn’t feel any pressure,” he explained. “Swaps was such a relaxed horse, and being around him, it was hard to feel tense. He made it easy for everyone around him, including me. We were out there doing what we loved, no fuss or frills.”
Under Tenney’s meticulous care and Sherman’s involvement in Swaps’ daily routines, including breezing the horse and schooling him in the paddock, Swaps was prepared for the Derby. “Mesh was such a great horseman,” Sherman reflected. “He taught me a lot. He was the hardest working man I’ve ever been around.”
Calm in the Chaos: Swaps’ Grace with Fans
Before the big race, Sherman was deeply involved in Swaps’ daily preparations at Churchill Downs, including paddock schooling. “I was involved in schooling Swaps in the paddock because we wanted to be prepared for all the people,” Sherman recalled. His experiences with the colt were nothing short of remarkable. As part of Swaps’ training, Sherman would lead the horse around the paddock and even allowed spectators to touch and pet him—an uncommon practice with such high-strung thoroughbreds. However, Swaps’ composed and intelligent nature shone through in these moments.
“We went through the paddock, and people would pet him while I was on him,” Sherman said. “That’s the kind of horse he was. They would reach over the fence and touch him, and he would just stand there. He never shied, wheeled away, or tried to bite anyone. He was a very intelligent horse.” This unique bond with the crowd was yet another testament to Swaps’ calm demeanor and remarkable intelligence, qualities that set him apart from other racehorses.
On Derby Day, Sherman had another critical role to play—he ponied Swaps to the post. The sight of Sherman guiding Swaps to the starting gate was a momentous one. Despite the nerves and excitement in the air, Swaps remained focused and calm, ready for what lay ahead.
The Race That Made History
The atmosphere at Churchill Downs on May 7, 1955, was electric. Nashua, with an impressive 10-for-12 record, was the Derby favorite, but Swaps was a close second. As the gates flew open, the roar of the crowd grew louder with every stride. Bill Shoemaker guided Swaps effortlessly to the front, and despite Nashua’s challenge, Swaps surged ahead. When he crossed the finish line a length and a half ahead, the crowd erupted into a frenzy. The West had proven its mettle, and Swaps was now a legend.
“Winning the Derby—it’s the toughest race in the world,” Sherman said. “Everything must fall into place, and for us, it did. It’s a memory I’ll carry forever.” Sherman emphasized, “Swaps’ victory was a game-changer for West Coast racing. He proved that California-bred horses could not only compete with, but also conquer, the best horses in the country.”
The Legacy of a Champion
Swaps’ legacy extended far beyond his Derby victory. After Louisville, he went on to win 12 of his final 15 races, showcasing his remarkable range and consistency throughout his career. Swaps concluded his racing career with a total of 19 wins from 25 starts. His extraordinary versatility was unparalleled—he excelled at distances ranging from five furlongs to one mile and five-eighths. During his racing career, Swaps equaled or broke 10 track, American, and/or world records, a remarkable achievement made even more impressive by his recurring foot issues. Sherman recalled how, “Even though his foot bothered him from time to time, there were enough moments when it made no difference at all. His determination and resilience allowed him to push past physical setbacks and dominate in ways that left a lasting impact on the sport.”
His versatility across different surfaces and distances showcased his adaptability, including an exceptional record-breaking performance on the grass. His consistent excellence solidified his place among the greatest racehorses of all time.
The now 88-year-old Sherman reminisces, “He was a beautiful horse. A big chestnut who stood 17 hands. He was a freak, physically imposing. He had a long stride and a great temperament. He was ‘push-button’. He had sheer ability. He was awesome. He’s a legend.”
Swaps remains a symbol of the West’s potential and a testament to the enduring impact of a true champion in the world of horse racing.
