We first met Hope Hudson after I’ll Have Another rallied to win the Kentucky Derby (gr. I). The 12-year-old racing fan was introduced to the media by trainer Doug O’Neill, who had met Hope during Derby week and quickly became friends with the young racing fan and her parents.

Hope met Team O’Neill through the Make-a-Wish Foundation, who with the help of Case Clay from Three Chimneys Farm, was able to attend the Derby and meet several of her favorite horses, jockeys, and trainers. Hope suffers from Hajdu-Cheney syndrome, a rare connective tissue disorder.

Even though she was devastated that I’ll Have Another was injured and retired on Friday, young Hope and her family made the trip to Belmont Park. She has touched many hearts during this Triple Crown journey, and brought a smile to many faces.