D. Wayne Lukas, the legendary Hall of Fame trainer and one of horse racing’s most influential figures, has passed away at 89. His family shared that he died peacefully at his Louisville home after a severe MRSA blood infection worsened his chronic health issues.

Known as “Coach,” Lukas devoted his life to horses and the sport, mentoring generations of horsemen and women. His career redefined modern training, with 15 Triple Crown race wins—including four Kentucky Derbies—and 20 Breeders’ Cup victories, tying a record.

Born in 1935 in Wisconsin, Lukas began training quarter horses before moving to thoroughbreds in the late 1970s. His breakthrough came in 1980 with the Preakness Stakes win aboard Codex. Over his career, he earned nearly 5,000 wins and more than $310 million in purses from over 30,000 starts.

Even nearing 90, Lukas was hands-on, arriving at dawn to oversee training. He once said, “If you have a passion, you eliminate all the excuses.” His dedication inspired many in the racing world.

Bill Carstanjen, CEO of Churchill Downs Inc., called Lukas “one of the great champions of Churchill Downs and a giant in Thoroughbred racing.” Lukas’s humor, wisdom, and passion thrilled fans for decades.

D. Wayne Lukas’s legacy as a pioneering, passionate trainer will live on, shaping horse racing for generations.