D. Wayne Lukas passes away at 89

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) – Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas passed away at the age of 89 on Saturday night.

Lukas had been battling a serious infection that had recently worsened. Last week, he made the decision to forgo aggressive treatment and returned home to spend time with his loved ones.

Over the course of his legendary career, Lukas captured 15 Triple Crown races, including four Kentucky Derby victories. He also amassed 20 Breeders’ Cup wins—second only to Bob Baffert in the event’s history.

Churchill Downs released the following statement from Lukas’ family:

“Racing Community, It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved husband, grandfather, and great-grandfather, D. Wayne Lukas, who left this world peacefully yesterday evening at the age of 89, surrounded by family.

Wayne devoted his life not only to horses but to the industry – developing generations of horsemen and horsewomen and growing the game by inviting unsuspecting fans into the winner’s circle. Whether he was boasting about a maiden 2-year-old as the next Kentucky Derby winner or offering quiet words of advice before a big race, Wayne brought heart, grace, and grit to every corner of the sport.

His final days were spent at home in Kentucky, where he chose peace, family, and faith. As we grieve at his passing, we find peace in knowing he is now reunited with his beloved son, Jeff, whose memory he carried in his heart always.

We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from all corners of the racing community — from racetracks across the country to lifelong friends and respected rivals, and from fans who never missed a post parade when ‘Lukas’ was listed in the program.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Laurie Lynn Lukas; his grandchildren, Brady Wayne Lukas (Dani) and Kelly Lukas Roy (David); his great-grandchildren, Walker Wayne Lukas, Quinn Palmer Lukas, Jonathan James Roy, and Thomas David Roy; his sister, Dauna Lukas Moths; and his brother, Lowell Lukas. He also leaves behind an extended family of horsemen and horsewomen whose lives he shaped, mentored, and inspired.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Oaklawn or Churchill Backside Chaplaincy or the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance — two causes that Wayne held close to his heart.

A private service will be held with immediate family, with a larger celebration of life to follow. Details will become available at a later date.”