This week, the town of Ashland stands witness to a remarkable moment in history—the unveiling of the "Secretariat, Racing into History" bronze statue at the newly constructed Secretariat Reynolds Family Plaza. This statue commemorates Secretariat, the legendary racehorse who set records and captured hearts around the world. Born right here in Hanover County on March 30, 1970, Secretariat is truly a Hometown Hero.
Our team is honored to have played a vital role in this historic project. From the installation of elegant granite pavers to the thoughtful landscaping that enhances the space, every detail has been crafted with care and precision. At the heart of the project is a custom-designed “sand vault,” which contains track sand from Secretariat's most iconic victories—The Meadow (his birthplace), Churchill Downs, Belmont, and Pimlico. To preserve this legacy for generations to come, the sand vault is topped with specially replicated track sand, masterfully created by Luck Stone.
This project is not only a tribute to Secretariat's incredible achievements, including his Triple Crown win in 1973, but also a celebration of Hanover County's deep roots in equestrian history. The statue dedication, happening this Saturday at 2 PM at Randolph-Macon College, marks a new local holiday: Secretariat Day. Join us as we honor this racing legend and the community that shaped his story.
Meet the Team Behind the Magic:
- Landscape Architect: Lu Gay Lanier
- Survey / Layout / Engineer: Timmons Group – Neal Beasley
- Project Manager: Jeannie Welliver
- Sculptor: Jocelyn Russe
- Track Sand Provider: Luck Stone
We are proud to have partnered with these talented professionals to bring this ambitious vision to life. Together, we’ve created a space that captures Secretariat’s enduring spirit and ensures his legacy is preserved for future generations.
Let’s come together this weekend to celebrate Secretariat, a true champion, and the pride of Hanover County. We’ll see you at the statue dedication—don’t miss this historic moment!
