Exceller Video - 1978 Jockey Club Gold Cup - Defeats Two Triple Crown Winners

Chick Anderson called the race.

The 1978 Jockey Club Gold Cup was a very memorable race, mainly because two triple crown winners were facing each other. Affirmed and Seattle Slew hooked up in a torrid speed duel only to be overtaken by an exceptional horse named Exceller.

Exceller was owned by Nelson Bunker Hunt and began his career in Europe. When he came to America, hall of famer Charlie Whittingham took over the training duties.

In the Jockey Club Gold Cup, Affirmed and Seattle Slew dueled for the lead. Slew won the battle but lost the war as Exceller, with Bill Shoemaker, came from 22 lengths behind to win as he eventually wore down a very stubborn Seattle Slew.

Seattle Slew broke through the starting gate before the race and had to be reloaded, which usually effects a horse's race performance negatively. But his effort was one of the most amazing performances by a losing horse as he showed incredible heart, courage, and stamina.

Exceller's post racing life was tragic as he was sold to European interest's after a mediocre record as a sire in America. When his European owner filed for bankruptcy, Exceller was sent to the slaughterhouse. A similar fate was met years later by 1986 Kentucky Derby winner Ferdinand.

To prevent future thoroughbred champions from meeting this fate, a charity named the "Exceller Fund" was established.

Exceller was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1999.