Mine That Bird to Retire

November 7, 2010 - The team behind Mine That Bird had hoped running him in the $1 million Breeders' Cup mile Saturday would help steady the slumping horse.

Instead, the 2009 Kentucky Derby winner lost his ninth straight race and failed to hit the board for the sixth consecutive time in finishing a disappointing 10th at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.

Co-owner Leonard Blach confirmed after the race that Mine That Bird would be retired.

"The plan was to retire after this race," said Blach, who owns the horse along with Mark Allen.

"Mine That Bird has given us everything we've asked of him. He gave a great effort. It's been a wonderful ride with the "Bird."

Mine That Bird, who started out of the No. 11 post, was never really a factor in the race, which was won by 37-1 longshot Dakota Phone.

The 4-year-old, who ran second and fourth in races at Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino prior to his Kentucky Derby victory, still has a loyal and faithful group of followers at the New Mexico track despite his recent failures. His success in last year's Kentucky Derby and subsequent Triple Crown bid helped the Sunland Derby gain graded status.

But never fear “The little horse that could”, has heard HOLLYWOOD IS CALLING.

Plans are in the works for a movie about the New Mexico-based thoroughbred that won the 2009 Kentucky Derby as a 50-1 long shot.

The director will be Jim Wilson, the Academy Award-winning producer of "Dances With Wolves." The production team also includes Tony Mark, executive producer for the Academy Award-winner, "The Hurt Locker."

Among those being considered for roles are Mine That Bird himself and jockey Calvin Borel.

The film will follow the adventures of an undersized horse and his cowboy owners and trainer.

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