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D. Wayne Lukas Enters Hospice Care, Transfers Stable to Sebastian 'Bas' Nicholl

He declined aggressive treatment for a MRSA blood infection that damaged his heart and digestive system.

Trainer D. Wayne Lukas arrives for the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby 2025 draw on April 26, 2025.
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Trainer D. Wayne Lukas watches morning workouts before the 2025 Kentucky Derby
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Overview

  • Churchill Downs confirmed the 89-year-old trainer has been discharged from hospital and is receiving hospice care at his home in Louisville.
  • All of Lukas's horses have been moved to veteran assistant trainer Sebastian "Bas" Nicholl, who vowed to preserve his trainer's approach and ethos.
  • Over a six-decade career, Lukas amassed 4,967 thoroughbred victories, including 15 wins in Triple Crown races and four Kentucky Derby titles.
  • Battling a severe MRSA blood infection, Lukas opted to end his training tenure and spend his remaining days with his wife Laurie and family.
  • Churchill Downs president Mike Anderson lauded Lukas as a defining figure whose horsemanship and attention to detail transformed modern racing.