The Irv Naylor Stable, a powerhouse on the National Steeplechase Association circuit since 2010, became the sport's leading purse earner as an owner May 18 with a pair of victories at the Radnor Hunt Races in Malvern, Pa.
Naylor captured his seventh leading owner crown in 2023 with a stable of sluggers under the care of Cyril Murphy, Kathy Neilson, and Neil Morris. He surpassed George Strawbridge Jr. when Travesuras, trained by Murphy and ridden by Gerard Galligan, took Saturday's opener, the $30,000 Milfern Cup. He added to his total when Westerland scored in the $20,000 Henry Collins for Neilson and jockey Paddy O'Hanlon.
The victories added $27,000 to Naylor's 2024 earnings, which total $68,550. He began the season with $9,003,852, $42,459 shy of Strawbridge's Augustin Stable.
Ever humble, Naylor had this to say when asked about this milestone:
"On Friday, we shed tears of sadness at (steeplechase announcer) Will O'Keefe's Celebration of Life. On Saturday, we shed tears of joy while watching the live stream of the Radnor Races with friends.
"We were just so happy to have finally won two races—the first two for us this year. I didn't focus on the fact that a win would catapult me to the leading owner's spot. Our trainer, Cyril, and jockey, Gerard, alerted me of the fact.
"I am grateful to all the trainers, jockeys, staff, and wives (most especially Diane) over many, many years that made this great milestone possible for me.
"Obviously, this is one of the most meaningful accomplishments in my life. I have always remained passionate about this sport and it seems the time, effort, and money involved paid off. It only goes to show miracles do happen!"
