The Kentucky Horse Park announced Sept. 25 the dedication of "The Bond: Two Hearts-One Spirit" monument, honoring the extraordinary connection between Thoroughbred champion racehorse Cody's Wish and Cody Dorman, whose story touched millions around the world. The ceremony will take place 9 a.m. Oct. 11, near the Kentucky Horse Park's Hall of Champions Barn and is open to the public.
Created by renowned equine sculptor Jocelyn Russell, The Bond honors the extraordinary relationship between a horse and a young man, one that transcended sport, disability, and circumstance. The life-sized bronze captures Cody's Wish lowering his head into Dorman's lap, a gesture repeated every time they met and one that ignited a spark in both of their hearts.
The monument is thoughtfully designed so that visitors in wheelchairs can roll up to the sculpture, place their hands on the horse's nose and meet the gaze of Cody's Wish—a direct reflection of Dorman's own experience. Nearby, a wall will display the iconic photograph of Dorman and Cody's Wish, creating a powerful backdrop for photos. Those standing are also encouraged to approach the sculpture, touch the horse's nose and share in the moment, making the experience inclusive and meaningful for all.
"The story of Cody's Wish and Cody Dorman represents the very best of what horses mean to us as humans," said Lee Carter, president of the Kentucky Horse Park. "This monument is not only a tribute to them, but also a reminder of the healing, joy, and inspiration horses bring to our lives every day."
The bond between Cody's Wish and Dorman began in 2018 when the Dorman family visited Godolphin's Gainsborough Farm through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. A young foal, later named Cody's Wish, approached Dorman, who was born with Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome and used a wheelchair for mobility. From that moment, a lifelong connection was formed. Cody's Wish went on to become a two-time winner of Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile (G1) in 2022-23 and was named 2023 Horse of the Year and champion older dirt male. Watching Cody's Wish capture his consecutive victory in the Dirt Mile, Dorman's courage and joy captured the hearts of fans worldwide.
The Dorman family shared their feelings about the monument: "We are so humbly proud and grateful for such a meaningful and stunning monument to be installed at the Kentucky Horse Park to commemorate the beautiful and enduring impact that our son Cody shared with Cody's Wish.
"In the true spirit of Cody, who always thought of others before himself, he will forever share his love for Cody's Wish through this inspiring monument. Cody and Cody's Wish will continue to run through the hearts of many for generations to come. Thank you to the many wonderful people and businesses that came together to make this become a reality. And many thanks to all those that have cheered, cried, smiled and had their hearts filled with the divine inspiration of their bond along this journey."
Tragically, Dorman died while traveling back home from the 2023 Breeders' Cup. He was 17.
The Oct. 11 dedication will welcome fans, families and horse lovers to celebrate this unforgettable story. Guests should enter through the Kentucky Horse Park Visitor Center. Attendance to the dedication ceremony is free.
This press release has been edited for content and style by BloodHorse Staff.
