On May 2, 2026, Mark Glatt will compete in the Kentucky Derby for the first time in his 30-year career, riding a horse named So Happy. This moment comes just months after the sudden death of his wife, Dena, making it a bittersweet occasion.
Dena Glatt passed away unexpectedly from heart failure at age 57 in February 2026. The couple had been married for 25 years and shared three children. In the wake of her loss, Mark has found strength in their memories, wearing a bracelet containing some of her ashes during the race.
So Happy earned his spot in the Kentucky Derby by winning the Santa Anita Derby, impressively turning from a long shot at 38-1 to co-favorite with odds of 5-1. This remarkable transformation highlights not only the horse’s talent but also Mark’s skill as a trainer.
As he prepares for this monumental event, he reflects on how Dena would have felt about this achievement. “I think she’d be very proud of an accomplishment like this. We’re still together, you know, even if it’s just in spirit,” he shared. It’s clear that her presence lingers in every stride of So Happy.
Mark’s journey with So Happy began when he purchased him for $150,000 after he was initially sold as a yearling for just $20,000. The horse’s sire is Runhappy, who had previously underperformed as a stallion, adding another layer to this compelling narrative.
This Kentucky Derby marks not only a professional milestone for Mark but also serves as an emotional tribute to Dena. He acknowledges that while this experience is special, it carries an emotional weight that makes it different—”maybe not as enjoyable,” he noted.
Key insights:
- Mark Glatt has been training thoroughbreds since 1994 and has never had a horse on the Triple Crown trail before.
- Mike Smith will be riding So Happy, seeking his third Kentucky Derby victory.
- The couple’s enduring love and family support are central to Mark’s strength during this challenging time.
The stakes are high at Churchill Downs. As fans and families gather to witness this iconic race, Mark Glatt stands at the intersection of triumph and tragedy—ready to honor his wife through every gallop of So Happy.
