Carry that weight: Notable achievements in American handicaps

While handicaps have become passé in America during the past half-century, in England (and elsewhere) they generally form the backbone of day-to-day racing. Although the most important races are all run under weight-for-age conditions, many of the most popular betting races of the year in England are the Heritage Handicaps, the quality of which are generally exceeded only by Group and Listed stakes. Few top-level horses stoop to compete in them, lest they be burdened with an exorbitant weight assignment, but an exception occurred this past weekend.

Trueshan, who had missed an intended assignment in the June 16 Gold Cup (G1) at Royal Ascot due to the state of the ground, was still in need of a prep ahead of his title defense in next month's Goodwood Cup (G1). So, connections accepted a staggering 148-pound impost for the grueling, two-mile Northumberland Plate at Newcastle. Under Hollie Doyle, the dual Group 1-winning stayer turned in a remarkable and historic effort to win by a half-length over Spirit Mixer, who was carrying 23 fewer pounds.

Forego -- 1976 Woodward Handicap, Belmont Park, 1 1/8 miles, 135 pounds; 1976 Marlboro Cup, Belmont Park, 1 1/4 miles, 137 pounds; 1977 Nassau County Handicap, Belmont Park, 1 1/8 miles, 136 pounds

Arguably the most consistent weight carrier over a distance of ground in modern racing history (which in itself is amazing, given his fragile ankles), the three-time Horse of the Year won three stakes carrying 135 pounds or more. His come-from-behind win in the Marlboro Cup is perhaps the most celebrated of his career as he won by a head from champion Honest Pleasure while giving the younger horse 18 pounds.