Toby Keith’s long-held dream came to fruition more than a year after he passed away at 62. In 2025, his Dream Walkin Farms will debut its first thoroughbred at the Kentucky Derby, something Keith had been working towards since 2001. The announcement was shared on his official Instagram account on April 27.
Keith’s family shared, “It was Toby’s dream. Render’s decision will go to the Kentucky Derby.” The message highlighted the effort he had put into achieving this goal. However, Render’s judgment dropped to 21st place on April 26, as another horse, Horstadpas Street, took the lead.
Kenny McPeak, the horse trainer, spoke fondly about Keith on “Fox & Friends First,” noting how he valued horse racing, maybe even more than music, which seems like a big statement. Their relationship dates back over 20 years, starting at a Louisiana race. Keith once expressed that winning the Kentucky Derby was a significant ambition, describing the racing world as thrilling yet frustrating and full of risks.
For over three decades, Keith managed Dream Walkin Farm, a 330-acre property in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma. Sadly, on February 5, 2024, his family announced his peaceful passing, surrounded by loved ones, after a courageous battle with stomach cancer, a diagnosis he revealed in June 2022.
Known for his 1993 hit “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” Keith left a lasting mark on country music with numerous popular songs and albums, including patriotic anthems following the September 11 attacks. His advocacy for military personnel involved countless USO tours, and he received the National Medal of Arts in 2021.
Keith is survived by his wife Tricia, three children, and four grandchildren. His impact on both music and philanthropy, particularly for families affected by cancer, ensures his legacy will endure.
