Mark Glatt competes in the Kentucky Derby on May 2, 2026, just months after the sudden death of his wife, Dena. This marks a significant moment in his 30-year career. He is riding a horse named So Happy.
So Happy earned a spot in the Kentucky Derby by winning the Santa Anita Derby. The horse has become a co-favorite for the race with odds of 5-1.
Dena Glatt passed away unexpectedly from heart failure at age 57 in February 2026. Mark and Dena were married for 25 years and had three children.
Mark wears a bracelet containing some of Dena’s ashes. He remarked, “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.” That way I always have her with me.
So Happy was initially a long shot at 38-1 during his racing debut. He won that race by three-quarters of a length despite unimpressive morning workouts.
Mike Smith rides So Happy and seeks his third Kentucky Derby victory. Smith said about the horse, “He just seems to do what he has to do.”
So Happy’s sire is Runhappy, who had previously underperformed as a stallion. Mark bought So Happy for $150,000 after he was sold as a yearling for just $20,000.
This event is both a professional milestone and a personal heartbreak for Mark Glatt. The journey to this moment has been filled with challenges and deep emotions.
The Kentucky Derby represents not just a race but also an enduring memory of love and loss for Mark and his family.
