Mark Glatt competes in the Kentucky Derby on May 2, 2026, with a horse named So Happy. This marks his first appearance in the prestigious race after 30 years in training. The event carries deep emotional weight for Glatt as he copes with the recent death of his wife, Dena.
Dena Glatt passed away suddenly from heart failure at age 57 in February 2026. Mark and Dena were married for 25 years and had three children together. He wears a bracelet containing some of her ashes during the race.
So Happy earned a spot in the Kentucky Derby by winning the Santa Anita Derby. Initially a long shot at 38-1 for his debut race, he is now co-favorite with odds of 5-1. Mike Smith will ride So Happy, seeking his third Kentucky Derby victory.
Mark Glatt expressed pride in this achievement despite his loss. “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 said. He believes this moment is special yet bittersweet given his family’s recent struggles.
So Happy’s sire is Runhappy, who had underperformed as a stallion. The horse sold for $20,000 as a yearling and was later purchased by Glatt for $150,000. Despite early doubts about So Happy’s abilities—he was unimpressive during morning workouts—he won his debut race by three-quarters of a length.
This Kentucky Derby represents both a professional milestone and a personal heartbreak for Mark Glatt. He has dedicated over three decades to training thoroughbreds but never before reached this stage with any horse.
