The world of harness racing is about to witness a thrilling comeback as Lexus Kody, the seven-year-old trotter, gears up for his 2026 stakes campaign. This horse's journey is a testament to the unpredictable nature of sports and the power of evolution in performance.
Lexus Kody's story is unique; he wasn't expected to achieve such heights, yet he defied expectations and became the oldest Trotter of the Year since 2011. His owner, Phil Collura, shares an interesting perspective, highlighting how Kody's success was a pleasant surprise.
"Kody was different from most of the others because it wasn't expected, but he just evolved and got better and better. He's something else. He's special to us." - Phil Collura
What makes this particularly fascinating is the role of his caretaker, Jo Jo Tosies, who seems to have played a pivotal role in calming Kody and eliminating his breaks. This human-horse connection is a beautiful aspect of the sport, often overlooked in the pursuit of records and prizes.
In 2025, Lexus Kody's performance was nothing short of incredible. He won seven out of his last eight starts, including three Grade 1 stakes races. His speed and consistency were remarkable, earning him the title of the fastest trotter in Canadian history and placing him second in North American purses for older trotters.
However, as Collura mentions, it's going to be a tough act to follow. Kody's success last year sets a high bar, and the question remains: Can he replicate that form in 2026?
The upcoming Arthur J. Cutler Memorial race at The Meadowlands on May 16 will be a crucial test. Lexus Kody, the morning-line favorite, will face tough competition, including Periculum, the defending champion, and other graded stakes winners.
"It's early in the year, and everyone is just rounding into shape, so you can't really tell how good they actually are yet." - Phil Collura
Collura's words echo the uncertainty and excitement that surround this race. Lexus Kody's age is a factor, but his strength and speed give him a fighting chance. As a powerful and well-built horse, he has the potential to deliver another top-notch performance.
The race begins at 6:35 p.m., and the Arthur J. Cutler Memorial will be broadcast on FOX Sports 2, ensuring a wide audience for this thrilling event.
Personally, I think this race will be a showcase of talent and strategy. With Lexus Kody's experience and ability, he could very well dominate again. But in the world of harness racing, anything can happen, and that's what makes it so captivating.
So, will Lexus Kody reign supreme once more, or will another horse steal the spotlight? We'll have to wait and see, but one thing's for sure: this race promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.
