In May 1973 young Newsday Sportswriter Bill Nack took a day off from covering horses training for the Kentucky Derby to travel to Stoner Creek Stud, visiting the last living winner of the Triple Crown, Count Fleet. Regarded as one of the greatest racehorses of the 20th century, 1943 Triple Crown winner Count Fleet was 33 years old at that time; earlier, he was at the barn of Secretariat and told groom Eddie Sweat of his upcoming trip. Sweat sent regards "from Secretariat" and when he shared the message, the groom cut off a lock tail hair and replied, “Count Fleet is the last Triple Crown winner still alive... you tell Mr. Sweat that Secretariat better win the Triple Crown to carry on that tradition." Secretariat certainly did, and for more than 40 years William Nack treasured the clipping like a family heirloom. The authentic hair anchors this unique piece that also features an original 1943 Kentucky Derby Program, admission ticket stub, and winner's circle image. The elegant gilded gold frame with black linen matting showcases the large strand of Count Fleet hair, meticulously bound in a gold satin bow signifying the silk colors of the Hertz Stable champion. The original unmarked program and admission ticket, both in Excellent condition and very rare in their own right, are held in place by corner holders. The vintage Kentucky Derby winner's circle image of Count Fleet with Hall of Fame jockey John Longden aboard was from the original negative. The display measures 20x17" in total. Includes Letter of Authenticity from Bill's wife as well as copies of the original Newsday column describing the visit and another column Bill wrote seven months later regarding Count Fleet's passing. A wonderful offering connecting a timeless writer to two legendary Triple Crown winners.