Racehorse Austrian Painter Renamed Merrylegs After Name Complaint
A racehorse named Austrian Painter was renamed Merrylegs by The Jockey Club following a complaint that the original name referenced Adolf Hitler. The horse gained attention after winning its debut at Horseshoe Indianapolis Racecourse.
Elmira, NY, September 24, 2026 —
A racehorse previously known as Austrian Painter has been renamed Merrylegs by The Jockey Club. The change followed a complaint that the original name was perceived as a reference to Adolf Hitler.
The horse, now named Merrylegs, recently garnered attention after winning its debut race at the Horseshoe Indianapolis Racecourse. The specifics of the complaint, including who filed it and the exact timeline of the renaming process, were not provided.
The Jockey Club, a prominent organization in Thoroughbred racing, is responsible for maintaining the stud book and registering Thoroughbred horses in North America. It is their policy to review names that may be deemed offensive or inappropriate.
The decision to rename the horse indicates the organization’s approach to handling such concerns within the sport. The horse’s racing career has now commenced under its new name.
Story summarized from the original created by Associated Press on www.mytwintiers.com, see more information here.
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