King Leatherbury Maryland Death, Obituary: Remembering A Champion of Horses and Hearts

The horse racing world mourns the passing of King Leatherbury, a legendary trainer whose six-decade career left an indelible mark on the sport. Born in Shady Side, Maryland, on March 26, 1933, Leatherbury’s early days on the family farm ignited a lifelong passion for horses that would shape his extraordinary career.

Leatherbury earned his trainer’s license in 1958 and quickly established himself as a formidable presence on the track. His first victory at Sunshine Park foreshadowed a career defined by precision, patience, and an uncanny ability to read both horse and race. Over the decades, he amassed 6,508 wins and more than $64 million in purse earnings, placing him among North America’s all-time leaders.

Renowned for his dominance in claiming races, Leatherbury was also a mentor to countless young trainers. He secured 52 Maryland training titles across Pimlico, Laurel Park, and Delaware Park, and in the late 1970s, he led all North American trainers in wins for two consecutive years. His influence extended beyond numbers, as part of Maryland’s “Big Four” alongside Bud Delp, Richard Dutrow Sr., and John Tammaro Jr., elevating the region’s racing profile.

Leatherbury’s most celebrated horse, Ben’s Cat, captured public imagination with 32 wins and more than $2.6 million in earnings, embodying his masterful training approach. In 2015, his career achievements were honored with first-ballot induction into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Linda Marie Heavener Leatherbury, twin sons Taylor and Todd, and a grandson. King Leatherbury’s legacy—of excellence, mentorship, and enduring love for horse racing—will resonate for generations.