### Legendary Trainer D. Wayne Lukas Faces Final Chapter in Hospice Care D. Wayne Lukas, a Hall of Fame horse trainer renowned for his exceptional career in thoroughbred racing, is currently in hospice care due to a severe infection. At 89 years old, Lukas has been a pivotal figure in the sport, celebrated for his numerous victories, including seven Preakness Stakes wins. His family and Churchill Downs have confirmed that he will not return to training, marking the end of an illustrious career that has spanned several decades. The news has sent ripples through the horse racing community, as fans and colleagues reflect on his significant contributions to the sport [https://www.cbssports.com/general/news/hall-of-fame-horse-trainer-d-wayne-lukas-in-hospice-care-after-severe-infection-wont-return-to-training]. ### Overview of D. Wayne Lukas's Current Health and Career Status 1. **Health Condition**: - Lukas is gravely ill and has been hospitalized due to a severe MRSA infection that has impacted his heart and digestive system [https://www.pasadenastarnews.com/2025/06/22/hall-of-fame-trainer-d-wayne-lukas-hospitalized-retires-from-training-family-says]. 2. **Retirement Announcement**: - His family announced his immediate retirement from training, a decision supported by Churchill Downs [https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2025/jun/23/hof-trainer-lukas-89-hospitalized]. 3. **Legacy in Horse Racing**: - Lukas is celebrated for his remarkable achievements, including multiple wins in prestigious races, and has been a mentor to many in the industry [https://www.lex18.com/news/covering-kentucky/hall-of-famer-d-wayne-lukas-has-been-hospitalized-and-will-not-return-to-training-family-says]. ### Key Facts and Figures Surrounding D. Wayne Lukas's Career - **Age**: 89 years old - **Major Achievements**: - Seven-time Preakness Stakes champion - Renowned for training multiple champions in thoroughbred racing - **Current Status**: - In hospice care and unable to return to training due to health complications [https://www.reuters.com/sports/hall-fame-horse-trainer-d-wayne-lukas-reportedly-hospice-care-2025-06-23]. ### Conclusion: A Legacy Remembered In summary, D. Wayne Lukas's health has taken a serious turn, leading to his retirement from a storied career in horse racing. His contributions to the sport are monumental, and his absence will be felt deeply within the racing community. 1. **Health Decline**: Lukas is in hospice care due to a severe infection. 2. **Retirement**: His immediate retirement has been confirmed by family and Churchill Downs. 3. **Legacy**: He leaves behind a legacy of excellence in horse racing, having trained numerous champions. As the horse racing world reflects on his impact, Lukas's legacy will undoubtedly endure, celebrated by fans and fellow trainers alike [https://www.wave3.com/2025/06/22/hall-fame-trainer-d-wayne-lukas-hospitalized-announces-retirement].