Four years after being considered a Kentucky Derby (gr. I) contender, Tracemark, a 7-year-old gelding, is embarking on a life of retirement on a California farm.

Not much newsworthy about that, even during Kentucky Derby season. But consider this. Tracemark is a one-time high level race horse who turned into an unwanted Thoroughbred who ultimately was taken in and given a second chance by organizations dedicated to caring for animals like him.

Tracemark first gained national attention when he won the 2002 California Derby for trainer Craig Dollase, and owner Ed McGrath, whose son Mark is lead singer for the band Sugar Ray, and co-host of the syndicated TV show “Extra.” But the son of 1982 Horse of the Year and Belmont Stakes winner Conquistador Cielo missed starting in the Kentucky Derby because he came up short in graded stakes’ earnings. He went on to have a successful sophomore season and earn over $500,000 during his racing career, which, unfortunately, turned sour after McGrath sold him to someone who assured him the horse would be treated well. Instead, despite serious injuries, Tracemark continued to race, making 57 career starts, finally hitting rock bottom by running in $3,000 claiming events.

Just when Tracemark’s life seemed headed to oblivion or worse, his plight was brought to the attention of the ReRun Organization, which with the help of Sallee Vans, sent him to the Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington. There he was successfully operated on by Dr. Alan Ruggles and nursed back to health by Glenda Meadows. Last month, courtesy of Tex Sutton Equine Transportation, Tracemark was flown to his new home at the California Equine Retirement Foundation’s (CERF) ranch in Winchester, where he will live the rest of his life