Isaac Murphy “38%” Legends of Saratoga Heavyweight Tee

A winning percentage almost impossible to imagine. A jockey impossible to forget.

Isaac Murphy was one of the first true superstars of American sports — and one of the greatest jockeys ever to ride.

In 1885, Murphy won an extraordinary 38% of his races, the highest winning percentage among America’s leading jockeys that season. And it was hardly an anomaly. Murphy’s own career accounting credited him with 628 victories from 1,412 mounts — an astonishing 44% winning rate.

He became the first jockey to win the Kentucky Derby three times, winning aboard Buchanan in 1884, Riley in 1890 and Kingman in 1891.

But Saratoga knew his greatness early.

At just 18 years old, Murphy rode Falsetto to victory in the 1879 Travers Stakes, defeating Belmont Stakes winner Spendthrift and announcing himself on the national racing stage.

The Isaac Murphy “38%” Legends of Saratoga Tee celebrates that remarkable record with a vintage-inspired portrait design built around the statistic that defined one of Murphy’s greatest seasons.

The shirt has the weight and feel to match the artwork: a substantial 6.1 oz. 100% ring-spun cotton heavyweight tee that is garment-dyed for a softer, lived-in look and feel. The relaxed unisex fit keeps the classic T-shirt silhouette, while a reinforced collar, twill-taped neck and shoulders, and double-needle stitching add durability.

38% in 1885.
Three Kentucky Derbies.
44% by his own career accounting.
One of the greatest who ever rode.

Part of the Legends of Saratoga Collection — honoring the people and horses whose greatness helped make Saratoga legendary.

This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!