TikToker and Minority Horse Owner Looks Back on 2025 Kentucky Derby Defeat
TikTok sensation Griffin Johnson, a minority owner of the racehorse Sandman, is reflecting on the 2025 Kentucky Derby.
“I feel like I’ve let everyone down,” Johnson, age 26, shared on his Instagram Story on Saturday, May 3, following his Derby loss. “But we’ll bounce back. Thank you to everyone who watched and supported us on our Derby journey. This sport has so much to offer, and I hope everyone got to witness its magic. On to the next Triple Crown race; we still have a full season ahead.”
In a cheerful selfie, Johnson donned a pink suit against the muddy backdrop of the 151st Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville. Another photo captures him watching Sandman closely, arms around the horse.
“Above all, this guy came off the track healthy,” Johnson noted in a different Instagram Story. “What a fantastic start to the year. Can’t wait to showcase how incredible this sport is.”
Sandman, who went into the race with 5-1 odds, finished in 18th place at the 2025 Kentucky Derby, with Sovereignty clinching the victory.
Johnson became a minority owner of Sandman through West Point Thoroughbreds, a firm enabling clients to own or co-own racehorses. Sandman commenced his racing career at Churchill Downs in June 2024, securing a fifth-place finish.
“I’m fully engaged in his journey. I attend all his races and travel wherever he’s competing,” Johnson told The Prairie Press in April. “I take care of him by washing and feeding him. I’m heavily involved with the team, his training, and progress reports. I’ve essentially done it all—from preparation to post-race. He and I have become quite close. He may think I’m just good for snacks, but he certainly puts on a great show.”
If Travis Kelce returns to the Kentucky Derby next year, it will be as a spectator and not as the owner of a competing horse. The 34-year-old shared his admiration for his racehorse, aptly named Swift Delivery, to his brother, Jason Kelce, during an episode of their “New Heights” podcast that aired on Wednesday, August […]
With over 9 million followers on TikTok, Johnson recently revealed his plans for another Derby horse, expressing his “full intentions” to “do this every year.”
“Horse racing has so much to offer everyone. I believe the journey and the community that has joined in have truly enjoyed it,” Johnson stated. “That’s what keeps me motivated now. After this year, if we can secure a win in one of the major Triple Crown races, I aim to continue this journey for years to come.”
