2009 Toyota Blue Grass Day at Keeneland

By Cindy Pierson Dulay, About.com Guide

Winning owner-trainer Thomas McCarthy said, "He trained like a champion all week, and after that breeze last week (a bullet 5 furlongs in 58.20) I knew I had him right where I wanted him. I think he exhibited the tenacity to go on to the (Kentucky) Derby."

McCarthy, a 75-year-old retired schoolteacher, claimed General Quarters out of his debut for $20,000 from Ken and Sarah Ramsey and trainer Wesley Ward on May 30, 2008.