In one of the most amazing stories in the 82-year history of the race, Freedoms Traveller won the Derby on Saturday afternoon - just a few months after his original trainer lost a long battle with cancer. "It's unbelievable," said co-owner Randy Feddema.

Freedoms Traveller's early lessons in racing came with trainer Barry Brown. But after fighting cancer for years, Brown passed away on May 13 - leaving Knechtel (his longtime partner) with the grey thoroughbred.

"(Brown) would be so proud of us," said Knechtel, wiping away tears just moments after Freedoms Traveller crushed a field of 11 in the richest race in Edmonton. "It was for him today."

That feeling also filled jockey Rafael Zenteno, who dedicated the victory to Brown while riding to the winner's circle. "This is for you Barry," said Zenteno, as he pointed to the sky and talked with Crystal Leriger on horseback on CTV's live broadcast of the Derby.

Paying $12.90 to win on a $2 ticket, Freedoms Traveller now has career earnings of $258,000 for Randy and Donna Feddema, who also own the sire (Peacenfreedom) and the dam (Lunar Gem).

Staying away from the early speed duel involving favoured Line Change, Zenteno pulled the right string as he exited the clubhouse turn for the final time  - rolling right by the favourite and into the Derby memory book.

"He was just too sharp today," said Pedro Alvarado, Line Change's pilot. "He broke very well - better than I wanted and he was too close (to the pace)."

(Photo credit: Ryan Haynes)

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