Chicago Cubs embrace thrilling off day at Churchill Downs where Alex Bregman’s horse wins race, tell me about this news in (https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/09/18/chicago-cubs-churchill-downs-alex-bregman/)
19-09-2026
On Thursday, September 17, 2026, the Chicago Cubs took advantage of an off day before their weekend series against the Cincinnati Reds by flying down to Louisville, Kentucky, for an unforgettable team outing at Churchill Downs.
The trip was organized in support of Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman, whose family owns a 3-year-old thoroughbred named Act of Parliament. Trained by Will Walden, the horse competed in the final race of the eveninga 6½-furlong maiden claiming race.
The visit turned into a lively team-bonding celebration:
Several players showed up in racing-themed costumes; pitcher Ryan Rolison wore a full horse costume, while rookie Pedro Ramirez dressed as a jockey.
Star center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong visited the paddock before post time to give Act of Parliament a playful “pep talk,” which Bregman later joked made it impossible for the horse to lose.
During the race, Act of Parliament overcame a rough, crowded start, rallied five wide around the turn under jockey Axel Concepcion, and surged late to secure victory by three-quarters of a length.
The finish sent the Cubs into a frenzy. The entire squad flooded the winner’s circle, chanting Concepcion’s name and tossing the winning jockey into the air. Even manager Craig Counsell joined the festivities, helping lead Act of Parliament into the winner’s circle. The thrilling win gave the Cubs a major morale and chemistry boost heading into their final postseason push.