King Leatherbury Maryland Death and Obituary: Forever Remembered

King Leatherbury, whose name became synonymous with excellence in North American horse racing, has passed away. From a childhood surrounded by horses in Shady Side, Maryland, Leatherbury’s passion for racing blossomed early, ultimately leading to a historic career spanning over sixty years.

After earning his trainer’s license in 1958, Leatherbury captured his first win at Sunshine Park, launching a journey marked by skill, dedication, and unparalleled consistency. By the time of his retirement in 2023, he had accumulated 6,508 victories and over $64 million in purse earnings, including 52 Maryland training titles.

Known for his shrewd expertise in claiming races, Leatherbury also shaped the careers of countless apprentices and fellow trainers. Alongside Bud Delp, Richard Dutrow Sr., and John Tammaro Jr., he formed Maryland’s “Big Four,” cementing the state’s prominence in racing during the 1960s and 1970s.

His homebred champion, Ben’s Cat, became a beloved fixture of the racing world, winning 32 races and earning multiple Maryland-bred Horse of the Year titles. Leatherbury’s dedication to the sport culminated in his 2015 first-ballot induction into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame.

He leaves behind his wife of 62 years, Linda, twin sons Taylor and Todd, and a grandson. Leatherbury’s enduring influence, wisdom, and love for racing will long inspire the sport he helped define.