Ruffian

Overview

Ruffian is an American made-for-television movie that tells the story of the U.S. Racing Hall of Fame Champion thoroughbred filly Ruffian who went undefeated until her death after breaking down in a nationally televised match race at Belmont Park on July 6, 1975 against the Kentucky Derby winner, Foolish Pleasure. Made by ESPN Original Entertainment, the film is directed by Yves Simoneau and stars Sam Shepard as Ruffian's trainer, Frank Whiteley. The producers used four different geldings in the role of Ruffian. Locations for the 2007 film included Louisiana Downs in Shreveport, Louisiana and Belmont Park in Elmont, New York.

Cast

Sam Shepard

Frank Whiteley

Frank Whaley

Bill Nack

Laura Bailey

Cassie

Nicholas Pryor

Stuart Janney

Christine Belford

Barbara Janney

Mathew Greer

Dan Williams

Louis Herthum

Dr. Harthill

John McConnell

Tony Pappas

Michael Harding

LeRoy Jolley

Stuart Greer

Dan Lasater