Harvey Wallbanger: The Racing Buffalo Who Defied the Odds
On March 4, 1989, history was made at Golden Gate Fields in California, not by a thoroughbred, but by an animal rarely seen on the racetrack—a buffalo. In a spectacle that stunned horse racing enthusiasts and captivated the crowd, a massive 2,000-pound racing buffalo named Harvey Wallbanger thundered down the stretch, proving that speed isn’t just for horses.
This extraordinary competitor was owned, trained, and ridden by T.C. Thorstenson, a cowboy with a deep love for both rodeo and racing. Thorstenson believed that buffaloes—often underestimated—possessed untapped athleticism and spirit. He dedicated years to training Harvey, transforming him from an untamed beast into a formidable racing star.
The Unbelievable Showdown: Buffalo vs. Horse
For his official debut, Harvey Wallbanger was matched against a seasoned quarter horse named Two Eyed Burt, ridden by renowned jockey “Cowboy” Jack Kaenel. The two competitors lined up at the starting gate for a 110-yard sprint—a short but intense burst of speed that would determine if a buffalo could hold its own against one of the fastest horse breeds in the world.
As the starting bell rang, the race exploded into action. Spectators gasped as the enormous buffalo surged forward with unexpected agility, his hooves pounding the dirt with raw power. Side by side with the horse, Harvey Wallbanger charged ahead, his thick muscles propelling him forward with incredible force.
To the shock of many, the buffalo edged out Two Eyed Burt by half a length, crossing the finish line in a blazing 9.4 seconds. The victory wasn’t just a fluke—it was Harvey’s 21st career win out of 26 races, cementing his status as a racing legend like no other.
Harvey Wallbanger: More Than Just a Novelty
Unlike other novelty racing events, Harvey’s races weren’t just gimmicks. He genuinely competed, proving that buffaloes, with the right training and conditioning, could match the explosive speed of quarter horses over short distances. His massive frame and unmatched endurance made him a spectacle to behold, and crowds gathered in awe wherever he raced.
Thorstenson, Harvey’s owner and trainer, had always believed in the buffalo’s potential. Through patience, expert training, and an unbreakable bond, he had transformed an animal typically associated with the Wild West into an elite competitor.
Harvey’s career continued to flourish, and his fame spread beyond the racetrack. He became a symbol of resilience and uniqueness, proving that greatness isn’t limited to conventional racehorses.
A Legacy That Lives On
Even years after his racing days, Harvey Wallbanger’s story remains one of the most extraordinary tales in racing history. His achievements sparked conversations about the untapped abilities of buffaloes and the possibilities of expanding alternative forms of racing.
Thorstenson continued to work with buffaloes, advocating for their athletic potential and showcasing their incredible abilities. He never wavered in his belief that Harvey Wallbanger was one of the greatest racers of all time, not because of the records he set, but because of the barriers he broke.
Harvey’s story reminds us that champions come in all shapes and sizes. Sometimes, the most unexpected competitors can rise to the top—not by following tradition, but by forging their own path.
The Race That Changed History
To this day, the image of a buffalo thundering down the track, neck and neck with a horse, remains one of the most iconic moments in Golden Gate Fields history. Harvey Wallbanger didn’t just run that day—he made history.
And for those who witnessed it, they’ll never forget the buffalo who outran the horse.
