As a three-year-old, Plaudit was ridden by future U.S. Racing Hall of Fame jockey, Willie Simms in the 24th edition of the Kentucky Derby. Plaudit came from behind with a powerful stretch drive to catch the betting favorite Lieber Karl and win by a nose.
At the time, Plaudit was still a young horse, ridden by future U.S. Racing Hall of Fame jockey Willie Simms in the 24th Kentucky Derby. In a nail-biting finish, Plaudit made a remarkable comeback to outmaneuver the heavily favored Lieber Karl.