What are the key story phases in Ruffian?

The story of Ruffian progresses through these phases: Rise of a Champion, The Match Race Proposal, Belmont Park Showdown, Tragedy and Legacy.

How does Ruffian end?

Explore the complete plot analysis and story visualization for Ruffian on RichlyVa, including AI-powered narrative breakdown and key turning points.

Ruffian (2007) — AI Story Visualization

Name: Ruffian
Genre: drama, tv-movie
Released: 2007
Rating: 8.7

Plot Analysis Summary

A biographical television film chronicling the rise, tragic fall, and enduring legacy of champion thoroughbred filly Ruffian.

Story Structure — 4 Plot Phases

Rise of a Champion

The Match Race Proposal

Belmont Park Showdown

Tragedy and Legacy

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.

Directed by

Yves Simoneau

Key Cast

Sam Shepard — Frank Whiteley
Frank Whaley — Bill Nack
Laura Bailey — Cassie
Nicholas Pryor — Stuart Janney
Christine Belford — Barbara Janney

Rating: 8.7/10 (10 votes)