Buffett’s Horse Wins In New Orleans

Pulaski County, a horse co-owned by Jimmy Buffett, New Orleans Saints Coach Sean Payton, General Manager Mickey Loomis, quarterback Drew Brees, vice president of communications Greg Bensel, along with several others under the banner Last Mango Racing Stable, placed first in the 8th race at the New Orleans Fair Grounds on Thursday.

In a spirited winner’s circle, Greg Bensel had winning jockey Robby Albarado don a Last Mango football helmet.

It was the partnership’s first-ever win; they got into the sport last fall by claiming Pulaski County for $50,000 at Keeneland.

Pulaski County, who took command in mid-stretch and drew clear by a length at the wire, paid $7.80, $4 and $3.20 as the second choice in the wagering, and accomplished the six furlongs in 1:12.54.

“I was the next one to get gelded if this horse didn’t win,” Bensel joked.

Payton called him a few minutes after the race. Bensel said Payton and Buffett bet on Pulaski County, who paid $7.80 to win. “Jimmy Buffett was watching from St. Bart on his boat, Last Mango III,” Bensel said.

Read more about Last Mango Racing Stable here.