The Derby Stallion

Patrick McCardle, a lonely fifteen-year-old, is pushed into a baseball career by his former pro baseball player dad. He feels pressured and uncertain about his future. This early conflict sets the tone for his struggle to find his own path.

Frustrated with baseball, Patrick skips practice and visits Houston Jones, a once-celebrated steeplechase jockey living on the margins of town. Houston shares stories of his youth and the girl Julie, who taught him to ride. The meeting plants the seed for a different dream.

During their talks, Houston recounts Julie's death and her impact on his life, fueling Patrick's curiosity about steeplechase. The legends spark Patrick's imagination and hint at a life beyond baseball. He begins to see riding as a possibility rather than just a dare.

After a game, Patrick's frustration erupts as he confronts his father about the pressure to stay in a sport he doesn't own. The moment exposes the rift between Patrick's desires and his dad's expectations. It pushes him closer to Houston's world.

Seeing Patrick's interest, Houston offers to coach him in steeplechase. Patrick hopes for a fresh start, while his parents express concern about safety and his mentor's reputation. The decision marks a turning point toward a new dream.

Houston buys a horse named Rusty for Patrick and instructs him to care for the animal. This gift deepens Patrick's commitment and sets up the practical path to running a high-stakes race. He begins to learn the basics of riding under Houston's guidance.

Patrick introduces his new dream to Chuck and Jill and invites his parents to meet Houston. The gathering helps some of the initial distrust fade as the adults begin to accept Houston's influence. The support network starts to form around Patrick.

The town bully, Randy, targets Houston's vegetable and fruit stand, challenging the fragile peace between the old jockey and the community. Houston confronts him and warns him to stop. The tension foreshadows the tragedy to come.

After the confrontation, Houston collapses, and Jill calls 9-1-1. He dies the next day, leaving Patrick devastated. Overcome by grief, Patrick withdraws from steeplechase and stops caring for Rusty.

On the day of a critical race, Jill finds a package addressed to Patrick containing childhood photos and a carved horse figurine. She hands it to him, unraveling Houston's history and the personal motive behind the mentorship. The package rekindles Patrick's resolve.

Patrick discovers Houston's old racing silks and a letter, which convinces him to enter the steeplechase again. He steels himself, driven by Houston's memory and encouragement. He arrives at the race just in time to start.

With Rusty's strength and Houston's voice in his head, Patrick powers through the track to win. He places his trophy on Houston's grave along with the jockey's hat and harmonica, honoring the mentor who changed his life. The film ends with a tribute to his late friend.