The thundering hooves at Churchill Downs, the crowd roaring, and Bob Baffert, the legendary horse trainer, standing cool as ever with those iconic blue sunglasses. They’re not just shades—they’re a statement, a piece of his larger-than-life persona that’s as much a part of Bob Baffert‘s legacy as his Triple Crown victories. So, what’s the deal with those glasses?

Baffert’s sharp eyes have always been his secret weapon. Long before he was the go-to trainer for thoroughbred royalty, he was spotting diamonds in the rough, turning bargain buys like Silver Charm and Real Quiet into Kentucky Derby champs in 1997 and 1998. Those horses, snagged for a combined $102,000, prove he sees what others miss. And those blue sunglasses? They’re like the cherry on top of his razor-sharp vision, both literal and figurative.

All about Bob Baffert’s blue sunglasses

After some serious sleuthing, it turns out Baffert’s sunglasses are no ordinary specs. They’re likely vintage American Optical Numont Rimless frames from the 1920s or 1930s, a rare find with a silver finish and larger size that sets them apart from the more common gold versions. These frames, with their sleek design and silver arrow accents between the nose pads, scream retro cool.

Baffert’s pair is a RetroSpecs & Co. registered American Optical Numont from the late 1930s. The frame is crafted from 1/12 12K gold-filled wire, with 12K gold nose pads, and fitted with a lens shape called “The Vincent,” hand-tinted in a blue gradient. It’s a custom piece, rare as a long-shot Derby winner, and you can only get one through a RetroSpecs dealership or their Los Angeles flagship.

Baffert’s style isn’t just about looking good—it’s about standing out in a sport steeped in tradition. Those glasses, like his training methods, blend old-school flair with modern edge. From his quarter-horse roots to mastering thoroughbreds, he’s always had a knack for spotting potential, whether it’s in a $17,000 colt like Real Quiet or a fractious War Emblem, who won the Derby in 2002. His sunglasses are a nod to that vision, a reminder that he’s always watching, always one step ahead.

But these days he’s facing an unexpected setback.

Bob Baffert expectes Rodriguez to participate in the Preakness Stakes

Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert faces a setback in his quest for a triumphant return to the Kentucky Derby, as his top contender, Rodriguez, has been scratched from the 151st running due to a foot bruise. The decision, announced by the managing partner of SF Racing and co-owner of the colt, Tom Ryan, was made out of caution to prioritize the horse’s health.

Ryan noted in a post on X that the Authentic colt’s minor but sensitive bruise requires a few days of recovery, redirecting the team’s focus to the Preakness Stakes later this month.

Rodriguez, the Wood Memorial winner, had emerged as a strong contender for the Derby, with his morning line odds at 12-1 tightening to 8-1 due to heavy betting. His commanding 3½-length victory over Todd Pletcher’s Grande in the Wood Memorial, coupled with impressive workouts at Churchill Downs, had fueled high expectations. The colt’s withdrawal is a significant blow not only to his ownership group, which includes Starlight Racing but also to Baffert, who has been absent from the Derby for three years due to a ban.

Despite this setback, Baffert still has a contender in Citizen Bull, the 2-year-old champion, who will start from the No. 1 post in the Derby. However, Rodriguez’s absence shifts the spotlight to his anticipated return at the Preakness, where Baffert hopes to showcase the colt’s potential. Ryan’s statement emphasized a cautious approach, underscoring the team’s commitment to ensuring Rodriguez is fully prepared for his next challenge.

The Preakness Stakes will offer a fresh opportunity for Rodriguez to redeem his missed Derby run and for Baffert to reassert his dominance in Triple Crown races. With careful management, Rodriguez could yet prove his mettle on one of racing’s biggest stages.