Rob Gronkowski acquires stake in namesake Derby contender

Rob Gronkowski, the New England Patriots star tight end, has acquired "a substantial stake" in his namesake Thoroughbred, Gronkowski, who is scheduled to compete in the May 5 Kentucky Derby (G1) at Churchill Downs.

Gronkowski, the horse, is a son of Lonhro and based in England with trainer Jeremy Noseda. He earned an invitation to the Kentucky Derby by earning the most points in the European Road to the Kentucky Derby series. He won the final two preps in the series, the Road to the Kentucky Derby Conditions Stakes at Kempton and the Burradon Stakes at Newcastle, both over one mile on synthetic surfaces.

"We are very excited to have this talented racehorse running in the Derby and to have Rob Gronkowski join our team," said Tom Ludt, who directs Phoenix Thoroughbreds' global racing and bloodstock operations. "His involvement only adds to our growing credentials worldwide and can help us introduce the best of horse racing to a whole new audience."

The Gronk Nation website reported that Rob Gronkowski and his entourage would be in attendance at the Kentucky Derby.

"This horse is a winner and I love a winner," said Rob Gronkowski on the website. "When I heard about the racehorse being named after me, I started watching and got really stoked when he started winning. He's won his last three races and is now headed to the Derby. I'm all in: Welcome to the Gronk Family, Gronkowski the Horse!"

"I really can't think of anything cooler than having a top-class Thoroughbred named after me. Except maybe having him win the Derby."