Former MLB All-Star Jayson Werth has transitioned his career focus to the cannabis industry and horse racing since retiring seven years ago. Currently, he is preparing to launch Wyvern Botanicals, a new cannabis project, while simultaneously establishing Icon Racing, a horse syndicate aiming to attract more investors into thoroughbred ownership. This year marks Werth's second consecutive Kentucky Derby participation as co-owner of Flying Mohawk, a promising colt with a chance to surprise competitors at Churchill Downs. Having previously tasted success in sports through baseball and last year’s Belmont Stakes victory, Werth now seeks another Triple Crown triumph, leveraging his growing expertise in horse racing.

Jayson Werth’s journey post-baseball reflects an ambitious leap into two distinct yet thrilling industries: cannabis cultivation and horse ownership. His upcoming botanical venture, Wyvern Botanicals, signifies one facet of this transformation. However, it is his passion for horse racing that currently takes precedence, particularly with the Kentucky Derby on the horizon. As co-owner of Flying Mohawk, Werth anticipates building upon last year's experience where Dornoch, another Derby participant, brought him significant recognition by winning the Belmont Stakes.

Flying Mohawk, positioned strategically at the No. 11 post, enters Saturday's race following a commendable second-place finish against Final Gambit in the Jeff Ruby Steaks. Partnering with real estate developer Shawn Kaleta and former CAA agent Jeff Berry, Werth holds a substantial stake in Flying Mohawk via Two Eight Racing, named after his old jersey number. While managing personal equine investments remains important, Werth places greater emphasis on expanding Icon Racing—a syndicate designed not only to raise funds but also foster a modernized approach to engaging partners in horse ownership.

The digital media component integrated within Icon Racing aims to enhance partner experiences beyond traditional methods. Werth emphasizes inclusivity among stakeholders, advocating fun and camaraderie over rigid formalities. Drawing parallels between owning horses and participating in high-stakes sporting events, Werth describes the thrill akin to combining lottery tickets, season passes, and Las Vegas getaways. He underscores the necessity of collaboration, capital infusion, and expert guidance to sustainably compete at the top levels of horse racing.

Werth joins a lineage of prominent sports figures entering the equestrian world, such as former Yankees manager Joe Torre and NBA star Nikola Jokić. Through Icon Racing, which has already secured over $3 million and manages nine horses, Werth hopes to lower barriers for other retired athletes interested in transitioning into this traditionally exclusive domain. Highlighted in Netflix’s Race for the Crown series, Werth views horse racing as a rejuvenating outlet offering familiar adrenaline rushes reminiscent of gameday excitement.

This Saturday, Werth, alongside partners Kaleta and Berry, will experience the pinnacle of their collaborative efforts as Flying Mohawk competes for a $3 million prize. With deep-rooted ties to baseball culture, they find analogous patterns between both sports—embracing risks, enduring highs and lows, and cherishing every moment along the way. For Jayson Werth, these ventures represent more than business opportunities; they embody lifelong passions fueled by competitive spirit and entrepreneurial drive.