Sean Flanagan (left) and trainer Chad Brown. (BloodHorse/Skip Dickstein)

In Lowell’s Highlands neighborhood, the Flanagan family bloodlines boast some significant local accomplishments.

Mom Helen, then the Deputy Superintendent of Lowell Public Schools, came within a nose of being named Superintendent in 2000, losing by a single vote to Karla Brooks Baehr in the race to replace George Tsapatsaris.

One of Helen’s sons, David, currently holds the post position at Longmeadow Golf Club, serving as Board President at the private nine hole course in the city’s Belvidere neighborhood.

But beyond city limits, it’s another Flanagan son climbing the career ladder as he eyes the starting gate at horse racing’s most prestigious event.

Sean Flanagan, owner of Chancer McPatrick, is set to make his 3-year old debut at the Tampa Bay Derby Saturday. A victory there almost assuredly qualifies the thoroughbred for the 151st  Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs May 3rd, where at least one futures betting line lists the colt at favorable 23-1 odds.

Chancer McPatrick winning Champagne Stakes. (Eclipse Sportswire)

Chancer McPatrick topped the field in a pair of Grade 1 Stakes races as a 2-year old, before finishing a disappointing 6th during the Breeder’s Cup last November. His trainer, Chad Brown, is also targeting the Blue Grass Stakes April 5th as another opportunity to qualify for the Run for the Roses.

A recent profile in America’s Best Racing highlights Flanagan’s journey through the horse racing world and battle with cancer, which had doctors giving him only two years to live in back 2019. It’s a worthwhile read for horse racing fans and fans of human interest stories alike.

And of course here in Lowell, it’s a must-read, just as tomorrow’s race is a must-watch sporting event.