From his humble beginnings serving coffee from a pushcart on the streets of Grants Pass to helming one of the nation’s fastest-growing beverage empires, Travis Boersma has long been a symbol of entrepreneurial determination and regional pride. Today, that journey takes an ambitious stride in a new direction as Boersma’s racehorse, Owen Almighty, competes in the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.
For residents of Southern Oregon, this moment represents more than a major sporting event—it’s a powerful point of community pride. Boersma, the co-founder of Dutch Bros Coffee and a lifelong Grants Pass resident, is once again bringing national attention to his hometown. But this time, the spotlight shines not on coffee cups and drive-thru windows, but on one of the most revered stages in American sports.
Owen Almighty, a three-year-old dark bay colt, has captured attention in recent months through a series of impressive performances on the track. Entering the Derby from Lane 10, the thoroughbred carries both the hopes of his owner and the pride of a region. With elite-level training, a competitive pedigree, and a sharp late-race kick, the horse stands poised to contend with the best of his generation.
While some may be surprised to see Boersma’s name appear on a racing roster, those who know him well understand that this new chapter is a natural extension of his drive to innovate and invest in his passions. In addition to building Dutch Bros into a billion-dollar brand known for its vibrant culture and community-first ethos, Boersma has also devoted considerable energy and resources to revitalizing horse racing in Southern Oregon.
His contributions to the local industry include the revitalization of Grants Pass Downs and the development of the Flying Lark, a planned entertainment and gaming complex intended to create a sustainable future for Oregon horse racing. Although regulatory and political hurdles ultimately prevented the Flying Lark from opening as envisioned, Boersma remained steadfast in his support for the sport and its local economic impact.
Owen Almighty now represents the realization of Boersma’s long-standing belief that a world-class racehorse could emerge from Oregon’s soil and spirit. Backed by exceptional care, cutting-edge training, and the strategic leadership of a respected racing team, the colt’s appearance at Churchill Downs signals that vision becoming reality.
Even as Owen Almighty enters the Derby field as something of a dark horse, many observers have taken note of his potential. Racing analysts have cited the colt’s strong finishing ability and his seasoned jockey’s tactical instincts as key factors that could position him to surprise the field. If successful, it would mark a historic moment—not just for Boersma, but for Oregon horse racing, which has long struggled to gain national recognition.
Regardless of where Owen Almighty finishes, Boersma’s presence in the Derby underscores the powerful reach of perseverance, vision, and community commitment. His journey—from the heart of Southern Oregon to the elite circles of thoroughbred racing—is a testament to the belief that ambition, when grounded in passion and purpose, knows no limits.
For the people of Grants Pass, today is about more than just a race. It is a celebration of local roots flourishing on a national stage, of a community cheering for one of its own, and of the enduring spirit of possibility that has always defined Travis Boersma’s path.
As the starting gates open and the thunder of hooves fills Churchill Downs, Southern Oregon will be watching—hopeful, proud, and ready to see whether Owen Almighty can carry their colors to the finish line.
From coffee carts to racing silks, Travis Boersma continues to show that when vision meets determination, even the wildest dreams are within reach.