Born April 13, 1969, at the Claiborne Farm, Riva Ridge was a Thoroughbred racehorse, the winner of the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes in 1972.Rode by Ron Turcotte.

Named after a World War II battleground, Riva Ridge entered the racing scene in 1971. Unlike his more inexperienced peers, he displayed exceptional talent from the start. He won his second career race and went on to dominate his juvenile campaign, capturing victories in prestigious races like the Futurity Stakes, Champagne Stakes, and Garden State Stakes. He finished his undefeated year with earnings surpassing $500,000, solidifying his status as a champion two-year-old.