Take Charge Indy, the 3-year-old colt owned by Marengo residents Chuck and Maribeth Sandford, will return to the races in 2013, it was announced Monday.

“We're extremely excited to bring back Take Charge Indy as a 4-year-old, and really look forward to big things to come,” trainer Patrick Byrne said in a statement. “He is just now rounding back into top form, and we believe he can be a leading older horse in 2013.”

Take Charge Indy became a fan favorite in McHenry County this year in the run-up to the Kentucky Derby. His victory in the Grade 1 Florida Derby at Gulfstream Park on March 31 opened eyes in the community, giving McHenry County residents hope that a locally owned horse could capture the most prestigious race in the sport.