[2] Asteroid was described as being a bay, standing 15.2 hands (62 inches; 157 cm) with a broad back, short coupling and well-developed hind quarters.

In 1864 Confederate raiders stormed Woodburn Farm and Asteroid was stolen, but returned to his owner by a neighbour, after he saw the contingent pass and bargained for the horse's release.

After this invasion, Alexander moved his horses, including the stallions Lexington and Australian, from Woodburn to Illinois, where they stayed until the end of the war, in April 1865.

[3] Asteroid was undefeated in his 12 starts on the racecourse, having won at distances ranging from one to four miles (1.6 to 6.4 kilometers), including two walk-overs.

[4] Two $20,000 winner take-all match races were arranged between Asteroid and Kentucky with both horse owners being confident of a victory.