On a memorable evening at Hoosier Park, Brittany Baker achieved her first official training win with Doin The Most, a 2-year-old pacer. This victory marked a significant milestone for the young horsewoman from Urbana, Ohio. Her dedication and perseverance paid off as she watched Doin The Most claim victory in a $6,500 purse race. Baker’s journey into the world of harness racing was not immediate; it took time for her to realize that this was her true calling. Despite challenges and setbacks, she remains committed to her passion, aiming higher each year and finding joy in both the victories and the daily grind.
The Triumph of Doin The Most
Baker’s breakthrough moment came on July 13, 2019, when Doin The Most secured her first training win. The young pacer, driven by Trace Tetrick, outpaced seven rivals in a $6,500 race. Baker’s anticipation grew as the race approached, and her nerves were palpable. Watching from a reserved deck, she experienced an exhilarating mix of anxiety and excitement. When Doin The Most surged ahead, Baker couldn’t contain her joy. She had nurtured this horse from a yearling, naming him herself and investing countless hours in his development. This win was not just a triumph for Doin The Most but also a testament to Baker’s unwavering commitment.
Doin The Most’s success was no accident. Baker had carefully selected him as a yearling, purchasing him for $3,000 despite others passing him over. Initially gelded and overlooked, Doin The Most eventually blossomed under Baker’s care. After making five more starts for her, he added another win in Lima before moving on to new connections. Baker’s emotional attachment to the horse was evident, especially when he fetched around $20,000 at a sale. Although she let him go, the experience left a lasting impact on her career and personal growth. Doin The Most’s achievements laid the foundation for Baker’s future aspirations in harness racing.
A Passion Forged Through Generations
Baker’s involvement in harness racing is deeply rooted in family tradition. Born into a fourth-generation horse-racing family on her father’s side and third on her mother’s, she grew up surrounded by the sport. Despite initial hesitation, her passion for horses gradually emerged. While pursuing other career paths, including teaching, Baker eventually returned to the stables, realizing that harness racing was her true vocation. Her education in Florida further solidified her resolve, combining academic studies with hands-on experience in managing baby barns.
Baker’s love for horses extends beyond the racetrack. During the colder months, she dedicates herself to her 13-horse stable, while warmer weather allows her to enjoy outdoor activities with her boyfriend and two dogs. Even during these moments, horses remain central to her thoughts and conversations. Support from her family, particularly her mother and stepfather, has been instrumental in her success. Her mother’s tireless dedication to the horses and her stepfather’s expertise in horsemanship have shaped Baker’s approach to the sport. Despite the unpredictability of horse racing, Baker remains optimistic, working hard to achieve her goals and ensuring her horses are always her top priority.