From Grocery Chain Contests to a Lifelong Passion
Early Beginnings with Local Contests
The beginnings of my horse racing story are intertwined with a unique local grocery chain contest. Back then, we'd gather at a specific time to watch these clips and engage in the excitement of trying to match our tickets. It was a simple yet captivating start that opened the door to a world I never knew existed. This early encounter gave me a taste of the thrill that horse racing could offer.It was a time when I didn't realize the impact it would have on my life. Just watching those short clips and imagining the possibilities was enough to pique my interest. Little did I know that this would be the first step on a journey that would take me through many years and countless races.
Neighbor's Horse and Early Gambling Experiences
A few years later, a neighbor three doors down introduced me to the world of horse racing in a more personal way. He campaigned a mare called Diablo Morn with trainer Jerry McGrath. Although she had a not-so-impressive career with a record of 2-32, it gave me access to a horse owner. Another neighbor, an avid gambler, would place show parlays for my stepson and me in our early teens. This was an electric experience that further fueled my interest in the sport.Watching these horses run and being involved in the gambling aspect was a unique combination. It was a time of learning and discovery as I began to understand the ins and outs of horse racing. These early experiences laid the foundation for my future adventures in the sport.
The 1983 Arlington Million and Personal Bets
When the ground was favorable for the 1983 Arlington Million, which was just a few furlongs from my home, I couldn't resist placing a bet. I had to have a couple of bucks on Tolomeo. It was a moment of excitement and anticipation as I watched the race unfold. Unfortunately, I wasn't wise enough to cash the exacta over John Henry, but the experience itself was unforgettable.Placing that bet and being part of the race atmosphere was a thrilling experience. It showed me the excitement and unpredictability of horse racing. Even though I didn't win big, the memory of that day remains with me.
Return to Racing in the Mid-90s
During my college years, I got away from the game. But in the mid-90s, after some personal turmoil, I rediscovered horse racing. I hooked up with a group of guys, some significantly older than me and one close to my age. Every Saturday morning, we would gather on the Arlington apron and watch the horses run around in circles.It was a time of renewal and a return to something that had always held a special place in my heart. Being with these guys and sharing the love of horse racing again was a wonderful experience. It reminded me of the joy that the sport could bring.
Memorable Races and Moments
That summer, the dean of Chicago turf writers, Dave Feldman, recommended a big bet on Wekiva Springs in the Suburban. I remember the excitement and the anticipation as I placed that bet. It was a moment of trust and belief in the sport.Also, watching Serena getting run down by Mahogany Hall in the '96 Whitney after looking home free was a heartbreaking yet memorable moment. It showed the unpredictability and the drama that horse racing can bring.
Another significant moment was when Coronado's Quest won that year's Haskell with Shug in the TDN box. It was a magical moment that solidified my love for the sport. These memories have stayed with me over the years and have made horse racing a part of my life.
Life-Changing Job Offer
In early 1998, my life took another turn. My dad passed away, and I was about to move to this part of the country without a job. Out of the blue, the phone rang with a strange area code 908. It seemed like an unlikely occurrence, but it led to an interview with Coastal Jersey. Four weeks later, I was hired by Sue Finley and Barry Weisbord, and I've been getting paid to do what I love ever since.It's amazing how these seemingly random events can change the course of one's life. Horse racing has brought me so many opportunities and experiences that I never could have imagined. And here I am, twenty-six years later, still involved in this wonderful world.