Becoming a champion in horse racing is a journey that demands time and unwavering commitment. Bob Baffert and Todd Pletcher, two renowned horse trainers, shared their remarkable stories and perspectives at the 50th Global Symposium. Their experiences offer valuable lessons for the future of the sport.

The Priceless Feeling of Winning

"People come out of here with a way of how can we improve our sport," Baffert emphasized. Between them, these U of A Alumni have achieved remarkable feats. They have won 12 Eclipse Awards, 23 wins in Triple Crown races, and 34 Breeder Cup wins. "It's a feeling that is truly priceless and you can't wait to do it again," Baffert added. Baffert, a six-time Kentucky Derby winner, faced a setback when a positive drug test on one of his horses led to him missing the past three Derbies. But in July 2024, his suspension was lifted, and he is set to return for the 2025 Kentucky Derby. "Those were challenging times, but it's nice to be able to look in the rear-view mirror now and not worry about it," he said.

The Decline of the Horse Racing Industry

However, the horse racing industry is currently facing a decline. "I hear some of them saying they are not having as much fun as they used to or the game is not as fun as it used to be, and that concerns me," Pletcher noted. Pletcher is hopeful that the rising generation can be the key to revitalizing the industry. "We need more exposure. If we can get people out and see how exciting and fun it is, we can attract the younger generation to ensure its continuation for years to come," he said.

The Role of the Rising Generation

The future of horse racing lies in the hands of the younger generation. Pletcher believes that by providing more exposure and making the sport more accessible, they can ignite a new passion for horse racing. "We need to show the younger generation the thrill and excitement of the sport. Once they experience it, they will be hooked," he said. Baffert also sees the potential in the next generation. "They bring a fresh perspective and energy to the sport. It's exciting to see what they will achieve," he added.

Overcoming Challenges

Both Baffert and Pletcher have faced their fair share of challenges throughout their careers. Baffert's suspension was a difficult period, but he has emerged stronger and is ready to make a comeback. Pletcher, on the other hand, is constantly striving to improve and innovate in the industry. "Challenges are a part of life, and in horse racing, they are inevitable. But it's how we overcome them that defines us," Pletcher said. Baffert agreed, stating, "We learn from our mistakes and use them as stepping stones to success. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow."