Our journey with this sport is a tapestry of personal stories. From the early beginnings to the lasting passions, we'll explore how it all took hold.

Discover the Origins of Your Love for the Sport

For Larry Collmus: The Timonium Ties

Larry Collmus vividly recalls how his love for the sport began at Timonium. His father set up the sound system there, and he would assist during summers. Instead of focusing on the sound, he became fascinated by the characters in the press box and the people he met. This was where he realized he belonged at the racetrack and his love started to take shape. It was a gradual shift that led him down this path.Later, his first full-time job at Birmingham in 1987 solidified his love. Calling his first Kentucky Derby in 2011 was a moment he'll never forget. It was the culmination of a lifelong dream, and that experience deepened his connection to the sport.

For Ned Toffey: The Ohio Roots

Ned Toffey's love for the sport traces back to his childhood in Columbus, Ohio. At the age of four, his family took a trip to Kentucky and visited Spendthrift Farm where they saw Nashua. Although he doesn't remember it, this was the seed that was planted. His parents were casual racing fans, and the trip was just a way to get out of town.Even earlier, when he was 10 years old, his dad took him to Saratoga on the day Secretariat was being inducted into the Hall of Fame. Getting his picture taken with Penny Chenery and betting on a Meadow Stables horse that won at 10-1 was a memorable experience. His first job at Kinderhill Farm in New York State was just a temporary stop after college. But a year later, he moved to Kentucky and it became his true calling.In high school, he took a break from the sport as he focused on football. However, being around his teammate Paul Manganaro, whose family was in the breeding business and boarded horses at Spendthrift, reignited his passion. He realized there was another aspect to the sport that he loved.To share your own story of getting hooked on racing, email suefinley@thetdn.com.