Thank You For Another Great Year!

by Ed Meyer

posted on June 29, 2013 in Blogroll, General Discussion, Horse Racing, WinningPonies.com | 2 Comments >>

When I was boy, everything seemed simple. You played until dark, supper was hot and ready when you came home, and going to the track with my dad was always on my mind. There weren’t many young fella’s who read the local paper just to see the race results. As I turn another year older, I look back with fond memories and few regrets.  Many thanks and gratitude to the “Racing Gods” for allowing me the privilege of seeing another great year…

How could you complain? Win or lose, all of the years we have are great. Some are just better than others. Birthday celebrations are for children and old people. I don’t fall into either category, and for me it has become introspective. I like to think about all of the wonderful people I have met along the way, and the incredible jobs that have allowed me to see behind the curtain of the sport I love. My mother told me that a life doing what you want is a “double-pleasure.” The first comes when you are actually living your life, and the second comes when you reflect back on the wonderful memories.  Mom was right… I am still making memories that will make me smile someday. As I begin my 47th year of life, here are a few things that are on my mind:

* I would like to thank the many people who have made me feel special in my life. Those who took a chance on me; had belief in me, and lifted me up when I needed it the most. Thank you…

* For anyone who has ever done a wrong turn, said a hurtful word, or just closed that door in my face, I forgive any, and all. Now I ask the same from the many toes I may have stepped upon.

* There has been no other sport that could capture my soul as racing. Thank you to my dad, grandpa, and the many others that took the time to show me the beauty.

* Everyone has had some special people they have worked with. For me, there have been so many it would read like a phone book. If I call you, text you, email you, write about you, or just think about you., thank you for stopping by in the travels of life.

* Worry less about winning, and enjoy the races.

* Don’t blame anyone for your losses.

* Do your homework, and come prepared. It makes the celebration brighter when you win, and the ride home shorter when you lose.

* I have seen many great events and places: The Kentucky Derby, The Breeders’ Cup, The Arlington Million, Keeneland, Churchill, Santa Anita, and a little oval named River Downs that will always be special in my heart.

* I have had the opportunity to own a few horses, and there is no better feeling in the world than gathering up your family and friends for the winner’s circle picture.

* For a guy who has loved the races, I have been blessed to have my face on TV talking horses, hosting a few radio shows, and having my selections and thoughts posted for the public. My favorite time is getting to talk with people who shared the love of racing. I have always felt it is the fans who make the game special. Thank you.

With another year in the books, I will spend the day with dad on a trip to Indiana Downs. It is what we have done for many moons, and there is no other place I would rather be… May the “Racing Gods” smile down on all of us, and your winner’s be many and your photos be few!