The Boys from St. Croix

by Ed Meyer

posted on May 28, 2019 in Blogroll, General Discussion, Horse Racing, WinningPonies.com | 1 Comment >>

Image may contain: 4 people, including Pede Prentice, people smiling, people standing and stripes

 

 

The sun was bright without a cloud in the sky. It was the kinda’ day we wish for when getting out of bed. – I didn’t waste this gorgeous day just sitting around the house.  If you bet $100, where do you think I was heading? – Yep, you’d be right.

I studied my horses and was going to sit in my car along the rail. – I was at the 1/8th pole and had a Sunday paper to read in between races. Just a perfect day enjoying the sun. – I saw a few folks who work on the starting gate and a gal perched high above on her pony giving me a smile and a quick wave. It was a turf race and the runners were circling on the dirt course before heading over. – I saw a rider in bright green silks and gave a little whistle. – He looked over and said; “Hey, Ed. How’s it going.” I smiled back with a thumbs up. – It was the Green Carpet Stakes at Belterra as riders filed over one at a time when the rain started to fall in big slow drops. – As Nevans loaded into the gate, little did I know this would be the last time I’d see a young man who had his whole life in front of him.

Life is like that. – Everything looks good with a thumbs up and the next moment everything can change. – Euclyn “Pede” Prentice was only 28 years-old. He was just finding his groove in horse racing and was one of the happiest people I’ve met. – God called this beautiful young man home in the early hours on Monday, May 27th, 2019.

The “Boys from St. Croix” were fellow Virgin Islands jockeys, Victor Lebron, Julio Felix, Kevin Krigger, and Kerwin John. With their guidance, his drive, and the entire Virgin Islands territory rooting for him, Pede’s success grew tremendously. – I spoke to a good friend of his and he thanked me for always driving it home over the speakers when he won. – It was fun just watching a man ply his trade with such love. – The pleasure was all mine.

As promising a rider on the track, he was even a kinder man out of the saddle. – He would never pass you without a big handshake and a hug. – ” How’s it going, Ed?  Everything all good?” – His smile was from ear-to-ear and infectious, to say the least. He seemed to glide through the world without a care. He was home everywhere he went, but his heart was in the Virgin Islands. – His many friends, clients, and fans are going to miss his smile. One of the good guys for sure, and meeting someone like him is rare. – Pede, to say you’ll be missed won’t fit the bill. You had so many that loved you, respected you, and enjoyed watching you ride. – When I saw your name in the program the next day it hit home. I had watched for the final time a young man do what he loved. – Rest in peace, my friend.