Riding into History

by Ed Meyer

posted on October 10, 2020 in Blogroll, General Discussion, Horse Racing, WinningPonies.com | Comments Off on Riding into History

1973 was a long time ago. If not, just check your license to see if you were born. – W.J. Danner was a young man from Kansas training horses at Beulah Park. His ability as a trainer showed promise and would allow him to raise a family on his trade. On April 2, 1973, a nineteen-year-old kid from Lepanto, Arkansas was given a leg-up on Rablue. – 7,141 wins later that same kid became the 6th all-time leading rider in the world.

Perry Ouzts is 66-years-young. The old saying of “Father Time is Undefeated” means nothing to Ouzts. “I’m gonna ride this train until they throw me off,” according to the Hennegan brothers video Ironman. A piece that showed the behind the scenes life of a one-of-a-kind rider.

A quiet man who shuns the spotlight would rather do his talking on the track. – Getting Perry to speak more than 2 minutes is a wish. Humble and kind, but a tenacious competitor the same. I’ve never seen anyone better on a speed horse; hence earning him the nickname “Scoot N Boot.”

In the background, Rablue was ponied back to the winner’s circle by Doug “Doo-dad” Haehn. He was the same man 47-years later that ponied him back to the winner’s circle to celebrate his 7,142nd win. – This propelled Perry to be the 6th all-time leading rider in history passing Chris McCarron.

Four months ago Belterra Park was given the green light to race. During uncertain times, racing was the only sport for fans to enjoy. It was a simple pleasure that gave us hope for normalcy. – I have no doubt we’ll all be back in the saddle for fans in the stands and packed crowds on stakes days. But, for now. We’ll gratefully accept the beauty and pageantry the Racing Gods bestow. – As I walked to my car for the final time yesterday, this season is one to remember. The wonderful people I have the opportunity to work for, and the incredible folks I am blessed to be a part of the team.

The stands are quiet and the horses move on to the next oval. This is racing. But, rest assured we’ll be chomping at the bit to be back in the saddle next spring. – The highlight for me was watching a 66-year-old man ride like a teenager. His drive to win is unparalleled and love for the game unmatched. See you next season, Perry. It was an honor and privilege to watch you ply your trade.