Starting off my day at work seemed about as normal as possible. Blue skies and sunshine gleamed over the hills of Kentucky and glanced off the brilliant Ohio River. I walk into the jock’s room and the daily banter of how riders did yesterday and how many mounts await held the conversation. It was until […]
I remember holding your hand and walking in the track. We were buddies separated by 23 years and I loved every minute even though I didn’t know what was really going on. Just being with you was reward enough, and nothing in my life has been that good since. You were great at math and […]
We all remember our first date, first kiss, wedding, and when you held your baby for the first time. These are the important dates that never leave you. But when it comes time to enjoying a day at the races, this gambler has done some soul searching and came up with a few feelings that […]
We all have our favorite jobs. You know, the ones when we pull into the parking lot and run in to start the day? Yeah, most of us have had them, and for the ones who haven’t, yours are on the way. – Me, I’ve had a helluva good time. The majority of my working […]
Don’t call it a comeback I’ve been here for years Rocking my peers and putting suckers in fear – LL Cool J “I just wanted to be the best rider from Rivervale, Arkansas. That was good enough for me.” – Ouzts began riding horses with his cousins Earlie Fires and Jackie Fires. Earlie was inducted […]
I’ve never had a bad day at the races. Ever. – It’s not based on how much we made or the few bucks we lost on the 5th. – Some days are just better than others, and yesterday was great. I had the opportunity to do a handicapping seminar with Marty McGee […]
Wipe off your spectacles. Really take time to examine what you’re looking at. Not just a cursory glance, but a deep breath of what you’re reading. – I found a little gem while tossing out a plethora of old books and articles. The things that keep clutter your life and make your workspace difficult to […]
Photo Credit: USA Today Sports Many moons ago I was a kid in the parking lot at River Downs. A nice summer job with friends I still have today. Hard to believe it’s been that long ago. But on a hot summer day, my thoughts drift back to sweating in the sun with kids […]
We have a path, a plan, and a vision of what it’s supposed to be. Sometimes our love of betting is hitting on all cylinders, and other times there are distractions. I’ve had a few in my life. A place where you try to reconnect with your love of watching and wagering on horses only […]
From my early days going to the races with my dad. I always wanted to work in racing. Quoting Papa Wallenda pretty much sums up my travels in Thoroughbred racing. My first job at the track was really exciting, or that’s what I thought. I had a slick green windbreaker and khaki shorts with my […]