Courtesy of Ryan Patterson, GradedStakes.com
Finding an industry that has friendlier and more helpful
people than horse
racing would be quite a task. I can remember when I first gained interest in
racing, and decided to start a blog. Mike Tynan from Curb My Enthusiasm was there
to help me every step of the way, and Patrick Patten quickly welcomed me to the
Thoroughbred
Bloggers Alliance. I'm truly grateful for them, and they are not the only ones
who have aided me in the past. I'd like to use this post to thank those who
have been integral to my success as a blogger and my future success at the
track.
I can remember being greeted by Ed Meyer as I entered the River Downs marketing
office for the first time. He swiftly offered me a spot as an intern in spite
of my age (I couldn't legally wager at the time). He was there to help me
improve my handicapping skills and teach me how the racing works from a
business aspect. While it might not be a big thrill for most, I'll never forget
when he allowed me to call the horses on the track at River Downs. Ed also let
me talk on his weekly radio show several times, and give on track selections
over the intercom. I recently had a chance to catch up with Ed at Turfway Park, and he informed
of his new internet radio show. Click here to check it out!
John Englehardt is President of the Turf Publicists of
America, and Publicity Director at River Downs. I'd also like to thank him.
Knowing one of my ambitions is to become an anchor for TVG or a similar horse
racing broadcast, John allowed me to appear on his on track handicapping show,
The Regular Guy. While I must admit I was a bit nervous, it was a fun
experience. My only regret is not picking more winners! When and if I make it
to a place like TVG I'll look back fondly at my appearance on The Regular Guy.
I've only met Nick Hines once in person, but he is easily
one of the nicest people I've ever met- horse racing industry or otherwise.
"The Sarge" as regular viewers of TVG know him truly loves horse racing. I've
discussed derby prospects with him on countless occasions, and he has been an
endless wealth of information when I need advice. Coauthoring the Breeders Cup Sprint
article for HorsePlayer Magazine with him was my first chance to appear in a
print magazine, and I'm very thankful for that. Nick has an excellent eye
for horse flesh, and when I buy my first horse he will be the first person I
consult.
I don't know if I would still be interested in racing if
these people had simply blown me off. At the age of 18, I can say with
authority that I will be a racing fan for life. These people are largely
responsible for that. When I achieve success in the way that they have, I will
think back at how they helped me and do all that I can to give back. With
caring people like Mike, Patrick, Ed, John, and Nick involved, horse racing has
a bright future on the horizon.
