Passion and Optimism - By Eric Mitchell

re: Passion and Optimism - By Eric Mitchell

Julie K — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 19:12:27 GMT

I sat up with my husband one evening shortly after losing our friend, Scoop and discussed so many fond memories that we had of him and many of them were humorous and we just had to smile and laugh, even though it really hurt inside.

I must say after working for Scoop and VSF for about nine years total, one thing stands out in my mind, especially after reviewing his speech at the AQHA Hall of Fame induction. I proudly and gratefully attended the HOF dinner in 2010 and this main point hit home: it was the pride, respect and admiration that Scoop's family had and have for him - you could see it in Bonnie's eyes. Above that, it is the deep seeded love that he had for his wife and his children that affected me the most.

Scoop was an innovative, forward thinking man. He truly believed that leaving a legacy, not only for your family, but also for your district, state and national organization was of the utmost importance.

Kind thoughts for a good man that was called home too soon for the rest of us.

God Bless.

re: Passion and Optimism - By Eric Mitchell

Scott Wells — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:57:59 GMT

I knew Scoop for 40 years and can echo all the beautiful sentiments expressed above. He was a wonderful human being and no one loved good horses and good horse people more. He was a great family man and a great visionary when it came to horse racing and breeding. People throw the term "legend" around too loosely, but Scoop Vessels was a legend in his own time--not because he tried to be but because he wanted the best for horses and the people who love them.

re: Passion and Optimism - By Eric Mitchell

Doug Wofford — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 15:30:00 GMT

Scoop, tall, good looking, rich, and owned the right to be snobby,-- but wasn't.

Instead, he was the kind King. He cut a wide swath, teaching generosity and tolerance by example, and as such will be sorely missed by all those privileged enough to have been in his wake.

re: Passion and Optimism - By Eric Mitchell

Bucky in Kentucky — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:16:10 GMT

Not only did racing lose a good man, the world lost a good man.

Scoop was a solid citizen and will be sorely missed by all.

My thoughts and prayers to his family.

re: Passion and Optimism - By Eric Mitchell

Robin from Maryland — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 01:51:20 GMT

RIP Scoop, you did alot for racing. You gave it your all and your heart. You will be missed.

re: Passion and Optimism - By Eric Mitchell

Eddie in Indy — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 20:08:17 GMT

Scoop was a great partner and friend. As his wife Bonnie claimed and I experienced fist hand "Scoop had a Heart of Gold". His humility and passion were second to none and for this, I am a better person for knowing him. The Vessels "Mojo" will live on through those he touched.