2019 YEAR IN REVIEW - Race Track Industry Program - Race Track Industry Program
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Race Track
Industry
Program
2019 YEAR IN REVIEW
THE RTIP LEGACY
Race Track Industry Program students are united by passion.
For the horse, for racing, for making their own mark.
This passion and drive connects them long after the degree
has been earned and careers have been launched.
The formation of the University of Arizona Race industry leaders to campus for exchange of
Track Industry Program (RTIP) began in the early information and to benefit the students’
1970’s when a group spearheaded by the late Frank understanding of racing. The first Symposium
Vessels, Jr. of Los Alamitos Race Course embarked was held in December of 1974 and attracted
upon the concept of a collegiate program to train approximately 45 people. Held annually since
young men and women to become future leaders then, the event has gained worldwide recognition
in the racing industry. and attracts attendees representing racing interests
Many ask why the Program
program is based in Tucson. It from across the United States and the world.
was the desire of the founders that the Program
program be Just as the founders of the Program
program envisioned,
located in a state with year-round racing, with both RTIP students still play an important role at
horse and greyhound interests, and at a land grant the Symposium and are afforded a unique
institution. Several universities around the country opportunity to meet and interact with many of
were contacted with none expressing genuine the industry’s best known and respected leaders.
interest until the University of Arizona’s College Few other educational programs provide this kind
of Agriculture consented to try it on a trial period of access and networking with the industry that
of five years. employs its students.
Resources provided by the American Quarter The Race Track Industry Program is the only
Horse Association racing
Racingdepartment
Departmenthelped
helpedthe
the program of its kind offering a Bachelor of Science
University get the Program
program started. Financial degree centered on the racing industry. It offers
commitments from a number of organizations in two paths of study; one preparing students for
the industry provided the seed money and the race track management, regulation or pari-mutuel
Race Track Industry Program’s first class was racing organizations, the other preparing students
offered in January of 1974. for employment in areas dealing with racing and
A significant program implemented during the breeding animals.
first year was that of a seminar designed to bring
ROADTRIP 2019
FROM THE DESERT TO THE BLUEGRASS OF KENTUCKY
The RTIP 2019 fall semester started out on an While at the corporate offices, the students Margolis and Ron Moquett after morning
incredibly high note with a trip to Kentucky, observed the United Tote hub where the training. Joe Kristufek, the racing analyst at
during which the students experienced all racetracks’ tote systems are monitored. Churchill Downs and the managing partner
aspects of the racing industry from breeding The afternoon was spent on a hosted tour for Brilliant Racing, also spoke to the
farms to yearling sales to a day at the races. of Derby City Gaming, CDI’s historical students and introduced them to some of
RTIP alumnus, Jim Mulvihill, senior director, horse racing facility. They saw the layout their horses in training at the track. Jamie
betting information for Churchill Downs, of the popular gaming spot, learned how Richardson, track superintendent, gave a
put together and hosted the comprehensive the historical horse racing machines are presentation about the racing surface and
schedule of events for the group’s two days managed and witnessed the extent to the challenges keeping a surface safe and
in Louisville. which they support racing in Kentucky. consistent.
The adventure started out with a visit to A tour of the backstretch of Churchill Downs The afternoon brought a stop at the racing
Churchill Downs Racetrack and Churchill was also on the agenda. The second day office to watch the draw and hear from
Downs Incorporated (CDI) corporate offices. started with Gary Palmisano Jr., the racing Ben Huffman, racing secretary for Churchill
Students enjoyed presentations from manager for the Churchill Downs Racing Downs and Keeneland. It was then on to
Mike Ziegler, executive director of racing Club, who explained how Churchill Downs watching races in the Jockey Club Suite
for CDI; Ed DeRosa, director of marketing put together the club to encourage and where Kevin Flannery, president of Churchill
for Brisnet, Vic Harrison, senior director of develop new racehorse owners. The students Downs, paid the students a visit and told
sales for United Tote and Nate Simon, visited the barns of Michelle Lovell, Steve stories of his experiences in racing.
president of United Tote.
Day 1: Churchill Downs!
“What an amazing way to kick off the semester and get to know
all the new students in the Program”
2
Churchill track announcer Travis Stone opens up his booth during
racing to RTIP students (Photo: Dr. Kathy Broneck)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Visits to the announcer’s booth Roadtrip 2019 2
to observe Travis Stone calling
the races, the paddock and the Mentor Lunch 8
Winner’s Circle rounded out an Summer 2019 10
excellent day at the track. Speaker Series 14
The trip also included two days Student Profiles 16
in Lexington to experience the
Al-Marah Equine Center 24
bloodstock side of the industry.
A visit to Columbiana Farm to ATBA Sale 25
see the RTIP-owned Hinder and RTIP Bloodstock Project 26
her 2019 filly by Street Boss was
Rillito Park 27
first on the agenda. Students
were also treated to a day at the Breeders’ Cup 28
Keeneland September Yearling RTIP Happenings 30
Sale to see how a major inter-
Scholarships & Awards 32
national auction is run. The
Lexington leg included a tour of Bulletin Board 34
Racing Secretary Ben Huffman talks with students about the Derby post draw
Stonestreet Farm from RTIP alum (while holding something that looks suspiciously like the “RTIP matrix project”) Advisory Council 36
Hillary Neese. Students spent
time watching Rachel Alexandra RTIP PROGRAM FACULTY/STAFF:
show off for visitors, and afterwards there was a The last leg of the tour was a trip to Hagyard Wendy Davis, Director
visit to Lanes End for a talk with another RTIP alum, Equine Medical Institute where the students Elizabeth Bracken, Assoc. Coordinator
Chance Timm, director of stallion seasons. While gained an appreciation of the technologies and Dr. Kathy Broneck, Asst. Professor of Practice
at Lanes End, the students not only met A.P. Indy services available for the equine athlete from Denise Pharris, Marketing Specialist
“in person” but fed him some of his favorite mints. Betty Prewitt, Administrative Assistant
RTIP alum Elise Jackson. — David Range
Abel Zander, Yearbook Editor/Contributor
PHOTO CREDITS:
Mike Lizzi, Yonkers Raceway (cover)
A DAY AT CHURCHILL CORPORATE Dr. Kathy Broneck (pg. 3)
Michael Sandulli (pgs. 5, 34)
The Race Track Industry Program’s Kentucky trip marketing for Brisnet which is a provider of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute (pg. 7)
during the fall semester included a visit to the handicapping data and information, as well as a Chris Chatters (pg. 10)
Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) offices. The place that racing enthusiasts can go to for news Catalina Sanchez (pgs. 11, 35)
visit gave us a behind-the-scenes look at the related to the horse racing industry. Ed oversees Morgan Edwards (pg. 11)
Churchill racing operations. We were treated to the marketing and the creation of new products Diego Cervantes (pg. 12)
USTA (pg. 13)
several presentations from members within CDI as well as content for the Web. He’s also a
Matthew O’Connor (pg. 13)
that connected the classroom concepts learned in handicapper and appears on the Churchill Downs
Zach Taylor (pg. 17)
Race Track Organization, Structure and Financial track feed providing the public with his expert Wendy Davis (pg. 18, 34)
Management with their real-world applications. picks. Nate Simon, president of United Tote, and Arthur Pegg (pg. 21)
Mike Ziegler, the executive director of racing Vic Harrison, the senior director of sales also spoke. Alex Sausville (pg. 22)
for CDI, talked about his 20+ years of industry United Tote has been a supplier of pari-mutuel Ari Shreeve (pgs. 24-25)
experience in a variety of positions–from his products and services serving the pari-mutuel JB Coronado (pg. 27)
work as vice president of Bay Meadows to his industry since 1959. Churchill Downs acquired the Alex Evers/Eclipse Sportswire (pgs. 28-29)
current position at CDI, where Mike focuses company in 2010 and has overseen its continued Don Ahrens (pg. 28)
innovation of wagering technology products for the Veronica R. Branson Photography
on the company’s commitment to U.S.
(pgs. 8-9, 33, 35)
Thoroughbred racing. racing industry. It was fascinating to learn about and
Susie Raisher (pg. 34)
Ed DeRosa holds the position of director of see the United Tote hub at the corporate offices in
Andy Hawthorne (pg. 34)
Louisville, Kentucky. — David Range Osvaldo Smokey Rivera (pgs. 28-29, 35)
Denise Pharris/RTIP (pgs. 2-7, 14-23,
26-27, 30-32, 34-35)
3
THE BACKSIDE AT CHURCHILL DOWNS
Friday morning we saw the sunrise from the Churchill Downs’ workers are a vital part of racing operations and benevolence programs
backside where we watched the first training session of the day. are very important. While we learn in the classroom about how
After training, we toured the barn of trainer Ron Moquett and had organizations like NYRA offer
a great Q & A session for our group. services such as health and wellness
I had a great conversation about and daycare, it is difficult to
how to get a start as a trainer. understand the need for these
The opportunity to get firsthand services until you see it in person.
advice in a one-on-one situation The Backside Learning Center
was invaluable. During our barn means the world to the many track
visits, we met Joe Kristufek, workers and their families. We
horse owner and track racing finished our tour of the backside
analyst. He spoke briefly about with a visit from the man in charge
his job duties and the owner of maintaining the track surfaces,
experience before heading off to Jamie Richardson. He discussed
check on his horses. the meticulous and painstaking
After our time with the trainers, process of maintaining the track
we met Sherry Stanley, director surfaces for racing, and how he
of the Backside Learning Center, and his team ensure both the
a non-profit dedicated to helping dirt and turf courses are safe for
the backstretch workers and their racing. In class, we discuss the
families. The assistance offered can role of the track superintendent
be as simple as helping children with tim e at th e ba rn of Ron Moquett as well as types of track surfaces
me
RTIP’ers spend so -and-outs of life
as a trainer
and mixtures. However, hearing
schoolwork or teaching the workers sh ares th e ins
while he
and their family members English. Jamie talk about his duties
Programs to support backside workers offered a completely new insight into the importance of his work in
are a topic that we discuss in multiple RTIP classes. Backstretch relation to the race track’s function. — MaryRuth Hodsden
Gary Palmisano Jr., the racing manager for the
Churchill Downs Racing Club, greets the group in
the early morning at Churchill
COLUMBIANA FARM — LEXINGTON
On Saturday we visited Columbiana Farm While we were at Columbiana we spoke to to market yearlings and we work hands-on
to see our mare Hinder and her Street the farm manager Homer Rader about the with the horses to get them prepped for sale.
Boss filly. Hinder was one of two mares plans for the filly in terms of time and In ACBS 444 (racing management) we cover
purchased for the RTIP Bloodstock Project. location of her sale. sales strategies and the auction process.
The students formed a committee and The experience at Columbiana allowed us Furthermore, we will have the opportunity to
were involved in giving input in the to see how the information taught in class offer input into the decision-making process
selection of two mares from the 2018 applied in the real world. For example, in for the Street Boss filly regarding future sales.
Keeneland November Sale. ACBS 371 (sales prep) we learn about how — Taylor Owens
4
Jacob and Alex evaluating yearlings
before they go in the ring
KEENELAND SEPTEMBER SALE
As someone who looks forward to the Racing Animal class. A project that we meeting with RTIP alum Kathy Berkey
Keeneland September Yearling Sale as worked on prior to coming to Keeneland as she was preparing yearlings from her
much (or more?) than the Kentucky Derby, involved researching specific stallions’ fees consignment to go through the ring later in
it was quite a treat to be able to attend and and auction averages, and at Keeneland, the day. Seeing the behind-the-scenes, from
see the action in person. those figures came to life. By doing that showing the yearling to potential buyers and
Thoroughbred auctions are sights, sounds project, we had a better understanding of setting a reserve, to the trip to the sales ring
and numbers. Lots of numbers. And many the prices that yearlings were bringing and when the yearling sold (and sold well!) was
of those numbers directly correlated with why. Of course, we also enjoyed guessing exciting and informative.
what we are currently studying in the the prices of the particular yearlings. — Jacob Shepard
Development and Management of the While at Keeneland, we had the pleasure of
You never know who you’re going to run into at the Keeneland Sale –
Kathy Berkey gives an overview of the consignors day at Keeneland
Bob Baffert with RTIP’er Michael Sandulli (Photo: Michael Sandulli)
DERBY CITY GAMING
We traveled to Derby City Gaming to see devices that are pari-mutuel and based on May, visited the Race Track Industry Program
the inside workings of a historical horse previously run races; but they still contribute last year and spent a class discussing HHR
racing (HHR) facility. While at Derby City to the purse accounts. With higher purses and the purpose it serves in enhancing
we heard from Tim Bryant, the president offered at Churchill Downs and other race- Kentucky racing. It was enlightening to see
and general manager, about HHR machines tracks in Kentucky, HHR supports the racing the product in action in a dedicated facility.
and how they support purses in Kentucky. and breeding industry in the state. — David Range
Despite their appearance, HHR machines Additionally, RTIP alum and KHRC director of
are not slot machines. In fact, they are pari-mutuel wagering and compliance, Steve
5
LANES END
Our tour at Lanes End was led by Chance Timm, RTIP graduate and
director of stallion seasons. We started with a number of stallions being
shown to the group, including Union Rags, West Coast, City of Light and
Accelerate. For each stallion, Chance explained their unique attributes.
He also explained how to evaluate stallions’ values and how stallion
syndicates work. The background knowledge gained from the
Management of the Racing Animal course allowed us to ask in-depth
questions and put together how it’s applied in the real world.
After the stallion show, we toured the facilities, including the
graveyard and the breeding shed. Finally, we toured the stallion
barn that housed stallions including Honor Code, Liam’s Map and A.P. Indy holding court
pensioned stallion A.P. Indy. The highlight for many was the for some lucky RTIP’ers
opportunity take photographs with A.P. Indy, who accepted
payment in the form of peppermints. — Taylor Owens
A wonderful surprise was a visit by farm owner Barbara Banke (left) who
Rachel Alexandra leading the pack in the pasture
greeted us and took the time to answer many questions and pose for photos
STONESTREET
Stonestreet welcomed us with a private barn to the paddocks and the broodmares The group gathered along the fence line
tour of their incredibly beautiful facility on who were still with their foals. as she showed off for the crowd (always
the Sunday morning of our trip. With RTIP After learning how the farm functions in the lead!).
graduate Hillary Neese as our tour guide, through the seasons, it was time to meet The tour at Stonestreet was one of the
we were shown around the farm and the its most famous resident, Rachel Alexandra. highlights of the trip as it showed us so
barns, noticing that each was named for a Hillary answered many questions about much about the broodmare side of a
different wine. We were introduced to the Rachel Alexandra and the two retired commercial breeding operation.
weanlings as they made their way from the broodmares who are her pasture buddies. — Taylor Owens
6
HAGYARD EQUINE MEDICAL INSTITUTE TOUR
Elise Jackson giving the history of the Hagyard organization Students learning about hyperbaric oxygen therapy (Photo: Hagyard)
Our last stop in Kentucky was the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. for a fall sales season, between breeding seasons. This gave me a
RTIP alum Elise Jackson led the tour of the facility. Students learned rather unique view of the Keeneland and Fasig-Tipton Kentucky sales
how Hagyard is a crucial part of the Keeneland Yearling Sale as and I made some awesome connections with our veterinarians and
many of the yearlings offered during the sale have pre-sale work their clients.
done by the institute’s vets. We toured the facility and saw the
Part of my job here at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is getting
surgical center and the hyperbaric chamber where equine patients
to show the public an insider’s view of one of the oldest and largest
receive treatments utilizing increased atmospheric pressure and
equine hospitals in the world, with a five-generation legacy of
100% oxygen. We also met the institute’s blood donor geldings, an
Hagyard family veterinarians. Situated right in the heart of horse
integral part of the Institute.
country, this clinic is home to over 60 veterinarians, roughly 200
staff members, and we see thousands of patients per year. I love
A view from recent grad Elise Jackson that we’re able to bring guests right through the Davidson Surgery
When I graduated from the Race Track Industry Program in 2017, and McGee Medicine centers, provide meet-and-greets with our
I wanted to keep learning. I completed the business path with the blood donor horses, and step inside a hyper-
Program and I wanted to learn more about where our baric chamber. We make equine healthcare
“product” comes from. I started my journey accessible to the public.
with Hagyard Equine I started as the tour experience and event
Medical Institute as an coordinator for the practice in June of 2019.
ambulatory assistant for I’ve had a great opportunity to pull my
a field veterinarian for a knowledge learned in the classroom and
breeding season. It was a through experiences with the clinic to
wonderful experience and educate seasoned railbirds, casual fans,
I enjoyed it so much I did a and newcomers on what it takes
second one the following year to build a racehorse and how much
with a different veterinarian. dedication goes into every athlete.
I wanted to learn more and —Elise Jackson
became a radiology technician
Ambassadors at Hagyard
Changing Roles from Student to Teacher
“Providing a behind the scenes experience of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute to the current class of RTIP students
felt like the perfect opportunity to showcase an incredible facility and highlight the amazing dedication people in this
industry have for these athletes as well as other aspects and opportunities in the racing/equine industry outside of
the farms and tracks.” — Elise Jackson
7
MENTORS 2018
The students eagerly awaiting their mentors
Mentor Jim Mulvihill with
Jade Eisenzimmer
Mentor Justin Rihard and Diego Cervantes
JEREMY BALAN
Online News Editor, Bloodhorse
JANET VAN BEBBER
Chief Racing Officer,
American Quarter Horse Association
PATRICK CUMMINGS
Executive Director, Thoroughbred Idea
Foundation
Abel Zander
KLAUS EBNER Ryneveld and
Mentor Paul
Sr. Manager, Simulcasting and HPI Mentor Jon Moss and KRA Executive
Services, Woodbine Entertainment in Residence Kuenho Nam
Group
DAN FICK
Senior Steward, Racing Officials
Accreditation Program J. CURTIS LINNELL ARTHUR PEGG PAUL RYNEVELD
Executive Vice President, VP of Content and Premium Clients, General Manager, Century Downs/
JIM GOODMAN Thoroughbred Racing Protective WatchandWager.com LLC Century Mile Racetrack and Casino
Director, Wagering Development, Bureau
Keeneland Association Inc. LONNY POWELL GREG STILES
JON MOSS CEO & Executive Vice President, Enforcement Manager, Arizona
MATT HEGARTY Executive Director, HBPA Inc.–Iowa Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ Department of Gaming/Racing
Reporter, Daily Racing Form & Owners’ Association Division
JIM MULVIHILL
DAVID HASLETT Senior Director, Betting Information, DOUG REED JEFF TRUE
CEO, Sky Racing World Churchill Downs Inc. Principal, Racing, Gaming & President/General Manager,
Entertainment, LLC Ruidoso Downs/Billy the Kid Casino
WAYNE HENRYS MARTIN PANZA
Executive Manager Betting Senior Vice President of Racing JUSTIN RIHARD SCOTT WELLS
Solutions, The Hong Kong Operations, The New York Racing Director of Communications, Oklahoma President/GM, Remington Park
Jockey Club Association, Inc. Quarter Horse Racing Association Racing & Lone Star Park
8Putting Scholastic Knowledge into Context
Each year during the Global Symposium on Racing, students have the opportunity to participate in the Mentor
Luncheon. This event brings students together with industry professionals who provide information that puts
scholastic knowledge into context. The opportunity to be in a one-on-one situation with industry leaders allow
the students to gain insights and focus on their personal goals.
Mentor Lonny Powell and Elise Peters Chris Chatters and mentor Martin Panza
Students and mentors enjoy getting to know
each other over a delicious lunch
9SUMMER 2019
CHRIS CHATTERS ABEL ZANDER
This past summer I worked in the Racing Offices at Belmont Park and I spent the past summer working at Arizona Downs under Zach Taylor,
Saratoga for Martin Panza. The freedom that Martin gave me while director of special projects, and Liz Meyers, marketing director. My
working in the racing office allowed me to learn the ins-and-outs role was to handle their web-based content which initially revolved
of what it was like being a racing official, stakes coordinator, racing around the creation of their new website and the continued manage-
secretary and clerk of the course. I was also given free range of the ment of the live website. After opening weekend, I was given charge
racetrack and was able to talk to all of the horsemen. Building and of all racing related content on social media. While it was interesting
developing those relationships was one of the things I liked the most. to see some of the operating aspects that are exclusive to racetracks,
Working in the racing office broadened my outlook on the industry I found that day-to-day operations are
and I think one of the biggest almost identical to businesses in other
takeaways I got was finding industries. My favorite aspect of work
ways to solve problems was finding new ways of presenting
so that the solutions are Twitter content that would be different
mutually beneficial to the than the typical cookie-cutter industry
track management and the content. My goal was to offer content
horsemen. that would be entertaining to non-
racing fans by incorporating verbiage
from other sports, pop culture
references, and using dates in
history to make racing content
Chris in placing stand more interesting.
with NYRA’s Sonny Taylor
(Photo: Chris Chatters)
TAYLOR OWENS ELISE PETERS
For my summer internship I spent eleven weeks working for My summer was spent with my first horse, the off the track
Thoroughbred trainer Brad Hemba at Prairie Meadows in Altoona, Thoroughbred Ma Smally. Affectionately known as Molly, I met
Iowa. During my time working as a groom, I learned to read the her while working at Rillito in March 2019. Her performance as a
condition book and help select races for horses. I also received racehorse had been less than stellar and her trainer felt it was time
hands-on experience in the process of claiming horses, from the for her to move on. His original plan had been for her to go to
claims forms to picking the horse up from the test barn. I learned Desert Oasis Rescue, but I mentioned that I would consider taking
to hotwalk, saddle a horse for training and all types of tack, her to work with.
wrappings, polos and leg bandages, packing feet, and mucking Desert Oasis’ owner, Cass Dewey, offered me a backup plan of taking
stalls. I also learned about workout regimes, Iowa breeding, and her in if Molly proved too much for me. After consulting my parents
basic nutrition for racehorses. My favorite part of my internship and meeting Molly, I knew I was ready to give it a shot. I am grateful
was learning about the different types of liniments and medicines every day that I went for this opportunity because Molly is making
that are used to treat ailments – from minor cuts to swollen legs. great progress towards a second career in the hunter ring and I am
At the end of the summer I traveled to Nebraska to help run a horse learning more and more every day about both general care and
we had shipped and then returned home the same night. This gave training of off the track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs).
me crucial insight to life as a trainer as we had to travel there and
back in one day because we had to work the next morning. As a
trainer this is something that happens often and I appreciated the
experience. The last horse I helped paddock for a race was a 25-1 shot
winner. This brought a perfect end to a long but rewarding summer.
10While at Prairie Meadows, Taylor Owens got lots of practice
properly applying standing bandages to all of the
equine athletes (Photo: Catalina Sanchez)
MORGAN EDWARDS
This past spring semester, I interned with Claiborne Farm in Paris, Going to various other breeding facilities in Lexington was an
Kentucky. To say it was one of the best decisions of my life would be incredible experience. I would go on the later breeding shed runs
an understatement. I was able to experience and understand how a and was able to see sires like Into Mischief, Uncle Mo, Kitten’s Joy,
large breeding farm operates every day. The foundation of breeding War Front, Empire Maker, and many more. I also was able to see
that Claiborne has developed in their history is incredible and visible Violence, who is currently one of my favorite sires.
as I worked with legends on the track and at the farm every day. Overall, a page doesn’t even begin to cover the experience I learned
The foaling barn was my favorite barn to work. Every day was some- and horsemanship skills I developed while at Claiborne. I’m thankful
thing new – it was fast paced and you never stood still for too long. for the employees, management, and the horses who made my
I learned very quickly that NOTHING about foaling is anywhere near experience one-of-a-kind. I am also grateful to the Race Track Industry
textbook. Some mares stayed waxed for 2 weeks before foaling or Program that gave me the foundation and support to pursue this
dripped milk for a week. I got a little better at identifying mares opportunity.
close to foaling, however, you never know. I helped deliver several
foals; it was usually at the time you are least prepared!
Claiborne had over 60 maiden mares that were at the farm and
many of those mares would show up off the track. They had to learn
how to be horses again and many would wait by the gate all day
just to be let back in for feed. Notable mares that were maidens
this year were Lull, On Leave, and Tequilita. I enjoyed my time with
these mares and being able to learn about the different veterinary
procedures that go into maidens as opposed to foaling mares.
At the nursery barns we would work with newborn foals
to teach them how to walk and get used to being
caught. These barns had a lot of vet work for
both mares and foals.
After a few weeks in the first nursery barn they would
be transferred in groups to another barn where they
would stay until weaning. In these barns you were able
to bond with the foals and learn their personality as
well as teach them manners. Lots of foals love scratches
on the neck and will try to groom you back. Some foals
would just have an attitude about them; I noticed this
particularly in Runhappy and War Front foals. The most
sociable were Curlin and Ghostzapper foals; one of my
favorite fillies on the farm was a chestnut Ghostzapper filly.
Nicknamed “Little Leaf”, her mom was one of the first mares
I handled when I arrived at Claiborne. She was obsessed with
scratches, peppermints, and attention. Naturally, I enjoyed
working with Little Leaf as she was a perfect likeness to her
mom. I really enjoyed all the foals, though, as they each had
something different to teach me.
Morgan with Mrs. McDougal (right)
and her Curlin colt — turning out
for the evening at Claiborne Farm
(Photo: Morgan Edwards)
11DIEGO CERVANTES MATTHEW O’CONNOR
At the Symposium I had the opportunity to meet Janet Van Bebber, This summer I resumed working with Hall of Fame trainer Nick Zito,
the chief racing officer of the AQHA. She helped me get an internship for the second year, in Saratoga. During my time with Zito, I assisted
with one of the best American Quarter Horse trainers right now. All in daily training, medications, vet work, and feeding, among other
summer, I had the chance to work with Monty Arrossa at Los Alamitos things. I was also sent to run horses at other racetracks such as
Race Course. It was a dream come true to be able to work at Los Al. Belmont Park and Finger Lakes. Additionally, I worked the sales
Monty’s team made my work very educating and fulfilling. While alongside Zito. At the Fasig Tipton Saratoga Select Sale, I selected
I was there, I mainly learned all about grooming – mucking stalls, and purchased a lovely Air Force Blue filly for $100,000. This was for
putting on standing bandages, adding polo wraps, and saddling for clients of mine, as I will be opening my own training operation based
gallops. During the last three weeks, I was able to prepare horses at Palm Meadows Training Facility in South Florida in January. I cannot
on race nights and take them down to the receiving barn, paddock thank Nick Zito enough for everything he has taught me and done for
and eventually take a picture in the Winner’s Circle. This experience me over the years, and I look forward to making him proud.
taught me the difference between working at a track compared to
working with a farm which transported their horses on race days.
While there, I gained Monty’s trust, and he has offered me the JACOB SHEPARD
opportunity to go back and be a part of his team. This summer, between taking classes at the University, I did freelance
pedigree evaluations and writing for summer yearling auctions.
I was able to apply what I learned in RTIP classes to what friends and
clients were interested in purchasing. I’m interested in working in
bloodstock advising when I graduate, and this was a good way
to process all of the information available in a sale into tangible
recommendations.
I also had the pleasure of leading handicapping seminars at
Arizona Downs in Prescott. It was really enjoyable talking about
wagering, giving picks and chatting with guests over a couple
of weekends at one of our local tracks.
OSVALDO SMOKEY RIVERA
This past summer I had the chance to join the Amy Nelson barn at
Arizona Downs in Prescott, Arizona. I expanded my knowledge of
racing as I was able to learn about taking Thoroughbreds to the races.
I learned about the different diets that Amy had for her horses and
why she fed them that way. I was also able to learn more about the
Diego in the paddock at Los Alamitos (Photo: Diego Cervantes) leg work done before and after the horse works and races. It was great
to be able to see what Amy does differently in comparison to my
previous internship at Ruidoso the summer before. I was also able to
do another short internship with Eddie Megariz in Tubac, Arizona.
“We are very fortunate and blessed I got to see the way he worked with his 2-year-olds and the process
of preparing them for a race – from their breaking to sending them
to have Diego Cervantes working to the gates. I enjoyed working with Mr. Megariz. Seeing all the hard
work and labor that goes into working with young horses to have
with our team. He has a great them ready to go to the racetrack was educational.
future ahead of him!! Thank you
to the University of Arizona
Race Track Industry Program
for helping to develop the future
stars of our industry!!”
—Monty Arrossa
Smokey at Turf Paradise
(Photo: Osvaldo Smokey Rivera)
12Hall of Fame trainer Nick Zito and Matthew O’Connor
alongside his $100,000 purchase and future trainee
at the Fasig Tipton Saratoga Select Sale (Photo:
Matthew O’Connor)
ALEX SAUSVILLE
at the Meadowlands. My first Hambletonian also included a week in
New Jersey with the communications team traveling to the different
farms to do personal profiles for each of the Hambletonian contenders.
I want to especially thank the communications team who had me do a
couple of interviews with trainers of Hambo contenders, one of which
was Luc Blais, trainer of the 2019 Hambo winner, Forbidden Trade.
The last week of my summer as a part of the USTA was spent close to
home getting to spend a week in Saratoga attending several racing
industry conferences. I was able to attend the Albany Law School Equine
Alex with the USTA team at the Hall of Fame inductions in Goshen, NY
(Photo: USTA)
As someone who loves to travel and learn the many different aspects
of the racing industry, I was elated to have the opportunity to spend
six weeks as a member of the United States Trotting Association. I
started out spending time with several different departments within
the organization, learning about the many different hats that the USTA
wears throughout the sport, as well as getting to see first-hand the
implementation of microchipping.
One of the most compelling parts of my internship came on a trip to Prior to the Adios at The Meadows Racetrack, Alex “interviews” the richest
Washington, DC. I spent a couple of days on Capitol Hill. To be able Standardbred race horse of all time, Foiled Again (Photo: USTA)
to see what goes on within the different meetings of the House of
Representatives and the Senate was something I felt very fortunate
Law Conference, ARCI Model Rules Meeting and this year’s Jockey Club
to be a part of.
Round Table alongside Mike Tanner, myZach boss and someone I consider to
Taylor
My time at the USTA also included several stops at major racing events be a great friend. This internship offered me the ability to experience the
including the Hall of Fame Ceremonies in Goshen, NY, the Adios at many different facets of the industry, as well as the chance to connect
The Meadows and my first trip to attend and work the Hambletonian with many industry leaders throughout the country.
STUDENT INTERNSHIPS AND SUMMER EMPLOYMENT
Arizona Downs Monty Arrossa Stables Prairie Meadows
Abel Zander Diego Cervantes Taylor Owens
Arizona Downs New York Racing Association United States
Osvaldo Smokey Rivera Chris Chatters Trotting Association
Claiborne Farm Nick Zito Racing Stable Alex Sausville
Morgan Edwards Matthew O’Connor
13
75THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING
2018 SPEAKERS:
DON AHRENS FRANK LAMB
Director of Security and Parking, Director of Government Affairs,
Sam Houston Race Park Wyoming Downs
DR. DIONNE BENSON CURTIS LINNELL
Executive Director & CEO, Executive Vice President,
Racing Medication and Thoroughbred Racing Protective
Testing Consortium Bureau
SCOTT CHANEY ED MARTIN
Steward, California Horse President, Association of Racing
Racing Board Commissioners International
JUAN ESTRADA PAUL MONROE
Investigator, Arizona Gaming Director of Marketing, Lone Star
Commission Park at Grand Prairie
SCOTT FINLEY ANDREW OFFERMAN
International Racing Senior Director of Racing
Operations, Canterbury Park
Jen Perkins in the RTIP offices with Zach Taylor LUIS JAUREGUI
Steward, California Horse JEN PERKINS
Racing Board Senior Manager, eWagering, Penn
National Gaming & Hollywood
MARSHA KELLY Casino
Principal, MSK Ventures
ISMAEL (IZZY) TREJO
BILL KNAUF Executive Director, New Mexico
Vice President Business Racing Commission
Operations, Monmouth Park
Racetrack
Paul Monroe with RTIP’ers
on the beautiful University
of Arizona campus
14
SPEAKER SERIES
The Joe Hirsch Speaker Series is
presented by the Daily Racing FormBill Knauf Skypes into class and discusses industry issues with RTIP students Luis Jauregui discusses the role of safety steward
Curtis Linnell answers questions Dr. Dionne Benson and Nick Fanucchi Frank Lamb explains the benefits
about digital tattoos of HHR in Wyoming
Scott Finley and Taylor Owens
chatting on the way to class
Marsha Kelly extends her classroom presentation into lunch with the students
Real World Meets the Classroom
Each semester, the RTIP brings guest lecturers into the classroom to provide students with exceptional networking
opportunities with industry leaders. These professionals bring together their expertise and real-world
experiences and provide students a diversity of knowledge that enhances their time spent in the Program.
152018/2019
STUDENTS
The RTIP student body is
comprised of a diverse group
of individuals. Much like the
make-up of the equine industry,
our students come from many
different backgrounds and from
DIEGO CERVANTES CHRISTOPHER CHATTERS
all regions of the country. Sophomore Junior
Home State: Arizona Home State: Louisiana
Diego was born in Nogales, Arizona but Before joining the RTIP, Chris had his
was raised in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico. heart set on playing soccer. However, the
His grandfather was involved in the racing summer after his high school graduation he
industry, not only as a fan and bettor, decided to forego soccer and enroll at the
but also as a part owner of a small lightly University of Arizona to study horseracing.
raced American Quarter Horse. Being Chris wants to go into training after he
one of the more enthusiastic of the graduates, but his ultimate goal to run an
grandchildren, Diego often accompanied international racing syndicate and
his grandfather to the track. On these trips breeding operation.
Diego would time the horses in addition This past summer, Chris worked for
to studying the horse’s conformation and Martin Panza and the New York Racing
behavior. Under the tutelage of his grand- Association at Belmont Park and Saratoga.
father, his affinity towards horses and the Mr. Panza was incredibly flexible which
racing industry grew. gave Chris the freedom to work not only
After watching the Triple Crown, Diego in the racing office but to also learn the
became curious as to the educational ins-and-outs of the duties of a racing
background of some of the top Thorough- official, stakes coordinator, racing secretary,
bred trainers. He did some investigating and clerk of the course. He was also
and found the RTIP. The Program’s list of given total access to the racetrack, which
alumni influenced his decision to come to included the backstretch and the ability to
the University of Arizona and increased speak with all the horsemen. Building and
his desire to become a trainer and learn developing those relationships was one
more about the industry. of the things Chris enjoyed most. Working
Diego wants to become an American in the racing office broadened his outlook
Quarter Horse trainer of notoriety, and on the industry. Finding ways to solve
developing a better grasp of the racing problems so that the solutions are mutually
industry will help him achieve this. beneficial to track management and the
His dream is to operate his own racing horsemen is one of the biggest takeaways
stable that produces successful American he got from his time in New York.
Quarter Horses on the track.
16Alex Sausville, Taylor Owens, Jacob Shepard, Abel Zander
and alum Zach Taylor (not pictured) sneak off for a quick
weekend trip to Santa Anita (Photo: Zach Taylor)
MORGAN EDWARDS NICHOLAS FANUCCHI ANDREW HAWTHORNE
Senior Senior Freshman
Home State: Washington Home State: California Home State: New Jersey
Morgan, a native of Selah, Washington, Nicholas grew up about 60 miles north of Andy Hawthorne grew up in the Pine
was exposed to horse racing at a very San Francisco as a huge Bay Area sports Barrens of New Jersey. He was born into
young age. She comes from a family that fan. As a kid, he knew he wanted a career a family of horsemen which sparked his
owns, breeds and races Thoroughbreds, in sports, but he did not yet know that the interest in everything horse related. He
so it is no surprise that she spent many sport would be horse racing. spent most of his years before coming to
of her early years at Emerald Downs, Nick comes from a family that is heavily the University at Parx Racing, learning
Portland Meadows and Golden Gate involved in the racing industry. His aunt, the training side from his mother and the
Fields. Her love of Thoroughbreds and Barbara Banke and uncle, Jess Jackson business side from his father. Andy has
the horse racing industry continues to started Stonestreet Farms in 2005. After experience in many areas of horsemanship
grow as she enters her final year in the Stonestreet’s Rachel Alexandra won the including exercise riding, show jumping,
University of Arizona Race Track 2009 Preakness Stakes, Nick caught the and rodeo.
Industry Program. horse racing “bug” and became a big fan. Andy’s had many opportunities to learn
Morgan’s formal education in equine This past summer, Nick spent six weeks about the world of horses – from learning
science began at Washington State working for Stonestreet in Lexington, about horse shows from his family on
University, where she mapped out a Kentucky and Ocala, Florida. the farm to breeding racehorses with his
plan to become a veterinarian. During neighbor. He has spent many years on the
this time, she worked for several While in Lexington, Nick worked in
racetrack learning about grooming, riding,
veterinarians, assisting with x-rays and various departments including: mares
and handling. He started off as a hot walker
physical exams of horses. She was also and foals, yearlings, facilities, and
with many different trainers and was a
a teaching assistant in WSU’s weanlings maintenance. In Ocala, Nick worked at
pony boy before coming to the University
horse class. the Stonestreet Training Center with the
of Arizona. He discovered the RTIP when
stable’s active and future racehorses.
Morgan spent the 2019 Spring semester he was sixteen after a friend mentioned
interning at Claiborne Farm in Paris, KY In December he plans on going back the Program.
for five months. During this time she to Ocala to experience the process of
Andy hopes to utilize his RTIP education
learned hands-on experience in all breaking in young Thoroughbreds.
to become a trainer. He hopes to achieve
aspects of the breeding industry. She high status in the racing world for being
had an amazing experience, and is not only a good trainer but a good
anticipating returning to Kentucky after horseman.
graduating in May.
17RTIP’s Dr. Kathy Broneck up close and personal with
a racehorse at Santa Anita (Photo: Wendy Davis)
MARYRUTH HODSDEN SHINOBI HORIKAWA GISELLE LUGO
Sophomore Sophomore Junior
Home State: Arizona Home State: Arizona Home State: Arizona
MaryRuth was born and raised in Queen Shinobi is currently pursuing a double Giselle had an admiration for animals of
Creek, Arizona, a small city outside of major in animal sciences with a Race all kinds, especially horses. For the longest
Chandler. Having been raised around Track Industry Program emphasis, and time, she wanted to be a veterinarian,
horses, MaryRuth always knew she wanted agricultural technology management and specializing in either equine or exotic
to do something in the equine field but education with a teaching emphasis. animals. After working as a veterinary
she never felt that she had found her niche Outside of her studies, Shinobi is a member assistant at a few veterinary hospitals in
until she came across the RTIP during her of the University of Arizona’s equestrian Las Vegas while going to college, she
first year at the University of Arizona. She team and volunteers with the National realized that her plans for her future
has been a fan of horse racing since she FFA Organization at both the state and career were changing.
was eight years old when she saw her first local level.
Giselle obtained her Associate of Science
Kentucky Derby on television. At the age She became interested in horses when degree at the College of Southern Nevada
of twelve, her love for horse racing was her sister took lessons at a therapeutic last May. During her last year, she realized
solidified during a trip to Turf Paradise to equestrian center. This prompted Shinobi she wanted to fully work with horses
watch the Cotton Fitzsimmons Mile. to take horseback riding lessons, after after volunteering much of her time with
MaryRuth is currently on the equine path which her interest in horses grew. Horses4Heroes. After doing extensive
in the RTIP. She began her career as a After graduation, she plans to pursue a research on the Race Track Industry
microbiology major before declaring her career as a high school agriculture teacher Program, Giselle knew that’s where she
degree path in the RTIP. After graduation, and run an education program that addresses wanted to continue her education into
she aspires to be a trainer and she desires all agricultural industries. Shinobi is pursuing the equine world. Having always taken an
a chance to train a champion that will end a double major because she believes the interest in Thoroughbred racing, this was
up in the history books. Although she has RTIP allows her to gain further experience in one of the easiest decisions Giselle made
limited experience in training horses, she animal science and business. This additional in her educational career.
believes her passion to learn makes up knowledge will make her a more well- During her time in the RTIP, Giselle is
for the gaps in her experience. During rounded agriculture teacher. She hopes to looking forward to expanding her knowl-
the summer of 2020, she has committed use her experiences in the RTIP to educate edge and networking within the industry.
to an apprenticeship to learn the basics high school students about horse racing With the experience she hopes to attain,
of horse training. and introduce them to career opportunities she plans to someday have the luxury
within the industry they might not otherwise of deciding whether she wants to train
have known about. or manage a breeding farm of her own
Thoroughbreds.
18RTIP Faculty Stay Involved in the Industry
Faculty members serve on boards and volunteer their time to a number of industry related programs,
including the Racing Officials Accreditation Program, Godolphin Flying Start, American Quarter Horse
Association Youth Racing Program among others.
KALI MARTIN MALORIE MCALLISTER MATTHEW O’CONNOR
Sophomore Junior Senior
Home State: Texas Home State: New Mexico Home State: New York
Kali grew up in the small town of Magnolia, Moriarty, New Mexico is the place Malorie Growing up five minutes from Belmont
Texas. Her obsession with horses began at calls home. She grew up raising and show- Park, native New Yorker Matthew O’Connor
a very young age on her Godparents’ farm. ing cattle and judging livestock. The latter was born and raised in New Hyde Park. His
At four years old, she began taking riding provided her with many opportunities, one father, who owned horses in partnership
lessons, learning basic horsemanship and of which led her to Frank Phillips College in with trainer Dennis Brida, exposed Matthew
her introduction to competition events Borger, Texas where she fulfilled a judging to racing as early as infancy. In 2006,
came at age eight. scholarship and obtained an associate Matthew’s uncle Anthony Bonomo entered
degree in Animal Science. the racing industry, and while he was only 8
Over the next 11 years, she competed in
The racetrack industry is a newly found years old, Matthew spent countless hours at
dressage, cross-country, stadium, and
interest which was sparked by her meeting the barn of Dominick Schettino, his uncle’s
hunter jumping. Her riding instructors took
with some of the RTIP faculty. However, this trainer at the time.
an interest in Kali‘s ability to communicate
with a wide variety of horses. They pulled interest quickly blossomed into a passion After a few years, O’Connor began helping
her from competing to train facility horses after speaking with the executive director around Schettino’s barn, and upon receiving
to jump and gain their trust to allow novice of the gaming commission for the state of his work permit at the age of 15, he went
riders the opportunity to ride the horses New Mexico. He in turn set up an interview to work as a hotwalker and eventually, as
she trained. She gained the nickname for Malorie with the president of racing for a foreman. In 2016, Matthew moved to the
“horse whisperer” within the horse The Downs at Albuquerque. She received an barn of Robert Falcone, Jr., working in the
community as word spread about her internship working in the test barn as well same capacity. Additionally, the ownership
amazing gift to communicate with horses. as the racing office. Spending last summer by Matthew’s uncle of Grade 1 winner
on the backside of the racetrack was an Greenpointcrusader and eventual Kentucky
She did not mind giving up competing, for
amazing learning opportunity that Derby winner Always Dreaming afforded
her niche was always about training and
reinforced her decision to join the RTIP. O’Connor the opportunity to assist in the
helping others learn how to ride, jump, and
Malorie takes a keen interest in the repro- development of these horses.
communicate with horses.
duction and breeding aspects of animal In 2018, after spending time working with
In 2016, Kali graduated with an AAS from
operations. She is certified to artificially Hall of Fame trainer Nick Zito, Matthew
Navarro Community College and then
inseminate cattle and began learning about enrolled in the RTIP to expand on an already
moved to Tucson to attend the University
the process of embryo transfer and in-vitro extensive knowledge of the horsemen’s side
of Arizona. Her lifelong dream is to
fertilization. Her goal in the program is to of racing. O’Connor recently announced
become a racehorse trainer, but she also
be able to expand on her knowledge of that upon early graduation this December,
takes special interest in jockey safety. equine reproduction and properly blend he will be opening his own training
it into the breeding arena. operation based in South Florida.
19A Strong Alumni Network
The relationships formed by students while in the Program are a true testament to the tight-knit
community of the RTIP. Our alumni can be found in every aspect of racing – hiring and being hired by
each other, coming back to mentor and share their knowledge with current students, or just hanging
out at the track together.
TAYLOR OWENS ELISE PETERS DAVID RANGE
Junior Sophomore Junior
Home State: Arizona Home State: Arizona Home State: Colorado
Taylor transferred to the RTIP at the Elise is a Tucson native who has been David developed a love for horses from a
beginning of her sophomore year. In her passionate about the equine industry young age through yearly trips to the
first year, she participated as an intern at for as long as she can remember. Her National Western Stock Show and Rodeo.
Rillito Park. She co-hosted the morning introduction to the industry was gradual, He also enjoyed going on trail rides with
show, educating the public on how to read starting small through lessons with local the family through the Rocky Mountains.
the racing program, while in the afternoons trainers. As Elise looked to improve her David did not find horse racing until his
she helped manage Rillito’s social media. own riding through observation, she mid-twenties during a trip to Arapahoe
This past summer, Taylor returned to Prairie realized just how many opportunities Park in Aurora, Colorado. The competition
Meadows in Altoona, Iowa. For 11 weeks there are to work with horses. Today, her and the spirit of the Thoroughbred
she worked as an intern with Brad Hemba knowledge and fascination continue to enthralled him. After that glimpse of
Racing Stable. During her time there, she grow through her involvement with the the world of horse racing, the rest, as
learned to wrap and bandage legs, saddle Equestrian Team, the Race Track Industry they say, is “history”. However, it took a
horses headed for a morning workout, and Program and assisting in the training of Colorado bred named Get Happy Mister to
basic equine nutrition. In the afternoons, her own off-track Thoroughbred, Molly. truly capture his imagination and inspire
she learned to read the condition book, As a Race Track Industry Program, Entre- him to return to school. David found the
help run horses for their races, and pick preneurship, and Business Management RTIP through his own personal research.
up claimed horses from the test barn. triple major, Elise is eager to develop a After learning about all the opportunities
In May 2019, she became an owner of diverse skill set. Passionate about both that were available to students through
a Thoroughbred mare. Taylor is going hands-on work with horses and the logistics summer internships and the Global
through the process of registering her as behind the industry, Elise is excited by the Symposium on Racing, he was sold.
a broodmare in New Mexico, and next opportunity to pursue both areas of interest A passion for the Thoroughbred athlete
Spring, she will send the mare for breeding in esteemed programs. fuels David’s desire to work in the racing
hoping for a 2021 foal. Taylor has learned One day, Elise would like to put her industry, but he also wants to share that
a lot through internships and is looking interest in pedigrees and logistics to use passion with others. When he graduates
forward to getting into the breeding side as part of a breeding or training program. from the RTIP, he sees himself as a track
with a horse of her own. She is focused on She is particularly interested in working handicapper or working in a racing office.
becoming a trainer but has also developed on the business side of such programs, He plans to pursue a racing club to bring
an interest in racing office operations. with her hands-on experience as a tool to new owners to the sport. Finally, he seeks
understand the needs of the industry on a involvement with helping Thoroughbreds
deeper level. find second careers after racing.
20Those who play together, stay together: This championship
kickball team in Lexington, Kentucky boasts many RTIP alumni:
Mylor Rider, Joe Taylor, Hillary Neese, Arthur Pegg, Ernesto Avalos
and Julia Depugh (not pictured). (Photo courtesy of Arthur Pegg)
OSVALDO SMOKEY RIVERA MICHAEL SANDULLI ALEX SAUSVILLE
Senior Freshman Second Degree
Home State: Arizona Home State: Connecticut Home State: New York
Osvaldo Smokey Rivera was born and Michael hails from Southington, Connecticut, Alex grew up with the sound of the OTB
raised in Arizona on a working ranch. and he is a generational fan. His grandparents channel ringing throughout his home. A
For many generations, his family has owned Thoroughbreds and as such he feels Scotia, NY native, Alex enjoyed many trips
been involved in owning, breeding, and a strong connection to the sport of horse to Saratoga with his family. They spent the
training American Quarter Horses. As far racing. He believes that he wouldn’t be the afternoons watching Thoroughbreds, and
back as he can remember, Smokey has person he is without it. Horse racing isn’t all in the evening, it was on to the harness
traveled the Arizona racing circuit with that his life has been though. Michael played track. However, a 2012 trip to the Belmont
his dad and uncle. During the off-season, baseball from the age of five until his high Stakes and 85,000 fans’ rendition of Frank
he could often be found rounding up and school graduation. Consistently rating as a Sinatra’s New York, New York was the
branding the family’s cattle population. top pitcher in his region, he loves baseball. experience that hooked him on the sport
A Native American from the Gila River However, horse racing is his true calling, and and the atmosphere of racing.
tribe, Smokey is committed to helping one that he can realize and work towards as In the years since the Belmont, Alex has
horse racing thrive in Arizona. He is a Race Track Industry Program student. traveled across different parts of North
pursuing the equine path of study in the Michael’s goal is to follow in the esteemed America visiting racetracks. A stop at
RTIP. He believes this will give him the footsteps of RTIP alum Bob Baffert and Beulah Park fueled his desire to visit every
understanding of the entire horse racing Todd Pletcher due to their successes with live racetrack in the country. Then a trip
industry while allowing him to stick to his horses of all ages, overseas, and in the to the old Great Barrington Fairgrounds
roots of hands-on horse interaction. American Triple Crown. This goal is what sparked his interest in visiting all the
Smokey aspires to continue his family’s drives him to be the best that he can be. “quieted” venues of racing’s past. In the
racing legacy. Part of his vision is to During the previous two summers, he past 6 years, this life goal has taken Alex
create a state-of-the-art training facility had the pleasure of working alongside to over 110 different racetracks, of which
in northern Arizona. He also plans to Shug McGaughey as a hotwalker and 60 were still racing.
obtain his trainer’s license upon gradua- part-time groom. Michael believes one would Alex spent this past summer as an intern
tion. Smokey plans to start a racing barn be hard pressed to find a more personable, with USTA, traveling to different places
with locations in Arizona, New Mexico, likable, and talented trainer then Shug. throughout the northeast including Sara-
and California. Although he plans to work During those two summers, Shug passed on toga, Washington DC and the Hambleto-
with American Quarter Horses, he will a wealth of knowledge and advice to Michael nian. Fascinated by the widespread global
not be exclusive as he plans to involve for which he is incredibly grateful. world of the sport, Alex enjoys expanding
Thoroughbreds in his racing operations. his perspective by learning the different
segments of the racing industry.
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