Thanksgiving is a time for reflection. When it comes to thoroughbred racing, there are many reasons to be grateful.
The Daily Racing Blog would like to take a moment to express (in no particular order) just a few things we’re thankful for in racing:
MORNING WORKOUTS. The sun rise as the horses come on to the track, seeing their breath in the cold as they stand next to you, waiting their turn to go out to the track. Hearing the riders speak gently to their horses and encouraging them along the outside rail. The smells, sites and sounds all make the day come to life.
GROOMS. For all the dedicated grooms in racing that work tirelessly behind the scenes. They are there to tend to their equine friends when they are hurt, and praise them when they do well. We, as racing fans, would not be able to enjoy this great sport without them.
OUTRIDERS. The unsung, blue-collar heroes of the racetracks! Every day the outriders and their ponies spend the longest hours in and under the saddle to keep the track safe during morning workouts and races. Racing is a sport that requires incredible toughness, and the outriders are no different. Their dedication and attention to detail makes it all possible.
THE HORSES. These magnificent creatures give their all every time they compete and have a way of giving back to us fans in so many ways. Horses possess an ability to bring people together from all backgrounds.
BACKSIDE WORKERS. The dedicated personnel working diligently on the backside of every racetrack, all doing their part to make Thoroughbred racing such a wonderful sport. Most racegoers only see the finished product- the races themselves, but the planning begins early each morning when the horses are put through their daily routines by trainers, grooms, hotwalkers, jockeys and exercise riders. It’s because of the substantial work of these individuals that allows the horses to get to the front side for race day.
SARATOGA. Home track to the Daily Racing Blog. Twenty-four hours a day, for seven, heavenly weeks, the town radiates Thoroughbred racing. The town pulsates with a love and appreciation for a sport that is of great importance to many of us- a lifetime spent in awe of the magic of horse racing.
