I'll never own a major sports franchise, but I can own part of a horse and maybe, just maybe..

I’ve heard that in various forms a lot lately as I talk to people about Thoroughbred racing. Now don’t get me wrong I’m not talking about the average every day person you may meet on the street. No, I’m talking about a sports fan, someone who loves sports, someone who understands the “thrill of victory and the agony of defeat” and loves them both (ok…the victory part’s a lot more fun but you know what I mean).

It never ceases to amaze me how when I speak with people their facial expressions predictably and invariably change. As I begin talking about my love of Thoroughbred racing it’s the snarled nose and “oh, you like horse racing” response. But as I tell them about the thrill of racing, when I paint the picture of the excitement it generates, the intense highs, and yes lows their facial expression turns to interest and even a little excitement. When I talk with them about horses like John Henry, Funny Cide and now Mine That Bird noticeable excitement grows; but it’s when they learn how partnerships / syndicates are affordable and within their budget, the light bulb goes off (I can literally almost see the thing light up above their head) and their facial expression becomes one of passion it’s then when the inevitable response is blurted out “I'll never own a major sports franchise, but I can own part of a horse and maybe, just maybe”..

These individuals, these sports fans are what I believe is an untapped avenue of new blood, new owners and most importantly new money into the sport. At a time when the horse industry is suffering at historical levels can we afford to ignore this new market. Or, is it time to “think outside the box” to take that leap and go after this market. I’m out there every day working for Thoroughbred racing as the song says “sowing the seeds of love” because I believe the long term benefits are tremendous. I believe in Thoroughbred racing, I see it for what it is, what it was and I envision what it can be, it just takes difference makers and people who care about getting it there, I’m working on it every day, are you?