7,000 Reasons to Love Racing 46364i
by Ed Meyer 2q161j
inThe week started out as many, but last week had some special magic. – Perry Ouzts was three wins away from 7,000 career wins. If it sounds like a great number, that’s because it is. – He is now the 9th rider in the history of racing to reach this milestone. To say this is rarified air is an understatement. – I’ve had the pleasure of watching him for years now, and he still brings the heat. – I’ve surely enjoyed the summer, but last week was very special for this racing fan.
I was being asked, “when do you think he’ll hit the number?” – That’s about as easy as picking the Powerball. Perry could hang on the number or just reel them off in a day. – It was Thursday, and I said he’ll get in on Friday. I create the morning line and I get to see what his mounts look like as soon as they draw the races. – After he reeled off three wins on Thursday; Friday looked pretty possible as he had 6 mounts from 8 races.
Photo Credit: Mike Howard
Perry started the day on Friday and was getting close but no cigar. – The gent you see in the purple shirt is the owner/trainer Gary Patrick. He was riding his daughter Cheyanna and they had blazing speed. – He was (2-1) on the morning line and Cheyanna gave up the mount and Perry had a “pick up” mount. A common practice in racing as the owner has to pay a double jock’s mount fee. – When I got the call for a rider change I immediately called the management to get things ready. – This is the one.
Emmy’s Candy grabbed the lead and led from flag fall to that’s all. – She drew away by 12 1/2 and Perry rode this one like his first win back in 1973 aboard Rablue for W.J. Danner at Beulah.
As I said, I’ve been watching since I was a young lad. – He has always had a quiet way that didn’t brag or read his own press clippings. – Perry prefers to let his horses do the talking. – I guess that’s why he’s always been one of my favorites.
Management was ready to celebrate and if you notice in the picture you’ll see HOF rider Pat day with over 8,000 wins. – He’s the ambassador of racing and one of the best guys to grace the saddle. He wanted to be there to celebrate Perry’s special moment.
Photo Credit: Coady Photography
The day was perfect. Celebrating with riders, valets, family, and special guests. – Our management team quietly waited to celebrate Perry, and the day was one to .
As Perry Wayne Ouzts walked into the jocks room that day I’m sure he treated it like the other 50,000 + mounts he has ridden. He gives his all, and never makes an excuse. – For a man of few words, he does his talking on the track. – That what makes him special. To have him in my own backyard is a real bonus. – Thank you, Perry! – Long may you ride!
Photo Credit: Mike Howard