This upcoming weekend is one of the busiest on the road to the 2024 Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve, with four qualifying points prep races scheduled.
Sam Taylor was searching for an ideal hunter-style horse for a client of hers when she discovered Perfect Harmony at New Beginnings Thoroughbred Rescue.
Sam was aware that Nikki McKinley, co-director of New Beginnings Thoroughbred Rescue, had a reputation for receiving many well-minded off-the-track Thoroughbreds and decided to contact her. She inquired about any calm hunter-type horses available in Nikki's barn as a potential match for her client. Nikki knew right away which horse to set her up with.
While the focus of many in the horse racing world will be on the $20 million Saudi Cup this Saturday, I find myself next door for a different kind of race – a camel race. And not just any camel race, but the C1 Championships, the UAE's inaugural all-women's camel race series.
Shannon Howerton had been out of the sporthorse competition world for a while and was looking to get back into it. When she decided to get back into the show ring, she did not have a horse and was unsure where to start her search for one. Shannon began talking to the trainers in her area. With no luck finding any horses to try from her area, it was suggested that she consider adoption instead of purchasing a new horse.
An active weekend lies ahead in for Thoroughbred racing, with an international component. One Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve prep race is scheduled, the $1.25 million Rebel Stakes Saturday, Feb. 24 at Oaklawn Park.