I was 11 years old when my dad took me to Erie Downs, at least twice per week we head out there with my $8-$10 a bet nothing but $2 show every race. By the end of the meet I would still have my $8-$10 and a large jar full of change. On the big days we would head to the OTB in Ripley, New York. Looking back on that dump, I'm surprised I didn't get kidnapped, what a hole in the ground.
Then I was hooked on Thoroughbred Digest with Chris Lincoln...getting to know all the best horses at the time...Lady's Secret, Ogygian,Groovy, Turkoman, Manilla, Theatrical,..etc...
Then in 87 we made our first trip to Saratoga...bet $2 to show on Polish Navy that year and he came through for me. I just saw him a few weeks ago at Old Friends along with Ogygian. What great memories and they both only have one eye....
Then in 88 it was all Easy Goer, what a thrill to see him run in the Traver's!!
Fast forward to today, not much into the gambling side...walk into Presque Isle with a $100 on the big days and $40 bucks on others. More into the memorabilia side, saddle cloths, bobbles, photos, signed photos, tickets...etc.
I enjoy my job now, but I believe I missed my calling doing something in the horse racing industry.
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