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Originally Posted by v j stauffer
Before I was hired by Martin Garcia I asked for Joel's good graces. He willingly game them. As Martin began to have sucess I would periodically check Joel's comfort level. He always assured me that he was fine and happy for Martin. The day he fired me in addition to saying he felt he could do better. He stated that he felt uncomfortable with an agent that had two riders. He also stated that if I would have stayed with him he expected me to resign as the announcer at Hollywood Park. THERE IS NO CHANCE OF ME EVER DOING THAT. If Pincay made a comeback and Shoemaker can back to life in his prime I'm not walking away from race calling. For what it's worth I knew something was brewing Wed. afternoon. Joel told me he wanted to speak to me after the races. I knew I was either being fired or asked to give up Garcia. I had about 2 hours to prepare for that meeting. I sought counsel from three good friends. John Sadler, Mike Mitchell and my wife Tina. After hearing what they had to say and searching my heart I had decided to stay with Martin if the ultimatim was issued. It never was and I was out. Oh well. I did my best. I wish Joel well. He's a great rider. Our business is like no other in the world. Very dysfunctional. I'm not immune or anyone else. More to come soon..................What could it be?
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Thanks for keeping us in the loop with the why's, who and how's of your personal business decisions and disappointments. It's easy to be available for the performances that make you rich but being stand up when things don't go well takes a special guy.
Rosario had to be a difficult kid to depend on as it seemed like he was taking more "personal days" that should have been work days. I'm sure those highly desired mounts come your way only if your around at the crack of dawn and show up for your mounts each afternoon. You landed on your feet here Vic and though I'm sure you'll defend Joel's attendance record. It's gotta be a relief not to have to cart the kid around to make sure he gets where he should. GL with the coming meet and to keeping two name jocks happy and working.