Does horse racing define you?

[westcoastinvader]

I learned to read by reading a racing form before I started school. And THAT'S a true story.

Related, when I got to fractions in math in grade school, I was at the head of the class with minimal effort. I do recall I had to explain to the teacher what a "furlong" was on one day.

I also won a school spelling bee in 6th grade by correctly spelling the word "inquiry." When the principal did the obligatory on stage interview, he asked how I knew the word. "I've seen it on the board at the track since I was a kid," was my reply....to the horror of my nag track playin' parents.

I've spent many many days in the years since, at live tracks.

And at OTB's and other gambling venues (I refuse to play via the internet.....it doesn't give me the sense of satisfaction and pleasure I know from the track, or the group action fun of OTB or sportsbook action).

Sometimes I win pretty good. Sometimes I've won very well. I've rarely crossed my limit in wagering for a day. If at a live track, I'm often content to just wander from the paddock, to the fence and to the winner's circle and just play a few bucks a race......if that.

If I've been in a city or town that publishes thoroughbred charts, I read 'em whether I have any vested interest, or not.

When I go to the track, or even the OTB, I forget anything else in the world that may not be going for the best in life.

Thoroughbred racing is glorious escapism for me, at times.

And I love the history of this sport, and try to collect and breathe it in whenever possible.

I'm not sure that horse racing has defined me, but I damned sure would be OK if I realize one day that it has.