Tag: Jockey

Harnessing Your Wealth with Billy Petrson
Honoring a Legacy: The Sam Thompson Memorial Foundation with Laura Joiner (EP 54)

Honoring a Legacy: The Sam Thompson Memorial Foundation with Laura Joiner (EP 54)

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In this episode, Laura Joiner discusses the Sam Thompson Memorial Foundation, which she leads in honor of her friend, the late Sam Thompson, a jockey who tragically passed away after a racing accident. The foundation initially aimed to cover Sam’s medical expenses but has since expanded to support injured riders and others in the horse racing community. Laura shares the foundation’s growth, scholarship initiatives, challenges in running a nonprofit, and the impact of their work on individuals and families in need. She emphasizes the importance of community involvement and helping others.

Takeaways

  • The foundation was founded to support Sam Thompson’s medical expenses.
  • Sam Thompson’s legacy continues to inspire and drive the foundation’s mission.
  • It has grown to support injured riders and others in the horse racing community.
  • Scholarship initiatives have become a significant part of the foundation’s work and the foundation has awarded over 275 scholarships to date.
  • Community involvement is crucial for the foundation’s success.
  • The foundation aims to create an endowment for sustainable support.

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 About our Guest: 

Laura has been involved in the race horse industry since the day she was born. Previously, she and her husband (Cody Joiner) operated Circle CJ Racing, LLC. Today they are involved in breeding and racing not only quarter horses but also thoroughbreds.

Sam was not only a rider in their stable, but a close friend as well. Laura wants to put smiles on the faces of those who are in need in our industry, just as Sam did to everyone he touched. Laura has been with the foundation since the very beginning and plans to continue helping it grow larger than they ever dreamed.

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Zoe Cadman Former Jockey and Current TV Analyst
From Jockey to Media Star: Zoe Cadman’s Journey (EP. 52)

From Jockey to Media Star: Zoe Cadman’s Journey (EP. 52)

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Billy Peterson, Cade Peterson and Zoe Cadman discuss Zoe’s Journey into broadcasting and the role of media in horse racing. Check out this episode as they discuss the art of selecting racehorses, the value of underdogs, and the emerging talent among jockeys. The discussion also touches on the challenges facing horse racing today and the journey of retired racehorses, highlighting personal connections and experiences in the equestrian world.

They discuss:

  • Zoe Cadman transition from a jockey to a media role.
  • Engaging events are crucial to attract younger fans to racing.
  • Safety measures in racing have improved with HISA.
  • And more

About Zoe Cadman

Zoe Cadman is host and analyst for XBTV, Santa Anita Park and 1/ST Racing. Born in South Africa and raised in England, Zoe came to America and worked for trainers Michael Dickinson, Christopher Speckert and Mike Stidham prior to taking out her jockey’s license in 2000. She became the first female rider in Chicago history to win a meet riding title when she won the spring 2001 Hawthorne title. In 2008, Zoe relocated to Santa Anita to work with HRTV until 2015, when she began her current broadcast role with XBTV, Santa Anita Park and 1/ST Racing.

Previous Episodes of Interest:

Resources & Previous Episodes of Interest:

Santa Anita Park 

Connect with Zoe Cadman
• Instagram: ZoeCadman_
• 1/ST Things 1/ST, Presented by Santa Anita

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Cody Jensen’s Winning Formula in Horse Racing (Ep. 39)

Cody Jensen’s Winning Formula in Horse Racing (Ep. 39)

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Horse racing is a thrilling sport with stories of triumph and perseverance.

How does a jockey rise to the top and maintain success in such a competitive field? What sacrifices and decisions shape their journey?

In this episode of Harnessing Your Wealth, join Billy, Shaun, and Cade Peterson as they dive into the career of the legendary jockey Cody Jensen, who not only won the All-American Futurity twice but also amassed close to $42 million in total purses, showcasing incredible perseverance and talent. 

You’ll gain insights into Cody’s journey from starting in Utah to racing at the top tracks such as Los Alamitos, Ruidoso Downs, and Remington Park, the emotional rollercoaster of being a jockey, and the sheer determination it takes to succeed in the world of horse racing.

They discuss: 

  • Cody’s impressive stats and career milestones
  • The emotional and physical toll of being a jockey
  • The importance of mentorship and personal relationships in racing
  • Anecdotes of travel, competition, and the camaraderie among jockeys
  • And more!

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About Our Guest: 

Cody Jensen is a highly accomplished jockey in the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) racing scene. He has had a stellar career, winning numerous prestigious races and titles: Three-time AQHA Champion Jockey, 1,662 Quarter Horse race wins, 101 graded stakes wins, 50 Grade 1 stakes wins, and career earnings of $41,867,476. He has ridden many notable horses, including All-American Futurity winners No Secrets Here and Teller Cartel, and world champion Bodacious Eagle.

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From the Saddle to Success: Billy Peterson’s Journey with ‘From the Starting Gate’ (Ep. 36)

From the Saddle to Success: Billy Peterson’s Journey with ‘From the Starting Gate’ (Ep. 36)

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“Life can be like riding a racehorse.”

This is the first line in Billy Peterson’s new book, “From the Starting Gate: The Winning Strategies for Wealth, Health, and Happiness.” 

Get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look into Billy’s extraordinary journey as an author, former jockey, financial advisor, and business owner, with Shaun Peterson taking the reins as host. Together, they delve into the compelling reasons behind Billy’s decision to write his second book, the passion and perseverance it took to share his personal stories and inspirational history, and the profound gratitude he holds for the wisdom imparted by a cherished former client.

Highlights from this episode include:

  • The journey and challenges Billy faced while writing and publishing his second book
  • His three pillars for a successful life: wealth, health, and happiness 
  • The influence of a positive mindset has on your health and well-being
  • Advice for aspiring authors including the writing process and publishing 
  • And more!

Resources:

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Chasing Glory: Inside the Gates of the Saudi Cup – Racing for $20 Million (Ep. 33)

Chasing Glory: Inside the Gates of the Saudi Cup – Racing for $20 Million (Ep. 33)

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The thrill of horse racing is not just found on the track, but also in the stories of those who dedicate their lives to the sport.

In this episode, Billy and Cade Peterson invite Todd Fincher, a former jockey turned world-renowned trainer, to share his remarkable journey from the stables to the winner’s circle. They dive into the challenges of maintaining weight as a jockey, the transition to training, the success of their horses, participating in the biggest races, and more!

Todd discusses: 

  • Growing up in the horse racing industry and the dream of becoming a jockey
  • The extreme measures jockeys take to meet weight requirements 
  • Moving from jockey to trainer and the differences between the two roles
  • How to be a successful trainer and the never-ending task of communicating with owners
  • The benefits of a positive barn atmosphere on the horses’ performance
  • The achievements of his horses, particularly Senor Buscador
  • The strategies of preparing horses for Grade 1 races, even amidst unexpected challenges, and the excitement of nurturing potential superstars
  • The business aspects of horse racing, including the financial implications of winning the world’s richest race and managing the recent surge in industry costs due to excessive inflation. 
  • And more!

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About Our Guest: 

Todd Fincher is a well-known figure in the horse racing industry. He has made significant contributions as both a jockey and a trainer. Fincher grew up in the racing business, with his father being a jockey for 25-to-30 years and his mother a trainer. He himself was a jockey for 10 years, winning over 900 races on Quarter Horses and Thoroughbreds. As a trainer, he has achieved notable success, including saddling Runaway Ghost to victory in the Sunland Derby (G3) in 2018, the Ruidoso Futurity (G1) with Saint Shackleton, and the Saudi Cup (G1) with Senor Buscador in 2024. He has won numerous training titles in New Mexico. His approach to training is grounded in his experience as a jockey, and he continues to expand his operations, bringing better quality Kentucky-breds to races in Texas and Oklahoma.

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FEATURE
15,000 Orthoscopic Surgeries and a Lifetime of Tales with Dr. Wayne McIlwraith (Ep. 22)

15,000 Orthoscopic Surgeries and a Lifetime of Tales with Dr. Wayne McIlwraith (Ep. 22)

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People in the horse racing, farming, and ranching industries have two things in common; a passion and love for animals. 

Today’s guest is a renowned equine orthopedic surgeon, a University Distinguished Professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences, and the founder of the Orthopaedic Research Center at CSU. It is clear when you hear him speak that he too has a passion and love for animals.

Join Dr. Wayne McIlwraith as he recounts his humble beginnings on a sheep station in New Zealand to becoming a trailblazer in the field of equine orthopedic surgery. He shares his innovative approach to arthroscopic surgery, shedding light on the advancements he has made, including many discoveries that have helped progress orthopedic procedures for humans.

Throughout the podcast, Billy Peterson and Dr. Wayne McIlwraith explore:

  • Dr. Wayne’s extensive experience and contributions to the field of equine medicine
  • The multifaceted challenges that face the equine industry including the need for uniformity in safety and testing standards
  • Why you should seize opportunities and pursue your passions
  • Techniques used to help horses recover from injuries and improve their performance
  • And more!

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About Our Guest: 

Professor McIlwraith obtained his veterinary degree from Massey University, New Zealand, and was in practice in New Zealand and the UK followed by an internship at the University of Guelph, Canada, and a surgical residency at Purdue University. He also obtained MS and PhD degrees from Purdue University. He is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, the European College of Veterinary Surgeons, the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, and a Fellow of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Since 1979, he has been a faculty member at Colorado State University. Currently, he is a University Distinguished Professor, holds the Barbara Cox Anthony University Endowed Chair in Orthopaedics, and is the Founding Director of the Orthopaedic Research Center. He also has a referral equine orthopedic surgical practice based in Southern California and is a consultant and surgeon for clients elsewhere in the US and Ireland, England, France, and New Zealand. His research interests focus on equine orthopedic surgery and translational joint disease research, including novel treatments for osteoarthritis and articular cartilage repair, mesenchymal stem cell therapies, and early diagnosis of osteoarthritis and pre-fracture disease using imaging and fluid biomarkers.

He has received multiple awards, including the Founders Award and Legends Award from ACVS, induction into the International Equine Research Hall of Fame, the John Hickman Award from the British Equine Veterinary Association, the AAEP Research Award, the AVMA Lifetime Excellence in Research Award, the Markowitz Award from the Academy of Surgical Research, the Marshall R. Urist MD Award from ORS and is an Honorary Fellow of ICRS.

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FEATURE
From the Racetrack to Business Owner with Kip Didericksen (Ep. 19)

From the Racetrack to Business Owner with Kip Didericksen (Ep. 19)

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Few journeys are as exhilarating and transformative as those of a jockey.

The rush of adrenaline during races and the intricate partnership between humans and horses all come together to tell a story of talent, perseverance, and passion.

In this episode, Kip Didericksen, a renowned former jockey shares his journey from the race tracks to being a business owner, highlighting how the value of hard work and strategy contributed to his success. He also talks about memorable horses and people, and the races that taught him valuable lessons. 

Kip discusses: 

  • His childhood as a member of a racehorse family and how he idolized jockeys
  • The talent level and competition among jockeys at Los Alamitos
  • His standout horses and the trainers who supported him
  • A look back at his most successful season when he was the leading rider and won multiple races
  • His experience of being treated poorly by a fellow jockey and how it motivated him to always help others
  • And more!

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FEATURE
From Drywall to Derby: Pierre Amestoy’s Journey into Horse Racing (Ep. 17)

From Drywall to Derby: Pierre Amestoy’s Journey into Horse Racing (Ep. 17)

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For centuries, horse racing has captivated enthusiasts worldwide.

However, beyond the flashy and glamorous racetrack, the industry intersects heavily with the business world.

In this episode, Billy and Cade Peterson chat with Pierre Amestoy, a prominent figure in the horse racing industry. Pierre shares his story, from working in the family drywall business to having a successful business in the construction industry and what led him to enter the horse industry. Additionally, Pierre emphasizes the importance of putting money to work, pursuing passions, and taking risks.

Pierre discusses: 

  • How he got involved in horse racing, the challenges of the industry, and his success with buying and selling horses
  • The qualities of successful horse trainers and the significance of a winning attitude
  • Why he chose to amalgamate his drywall business with land development
  • The risks faced by business owners due to inflation and rising interest rates
  • The importance of finding something that makes you different from your competition 
  • And more!

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FEATURE
Opportunities and Challenges within the Horse Racing Industry with Janet VanBebber (Ep. 11)

Opportunities and Challenges within the Horse Racing Industry with Janet VanBebber (Ep. 11)

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There are many challenges facing the horse racing industry, both from an economic and social perspective.

Despite this, it continues to strive for growth and attract new generations.

And what better way to shed light on these topics than by speaking with someone who possesses a profound understanding of the industry?

Join Billy and Cade as they sit down with Janet VanBebber, Chief Racing Officer, at the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) to hear her insights and perspective on the horse racing industry. She candidly shares her optimism for the future of horse racing, as well as its challenges. Additionally, she talks about the opportunities for young people and professionals to get involved in racing.

Listen in as Janet shares: 

  • Some of her most memorable moments as a trainer, and equine enthusiast
  • How inflation has impacted the horse industry and AQHA
  • The need to engage the next generation  
  • Her mission to monitor emergent threats and keep integrity within the sport
  • And more!

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About Our Guest: 

Janet VanBebber is the Chief Racing Officer for the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA). VanBebber is responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating the racing department, Racing Challenge, and related programs. Janet plays a key role in developing and implementing programs and objectives to promote the advancement of Quarter Horse racing across the globe.

VanBebber’s resume boasts a long and successful career training and racing American Quarter Horses. The former owner of VanBebber Racing Stables of Ledbetter, Texas, she has a long history of involvement with American Quarter Horses and Quarter Horse racing and is well known for being one of the industry’s most accomplished trainers.

In 2011, she became the first female trainer to eclipse the 1,000th career win mark. Her resume also included being the recipient of the 2002 AQHA Mildred n. Vessels Special Achievement Award. Her career includes training world champion TAILOR FIT, who remains ranked as one of the breed’s top money earners-15 years after his final race.

In addition to owning VanBebber Racing Stables of Ledbetter, Texas, Janet has been on the board of directors for both the Texas Quarter Horse Association and the Texas HBPA, while also owning and managing other horse-related enterprises.

 

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