Page 106 - Speedhorse July 2018

JESSICA HANKE
“Passion truly drives each aspect of horse racing, and horse life in general.”
by John Moorehouse
Jessica Hanke first started working at the American Quarter Horse Association as a side job while she attended college. Fifteen years later, she’s still there. Along the way, Hanke has advanced from the Customer Service Department, to helping with the official AQHA website, to her current role as Manager of Racing.
“Looking back, I never would have anticipated to be where I am today. I am so thankful for the path my life has taken. I love what I do!” Hanke said.
Hanke took the chance to reflect and share more about herself in the latest installment of our “Lighter Side” feature.
Q : Where were you born?
A: I was born in Amarillo, Texas, and I have been here all my life.
Q: What are your hobbies?
A: My family is my whole world. I spend my evenings and weekends cheering on my sons and husband in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. We spend 4-6 days a week at their gym. It’s a blast to watch them grow in a sport they love. We are a fairly active family, so when we aren’t at jiu-jitsu practice, we ride bikes, hike, swim, or spend our time with friends and family.
Q: What is your favorite movie, and why?
A: “To Kill A Mockingbird.” I prefer the book,
but love this classic movie as well. There are so many life lessons in the story line, with the most important being that it’s always better to do what is right than what is popular.
Q: What’s an interesting fact about
your family?
A: My grandmother dabbled in horse racing long ago, winning some major races. She also invested in emus and other grandiose entrepreneurships
and was quite successful in all of them. My mom grewuponalargefarmandmydadgrewupona ranch and worked on nearby oil rigs. Their variety of experiences were passed along to me with a few colorful stories. I happily remember weekends helping on the dairy farm and in wheat fields. Most importantly, I appreciate the work ethic and determination from both families, and am honored to be a part of them.
Jessica Hanke, AQHA Manager of Racing
Q: If you were not in the horse racing business, what job would you like to have? A: If I was not in the horse racing business, I would like to be in a marketing position. I enjoy the facets of promotion. However, I would prefer working for a company that makes a difference somehow, so I wouldn’t be comfortable in an advertising firm or anything along those lines.
Q: What is your favorite thing about living where you live?
A: My family and friends are close by. We have considered moving several times over the past few years, but family keeps us from changing our minds. There’s great value in the close relationships we have.
Q: If you could vacation anywhere on the planet, where would it be and what would you do there?
A: I’d love to travel the world and explore various cultures and landscapes, specifically Ireland and some of Europe. Australia would be a fun place as well. Ultimately, though, my favorite retreat will always be the mountains. There’s plenty to do, the air is clean and reception is terrible (providing for a wonderful getaway).
John Moorehouse
104 SPEEDHORSE, July 2018
THE LIGHTER SIDE