Page 107 - Speedhorse July 2018

Q: Do you have a favorite quote and, if so, what is it?
There are a few, but I think my favorite
is a Bible verse: “Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything.” – Philippians 4:6
The one that resonates at home right now is, “You can’t blend in when you were born to stand out.” – R. J. Palacio. My son picked this one from the movie “Wonder,” and it has been our favorite since.
Q: If you could sit down and visit with anyone, past or present, who would it be?
A: This is a wonderful, challenging question! My first response to this would be my grandmother, who passed away when I was young. She was the strongest woman I’ve met and had so many life experiences.
I loved to listen to her stories as a girl,
and would love the chance to sit down
and gain some of her wisdom today. She was creative, which is an attribute I would love to have, and had such a wonderful outlook on life. Outside of a personal contact, it would probably be someone like Nikola Tesla, who has conceived brilliant inventions and pushed the envelope on what seemed possible. I’m fascinated with some of his ideas, and what resulted from such. There are many more that would fall into this category.
Q: What drink would your friends describe you as, and why?
A: Red wine—smooth, strong and calming. Others said a moscato—sweet, bubbly and transparent (I can’t tell a lie).
Q: Who’s your favorite athlete of all time, and why?
A: This may sound cliché, but I would have to say G. R. Carter, Jr. G. R. is the most down-to-earth, professional athlete I’ve ever met and he is always so upbeat. He’s a great representative of the sport, on and off the track. I am thrilled that he has chosen to participate in industry meetings and serve
on boards to do just this. He encourages
so many people in different aspects of the industry and is never above speaking to a kid in the stands or near a winner’s circle.
Q: If you were making a movie about yourself, who would you cast to play you, and why?
A: Jessica Biel. She appears to be approachable and down to earth. She’s intelligent and appears to have it together.
Q: What’s one thing you don’t like about Quarter Horse racing?
A: I sometimes get discouraged from the negative light that is placed on Quarter Horse racing. Our industry, as a majority,
is made up of good, honest people. The Quarter Horse racing industry has worked tirelessly to clean up its issues and is criticized for doing so. I wish that focus would turn more to all the good we are doing and working hard to accomplish.
Q: What’s one thing you like about Quarter Horse racing?
If I had to choose just one thing, I think it would be the passion people have for this industry. Passion truly drives each aspect of horse racing, and horse life in general. From fans, owners, breeders, horsemen, handicappers, all the way to the historians, it’s obvious that they all love horse racing. It’s a humbling experience to walk through a barn full of people who devote each and every day to racing. I’m also in awe each time I attend races and watch
a family of fans cheering on their favorite horse or jockey. They give every moment of their
day to these horses and their records, and most can site pedigrees from heart and tell the most amazing stories. Passion radiates from every one of them. I too feel this passion and want the absolute best for this industry. Although I play a tiny part in the grand scheme, I choose to put forth every effort in ensuring that information is preserved properly and the sport is promoted in the best possible light.
Jessica has worked for the American Quarter Horse Association for fifteen years.
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