Page 109 - Speedhorse December 2019

Country Boy 123 and Cory Spataro after their victory in the 2016 Alex Picov Derby for owner Ruth F. Barbour and trainer Bryn Robertson.
Q. WHAT DO YOU THINK NEEDS TO HAPPEN TO MAKE SURE THAT HORSE RACING, AND QUARTER HORSE RACING IN PARTICULAR, REMAINS VIABLE AS WE HEAD INTO THE FUTURE? A. In my opinion, I think that they need stricter regulations for medications. And deeper soundness examinations. I think the industry
is going in the right direction, but I would do things a bit differently.”
Q. EVERY ATHLETE HAS THEIR ROUTINE WHEN THEY COMPETE. WHAT’S YOUR ROUTINE ON A RACE DAY?
A. On race day, I don’t like to eat too much. Especially in the morning. I find I get too sluggish to ride. But I will have some fruit or
a protein bar to help sustain me. Stretching is paramount for me. I’ll spend about a half hour in a hot shower or sauna going through a series of stretches.
Q. YOU RUN HUNDREDS OF RACES A YEAR. WHAT’S THE SECRET TO DOING THAT? WHAT KIND OF PHYSICAL TOLL DOES IT TAKE?
A. Our bodies take quite the beating and
as I get older, it’s getting tougher to bounce back from things that happen. But, I find stretching and staying hydrated help. I also do a lot of outside treatment: Osteopathy, massage, acupuncture and chiro. It’s a bit of a financial investment, but in order to
be able to perform, I believe taking care of your body is very important. Just like doing maintenance on your car!
Q. WHO’S THE BEST HORSE YOU’VE RIDDEN, AND WHY?
A. I’d have to say Country Boy 123. I’ve ridden lots of horses and a variety of different breeds and disciplines. He is by far
the nicest horse I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. The energy he projects to you is so strong and so confident, I’ve never experienced anything quite like it. We shared many a great moment together. I’ll never forget him.
Q. ANY FUTURE GOALS AS A JOCKEY THAT YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE?
A. As of right now, my wife and I are working towards making our breaking and training facility a reputable establishment. We take in mostly racehorses. We do well and we love working with the yearlings. Seeing them go off and do well is so rewarding to us. We bond with all of them. We see ourselves kind of like grade school before they go off to high school.
Q. WHAT’S BEEN THE MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
A. My most memorable moment was the six- win day.
Q. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNGER JOCKEYS, OR SOMEONE LOOKING TO ENTER THE SPORT?
A. For the younger generations, I’d say work hard and stay positive no matter what happens. Try
to always find the positive things in the negative situations. Make mistakes, learn, grow and move on. There will always be people around to help you. Some things will work better than others. Pick and choose what works for you. I think being a rider is like being an individual: your style is what separates you from others.
Cory Spataro & Country Boy 123 win the $82,188 Alex Picov Derby by 1 1/4-lengths, equalling the Track Record.
SPEEDHORSE, December 2019 105
THE BACKSIDE
Clive Cohen Photography Clive Cohen Photography