Lisa Miller and a new friend at Churchill Downs
This weekend, I was in Louisville, Kentucky to enjoy the pageantry and excitement of the Kentucky Derby festivities. I was so glad it was back after three years without racing due to the coronavirus pandemic. Like many, I hung out with friends, all adorned in beautiful hats, and placed wagers on the horse that I thought was going to win. I am by no means an expert in reading and studying gambling odds, so I usually pick the horse because I like its name or the odds are good for the pick.
Then, the race happened in about two minutes and it changed the mood of all of us with the second-biggest upset in the Derby’s 148-year history. Everyone I have spoken to this weekend since was talking about this incredible and inspirational race. By now, most of you have read the story of Rich Strike from his last second entrance into the Derby to jockey Sonny Leon’s superb race for the roses, weaving his way through 20 other horses to win. Trainer Eric Reed has been so humble about the win. He endured tragedy five years ago when he lost nearly two dozen horses in a barn fire at his training center in Lexington and was ready to give up the sport when friends and strangers rallied around him to help him recover. So in essence, from the ashes, Reed’s recovery and this win will be in a movie very soon!
When asked how Rich Strike made it happen, Reed said, “He passed all the other horses!” He went on to say, “We sure need it,” referring to the boost Rich Strike has given racing. “And here we are, some little guys who can help the sport. We showed that we can make these things happen with some luck, hard work and doing things the right way.”
With the last few years of the property insurance challenges, policyholders and all those involved in this industry could use some of the drive of Reed and Rich Strike for a win! Next up is a great read to get your week started!
LMA Newsletter of 5-9-22
