Racing's Future: Cassidy Jackson

"Racing’s Future" is a Q&A series in which I aspire to help everyone in the industry. In addition to shining a spotlight on youth who plan to have a career in horse racing, I hope that the opinions expressed in their responses will offer industry leaders insight into what a younger audience believes the sport should improve upon.

Meet Cassidy Jackson

From central Florida, 14-year-old Cassidy Jackson has been a fan of racing for as long as she can remember. With aspirations to become a veterinarian, Cassidy also enjoys photography and takes pictures of racehorses at sales and farms. Most of those pictures are featured on my Instagram photography account, @puresouthernphotography. 

How did you become interested in horse racing?

I'm not sure really. My dad's involved with it and I have always followed it since. 

What do you love about horse racing?

All of it! The horses' love for it, the blood, the tears. Every aspect of it. 

Who are some of the people you admire in the industry and why?

My dad. He has always been apart of racing - from holding a stud manager job, to buying and selling. He's where I get my love for racing from. 

What aspects of horse racing do you wish you knew more about?

Probably the vetting part. I'm always interested in the skills it takes to be a vet to those horses. 

What racetracks have you been to?

Gulfstream. However, I have been to the OBS track in Ocala.

Of the racetracks you have not been to, which one do you want to visit most?

Santa Anita. The beauty of it is whats really appealing - especially in the morning. 

What are your favorite moments in your “horse racing life” thus far?

American Pharoah's Triple Crown win. 37 years is a long time! 

Who are your favorite racehorses of your lifetime? Before your lifetime?

C C Phone Home (by Phone Trick). She wasn't a very good racehorse. She's named after me, however. 

Also, Big Brown. My dad had a part in this stud. I just love him. 

Before my lifetime? Probably Shergar, Phar Lap, and Affirmed. 

What do you think is preventing horse racing from being a more popular sport? 

Probably the lack of information. A lot of people believe horse racing is cruel; it's not.

What do you think is the most common misconception about horse racing? 

That horses don't enjoy to run. 

How would you convince someone who is not an avid follower of horse racing to begin following the sport?

Take them to an actual training facility and show them how the horses work and how the farm runs. 

What career do you plan to pursue in the horse racing industry?

Vetting. If not that, probably photography. 

How are you currently contributing to the horse racing industry?

Whenever I'm around the farms or sales, I'm always using my camera to take pictures of the horses. 

What is one thing you aspire to personally accomplish someday in the horse racing industry?

To become a well-known vet and own my own practice.