Racing's Future: Michaela Heair
“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 Michaela Heair
18-year-old Huntsville, Alabama resident Michaela Heair has been a fan of racing since she was eight years old. She spends her days handicapping, watching the races, and learning new things from her mentors. Michaela and her family plan to move to Lexington, Kentucky this spring so that she can further pursue a lifelong career in the industry.
How did you become interested in horse racing?
I first became interested when I was just eight years old sitting in front of the TV, pretending to be a jockey. As the years have passed, I have grown to love the sport more and immerse myself in it.
What do you love about horse racing?
I love the dedication one has to have for it to be successful. The highs and the lows are exhilarating. I also love the tender care that is given to the horses. To me, the teamwork between human and creature is what draws me in most.
Who are some of the people you admire in the industry and why?
Larry Jones, simply because I have not seen a trainer that spends so much time in the irons as well. He genuinely cares about his horses and people on his team. I cannot leave out Edgar Prado. He is such a class act person and tries to help aspiring riders as much as they will allow him. He is the kind of jockey I will strive to be like.
What aspects of horse racing do you wish you knew more about?
Breeding. I want to know the hard work and philosophy that is twined into creating a champion.
What racetracks have you been to?
Keeneland and Churchill Downs
What is your favorite racetrack? Why?
Churchill Downs. I have to say that is my favorite track because of the history it has and its desirable beauty.
Of the racetracks you have not been to, which one do you want to visit most?
Saratoga
What are your favorite moments in your “horse racing life” thus far?
I could make a list that is pages long, but I will keep it to my hands-down favorite. It has got to be meeting Cigar.
Who are your favorite racehorses of your lifetime? Before your lifetime?
Cigar, Well Armed, Seattle Slew, Royal Delta, Algorithms, Daddy Nose Best, Union Rags, Havre De Grace, Shanghai Bobby, Affirmed, Mucho Macho Man, Game On Dude, Dayatthespa, Silver Charm
If you could change something about the industry, what would you change?
I would change the age limit of Thoroughbreds on the track. I think it should be mandatory to stop racing them at an earlier age.
What do you think is preventing horse racing from being a more popular sport?
The lack of media coverage on multiple TV stations. I think if there was another reality show from the backside it would bring in new fans. Our sport also needs coverage year-round on more channels, not just on widely known race days.
What do you think is the most common misconception about horse racing?
That all racehorses are abused and that jockeys misuse sticks all the time.
How would you convince someone who is not an avid follower of horse racing to begin following the sport?
I would take them to the morning works, show them the depth that goes into preparing for races, then take a tour of shedrows to show how the horses get spoiled!
What career do you plan to pursue in the horse racing industry?
I plan to be a jockey. If anything were to happen to that plan, then I wish to be a handicapper and analyze the races for HRTV.
How are you currently contributing to the horse racing industry?
I pass on my knowledge to other aspiring young adults like myself.
What is one thing you aspire to personally accomplish someday in the horse racing industry?
I want to have a farm that deals strictly with babies getting to the track and young people that no one will take a chance on. I want to help contribute to the sports future in several ways.