Hall of Fame jockey Ramon Dominguez has seen equestrian sport from a number of different perspectives.
He was a groom in Venezuela before launching what would be one of the most successful careers in the sport of Thoroughbred Racing.
Many people are familiar with his exploits as a rider, winning three consecutive Eclipse Awards as the nation’s outstanding jockey, 2010-2012, as the regular pilot of Gio Ponti, and his triumphant victories in the 2004 Breeders’ Cup Turf with Better Talk Now and in 2012 with Little Mike, and the 2011 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile with Hansen.
However, Dominguez became part of something larger than himself, when he was asked to participate and sit on the board of directors for the New York Race Track Chaplaincy of America while still an active jockey. Understanding that giving back was as important as the success he achieved while being one of world’s elite horsemen, resonated deeply with Dominguez as did the racetrack chaplaincy’s mission.
“It became pretty obvious about how important of a role they play in the horse racing community,” said Dominguez.
When the New York Race Track Chaplaincy’s president’s position became open, Dominguez was a logical choice to assume the responsibilities associated with the post because of his depth of knowledge, having actively participated in the sport, his previous experience on the board and his understanding of the organization’s mission.
“The heroes of the chaplaincy are the pastor Humberto Chavez and his wife Karen (who serves in the capacity as the organization’s general manager), who are hands on and doing amazing things on a daily basis,” said Dominquez.
The Chavezs responsibilities have increased in the wake of the Coronavirus, as COVID-19 has reared its ugly head, disrupting lives globally and in many cases has led to tragic loss, with people perishing because of the virulent and deadly pathogen.
“What an example they are setting now, with their lives on the line, I mean that literally, where they are just helping the racetrack community in so many different ways,” said Dominguez. “I really take my hats off to them.”
The vast number of workers on the racetrack’s backside is far greater than people realize, said Dominguez.
“I’m happy to be a part of the chaplaincy and to help in any way I can because it’s a huge community,” said Dominguez, who said there are about 3,500 backstretch employees in New York.
Dominguez’s previous experience as a jockey provides him with a deep perspective, and it’s that understanding that has helped him to make a seamless transition into his new role.
“It’s certainly important to know what they go through, know what they do and how devoted these people are to these horses,” said Dominguez. “I know it’s something that’s physically and mentally exhausting because you’re looking after these animals 24/7. I feel that the backstretch workers are the unrecognized heroes and the contributions that they make to the sport is tremendous. And it’s often not recognized.”
The connection with the industry, sense of family, and wanting to help has created a greater sense of responsibility, said Dominguez.
“We want to help, number one, we’re aware of how important of a role they play, but number two, the needs that they (backstretch workers) have, so it becomes natural for us to want to help,” said Dominguez.
The recent pandemic has been effecting racing globally, and the magnitude of the issue and its gravitas is something that can’t be understated, said Dominguez.
“When we think about NYRA itself, right now (as of April 1) there are 1,300 horses on the track, and these horses have to and will continue to be trained, continue to be taken care of,” said Dominguez, who said the rumor that training will stop is creating additional stress for all those involved with the care of the horses.
“It’s over 1000 people, when you talk about their immediate family, their spouses and maybe some kids. It’s a big community, it’s a big deal and it’s a big issue…if we have a good understanding of the situation, the more that we learn, the more that we realize this is something far greater. And along with that, comes the importance of organizations like the chaplaincy that are there to support the individuals with their basic needs.”
A great deal of emphasis during the pandemic has been placed on the food pantry, but providing workers with emotional support during this challenging time in our history, is also critical, said Dominguez.
“We’re living in a time when the uncertainty levels are so high,” said Dominguez. “These people need to know that they’re not alone. We’re here to support and help them. We’re all in this together.”
It’s a team effort, for horses that achieve success and reach the winner’s circle, said Dominguez. Many people just see the connections celebrating after winning a race, but that’s only a small part of it.
“It’s just a brief view of a well-oiled machine, so to speak, behind the doors’ that leads to the moment of glory,” said Dominguez, who said contrary to public opinion, many of the trainers and jockeys are just getting by. “Right now, with what’s happening (the Coronavirus pandemic), it’s going to take a huge toll, not only emotionally but also financially for a lot of these people.”
The backstretch workers are the heart and soul of the industry, and it’s through their efforts that the results on the front side of the racetrack are possible.
“The workers who come to take care of the horses, and in some cases it’s their choice to come to work because some trainers have given them the option to be there, or maybe they alternate with other workers, “ said Dominguez. “I think that these people are so committed to taking care of these horses, it’s beyond a paycheck. It’s really what they love to do. They take pride in their job.”
The spirit of cooperation between organizations and individuals within the sport, and those who don’t have any interest, has made a powerful statement, said Dominguez.
“These people, they’re the biggest contributors to seeing a horse pass the wire, winning races, they’re the true heroes of the sport,” said Dominguez. “People don’t realize how much work goes into taking care of these horses. It’s important that we continue to cooperate and to be careful, because we don’t know how long things will last. Whether it’s going to be a month or two…we really don’t know. But we’re here to offer support, however long it takes to contribute to help with the basic needs of these workers.”
Those interested in making a donation to the New York Race Track Chaplaincy of America, can call or text the number 516-428-5267 or they can send an email to info@rtcany.org.
By Ben Baugh
