For Gowan, who only has three horses in his barn (including Ride On Curlin), the attention on him as a trainer has increased, but it hasn’t changed him.
“It doesn’t feel any different. I still got to get up at 4:30 every morning. The only difference is talking to everybody, which I talk to everybody anyhow.”
Everyone in the horse industry dreams of winning the Kentucky Derby, but you’d have to imagine what the experience might be like for someone in their own hometown.
“It’s the ultimate,” said Gowan. “Wherever you live, the Kentucky Derby is the ultimate race in my opinion. Your average fan knows the Kentucky Derby. Some of them might not have even heard of the Breeders’ Cup, but they know the Kentucky Derby. It’s huge.”
When asked how he’d like the race to set up for Ride On Curlin, Gowan said, “I think there’s a lot of horses that are going to be going to the lead, so hopefully we can stay off of it, and come running down the lane like we did in Arkansas (Derby).”
Ride On Curlin drew post position 19, the farthest outside post. Borel sat at the back of the pack and closed up the rail when he won the 2007 and 2010 Kentucky Derbies. Does Gowan think Borel will do the same with Ride On Curlin? “I’d say he better!” exclaimed Gowan.
It’s certain Gowan will enjoy the ride Saturday, whatever the outcome.”
“I’m going to enjoy every minute of it,” said Gowan. “Might not be back next year, you never know. I don’t live for tomorrow, I just live for today, but I am ready for Saturday.”
Photo: Adam Creech
