Inside Track: Bill Tharrenos

  • 320 career wins (as of March 26)
  • 4 career stakes wins ​
  • Top horses include Lucky Be Me, Tree Pose, Money Talks, Shesanaturalblonde, Sarah Her Highness
  • Set several career-best marks in 2022, including wins (36) and purse earnings ($1,049,418, US). Off to a tremendous start in 2023, saddling eight winners in Florida.

The 2022 campaign

“I think we knew it was going to be a memorable year around October. We didn’t get to run the babies I was excited about, but it was still one of those years where we’re able to get a lot of horses to the winner’s circle. We’re very happy with how that all unfolded.”

And they’re off…

“We had some babies who didn’t make it to the races last year, but they are now three, and doing well. We’re hoping for some exciting things from them in 2023. We have some promising ones that are down here with us in Florida, so we’re hoping they can step up and have a big year. We had a record year last year and we’re hoping to top that.” ​ ​

A ‘Sunshine State’ of mind and beyond

“Things are going well here in Florida. We’re being realistic in that we’re running horses where they belong. It’s been very promising. This [Gulfstream] is not a place where you can sleep. You have to play with both hands because it’s a rapid pace here. As you know, the claiming box is very active. It’s like a game of cards. What card are you getting dealt? We’re looking towards the future. We’ve had some new owners come on board and we will have some new horses in the barn. We’ve got lots of horses and lots going on. A lot of doors have opened here, and I’m hoping I can bring all of that north.”

Home, sweet Woodbine home

“We have 30 at Woodbine right now and we’re looking to have some running on opening weekend. It will be exciting to get back home. To tell you the truth, there really is no better racing than at home. There really isn’t. It’s great to be here, in the sun, but there really is no better racing than at Woodbine.”

Finish line

“I don’t set goals. I’ve been trying to get horses to the big races, like the King’s Plate. It would obviously be nice to have one there. We have a few that we haven’t run yet, who are now three, so we’re going to put a lot of energy into them because they’ve shown promise. We’re looking for an exciting year there. There are a lot of things happening at Woodbine with the property development and the racing, so there is a lot to look forward to. It’s one of the best racetracks and facilities in the world, so let’s get 2023 going and move forward.” ​ ​