BOOK REVIEW

by Vicki Portlock

Carl A. Nafzger's TRAITS OF A WINNER (Russell Meerdink Company, 282 pages) is full of information for owners, trainers and anyone interested in thoroughbred racing. The book is packed with facts and the author has succeeded magnificently in bringing the excitement of race day to life! The Kentucky Derby winning career of Unbridled is documented throughout the book, with an exciting last chapter to whet all our appetites for the heady heights of success. The author writes as an experienced trainer who is able to pick quality horses, pay close attention to their development, use simple training methods, carefully plan for each horses career and artfully make adjustments to produce winners.

The first five chapters are about the sale ring and buying a hypothetical $40,000 yearling. The focus is on essential traits of the horse and good communication between owner, trainer and all concerned.

On the importance of paying close attention to the young horse mentally, the author writes, "it is the trainers job to figuratively at least, crawl in that horses mind." Physically the horse is watched closely for signs of strain.

Simple training methods, no frills equipment and quality feed are the training regimen. Adjustment is the key word where the horse is listened to and developed at it's own pace.

The author describes his barn as an allowance and staktes operation. He shows how to plan ahead for the horses 2 year old, 3 year old and older campaigns. Included is a chapter on claiming races which is informative and encouraging.

Traits of a Winner deserves a place in every horseman's and racing enthusiast's library. It is realistic, upbeat and inspires the reader to get involved at a level he can afford. Great for the reader and great for the industry as a whole!

Carl's book covers the more traditional methods of race horse ownership. When you start with a $40,000 yearling, you are already in the rarefied group. This is a good book that will enlighten owners on the traditional owner/trainer relationship at its best!