Stanton retires

The big news out of Sam Houston this week, first reported in the track's weekly notes, is that jockey Terry Stanton has retired.

This is sad news because Terry is a solid rider, but an even better person. He was always one of the most well-liked guys in the room around Texas thanks to his unassuming manner and quick, often self-deprecating, wit. In a profession filled with inflated egos and quick tempers, Terry was a breath of fresh air, the kind of guy you'd love to have as your next-door neighbor.

My favorite Stanton ride was one that he probably hated, but the fact that he held on at all was a testament to his nerve and skill. It was Independence Day of 2003, when Stanton guided (or, perhaps more accurately, followed) longshot filly Petionville Indeed, a mere maiden winner, to a 22-1 score in the $100,000 Lone Star Oaks, bolting in and out the whole way down the stretch of the turf course.

You can read the original Lone Star stakes recap here...

Lone Star Park Press Release July 4, 2003

This release includes a great explanation from trainer Dallas Keen on how Terry ended up with the mount. “I’ve never really ridden him before,” Keen said of Stanton. “But I wanted somebody that I knew had a little cowboy in him and Terry has that.”

It was the first Lone Star stakes win for Terry, and I don't recall fellow horsemen and the track staff ever being so happy to see a particular rider win a big race.

Here's to a real Texas gentleman. Terry, you will be missed!