Category: Journeyman Jockeys

Blythe Miller’s Advice

Setting Your Horse Up for Every Next-Jump

Heels: DOWN and OUT in front of you!!!

Blythe Miller

FGCC Tyrany

“…And that is why our press was protected by the First Amendment– the only business in America specifically protected by the Constitution…”
-JFK

A Letter sent to the Tyrants of the Florida Gaming Control Commission

After experiencing the abuse of power and Conduct Unbecoming by these three men:

(images do not appear in the formal letter.)

Our office sent the following letter to the Florida Gaming Control Commission:

Law Office of Lonesome Glory Publications

February 4, 2024

RE: Case #O33B46A22Z-24

As a former Jockeys Guild member and journalist, I am dedicated to the integrity of our sport.

On or about February 2, 2024 at Tampa Bay Downs, (located at 11225 Race Track Rd N Tampa, FL 33626 United States), a thoroughbred horse owner informed me that he politely asked two men who were wearing the FGCC insignia on their shirts who they were. 

The above mentioned owner informed me that the two men laughed at him “smugly,” then, walked away.

These are the two men:

Continue reading “FGCC Tyrany”

A Leveled-Up Experience

There are moments when an athlete experiences this:

Not “Doing” it:

… the feeling of floating-

watching it all happen as
from the outside,
looking-in;

(Like watching a movie)

… not doing it,

but watching your body do it

and learning from it.
Chip Van Hassel

Horse Racing in Decline

My decision to retire began on my way to the track on a horse for John Servis.

The Horse Racing Industry Is In Decline!

With Anticipation

We were living the dream- I was getting paid top-dollar to ride for one of the top trainers- part of a formidable, respected team.

Continue reading “Horse Racing in Decline”

Your “Why?”

Be the beam of Light.

What Is Your, “Why,”?

What Drove You When You Were Younger?

What was your, “why,” when you were in high school?
Did your, “why,” since then change?
If so, why?

Does your original, “why,” still suit you?

Dakkuan

Duty of the Master

“…I am neither the champion nor the apologist of our Society; and that my opinion of its merits is the less liable to the imputation of partiality that I do not attempt to conceal or palliate the defects it is our common object to correct.”

John Fitzhenry TOWNSEND, LLD.

Cigar in the 1995 Breeders’ Cup

“…followed by Tinner’s Way and Concern is still last; three furlongs to go. CIGAR!!! Cigar Makes His Move; and he Sweeps to the lead with a dramatic rush!”

Allen Paulson named most of his racehorses after aircraft check points and aviation terms.

“Cigar,” is a mnemonic that refers to a pre-takeoff checklist performed by Untied States Air Force pilots. It stands for:

• Controls
• Instruments
• Gas
• Airplane secure
• Run-up.

The Day the Crossed Sojourn Began

“I’m giving you the last bit of cash I have.”

His name is Chaplin Bob Miller. I cold-called him, asking for help one day. When he returned my call, he was driving back from the airport with his wife; they had just arrived home from Cuba.

Bob was warm and inviting. He understood my situation. He had a lot on his plate at the time, but he took a couple of moments to meet with me and briefly listen to my quandary. Little did he know, I hadn’t told him

Continue reading “The Day the Crossed Sojourn Began”

Trick Or Treason!

“…The change that has occurred within the racing industry is not something that is lasting.”

-Retired Journeyman, Christopher Van Hassel

I had always planned to train racehorses after I retired from my riding career, but I had not predicted that the racing business would change the ways in which it has. The change that has occurred within the racing industry is not something that is lasting. Why do I say that?

Continue reading “Trick Or Treason!”

Legendary horse racing announcers share Kentucky Derby memories

Tom Durkin, Dave Johnson, Larry Collmus and Mike Battaglia share their favorite memories of calling the Kentucky Derby over the years.

Rich Strike
Rich Strike

Essence of the Fellow Craft Degree

“…because their Beehive Mind has absolutely corrupted the Craft…”

The essence of the FC Degree is the ablative of means through which Masters operate.

Continue reading “Essence of the Fellow Craft Degree”

The Perfect Ride by Gary Stevens

May you have the perfect ride, Gary. Christopher A. Van Hassel

James Lopez: Journeyman Jockey, Gentleman and Brother

Anyone would give their last dollar to James Lopez. Whenever you knew you were in his presence, that forever made you feel good. Any time I have ever thought of you, love was the only thing I could feel.

You live on

Forever and Ever.

Are You Having Licensing Issues with Florida Racetracks?

If the Florida Gaming Control Commission ever denies your license for, “failure to complete an application,” … Read this!

Experience of Licensing Issues with Florida Racetracks:

1 When obtaining your license to work at Tampa Bay Downs, pay the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) $37.25 to be fingerprinted, then, pay the FGCC $80.00 to process that application with those fingerprints.

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