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Supporter Feature: Terry Frank
Supporter Feature: Terry Frank
By: Jay Privman
Terry Frank first was exposed to horse racing via his family’s parties on Kentucky Derby Day when he was a child, and he dabbled in ownership over the years, but it wasn’t until more recent years, while cooped up during the COVID pandemic four years ago, that he took an even deeper interest in handicapping and started playing in contests. Safe to say, he’s a fast learner.
Frank earlier this year was named the National Thoroughbred Racing Association’s National Horseplayers Championship Rookie of the Year for his success in 2023, during which he qualified for both the NHC Finals as well as the Breeders’ Cup Betting Challenge. And while family obligations will prevent him from playing in the BCBC for the upcoming 41st Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar Nov. 1 and 2, Frank will be back for the NHC next March.
Frank has paid it forward. He has donated to Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, yet another example that horseplayers have among the most generous hearts in the sport.
“I admire TAA for several reasons,” Frank said. “First, they play a crucial role in ensuring that retired racehorses receive proper care and rehabilitation, which is essential for their well-being. Their commitment to establishing accredited aftercare organizations means that these horses can find safe and loving homes.
“Additionally, the TAA’s focus on education and outreach raises awareness about the importance of responsible ownership and aftercare in the racing industry. Supporting organizations like TAA helps create a positive impact on the lives of these horses, promoting humane treatment and a dignified retirement.
“Contributing financially is a way to support their initiatives, ensuring they have the resources needed to continue their important work. It’s rewarding to know that such contributions can help improve the lives of horses that have given so much to the sport.”
Frank said Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance’s accreditation process is “incredibly important to my support for the organization.”
“It ensures that aftercare facilities meet high standards of care, safety, and welfare for retired racehorses,” he said. “This accountability builds trust and confidence that the horses are receiving the quality treatment they deserve. By setting rigorous criteria for accreditation, TAA not only helps to elevate the standards within the industry but also distinguishes credible organizations from those that may not prioritize the horses’ well-being.
“Knowing that my support goes toward accredited facilities means I can be confident that it will have a positive impact on the lives of these horses, making my contributions feel more meaningful.”
If those answers sound like they came from someone who does his research, well, you nailed it. Frank is a former managing director of Stifel Independent Advisors. His background in finance and investments is applied to his approach to handicapping.
“There are several parallels between making plays in horse racing and the financial world,” Frank said. “Both require research, analysis, and risk assessment. In horse racing, you study the horses’ performance, track conditions, and jockey statistics, much like analyzing market trends, company performance, and economic indicators in finance.
“Both fields also involve strategic decision-making and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Just as a bettor may adjust their strategy based on new information or unexpected events, investors must remain flexible and responsive to market fluctuations. Additionally, there’s a psychological element in both, where managing emotions and maintaining discipline can be crucial to success. Overall, the skills and mindset developed in one area can often translate well to the other.”
Frank, who lives in the St. Louis area, owned two claiming horses that raced at Fairmount Park – now FanDuel Sportsbook and Horse Racing – and was in partnerships with the well-known outfits Dogwood Stables, Team Valor, and Centennial Farms. Since 2020, he’s been involved in crowdfunding partnerships with My RaceHorse and Commonwealth, as well as RainBowsEnd Racing Stable and Crown’s Way Racing.
“Through these crowdfunding initiatives, I’ve had the opportunity to experience two Kentucky Derbies, the Breeders’ Cup Classic, and the Preakness,” he said.
Frank retired a little less than two years ago. Earlier this year, he graduated from the University of Louisville’s Graduate Certificate program in Equine Studies, focusing on horse racing.
He does the bulk of his playing on-line, but has traveled to contests, and enjoys taking friends and family to the track.
“Trying to help build the game,” he said.
And generously giving back through Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.
Publishing Note: Story written and submitted in October 2024
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