Tami Bobo: From Humble Beginnings to the Kentucky Derby with Catalytic
A Journey of Opportunity and Resilience
Los Angeles, CA. – Tami Bobo, a partial owner of Catalytic, a highly anticipated horse in the upcoming 150th Kentucky Derby, shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of horse racing.
Growing up as a single mother, Bobo found solace in buying and selling horses, offering riding lessons to sustain herself. Inspired by the internet and the need for accessible veterinary care, she established an online “equine information center” that eventually paved her way into the exclusive world of thoroughbred racing.
Over a decade in the industry, Bobo’s keen eye and savvy instincts have landed her three horses at the prestigious Derby gates, including Catalytic, who will compete on May 6th.
Overcoming Adversity, Seeing Potential
“Coming from humble beginnings, I have never overlooked the less fortunate,” Bobo emphasizes. She believes little physical imperfections can be overcome with training or surgery, just as she has done in the past with other horses she has mentored.
Take Charge Indy, her first Derby horse in 2012, was dismissed by many due to his unusual posture. However, Bobo saw his potential and invested a mere ,000, defying conventional wisdom. The horse went on to place third in the Derby, a testament to Bobo’s ability to recognize talent beyond superficial appearances.
Catalytic: A Star in the Making
Catalytic, a colt Bobo purchased for 5,000 at Saratoga, also caught her attention despite concerns about slightly thickened tendons. An ultrasound revealed no signs of injury, attributing the thickening to “growing pains.”
“Now he competes with the world’s best where people have paid millions of dollars,” Bobo remarks. “You know, some of these horses syndicate for over million. So, these numbers are not unrealistic.”
The Essence of the Kentucky Derby
For Bobo, the Kentucky Derby represents the “American Dream” achievable by anyone with hard work and determination. Only 20 horses qualify for the race each year, and Bobo’s success in bringing three of her horses to this stage is a testament to her perseverance and belief in her abilities.
Friendship and Collaboration
While typically owning horses alone, Bobo made an exception for Catalytic. She partnered with Julie Davies, another woman in the industry, after recognizing their shared passion and due diligence. Their friendship flourished as they trained and prepared Catalytic for auction.
Class and Heart: The Qualities of a Champion
Bobo describes Catalytic as possessing an exceptional mindset, taking in the experience and reveling in the sport. “He’s just class,” she says. “And that’s something you can’t buy in horses. You cannot buy class.”
With the Kentucky Derby approaching, Bobo’s hope is for Catalytic to perform well but, above all, to emerge safely and continue his racing career. “For me, I’m blessed and thankful for this opportunity,” she concludes. “We’re all winners going in.”
Data sourced from: foxnews.com
