TDN Weekend December 2016 Issue 9
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/947139
When we meet, Hertrich is dressed in a Gatsby Tweed Cap, a WinStar vest with Gemologist printed on the back, jeans and boots and carrying a sales catalogue. There is nothing partic- ularly striking about him–certainly nothing that distinguishes him from anybody else in the room, including the legendary Steve Cauthen–and he likes it that way. "I have never really desired to be in the limelight," he says. "I've always been able to accomplish what was necessary be- hind the scenes. In terms of buying and selling horses, I don't want to brag about anything. If I can help to make change, I will. I will participate to support the people that are doing what's right for that particular industry. That's how I've been my entire business life. It's just who I am." Hertrich is unique in the world of horse racing. He has bred both a Thoroughbred champion (Shamardal) and Standardbred champions (Eternal Camnation, among others). He is also the first person to be a member of the Breeders' Cup Board and the Hambletonian Society, which supports Standardbred rac- ing through promotion and administration of races, including the Breeders Crown. And yet aside from the Thoroughbred and Standardbred breeding industry, few people really knew Hertrich when he was named Chairman of the Breeders' Cup. He certainly didn't have a Kentucky blueblood name similar to his predecessor, Bill Farish, although the Hertrich family has impressive roots in the automotive world. "I will participate to support the people that are doing what's right for the industry."