At just 26 years old and with only a few months of training under her own banner, Anna Meah is poised for significant achievements in the horse racing world. Her early career has been marked by remarkable success, with five of her first eight starters finishing in the top three. Notably, one of her initial starters, Excellent Sunset, crossed the finish line first in the Kathryn Crosby Stakes at Del Mar. Despite a disqualification to second place for interference, Meah remains undeterred, maintaining a positive outlook as Excellent Sunset prepares to compete in the prestigious Grade 1 Matriarch Stakes at Del Mar. Meah recently shared insights into her journey, her training philosophy, and the experiences that have shaped her perspective.
A Lifelong Passion for Racing
Meah’s introduction to horse racing came at the tender age of 7 when she attended her first live race at Portland Meadows in Oregon. This early exposure sparked an immediate and enduring passion, solidifying her ambition to work in the sport. While her path to becoming a trainer wasn’t initially foreseen, Meah acknowledges that her dreams have guided her toward fulfilling opportunities.
The Trainer’s Journey Begins
The first horse Meah trained as a professional was Sekhmet’s Revenge, owned by William Marasa and her husband, David Meah. With jockey Flavien Prat in the irons, the filly finished second. This initial experience, though not a win, provided valuable lessons. Meah describes the feeling of having her horses compete as an unparalleled experience, a sentiment that resonates deeply within the racing community. The near-win with Excellent Sunset in the Kathryn Crosby Stakes, despite the subsequent disqualification, was a moment of profound accomplishment. Meah expressed immense pride in her filly’s performance, highlighting her ability to overcome adversity and still cross the wire first, showcasing both confidence and talent.
Navigating the Downs and Ups
Meah’s advice for aspiring individuals in horse racing is rooted in resilience and a balanced perspective. She emphasizes the importance of accepting both the highest highs and the lowest lows of the sport without letting them dictate one’s emotional state. Staying humble, positive, and cherishing every moment are key to navigating a career in racing. Her primary goal is to consistently run her horses competitively, echoing the universal ambition within the sport to reach the winner’s circle.
The Unpredictable Nature of Training
A unique aspect of training horses, often misunderstood by those outside the sport, is the inherent unpredictability. Meah explains that the horses themselves dictate the training schedule and race plans. This requires trainers to be adaptable and responsive to their equine athletes’ needs.
Beyond the Racetrack
Outside of the racing world, Meah’s dedication is evident; she often finds herself at the barn. She also shares a personal detail about her mild OCD, needing things to be organized and tidy, which she humorously suggests might stem from a desire for control. Her favorite racehorse currently competing is Winx, admired for her exceptional qualities. Meah also holds a deep affection for California Chrome, having been part of his entire career, an experience she cherishes as one of the most significant in her time working with racehorses.
A Vision for the Future
Meah’s favorite international racing event is Royal Ascot, with plans to attend in the near future, perhaps even with a runner. To attract more fans to the sport, she suggests focusing on advertisement, engaging events, and giveaways. While she doesn’t often place bets herself, she humorously notes that her husband handles the betting, and she enjoys the winnings. She fondly recalls attending an ice hockey game, a favorite non-Thoroughbred racing sport, due to her husband’s connection with player Erik Johnson of the Colorado Avalanche.
Pillars of Support and Growth
Meah’s journey has been supported by a network of individuals who have positively impacted her life and career. She credits her accomplishments to hard work and a determination to chase her dreams, having moved to California in 2012 with little more than her car and aspirations. Today, she is grateful for her strong support system and an exceptional team.
Defining Thoroughbred Racing
For Anna Meah, Thoroughbred racing is defined by three words: Rewarding, humbling, and emotional. These sentiments capture the profound connection and deep emotional investment involved in the sport.
