Bernie Flint, a celebrated figure in Midwestern racing for over five decades, has quietly retired from training. Known for his larger-than-life persona and considerable success, Flint officially hung up his tack in November 2023. His departure from the racing scene, however, was not marked by fanfare but by a quiet decision to cease shipping horses, signaling the unceremonious end of an era.
At 85 years old, Flint’s decision to retire was not due to a lack of passion but rather a decline in health that prevented him from dedicating the time and effort his horses and owners deserved. This quiet exit contrasts sharply with his famously boisterous personality, a trait acknowledged by longtime associate and retired trainer Frank Brothers. Brothers, who met Flint as a young man in New Orleans when Flint was a police officer, noted, “He’s never done anything quietly in his life; this might be a first.” Brothers further described Flint as a good horseman who consistently achieved success throughout his career, leaving a memorable presence in the sport.
Flint, standing an imposing 6-foot-3-and-a-half inches, concluded his training career with an impressive 3,551 victories, ranking him 28th all-time in North America. Notably, he achieved 501 wins at Churchill Downs, making him one of the few trainers to reach the 500-win milestone at the iconic track. His final starter, Bright Spark, secured a win on November 10, 2023, at Churchill Downs, marking a fitting end to his training career.
While Flint has stepped away from the day-to-day demands of training, he remains involved in horse racing through his breeding and ownership operation, L.T.B. Inc., primarily in Indiana and in partnership with long-time client Ron Hillerich. Hillerich expressed the profound impact Flint has had on his own involvement in racing, stating, “There are certain people who are bigger than life, and he’s one of them in the racing business.” He added that Flint is universally loved and respected, a testament to his character.
Flint himself cited age catching up with him as the primary reason for his retirement, preferring a quiet departure over extensive explanations. “I really didn’t want to have to explain it to everybody,” he stated in a phone conversation. “I just quietly left. I thought that would be better.” Despite the health challenges, including a recent diagnosis of treatable cancer, Flint remains resilient, expressing optimism about his recovery.
The transition out of training has left a void for those close to Flint, particularly for owners like Hillerich. “The biggest part of the racing I’ve been involved in was being able to go to the backside and visit with Bernie in the morning,” Hillerich shared, fondly recalling Flint’s presence in the tack room. Hillerich lauded Flint’s exceptional eye for horses and his sharp intellect, emphasizing their close friendship beyond their business partnership.
Flint’s storytelling ability is legendary. Long-time assistant Georgia Jackson, who worked with him for 23 years, attested to his verbosity, noting that conversations could extend significantly, especially on topics he was passionate about. “He’d just keep talking. That’s true. And he made a lot of sense. People listened to him.”
A Detective’s Past and a Lifelong Passion
Flint’s journey into horse racing is as colorful as his personality. His career began not with horses, but as a detective with the New Orleans Police Department. His experience as a homicide cop, including witnessing an autopsy, led him to take up cigar smoking as a way to combat unpleasant smells, a habit that began many years ago.
He transitioned to full-time training in 1976 after 16 years with the NOPD, seeking a career less perilous than police work. Flint’s early days in racing were characterized by a dual commitment to his police duties and his burgeoning stable. Stories abound of him attending to his horses while still in uniform, a testament to his dedication. Flint himself acknowledges wearing his uniform when necessary but dismisses some of the more colorful racetrack lore as exaggerated.
Flint’s foray into thoroughbreds began with the purchase of a horse named House Seats for $1,500, which went on to win eight races, solidifying his love for the sport. His early competitive experiences included barrel racing and match races, honing his skills in various equestrian disciplines.
A Decorated Career on the Track
Flint’s training career, officially spanning from 1972 according to Equibase, saw him achieve significant success. He was a perennial leading trainer at various tracks, including Turfway Park, where he held a then-record 20 meet titles. His horses consistently earned over $1 million annually for many years, and he trained numerous stakes winners, including notable runners like Hurricane Bertie and Runway Model.
One of Flint’s most memorable victories was with Outofthebox, who upset E. Dubai in the 2001 Louisiana Downs Super Derby, marking Flint’s only Grade 1 victory. Despite an earlier intention to retire at age 60, the potential of a Kentucky Derby contender kept him actively training for over two more decades.
Flint’s influence extended beyond his own stable. His sons, Steven and Scott, also found success in the racing industry, with Steven becoming a trainer and Scott a horse-shoer. Flint’s ownership partnership with Hillerich has continued to yield success, particularly in Indiana, where their stallion Unbridled Express has become a prominent figure in breeding.
Legacy and Fond Recollections
Bernie Flint is remembered not only for his impressive win totals and training titles but also for his distinctive personality and deep knowledge of the sport. His reputation for being a world-class talker and his expertise in areas beyond horse racing, such as Rolex watches, further add to his larger-than-life image.
As Flint transitions to a well-deserved retirement, his impact on horse racing is undeniable. His career, marked by dedication, success, and a unique personal flair, has left an indelible mark on the sport. The quiet end to his training career belies the significant and vibrant chapter he has written in the annals of horse racing history.
