The landscape of horse racing has been significantly reshaped by the rise of “super trainers” and their expansive operations. This shift raises questions about the sport’s health and the opportunities for owners to engage with smaller, yet highly competitive, trainers. David Donk, a New York fixture for over three decades, offers a unique perspective. With a career spanning numerous graded stakes wins and a deep understanding of the business behind racing, Donk exemplifies the success achievable outside the mega-stable model. This article delves into his journey, philosophy, and insights on the evolving world of horse racing.
From Upstate New York to Racing Royalty
Donk’s journey into horse racing began at a young age, influenced by his father’s involvement in breeding and owning horses near Finger Lakes Racetrack. “I got hooked at a very young age,” Donk shares, “and realized, probably when I first got into high school, that it was something that I wanted to pursue.” After gaining experience training his father’s horses at Finger Lakes, a pivotal opportunity arose in 1985 when he joined the renowned trainer Woody Stephens as an assistant. “I like to say that I went to one of the best universities in the country when I worked for him,” Donk reflects. After five and a half years with Stephens, Donk ventured out on his own in 1991, starting with a modest stable of seven horses. His dedication and ability to achieve success in New York allowed him to build a sustainable career, where he has remained for 36 years.
The Balanced Operation: Managing a Stable
Unlike the massive operations of “super trainers,” Donk typically manages a more curated stable. “The number has been a little bigger for the last few years. I’m at about 50 over the summer,” he states. He actively works to keep the numbers manageable, aiming for the low 30s during the winter months. This approach is partly due to the complexities of managing international staff, as he explains, “I have a lot of people who are on visas and have to go back, so I try to reduce the size of the stable to make it a little more comfortable and easier on us all in December and January before we gear back up again.” This careful management ensures a high quality of care and attention for each horse.
Mentorship and Milestones
Donk credits his father as his initial and a lasting mentor. However, his professional growth was significantly shaped by his tenure with Woody Stephens. The most influential horse in Donk’s career, by his own admission, is the multi-million dollar earner Awad. “He made $3.2 million in his career, had over 70 starts and won a few Grade I races,” Donk recalls. “That’s the horse that put me on the map and where I’m at financially.” The experiences gained from campaigning Awad, including extensive travel across the country and to Japan, were invaluable.
The Business of Horse Racing
Donk emphasizes that successful horse training extends far beyond the racetrack. “This is a business, so when you are a trainer, you are the president and CEO of your own company,” he asserts. His early interest in bookkeeping has served him well, enabling him to manage the financial intricacies of his stable. He notes the significant evolution of the sport, highlighting the increased layers of federal, state, and immigration regulations. Donk takes pride in his ability to handle the business side, stating, “I’m a little bit unique in that I like the paperwork and the business side of it. I do most of my own bookkeeping.” This hands-on approach, combined with his dedication to client relationships, has fostered remarkable loyalty, with many clients having been with him for over 25 years.
The Advantages of a “Smaller” Trainer
Donk believes that owners can benefit significantly from partnering with smaller trainers. “They’re going to run more often,” he explains, contrasting his approach with what he perceives as a tendency for some larger operations to race horses less frequently. He emphasizes a customer service-oriented philosophy, sometimes prioritizing client desires over strictly optimal race conditions. “If you’re running second or third in New York all day long, it pays a lot of bills for the client and keeps money in circulation,” he notes. While acknowledging the success of larger stables, Donk encourages owners to diversify their investments and provide opportunities for up-and-coming trainers.
Concerns for the Sport’s Future
When asked about the impact of “super trainers,” Donk expresses concern about their effect on field sizes, which directly influences betting handle. “I think the biggest downfall is that it affects field size,” he states, referencing rules that limit the number of horses a single trainer can enter in a race. He advocates for more compromise and proactive decision-making within the industry, feeling that horse racing, particularly in the U.S., can lag behind international standards.
The Enduring Passion
Despite the challenges, Donk’s passion for horse racing remains unwavering. “I love what I do. I love the early mornings,” he shares. He finds deep satisfaction in the quiet serenity of the early morning training sessions and the human connections forged within the sport. “I love the human aspect to it as much as the equine aspect.” While acknowledging the industry’s frustrations, particularly the slow pace of change, Donk remains optimistic. He sees the need for industry-wide standardized rules, like those proposed by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA), even as he notes its current complexity. Ultimately, David Donk’s career is a testament to dedication, business acumen, and a profound love for the sport, proving that success in horse racing can indeed be achieved outside the shadow of the mega-stable.
