The world of horse racing is one of thundering hooves and photo finishes, but its true heart lies with the quiet, dedicated individuals behind the scenes. The recent passing of Toby Sheets, a revered horse trainer and longtime assistant to Hall of Famer Steve Asmussen, has left a profound void in that community. Sheets was more than just a trainer; he was a consummate horseman, a trusted colleague, and a friend to many, whose legacy is etched in the success of the champions he guided and the lives he touched.
For years, Toby Sheets was the bedrock of Steve Asmussen’s New York division, managing the high-stakes environment of Belmont Park with a calm, expert hand. While Asmussen’s name was often in the headlines, those within the industry knew that Sheets was a vital force behind the operation’s incredible success. He was the man on the ground, the one who oversaw the daily care, training, and well-being of some of the nation’s top Thoroughbreds. His work was not for the faint of heart; it required an early start, an intuitive understanding of animal behavior, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Sheets possessed all these qualities in spades.
His father remembered him as “a very hard worker” who was “doing what he loved, training horses.” This passion was evident to everyone who saw him work. He wasn’t just executing a training regimen; he was building relationships with these powerful animals, understanding their unique personalities and needs.
The Master Behind the Champions
A great horse trainer’s success is measured by the accomplishments of their equine students. By this metric, Toby Sheets was a giant in his field. He was instrumental in the careers of numerous high-profile horses, preparing them for racing’s biggest stages. Perhaps the most notable was Creator, the magnificent colt who won the 2016 Belmont Stakes. That victory was a pinnacle moment, a testament to the meticulous preparation and expert handling that Sheets provided.
But his list of successful pupils extends far beyond that single win. He worked with talented runners like Haynesfield, Gotham Stakes winner Morello, and the undefeated two-year-old champion Jackie’s Warrior. Of the latter, Sheets once remarked, “He handles everything well,” a simple statement that belied the complex work required to keep a top-tier athlete calm, focused, and ready to dominate. His ability to manage these elite horses, each with its own quirks and immense potential, was a hallmark of his skill. Steve Asmussen himself noted that Sheets’s work included the “expert handling of Haynesfield among others,” acknowledging the crucial role his assistant played in their shared victories.
What Made Toby Sheets a Great Horseman?
Becoming a respected horse trainer involves more than just understanding pedigrees and race times. It requires a deep, almost innate connection with the horses themselves. Sheets was praised for being an “outstanding horseman,” a title that speaks to his holistic approach to training.
Key Pillars of His Philosophy:
- Patience and Observation: He understood that each horse was an individual. He spent countless hours observing them, learning their temperaments, and tailoring his approach accordingly.
- Attention to Detail: From the slightest change in a horse’s appetite to the way it moved on the track, nothing escaped his watchful eye. This meticulousness ensured that minor issues never became major problems.
- Unwavering Dedication: The life of a horse trainer is demanding, with grueling hours and immense pressure. Sheets was known for his tireless work ethic and his complete devotion to the horses under his care.
- Kindness and Respect: Tributes after his passing repeatedly mentioned his kindness. He approached his work not with dominance, but with a quiet respect for the animals, building trust that translated into performance on race day.
“Extraordinarily kind, an outstanding horseman, and a beloved member of New York’s racing community.” – New York Thoroughbred Breeders
This combination of skill and character is what set him apart. He was a trainer who could prepare a horse for the rigors of the Belmont Stakes, yet he was also a man known for his gentle nature and friendship.
A Heartbreaking Loss
In June 2024, the racing world was stunned by the tragic news of Sheets’s death at the age of 55. He was found on a beach on the remote Greek island of Mathraki, where he was vacationing. The news sent ripples of shock and grief through the industry. A subsequent coroner’s report confirmed that his death was due to drowning. The loss was sudden, unexpected, and deeply felt by all who knew him.
The outpouring of condolences was immediate and heartfelt. The New York Racing Association (NYRA) stated, “New York’s horse racing community grieves the loss of Toby Sheets, and NYRA extends our condolences to Toby’s family and legion of friends.” Steve Asmussen reflected on their long partnership, saying, “Toby was a part of our stable for many years… He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.” These tributes painted a clear picture of a man who was not only respected for his professional abilities but also loved for the person he was.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who was Toby Sheets?
Toby Sheets was a highly respected American horse trainer and the longtime New York-based assistant for Hall of Fame trainer Steve Asmussen. He was known for his exceptional horsemanship and for managing the daily training of many successful Thoroughbred racehorses at Belmont Park.
What was Toby Sheets known for?
He was known for his pivotal role in one of horse racing’s most successful stables, his expert handling of elite equine athletes, and his quiet, dedicated professionalism. Sheets was a key figure behind the scenes for major victories, including the Belmont Stakes.
Which famous horses did Toby Sheets work with?
Toby Sheets was directly involved in the careers of numerous champion horses, most notably Creator, who won the 2016 Belmont Stakes. He also worked with other top runners such as Haynesfield, Morello, and Jackie’s Warrior.
How did Toby Sheets die?
Toby Sheets passed away in June 2024 at the age of 55 while on vacation in Greece. A Greek coroner confirmed that the cause of death was drowning. His body was found on a beach on the island of Mathraki.
How has the racing community remembered Toby Sheets?
The racing community has remembered Toby Sheets with an outpouring of grief and affection. He has been lauded in tributes as an “extraordinarily kind” person, an “outstanding horseman,” a beloved friend, and an essential part of the New York racing scene.
A Legacy That Endures
The true measure of a life is the impact left behind. While the track is now quieter without his presence, the legacy of Toby Sheets Horse Trainer lives on. It lives on in the victories of the horses he so carefully nurtured, in the respect of his peers, and in the fond memories of his many friends. He was a testament to the idea that greatness in the horse world is built on a foundation of hard work, deep respect for the animal, and a quiet, unshakeable passion. He will be dearly missed.
