Gary Player Globe-Trotting Now From Courses To Horses

Golf legend Gary Player was at the Breeder's Cup today, and not as a mere bystander watching from the grandstands, but as a breeder and owner watching his horses compete in the elite races held annually in California. In his post-competitive golfing life, Player has become quite a, well, player in horse racing. He's built a 20,000 acre breeding farm and stable in South Africa, and has undertaken learning race horse production and breeding.

In an article at sfgate.com, Player said

"The conclusion you come to after all the studying is that you know a heck of a lot about nothing," he said. "Horses are a lot like golf. They will both humble you. You have to have quality and you have to work hard."

Player, no stranger to hard work - it's actually an avocation of his - is already reaping success in his new field of endeavor. He was given first Breeders' Cup Sports and Racing Excellence Award, honoring "an individual who has established a career of excellence in a chosen profession and also maintains a passionate interest as an owner, breeder or participant in the thoroughbred racing industry."

That sounds perfectly like Gary Player. As a golfer, it could never be said that he lacked passion, and it looks like he has taken his considerable drive and energy into a new area in his life. That success is following him to another area of his life is no surprise, yet it is welcome news for one of golf's greatest yet somehow under-appreciated players.