04/27/2026
One of those memories from long ago that you don’t forget especially around this time of the year.
I received this from a friend, Randy Ellis, this morning. It was a special day in my life that I took for granted at the time. Lil E T was trained by a wonderful friend and a great horseman Lynn Whiting why it was so special was that I had only shod a few horses for Whiting at the time I agreed to take on Lil ET late in his two year old year. I was at the New Orleans Fairgrounds working on a horse for Gerald Romero when Lenny walked up and asked could I shoe a horse for him. I smiled and said what is wrong with him. He snapped back by saying what do you mean what is wrong with him I replied I never get to shoe a horse for you that doesn't have problems. He looked at me and grinned and said if you don't screw this one up I am going to win the derby with him. I laughed. He says what are you laughing about. I immediately said you and a lot of other people are going to win the derby this time of the year. That was a very bold statement for a humble trainer like Lynn to make. Here is the proof that he was a man of his word. This started a business and friendship for me and my sons that lasted until his death 2 years ago.
