Retired trainer Hal Wiggins, who developed Rachel Alexandra and trained her early in her 2009 Horse of the Year campaign, has joined Legacy Bloodstock to assist in client relations and owner recruiting.
During his 35-year training career, Wiggins saddled more than 840 winners and over 15 stakes winners. He gained national attention as the first trainer of Rachel Alexandra, whose four graded stakes wins under his care included a record romp in the Kentucky Oaks (gr. I). Following the Oaks, the filly was sold to Jess Jackson and Harold McCormick and transferred to trainer Steve Asmussen.
"We are thrilled to have such a respected horseman of his experience joining our team to help us increase our services to our clients," said Mark Toothaker, partner in Legacy Bloodstock, in a released statement. "With Hal’s help, we will be creating an innovative selling process that extends beyond the sales grounds to encompass the whole Thoroughbred community."
"We are always looking to add value to our services and increase our relationships in this business, and when the opportunity with Hal surfaced it just seemed like the perfect fit," said Legacy partner Tommy Eastham. "His experience, personality, and relationship base would be an asset to any business. We feel very fortunate to have him on board."
Wiggins is a Houston,Texas-area native and graduate of Texas A&M. He was honored last November with the 2009 Warner L. Jones Jr. Horseman of the Year Award.
"Tommy and Mark are both great guys that I have a lot of respect for," Wiggins said. "I’ve trained racehorses for over 30 years and I’m looking forward to starting this new venture. It is both an honor and a privilege to be involved with Legacy."