Trainer Mike Hushion Collects 1,000th Victory

Mike Hushion got his 1,000th training victory Wednesday when River City Rebel rallied to win the $47,000 allowance feature at Aqueduct.

Hushion, 58, who was born in New York City and resides in Massapequa Park on Long Island, won his first race with Tugboat Ryan at Aqueduct in 1975.  Prior to going out on his own, Hushion worked for Hall of Fame trainer H. Allen Jerkens.

“It just means longevity, I guess,” said Hushion while standing in the winners’ circle. “My joke is the first thought that comes to my mind when people start talking about it is, well, that’s 4,000 losers. The other thing is that’s 5,000 times I’m out there watching these horses run with my heart bouncing through my chest. On the human body, it’s very tough.”

Throughout his career, Hushion has conditioned a number of fan favorites including Boom Towner, Fire King and Papua.  

River City Rebel, ridden by Pablo Fragoso, made a strong run up the rail to win by six lengths. The 4-year-old gelding earned his fourth win in 10 career starts. The time was 1:09.54 for six furlongs on the fast track.

River City Rebel paid $12, $5.60 and $3.50. Bold Mon finished second and returned $4.10 and $2.90. Colonial Note paid $4.80 to show.

(Chart, Equibase)