Trainer Dick Clark Notches 1,000th Win

(from Prairie Meadows report)
Prairie Meadows Thoroughbred trainer Dick Clark claimed his 1,000th win on Aug. 17, highlighting a career that began 35 years ago in Nebraska.

Leading him to that milestone over the course of a mile and 70 yards was a 4-year-old Iowa-bred named Kahlua Hummer. Guided by jockey Glenn Corbett, the horse kicked into gear at the three-quarters pole, widening his victory margin by 3 ¾ lengths in statebred claiming conditions.

"It's something to be proud of, but I'm glad it's over," said Clark, while appearing a bit uneasy over the fanfare following ceremonies in the winner's circle. Clark is to be inducted into the Prairie Meadows Hall of Fame Aug. 27.

"I've got good help in the barn," Clark quickly added. "It's a job that's good to come to in the mornings."

Clark said he wouldn't work at anything else.

"I enjoy the horses and people on the backside," he said. "They're all good people. I like it here. It's home."

Clark earned his 11th training title at Prairie Meadows on July 4 and leads the charts with 29 wins in the current stand, which runs through Sept. 25.

The Mingo, Iowa native has a career average of 41.64% from top three finishers and purse earnings approaching the $11 million mark.

Clark's wins away from Prairie Meadows include racetracks in Arizona, Arkansas, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Nebraska and New Jersey.

At Prairie Meadows, he averages 32% with winning favorites and is most successful with older route horses traveling distances of a mile and greater.

Clark's name, along with that of retired Thoroughbred Sure Shot Biscuit, will be inscribed in the Prairie Meadows Hall of Fame.