Trainer Tim Salzman, who sadly passed away at the age of 54 on February 7 after a prolonged fight with cancer, counted Where’s Ray as his final starter. Megan Salzman, his widow, expressed deep gratitude for the horse after Where’s Ray was awarded first place through a disqualification in a second-level allowance race at Laurel Park on April 12. “This was one of the last horses Tim chose, and he truly believed in him,” Megan shared.
Continuing her late husband’s legacy, Megan obtained her trainer’s license, with Where’s Ray marking her first training victory. The gelding won a tight finish in Sunday’s sixth race, a ratings-optional claimer for horses three years and older, contested over 5½ furlongs on the Fort Marcy Turf Course. This race was Megan’s ninth as a trainer, having taken over Where’s Ray’s conditioning from her brother-in-law, John Salzman Jr.
Megan, who missed the race due to her niece’s wedding, reflected by phone on the emotional win, noting, “It’s our anniversary today. For my first win to come in this way, it’s incredibly special. Where’s Ray is truly a fighter!” In her absence, John Salzman Jr. saddled the horse, noting the added challenge of losing a front shoe during the race.
Tim Salzman began his career in 2003, winning with his only starter that year, and went on to achieve 425 wins with total earnings exceeding $10.2 million. Among his notable horses were Bsharpsonata, a multiple Grade 2 winner, and Sensible Lady, who secured six stakes wins and is honored annually at Laurel Park through the Sensible Lady Turf Dash Stakes. The 2026 running of this race, held just yesterday, was won by Gift of Gab.
Where’s Ray, a 6-year-old gelding by Mshawish out of Edgehill Road by Old Forester, was bred in Kentucky by Susan Moulton and purchased for $10,000 as a short yearling. He has competed in 29 races, winning 8 of them and earning $254,250.
This piece was initially published by Paulick Report on September 13, 2026.
Fan Take: This heartfelt story not only honors the memory of a beloved trainer but also highlights the resilience and continuity within racing families, a theme that resonates deeply with fans. Megan Salzman’s breakthrough win with Where’s Ray symbolizes the enduring spirit of the sport and its ability to bring people together through shared passion and determination.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
