John Wawee has established an impressive streak in the world of sports, one that even the challenges of the pandemic couldn’t interrupt. Following his recent trip to Keeneland from his home in Porter Ranch, California, Wawee marked his 43rd consecutive attendance at the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, never missing this premier event since it began.
Wawee, now 63, first became hooked on the Breeders’ Cup as a USC junior when he chose to attend the inaugural event at Hollywood Park instead of watching his Trojans compete for a Rose Bowl spot. He described the occasion as spectacular, with horses from across the globe, calling it “a beautiful thing” he simply cannot miss.
In 2020, despite COVID-19 restrictions that barred fans from attending, Wawee’s determination didn’t waver. He reached out to Breeders’ Cup officials offering to volunteer in any capacity to secure admission but was only sent merchandise as a token of appreciation. Undeterred, he contacted broadcaster Laffit Pincay III about assisting him, but was politely declined. Meanwhile, his business, Castle Batting Cages in Sherman Oaks, was closed, leaving him without income and missing the daily sports energy.
Driven by his passion and the fact he owned micro-shares in top contender Authentic, Wawee was determined to keep his streak alive. After many calls and emails, he finally connected with a farm manager who attended only the Friday races and generously gave Wawee a ticket for Saturday. His flight from the West Coast was nearly empty, with only two other passengers aboard, allowing plenty of social distancing.
His efforts were rewarded with witnessing Authentic’s victory in the Classic, a highlight in a year when the horse went on to be named Horse of the Year. Wawee cites this win as his most memorable Breeders’ Cup moment. Another standout memory includes the 1989 Classic where Sunday Silence defeated rival Easy Goer, a win Wawee likens to a New York vs. Los Angeles rivalry that thrilled him as a California sports fan.
Zenyatta’s 2009 victory as the only female to win the Classic also deeply resonates with Wawee. Though initially doubting she could beat the males, he was elated by her stunning come-from-behind triumph. Even her narrow loss to Blame the following year was a race he greatly admired.
Zenyatta holds a special place in Wawee’s heart beyond racing. During her peak, Wawee reconnected with his daughter Jaclyn through shared enthusiasm for the mare, bridging a drifting gap and restoring their close bond.
After 43 years filled with unforgettable moments and meaningful connections, Wawee’s commitment to the Breeders’ Cup shows no sign of fading. His friend Andy Slater believes Wawee will continue attending as long as he can, making this remarkable streak one to be admired.
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Fan Take: John Wawee’s unwavering dedication highlights the deep passion and community spirit that horse racing fosters. Stories like his inspire fans and newcomers alike, showing that the sport is about more than just the races—it’s about lifelong memories and connections that keep the spirit of horse racing alive.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
