John Barnes is a local racing enthusiast we came across on Flickr. He's an exceptional horseracing photographer and we're happy to share his work with you.
TrackPack: Which photos should we direct people do on your Flickr page?
John Barnes: These two sets: 2009 Inaugural National Lady Jockey's Challenge and 40th Running Fritz Dixion Cotillion Stakes and my 2010 Horse Racing set.
Always stick with your first choice!
- John Barnes, Photographer
TP: Were you an enthusiast first and then a photographer or the other way around?
JB: I got into horse racing through my parents. They took me when I was younger. I started the photography in 1990. I stopped and then picked it back up again a couple of years ago.
TP: What is it about horse racing that captures your attention?
JB: The way they run. It's just the power and grace that has me hooked!
TP: Is there an image you're most proud of?
JB: There are so many, but if I had to choose, there would be two. The first was of Malibu Moonshine and Jockey David Cohen at Aqueduct. It was the first one of my pics that went to press. The second is of Jockey Carol Cedeno. She won the 2009 Inaugural National Lady's Jockey's Challenge at Parx.
TP: What are some betting superstitions you've heard of?
JB: I heard of "Beware of Touters". That is, people who say, "this horse can't lose." 90% of the time they do lose!
TP: What one piece of advice would you give a racing newbie?
JB: Always stick with your first choice!
