SHELBYVILLE, Ind. (Aug. 13, 2019) – Most 18-year-old students are focused on school activities, but Jesus Olivo has a different passion. He assists with his father’s stable of Thoroughbred and Quarter Horses based in rural Connersville, Ind. and because of his hard work, he was recognized as “Groom of the Week” at Indiana Grand. The award is sponsored by Backstretch Supplies, located in the barn area at the track.
Olivo is a third-generation horseman. He followed his grandfather and then his father, Victor, into racing and has become valuable to his family’s operation. In addition to caring for the horses, he also ponies them, meaning he rides on a horse while leading the racehorses around the track at his family’s farm.
“I first started with my grandpa and kept on going with my dad,” said Jesus. “My dad will teach me about the horses. He tells me what the horses need, and I help him put bandages on and other things around the barn. I am always learning. I hope to keep the generation going in racing.”
Jesus and his family previously lived in rural Hancock County where they operated their business at another farm. When the family relocated to their new property in Fayette County, Jesus wanted to stay in the school system he was familiar with and is now a senior at Eastern Hancock High School.
“I like school, but I really don’t know yet what I want to do as a career,” said Jesus. “I like the horses and I’ve thought about maybe becoming a veterinarian. Right now, I’m having fun working with the horses, so I’ll have to make a decision later on.”
For being named “Groom of the Week,” Jesus received a $100 bill from Backstretch Supplies. The award is presented to a caretaker who provides excellent care to their horses and is also presentable during the racing programs. Jesus is an exemplary example for both parts of the award.
Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing continues through Wednesday, Nov. 6. Racing is conducted Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday at 2:15 p.m. and Saturday at 6:15 p.m. More information about the season is available at www.indianagrand.com.
Indiana Grand Racing & Casino, which is owned and operated by a subsidiary of Caesars Entertainment Corporation (NASDAQ: CZR), holds multiple awards for customer service, entertainment, gaming, dining, and diversity. Located in Shelbyville, Ind., Indiana Grand features 2,200 of the latest slots and electronic table games in addition to a one-mile dirt race course and a seven-eighths mile turf course offering live Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing each year. Simulcast wagering is also offered year-round at Winner’s Circle Brewpub & OTB located on the casino floor as well as a Winner’s Circle OTB located in Clarksville, Ind. For more information, please visit www.IndianaGrand.com. Must be 18 or older to wager on horse racing at racetracks and 21 or older to gamble at casinos. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT (1-800-994-8448) ©2019 Caesars License Company, LLC.
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Photo by Coady Photography – Jesus Olivo with Rachel McLaughlin of Indiana Grand and Sandy representing Backstretch Supplies.
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