Don Swick Scores His First Thoroughbred Race
by Terry Cullipher

    Don Swick is a name that's very familiar in the Standardbred world. Swick has enjoyed success for
    many years as one of the top trainers in harness racing at the top level. He has also had his share
    of champions throughout his career, which took off in 1968 when he notched first pari-mutual win
    in Cleveland, Ohio. He achieved that feat, as a driver/ trainer with a horse named Strawberry
    Sundae.

    Known for his level of success in the harness racing world, Don Swick recently gained a new found
    interest in the sport of Thoroughbred racing. On Sunday March 28th of this year, Swick made his
    first start as a Thoroughbred trainer at Tampa Bay Downs in Tampa Bay, Florida. Less than a
    month later on April 21st, and second start, he was in the winner's circle (as owner and trainer),
    with his four-year old filly Kouloura. In addition to this filly, Swick also has a two-year
    Thoroughbred old in training.

    Last fall Swick attended the yearling sales in Kentucky (Keenland). He said they were practically
    giving them away -- well bred horses. Swick made a bid and he and his wife left the sale with a
    yearling, who is currently training at a Thoroughbred training facility in Florida. As for Kouloura,
    Swick acquired her for a little of nothing this past winter in Florida.

    The road of success in which he's traveled, has been anything but boring with campaigning world
    champions, breaking world records, and winning Breeders Crown races. Having such great horses
    as Cams Swifty, Lonestar Legend (1:49:3 on a 1/2), Hobo's Willie, and Fast Photo, Swick's career
    as a harness trainer has been very interesting.

    As his venture into the Thoroughbred side takes off, the question to everyone is obvious; Is
    Swick looking to race in the Kentucky Derby? When we asked him that question he replied, "At
    this point no. Right now its just mostly a challenge for me."  

    Although Swick says right now its just a challenge, we might add, the phone has been ringing.
    The four-year old filly has some people interested in buying her. Swick says if he doesn't sell her
    he will send her to Toronto to race.

    For now, Don Swick remains focused on his 14 horse Standardbred stable. But who knows what
    lies ahead. Keeping that in mind, for a trainer who has been known to produce a world champion
    (or two), don't be surprised if the name Don Swick turns up on a list of trainers for the Kentucky
    Derby in the near future.