Dr. Overstreet inducted to KHHA Hall of Fame
10/11/08 KyHarnessRacing.com
On September, 23rd, Dr. Luel Overstreet was inducted to the KHHA Hall of Fame.
Doc's two sons, Kevin and Kent, each spoke on how their father's legacy was
created. It is absolutely phenomenal how one man accomplished so much
through the years. Overstreet's 4000 wins as an owner is just one of many.
A letter was also read at the Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Fred Schroeder, a
very close friend of Doc, wasn't able to attend. So he put his thoughts into a
letter. In case you weren't able to be there, here is the letter from Schroeder to
Overstreet.
Luel, sorry I can’t be in attendance on your induction day. It’s an award well
deserved. Even though we are close to the same age I think of you as one of my
mentors.
Over the years I have observed how you went about creating your legacy in our
sport. Your strengths are quite simply - your determination and doggedness to
achieve.
Pretentious you’re not. I can’t help but think of the early days when I was first
introduced to the sport. Back then all veterinarians drove big Cadillac’s with Florida
plates. You drove an El Camino with Kentucky plates. While the major stables had all
of the trappings of success you were content with feed bags for your harness and
used equipment was the norm.
A sharp dresser you are! I sense Mary Lynn has much to do with your attire. Many a
night I marveled at the suede sports coat you wore. I was amazed that they came in
so many colors. Anyway, they always looked good in the winner’s circle.
While we’re on the subject of winners I have to point out that at the Kentucky fairs
you always seem to have more than your share. At the start of every season I make
it a point to tell Don Conrad why we are racing at the fairs. We are racing to beat
you. It’s a given that if we can beat the Bluegrass horses we will have a successful
season.
Thankfully you are being inducted into the “living” hall of fame. Hopefully, there will
be many years ahead for you to accomplish what little you have not already
achieved.
To you, Mary Lynn, Kevin and Kent I wish you all the best. To you especially I offer
my thanks for your council and friendship.
Fred Schroeder

