A Legacy on the Track: Fathers and Sons in Racing

Sandy and Doug McPherson

Doug McPherson’s journey in horsemanship is deeply influenced by his father, Alexander (Sandy) McPherson. Reflecting on his father’s teachings at Woodbine Racetrack, Doug said that the essence of horsemanship is rooted in common sense. He learned to maintain a balanced approach—caring for the horses, avoiding overexertion, and understanding when to give them rest. 

At 28, Doug wears many hats, including roles as a handicapper at Woodbine and an announcer at Fort Erie. But, one of his most cherished responsibilities is assisting his father during morning routines and race days. Doug highlighted the importance of supporting his father, who is turning 77, by ensuring everything runs smoothly. 

Doug rejoined his father’s stable more intensively during the pandemic in 2021, stepping away from his previous role in the race office. For the past few seasons, they have formed a strong team. 

Sandy, a veteran in Thoroughbred racing since the late '70s, has over 5,000 starters and several stakes winners under his belt. He continues to manage a modest stable at Woodbine and values having Doug by his side. Sandy appreciates Doug's independent thinking and his knack for coming up with new ideas, acknowledging that the only way to learn is by trying new things. 

Doug’s sharp handicapping skills are something Sandy admires. He noted that Doug excels as a public handicapper by identifying valuable picks with significant odds rather than just the favourites. Sandy is also proud of Doug’s realistic expectations as an owner, understanding that winning often depends on more than just having the best horse.

This season has started positively for the McPherson team, highlighted by a victory with Your Valentino in late May. Doug’s latest addition to their team is Ghoul, a stakes-winning horse from Brazil. Doug’s deep connection to racing is evident as he recounts the gelding's past performances and achievements. 

Doug reiterated that his passion for racing stems from his love for horses and the thrill of competition, always striving to improve no matter how well they perform.

Mike and Joey De Paulo

Just a short walk from the McPhersons’ barn, you’ll find another father-son duo, Mike and Joey De Paulo, working side by side. Mike, who has trained horses for nearly four decades, appreciates Joey’s reliability. Knowing Joey will be at the barn every morning is crucial, he said. Joey has been immersed in the racing world since he was a child, helping at the stables on weekends.

Mike recalled how Joey’s passion for racing became evident early on. Unlike his brother, who preferred sleeping in and becoming a school teacher, Joey integrated his love for racing into his education, earning credits through a high school co-op program at the track.

The racetrack life, filled with daily tasks like cleaning stalls, grooming horses, and preparing them for races, provided Joey with a purposeful routine. Mike believes that this early involvement has kept Joey focused and out of trouble. Pointing to a framed photo in his office, Mike shared a memory of Joey as a young boy with Shillelagh Slew, proudly wearing his father’s suit pants.

Joey has learned valuable lessons from his father, particularly about consistency and giving one’s best effort every day. For Joey, working at the track isn’t just a job—it’s a way of life. He manages various responsibilities, including overseeing the shedrow, preparing horses for races, and ensuring everything runs smoothly on race days. 

Although Joey is experienced, Mike admits he doesn’t always agree with his son’s methods. Joey’s approach, sometimes involving not tying the horses up, makes Mike uneasy due to safety concerns. Nonetheless, Mike acknowledges that Joey’s fearlessness works for him. 

Working alongside his parents, Mike and Josie, has deeply influenced Joey’s perspective on life, instilling pride in carrying on their legacy. 

Kevin and Joshua Attard

Trainer Kevin Attard is another proud father working with his son, Joshua, in the racing industry. Kevin admires Joshua's dedication to the demanding lifestyle of horseracing. At 20, Joshua has shown a commitment and work ethic uncommon among his peers, prioritising his passion for racing over typical youthful pursuits.

Kevin, having grown up watching his own father, Tino, train horses, understands the challenges of working within a family dynamic. He acknowledges that more is often expected when working for a parent, a lesson he experienced firsthand and now sees reflected in Joshua’s journey.

Joshua has been involved in the backstretch since his teenage years, transitioning from walking horses to grooming. He credits his father for instilling in him the values of hard work and self-confidence, crucial traits for anyone aspiring to be a successful trainer. Joshua aspires to obtain his assistant trainer’s license soon.

Kevin, who has trained notable horses like Moira, Starship Jubilee, and Melmich, recalls a significant moment from last year when Joshua accompanied him to the Breeders’ Cup with Moira. Preparing for the Gr. 1 Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Turf was a highlight for Joshua, who was thrilled by the experience and Moira’s strong performance.

While Kevin is open-minded about Joshua’s future, he states that Joshua should pursue what makes him happy, whether it’s in horseracing or another field. Kevin is committed to supporting his son’s choices, regardless of the path he chooses.

In addition to his racing commitments, Joshua is working towards a degree in sports management. Despite his academic pursuits, his passion for horses remains a driving force. He expressed that his love for the animals is what keeps him engaged in the racing world, as seeing the horses every day brings him immense joy.