Aaron Lehman has been named the recipient of the prestigious Caretaker of the Year award for 2023 by Minnesota Harness Racing Inc.
(MHRI), a highly regarded accolade in the harness racing community. The official presentation of the award will take place at the upcoming MHRI Banquet, scheduled to be held at Running Aces this Saturday, February 17th. From a pool of three exceptional nominees, Lehman emerged as the standout candidate, impressing the selection committee with his outstanding contributions.
Alongside the well-deserved recognition, Lehman will be granted a prize package that includes exclusive accommodations at the banquet, an official MHRI Caretaker of the Year jacket, and a generous $100 gift certificate to St. Croix Saddlery of Willernie, Minnesota.
Lehman's nomination was put forward by esteemed MHRI members Robin Becklin and Scott Peifer, both experienced Standardbred owners and breeders who have entrusted their horses to QKS Racing, Lehman's employer.
Becklin and Peifer were quick to discern Lehman's exceptional work ethic and pleasant demeanour within the stables, and have since been consistently impressed by his unwavering commitment. Becklin commented,
"For the past few years, we have closely observed Aaron's dedication...regardless of the weather conditions, be it rain or shine, extreme heat or cold, he consistently maintains a positive and cheerful disposition. We thoroughly enjoy collaborating with him on race nights as we assist in paddocking our horses, and he demonstrates remarkable attentiveness to their individual needs, ensuring they are primed for optimal performance on the track”.
Becklin continued,
"We are also delighted to witness his natural aptitude for driving, as he effortlessly navigates this aspect of the sport. Our horses have thrived under his care as their jogger and trainer...Aaron is a true asset to the QKS team, and the harness racing community would undoubtedly benefit from the presence of more individuals like Aaron”.
Lehman, a remarkable 21-year-old talent hailing from Medford, Wisconsin, was first introduced to the captivating world of harness racing through his close friend Mel Mullet, a passionate horse owner associated with the esteemed QKS Racing Stable. The day Lehman was acquainted with the sport and the trainers, his fascination was immediately ignited, propelling him to join the Schneider barn as a dedicated groom.
This summer will mark Lehman's momentous third year as an integral member of the QKS team. In 2021, he officially joined the esteemed U.S. Trotting Association and obtained his Qualifying/Fair driving licence in 2023, further solidifying his commitment to pursuing excellence in harness racing. In addition to his vital role within the stables, Lehman actively contributes to the team's operations by assisting with the seamless transportation of horses to compete at Running Aces from their summer headquarters in picturesque Rice Lake, Wisconsin.
Furthermore, he diligently tends to the paddocks and expertly prepares the horses for their radiant performances on the track. Lehman's unwavering dedication extends beyond the summer season, as he accompanies the team to their fall/winter home base in the vibrant city of Sacramento, California, where they engage in rigorous training sessions and exhilarating competitions at the esteemed Cal-Expo. Kimberly Schneider, one-half of the esteemed husband and wife team that manages QKS Racing, shared her heartfelt sentiments regarding Lehman's invaluable contributions, stating,
"It feels as though Aaron has been an integral part of our barn family since time immemorial...his presence has been an invaluable addition to our team. The dynamic within the barn is truly remarkable, fostering an environment of genuine camaraderie and sheer enjoyment".
Schneider added,
"Aaron's journey from having no prior knowledge of the equipment to successfully driving and triumphing in fair races in Wisconsin last summer is a testament to his remarkable growth. Additionally, he has undertaken qualifying drives, showcasing his exceptional capabilities”.
Schneider further expressed her confidence in Lehman's unwavering commitment and reliability, both on and off the track, affirming,
"We consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to have discovered Aaron...his future holds immense promise, and he is poised to become an invaluable asset to our industry in the long run. We couldn't be prouder of his accomplishments and eagerly anticipate his continued growth and success”.
When asked about his favourite aspects of working in the captivating world of harness racing, Lehman enthusiastically shared,
"Jogging and training are undeniably my greatest sources of joy; I derive immense satisfaction from the exhilarating track work".
Reflecting on his future aspirations within the sport, Lehman confidently asserted,
"My ultimate goal is to become a proficient trainer and driver, and eventually establish my very own stable."
Lehman's remarkable dedication has also been recognised on multiple occasions, with him receiving the esteemed "Groom of the Month" title twice in the past two seasons at the esteemed Running Aces.