Hollywood and Horsepower Show, July 16, 2026

Hollywood And Horsepower Show with Mark Otto Guest: Interview with Terry Finley - Owner and CEO of West Point Thoroughbreds https://www.westpointtb.com/team/terry-finley/ Terry and his wife Debbie Finley established West Point Thoroughbreds in 1991. Terry, a former U.S. Army officer whose passion developed a passion for racing at a young age. His vision was to create a way for racing enthusiasts to enjoy the ownership experience without the enormous financial burden that typically comes with it. Since our first stakes winner, we've been committed to delivering unforgettable experiences to our partners both on and off the track. Over the years, we've had the privilege of racing some of the finest horses in the sport, including Kentucky Derby winner Always Dreaming, Grade 1 champion Flightline, and Eclipse Award nominees. We've celebrated victories in some of the sport's most prestigious races, from the Breeders' Cup to international events. But at the heart of our operation is the belief that every horse we race carries the hopes and dreams of our partners. From West Point to the Winner's Circle: Terry Finley on Horses, Leadership, and Racing's Future Summary A Friendship Forged at the Racetrack The episode opens with the program theme, sponsor recognition for Tony's Steak and Seafood, and appeals for Old Friends Equine and No Fallen Heroes. The host then welcomes Terry Finley, recalling that their friendship began when Finley complimented his shoes at Del Mar. Their lighthearted exchange establishes a personal tone before the discussion turns to Finley's background, career, and long involvement in Thoroughbred racing. From Levittown to West Point Finley describes growing up as the youngest of seven children outside Philadelphia, where his schoolteacher father introduced him to racing at Keystone and Liberty Bell. As a young person, he walked hots, rubbed horses, traveled with them, and became captivated by the racetrack. He later entered West Point after being inspired by an older football player who attended the Naval Academy, graduated in 1986, served in the Army, and maintained his connection to racing even while stationed in Germany and later at Fort Dix. Building West Point Thoroughbreds After leaving military service, Finley chose horse racing over a conventional corporate path and credits his wife, Debbie, for supporting the risk. He explains how an early partnership involving his father and brother showed him the excitement that shared ownership could create. Beginning with one horse at Philadelphia Park, he used small advertisements in BloodHorse and became an early adopter of the World Wide Web, eventually using technology to communicate directly with partners and update horse information. The Human Side of Horse Racing The conversation examines the many people whose work affects a racehorse, including trainers, jockeys, exercise riders, grooms, owners, and other barn personnel. Finley and the host emphasize that horses have distinct personalities and communicate in different ways, making judgment, feel, and experience essential. Stories involving Pat Day, Alysheba, Randy Romero, and other racing figures illustrate how trust between horse and rider can influence performance and how owners should give professionals room to make informed decisions. Leadership, Loyalty, and the Long View Finley argues that owners receive better results when they support trainers privately and publicly rather than constantly second-guessing them. Both speakers connect this philosophy to lessons learned from military service, family relationships, and business leadership. They describe effective leadership as listening, clearing obstacles, encouraging people to think creatively, and maintaining loyalty while still addressing performance problems when necessary. An Evolution for Racing's Future Looking ahead, Finley discusses the pressures facing horse racing and calls for evolution rather than revolution. He urges industry participants to move beyond personal attacks, collaborate respectfully, support aftercare and backstretch workers, welcome younger voices, and build both the fan base and wagering base. The discussion closes by considering lessons from Formula 1 and the PGA, particularly their use of media, events, sponsorship, and fan engagement, before the host directs listeners to West Point Thoroughbreds and again highlights the episode's sponsor and charities.