Belmont Winner Jena Antonucci: Human Connections and the Great Equalizer that is Horse Racing

As part of Lindsay’s Human Connections Conversation Series, Horse trainer Jena Antonucci shares her journey to becoming the first female trainer to win the Belmont Stakes. How she turned childhood adversity into self-realization, what she has uncovered about the importance of connection with horses and with people, and how she is living her now famous victory quote “If you don’t have a seat at the table, make your own table.” Jena also shares her thoughts on the importance of evolving the sport of horse racing and what she wants critics to know about the sport that captivated her as a young girl.  

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[00:00:00] Jena Antonucci's journey as a horse trainer

[00:00:57] Arcangelo's second big race win

[00:01:11] Jena Antonucci's connection with horses and the importance of family and friendship

[00:09:55] Transition to a new home and relationship with stepmom

[00:11:49] Transfer to a new school and involvement in sports

[00:13:32] Loss of stepmom and the importance of perspective

[00:18:22] The journey to becoming a horse trainer

[00:19:18] Curiosity about the breaking and training process

[00:20:13] Exposure to high-end horses and Wayne Lucas's training program

[00:27:17] The culture of horse training

[00:28:12] The tough lessons and early wins

[00:30:29] The relief and celebration of winning the Belmont Stakes

[00:37:31] The gift of horse training

[00:38:18] The importance of relationships and self-awareness

[00:41:19] Building your own table

[00:47:02] Dealing with Disagreements

[00:48:17] Evolving the Sport

[00:54:30] The Complexity of Horses

[00:58:03] Setting goals and their limitations

[00:59:06] Living with the best intention

[01:00:03] Learning from Jena and behind-the-scenes at the racetrack

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