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Partnership Spotlight - Dr. Bill and Katie Jacobson
Dr. Bill and Katie Jacobson take a few minutes to tell Managing Partner, Jerry Crawford why they joined Donegal Racing and why they come back each year with Derby Dreams. Download a printable copy here.
Residence:
Waukee, Iowa.
Family:
Dr. Bill, wife Katie and children Michael, Reilly, Molly & Evan.
Education:
Doctor of medicine degree from the University of Iowa in Iowa City. Following medical school, I completed my internship and residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Pittsburgh, PA.
Primary Occupation:
Orthopedic Surgeon with Capital Orthopaedics in Clive, Iowa.
How did you develop an interest in horse racing?
I lived in Omaha in the 1980's and visited Ak-Sar-Ben a few times. I really enjoyed the experience.
What was the first race you attended?
The first races we went to together was in the fall of 2009 at Churchill as guests of Jerry. We spent a weekend there. It was probably the Pat's Steakhouse dinner that sealed the deal.
Why did you join Donegal Racing and what has been your favorite part?
We initially joined Donegal as a "what the heck" kind of an opportunity. We really didn't think we would get to the Derby. After two Derby's, Two Breeders' Cups, the Belmont, the Preakness, the Dubai World Cup, and many other Stakes races, we are saying they must be doing something right and this is great fun!
What has been your favorite racing moment with Donegal?
The first Kentucky Derby (2010) with Paddy O' Prado. We were so new to this and naïve, but it was an amazing experience. It was a blur. It's when we realized what the saying "the most exciting 2 minutes in sports" was all about!
The first Kentucky Derby (2010) with Paddy O' Prado. We were so new to this and naïve, but it was an amazing experience. It was a blur. It's when we realized what the saying "the most exciting 2 minutes in sports" was all about!
Beside the Kentucky Derby, what race would you most like to win?
The Breeders' Cup Classic
The Breeders' Cup Classic
Have your children enjoyed the racing with you?
Yes, we have been able to take them to two Kentucky Derby's and the Secretariat. It's a great family time and we have great memories.
Yes, we have been able to take them to two Kentucky Derby's and the Secretariat. It's a great family time and we have great memories.
Who is your favorite horse and why?
Secretariat, because Paddy won the race in 2010 and the movie was incredible, especially after we visited so many of the places in the movie. It's fun trying to explain the experience to others.
Secretariat, because Paddy won the race in 2010 and the movie was incredible, especially after we visited so many of the places in the movie. It's fun trying to explain the experience to others.
What advice would you offer to others who want to get in the game?
Donegal allows you to participate in horse racing at the highest level without a huge financial individual risk. The experiences have been truly amazing and unique. We have experienced things we never dreamed was possible.
Donegal allows you to participate in horse racing at the highest level without a huge financial individual risk. The experiences have been truly amazing and unique. We have experienced things we never dreamed was possible.
What is your favorite activity other than racing?
Watching our kids participate in their activities.
Watching our kids participate in their activities.
First thing you read in the morning?
The Des Moines Register.
The Des Moines Register.
What is your favorite vacation?
Family vacations to Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas.
Family vacations to Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas.
What is your favorite piece of technology?
We are not tech savvy.
We are not tech savvy.
What are your favorite sports teams?
The1970's Cincinnati Reds, the Boston Celtics and whoever is playing Notre Dame (inside joke).
The1970's Cincinnati Reds, the Boston Celtics and whoever is playing Notre Dame (inside joke).
What is your favorite place to eat and your favorite place in Kentucky?
The Oceanaire in Minneapolis, Minnesota and Pat's Steakhouse in Louisville, Kentucky. Lots of great food and memories!
The Oceanaire in Minneapolis, Minnesota and Pat's Steakhouse in Louisville, Kentucky. Lots of great food and memories!
Special credo you live by?
"If you ain't first, you're last" - Ricky Bobby, Talladega Nights
"If you ain't first, you're last" - Ricky Bobby, Talladega Nights
