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Laura Ferguson: 23,000 wins and counting
Original article written by Ashley Hunt posted 2 years 0 weeks ago1) How did you discover the SIM?
A: I played another horse racing game, and several people joined the SIM in April or May of 2002. I looked at it, decided I didn't have the time, then looked at it again several months later (July) and things fell into place a little better, so that the learning curve didn't seem so daunting, and I had a bit more time to spend on learning the game. It's a little crazy to realize that was almost 20 real life years ago.
2) 23,000 wins is a huge milestone! What's your favorite win so far?
A: The most recent favorite win was Ziggy Stardust's Derby - I danced around the living room when I saw that result. But, I get a kick out of the small things - winning a race with a project horse, or getting a frustrating horse to finally get a major win. It's hard to really rank something as the all time favorite win.
3) Did it surprise you when you found out that you had won Trainer of the Year? Breeder of the Year?
A: There are years when it surprises me, other years that it doesn't. When I have my better years, it isn't really a surprise. I figure the only thing I can try to control is getting nominated, so usually, that's the goal, and then whatever happens at the ballot box is whatever happens. I try not to get too wrapped up in how the voting goes.
4) Who is your favorite horse that you have ran and why?
A: It's close between Black Condor and California. Black Condor is probably my favorite horse ever, and it's hard to argue with either his race record or his sire record. California is a sentimental favorite of mine, and I was absolutely crushed when he was injured prior to the Derby (during this time period, random bad luck things happened - that was mine for the year. I went from shipping the horse to the farm after his prep win to finding out he was hurt :( ) I could name a bunch more that rank right up there, but I'll just mention that my favorite horse that is currently racing is Better Days, who is named for the Ant Clemons/Justin Timberlake song. He's a really neat little horse that is all heart.
5) What is your favorite race?
A: It's basically a tie between the Arc and the Louisville Derby.
6) What is your favorite division?
A: I go back and forth between turf route and dirt route.
7) Who is your favorite horse of that division that you do not own?
A: I'll limit this to horses currently racing. Avengers Assemble for turf route, and Unmerciful for dirt route. I always have a soft spot for a filly that can beat the colts, so Malcontent is right up there as well.
8) Do you have any tips for people that are struggling in the game or are just beginning?
A: Ask questions. Read up what you can - there are many helpful articles out there, and many helpful players out there. The community here is one of the best things about the game. This is a game that rewards patience and paying attention to details, so it isn't for everyone, and can be frustrating at times - I get frustrated, too! - but there's also lots of little victories and fun things that can happen as well. It's okay to ask for help, and sometimes you're pleasantly surprised by the feedback. I've seen people post with questions about horses they are frustrated with, and the feedback sometimes helps unlock the missing piece (or confirms that the player isn't crazy, and they've done all the right things).