There’s no doubt Cameron Lago has charted a successful course in the standardbred industry, thanks to an unmistakable passion for the sport and an exceptional educational experience through Equine Guelph.
Lago admits that might be somewhat of an understatement.
“Yes, it probably is,” he said with a laugh. “My grandfather has had a couple of broodmares around as part of his retirement project, so he and I kind of kick-started things here on our farm after I attended the youth camp. Ever since then, we’ve just continued to grow, slowly, but surely, getting involved in the horse racing industry, overall just building our broodmares.
His fascination with and appreciation for standardbreds continues to grow.
It’s what eventually drew Lago to Equine Guelph, specifically, the vast array of online educational courses that are offered. He applied for and won the Stuart Stocks Memorial Tuition Award (Equine Guelph Tuition Awards) through Equine Guelph in 2016.
His association with Equine Guelph turned out to be twice as nice one year later.
Lago, who was part of the 2016 Wannadrive team, a Hands on Horses Program, also received two online courses through Equine Guelph (valued at $549 each) after being selected as the recipient of the inaugural Roger L’Heureux Award in 2017. Certificates were available in Equine Science, Equine Welfare and Equine Business.
He’s hoping other young people get the same opportunities.
An industry that Lago believes offers a little bit of everything, with the exception of tedium.
Why would he encourage people to consider a horseracing life?
“I would say it’s thrilling, that you’re always doing something new every day and you never know what your day will be like,” said Lago. “When you go into a barn, someone always has a story and someone always teaches you something. Working with the equine athletes is something in itself. I’ve really come to appreciate them even more after taking these Guelph courses. It’s fueled my passion even more. To work with them every day, it’s a privilege. You get hooked.
Cameron Lago would certainly know.