Thoroughbred Training Spotlight: Kahkola Racing
Interview with Kevin KahKola of the Camden Training Center
Trainer Kevin Kahkola of the Camden Training Center has nearly 30 years of experience in breaking and developing thoroughbreds. Kahkola served as an assistant to trainer Neil Howard for nearly 15 years and had the privilege of working with some of Lanes End Farms’ best horses. We had the opportunity to sit down and ask Kevin Kahkola some questions about his passion for the thoroughbred industry and professional experience.
Q: Hi, Kevin! Could you tell us a little bit about what brought you to the Camden Training Center?
A: I started my career in my hometown of Detroit, Michigan. But racing began to falter and eventually closed down. I made my way to Camden to begin a new job with Neil Howard and Lane’s End Farm!
Q: Well, we’re certainly glad that you found your way to us by way of Michigan! In your opinion, why do you believe that Camden is the best area to train and break thoroughbreds?
A: I believe Camden is great for the babies in particular because of the climate and all the different options for training. We have clear seasons in Camden, which I believe is very healthy for young horses, and it can be very relaxing for older horses that need some rest and relaxation!
Q: I know this might be a difficult question considering your impressive professional record, but if you had to name one single accomplishment as a trainer that you are most proud of, what would that be?
A: I am most proud of the honor I have of being able to say I developed two Kentucky Oaks winners, Secret Status in 2001 and Malathaat in 2021.
Q: That certainly is impressive! Do you have a favorite part of training horses that you could name?
A: I would have to say that my favorite part of training horses is taking young “green” horses and watching them develop into the final product, and knowing that we have had a hand in their success.
Q: That must be incredibly rewarding. When you look back at all of the horses you’ve worked with over your career, do you have a favorite horse that you’ve worked with?
A: That’s a hard question because I have had, and had the privilege of working with, many great horses. However, Mineshaft is probably the best if I had to name one.
Q: What is something that people don’t know about the thoroughbred industry that you would like them to know?
A: We invite people to come and visit just to experience the world of horse racing. It’s not exclusively about gambling, it is a very exciting and rewarding sport to participate in!
Q: Last question: do you love your job as much as it appears that you do, and why?
A: I love my job; because I get to work with beautiful animals, in the outdoors, and most importantly I get to wake up and do what I have dreamed about all of my life.
