Shetler Scores Win 1,000

In so many ways, it was just another trip to the winners circle, but in one way it was a little more memorable. Andy Shetler earned his 1,000th career win Saturday, June 5 and could not have been happier.

Shetler drove Brandon’s Secret to a close finish in the evening’s 11th race to beat out Noble Commander and Jason Dillander and Cuda Boy, with Ricky Macomber, right at the finish line for the memorable win. They trotted the final quarter in 28.4 to earn the victory in a time of 1:56.2, just a half-length ahead of the other two horses.

As Hoosier Park team members welcomed Shetler into the winner’s circle, he was honored by a sign to highlight the moment. His wife, Dixie, accompanied him and was also extremely joyful. She was also very pleased they were able to share the moment with Brandon’s Secret and trainer Steve Gray. Along with Royalton Star, Brandon’s Secret is one of the top horses that Shetler has been driving all season at Hoosier Park.

Shetler is a life time driver in the harness racing industry. Like many horsemen, he grew up in the business that perpetuated his career choice. Shetler has accumulated a majority of his wins in Indiana after coming up from Florida.

“I liked the program and the direction it looked to be heading,” said Shetler, when asked how he came to Indiana. “It’s a great feeling to get my 1,000th career win here.”

A native of Iowa, Shetler now resides in Greenfield, Ind. where he purchased a home that is situated halfway between Hoosier Park and Indiana Downs. His best year to date was recorded in 2007 when he brought home 267 winners and topped the $1 million mark in earnings. Also a trainer, Shetler has found success with several horses from his barn, including the top female pacer Bud’s Ho, who was co-owned by Shetler and earned nearly $100,000, taking a career best time of 1:52.4 at Hoosier Park. Other notable horses from Shetler’s barn in recent years include Indiana Sires Stakes contender Hoosier Hi Flyer and older pacing horse I’m All Jazz.

Shetler has been a consistent member of the top 10 drivers at Hoosier Park since 2004. He has recorded 279 career wins at Hoosier Park to rank 16th among the track’s top drivers all-time. Shetler is currently in 10th place this season with 19 wins through the first 53 racing programs at Hoosier Park. (Hoosier)