I can't say that I knew Mr. Johnson very well, but I can say we were aquainted.

While employed as the NYRA bugler from 1987-1992, I frequently ran into Phil in the paddock and (as a hotwalker for Dick Dutrow), on the backstrtch a few times.

Phil was always a gentlemen, a patient man, who, knowing that this inexperienced (in race track savy)"kid bugler" only wanted to learn about the game, was always kind to me in his replies to my questions about his particular horse entered in the race about to go off in 12 minutes. If the horse had no shot, he'd say so. (He was never wrong). If his horse had a good shot "it was up to the 'guy' riding him". (He was usually correct.)

Fast forward to 2002 at Aqueduct. It was the last time I substituted for my successor, and I ran into Mr. Johnson. He greeted me like an old friend and I was tickled to death. What a class act!! The racing industry needs many, many more people like Phil Johnson. He will be sorely missed. I offer here my sincere condolences to Karen and her family. Peace be with you.

Mark



Post Edited (08-15-04 22:17)