Travel to the backside of Canterbury Park and you will find the Minnesota Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association office. The HBPA encourages and supports all thoroughbred horsemen while prioritizing the development of nationwide uniform rules that promote safe racing. You’ll also find Executive Administrator Wendy Hobson.
Hobson began working for the MN HBPA Canterbury Park in September 2015 after a long career in the medical field. Here, she is everyone’s go-to person. Although no day is the same, she constantly lends a helping hand wherever the horsemen need it. Whether it be pulling past performances or booking dental appointments, Hobson’s main goal is to make their days better.
Her professional career in the racing industry started just four years ago, but Hobson has always had a special spot in her heart for the sport. Her dad, Darwin Caldwell, was a jockey for 25 years. He made his professional debut on January 7, 1956 on grand opening day at Turf Paradise. Hobson would tag along as her family traveled all over the country for horse races, as her family owned and trained horses as well. She has always been an animal lover but when her mom, dad, sister, brother-in-law, uncle, and cousin all started training horses, she knew her future would include racing.
The horse Promise More, a stakes winner, made a lot of memories for the Caldwell family. Though Hobson’s favorite is when the mare won the Albuquerque Oaks, with her dad as the trainer, and her whole family was there to enjoy the special moment together.
“Being from a racing family, Wendy truly understands the needs of trainers and their staffs,” MN HBPA executive director Mike Cronin said. “Aside from the handling the daily tasks, Wendy also is a great resource for those in need of our benevolence program. Many times this includes people in fairly dire situations in which she finds them medical assistance. Trainers and staff trust and respect Wendy. That goes a long way in creating and maintaining a welcoming environment at Canterbury Park.”
The people, scenery and atmosphere are just a few of the things Hobson loves about working at Canterbury. “I love it here,” said Hobson. “It’s a one of a kind race track and that’s why I cherish my job so much.”
When the racing season at Canterbury Park is finished, Hobson moves to Arizona and works at Turf Paradise. When she isn’t lending a hand with the horsemen, Hobson enjoys spending time with her 11 grandchildren, who range in age from 2 months to 25-years old. Between family, friends and the horsemen, Hobson’s life is never dull. But, she wouldn’t have it any other way.
