by Katie Merritt
Joe Novogratz of Chanhassen, racing as Novogratz Racing Stables, was the leading thoroughbred owner at the 2016 Canterbury Park race meet with 18 wins. Novogratz became involved in horse racing a quarter of a century ago when he joined a partnership and immediately experienced success.
“We bought one horse and named it Joseph’s Dream. His first race he ran, he won,” Novogratz said. “From then on I was hooked.”
Novogratz’s horses have raced at various tracks around the country including Oaklawn, Keeneland, Churchill, and Delaware. His trainer at Canterbury is Hall of Famer Mac Robertson.
“My favorite memory was when we had a horse run on Derby Day in a stakes race at Churchill. I thought he won, but he got second,” he said. “I’ve learned that you can have the best horse and the best everything, but there are a lot of factors that can determine if you have a perfect race.”
When Novogratz isn’t spending his time at the racetrack, he enjoys boating, fishing, and hunting. He and his wife, Amy, love to travel. Novogratz also stays committed to his business, IDI Distributors Inc. of Minnesota.
Last season was Novogratz’ first as leading owner at Canterbury. Expect to see the Novogratz silks in the winner’s circle often again this summer.
