In an industry often dominated by tried and true veterans, occasionally rookie talent shines through. Such was the case Sunday (April 1) at Scarborough Downs as trainer Adam Gray sent his horses to the post for the very first time.

“I’ve been in the family business for a long time,” commented Gray, “and I’ve been around horses my whole life. I decided to take that next step and try to get a stable going and start getting some wins.” Those wins came at first asking for the 38-year-old hopeful as two out of his first three starters paraded victoriously to the Scarborough Downs winner’s circle on Sunday: MIDNIGHT JAMMIN and CREDITABLE WINNER, two sons of CREDIT WINNER, both owned by Orrin Phipps of Yarmouth, Maine and driven by Ruel Goodblood, Jr.

Although a newcomer to the trainer’s ranks, Adam is no stranger to the backstretch at Scarborough, having worked for various trainers, including his father, Doug Gray, from which he learned the trade. “Everything I learned about horses, I learned from my father. He taught me how to care for them right; how to keep them sound and how to keep them happy.”

Those lessons have certainly paid off. After the dust has settled on the opening weekend cards, Adam Gray’s name will be included among the leading trainers when next weekend’s programs are printed.

“I thought I was going to have a pretty good day today,” Gray continued. “But not as good as I’m actually having! They [the horses] have been training really well. I’m hopeful that I can make a good career out of this.”

Live racing is proudly featured at the Downs every Saturday at 4 pm, and Sunday at 1:05 pm.