Carla Gaines trains for West Point Thoroughbreds in Southern California. She began her professional life as a counselor, but took a leave and broke yearlings in Louisiana for friends who were pinhooking thoroughbreds. That leave of absence would become permanent, and she would never look back.
She began working yearling sales and then moved on to train for consigners at sales. She would then head out west to California where she worked as an assistant trainer for ten years. She worked under the direction of Mike Harte in Northern California and Tommy Walker and Calumet Farm in Southern California.
Carla is best known for having conditioned Nashoba's Key, a multipleG1 winner. Since 2007, she was won 15 stakes races, including 7 graded stakes including three G1's.
Today, she is known for her patience with horses, as well as developing younger thoroughbreds. "I enjoy watching them grow and develop. I used to work with young people when I was a counselor maybe that has something to do with it."
Carla Gaines on West Point Thoroughbreds:
"I have watched West Point Thoroughbreds run in the biggest races across the country and seen their success here in California. They are committed to winning at the highest levels, and their commitment to excellence is demonstrated in every facet of their business. I am honored to work with such a world class organization."
Terry on Carla:
"Carla is an extremely capable and talented horseperson and we are thrilled that she's joined our team. I have followed her over the past couple years and been impressed by the first class operation she runs. Carla exhibits the kind of dedication we expect from every member of our team. She is a perfect fit for our program."
Graded I Stakes Winners:
- Nashoba's Key
Graded Stakes Winners:
- Blending Element (IRE)
- Foxysox (GB)
- Freeport Flight
- Lucky J.H.
- Tiz Elemental
