Horseman and known storyteller in Kentucky's horse racing community, Neil Huffman has died at the age of 87, according to a release from Churchill Downs on Friday.
Huffman's deep love for horses and contributions to the Thoroughbred racing industry spanned more than 50 years, as he leaves behind a legacy of hard work and will be remembered for his warm personality.
With an uncle who was a clocker at Churchill Downs, his early education in horse racing led him to co-manage the Skylight Training Center alongside his late brother, William “Blackie” Huffman, where the pair foaled, broke and raced horses.
Huffman could hold an audience with his tales from the track, and captivated friends and colleagues alike in places like Wagner's Pharmacy and near barn 46 at Churchill.
Huffman is survived by his daughters Carla (Andy) Lucas, Lori (Bob) Liter and Deanna (Keith) Bunner; eight grandkids (Katie, Ally and Sam Dedich; Adam and Andrew Bunner; Christpher Drew Lucas, Kate McMorrow and Emmy Kupper); five nephews (Michael, Patrick, Ben, Daniel and Gary Lee Huffman) and numerous grandnieces and nephews.
A celebration of Huffman's life will be held at a later date on the backside of Churchill Downs.
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