Charles Neil Huffman, a well-known horseman and respected figure in Kentucky's horse racing community, has died at the age of 87. 

Neil's deep love for horses and contributions to the Thoroughbred racing industry spanned more than 50 years, leaving behind a legacy of hard work. dedication and warm personality. 

Born on May 31. in the midst of the great flood of 193 7, his love for horses began when he was just a teenager. As recounted in Better Lucky Than Good: Tall Tales and Straight Talk from the Backside of the Track, Neil ·s first horse, Rusty. 

Neil developed a deep understanding of horse racing, and his career would eventually take him to some of the most prestigious farms in Kentucky, including the iconic Calumet Farm along with Tin-Dor. Lasater and Longfield Farms in Goshen, Ky. There. Neil managed Thoroughbreds for top owners and oversaw many significant wins in the racing world. 

Alongside his late brother, William "Blackie" Huffman, he co-managed Skylight Training Center, where they broke and trained dozens of horses. His work at Skrylight, along with farms throughout Kentucky, helped shape the next generation of racehorses. and his expe1tise earned him the respect and admiration of his peers. Neil often credited his love for the industry to his experiences on Kentucky's farms, where he lived and worked hands-on with horses every day. Neil was responsible for foaling hundreds of horses throughout his career. a source of great pride. 

"In hindsight, the biggest pleasures l ever got out of fooling with horses was on those fanns," he said. 

Neil Huftinan was a man of stories as much as he was a man of horses. He could hold an audience with his tales from the track, the barn and life in the Kentucky racing community. Whether it was breaking young horses trying to make their way to the racetrack or recounting Derby Week memories, his presence in the racing world extended beyond his professional accomplishments. His storytelling was legendary, captivating friends and colleagues alike in places like Wagner's Pharmacy and on the Churchill Downs backside. 

In his later years, Neil remained active in the racing community, continuing to share his knowledge and passion for horses with others, especially in Barn 46 at Churchill Downs. He spent time at the track, visiting old friends and, of course, looking after many cats on the  backstretch. 

Charles Neil Huffman is survived by his daughters Carla (Andy) Lucas, Lori (Bob) Liter and Deanna (Keith) Bunner; eight grandkids (Katie, Ally and Sam Dedich, and Christopher Drew 
Lucas; Adam and Andew Bunner; Kate McMorrow and Emmy Kupper); five nephews  (Michael, Patrick, Ben, Daniel and Gary Lee Huffman) and numerous grandnieces and nephews. 

A celebration of his Iife will be held at the Chapel on the backside of Churchill Downs on 
October 7, 2024 from 1:00PM - 3:00PM. In Lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Horseman's Benevolent Protective Association (HBPA) of Kentucky.