TORONTO, June 8, 2023– Ivan “Billy” Forde has been a staple of the Mark Casse stable at Woodbine for 17 years, and quickly earned a reputation as a tireless, dedicated and humble horse person.
Over his time with the Casse operation, Forde has worked with some of the most accomplished runners to have ever competed at the Toronto oval and beyond, names like Marchfield, Lexie Lou and Shamrock Rose.
His contributions continue to play an integral role in one of the busiest and most successful barns on the backstretch.
“I can never remember him missing a day’s work,” said Casse assistant trainer Kathryn Sullivan. “You won’t find a more reliable and responsible person. I wouldn’t put his horse knowledge behind anyone at the racetrack.”
Sullivan also has high praise for Forde’s ability to remain calm even in the most pressure-filled moments.
“He’s unflappable. He’s the consummate horseman. He knows how to handle each horse, he knows what they need, and he never gets flustered. He’s a very reassuring presence around the horses, which certainly contributes to their success and our team’s success.”
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