We want to share about an exciting partnership we ventured into a few months ago. Back in the early summer we were contacted by the folks down at Ellis Park in regards to renting one of our Ottawa yard trucks. A bit of a strange request as we usually deal with third party logistics companies, distribution facilities, or corporate customers. We've had our share of clients like Ellis Park over the years, for instance we've provided our Ottawa Terminal Tractors for the Louisville Palace Theatre in downtown Louisville— but still, it's not the norm.

What does a yard dog do at a horse race?

When Ellis Park called we became intrigued by the use they had in mind. They were planning to use the Ottawa to position their starting gate before each race and then pull it out and away after each race had started. They had an issue with their existing tractor and saw the Ottawa as a suitable fix. Who knows maybe they will start a trend around the country?

We obliged their request and rented them an Ottawa yard dog to help back up their existing tractor. We're not horse experts here at Louisville Switching, but when you think about, a horse race needs a reliable tractor (and backup) because moving that starting gate is crucial to finishing most races, depending on the distance. Being true Kentuckians, we were happy to help keep the horses racing.

Since we know Kentucky is the horse capital of the world, we thought this little story was interesting enough to share with our audience. Even though the meet wrapped up at Ellis Park over Labor Day weekend, Kentuckians are now entering the heart of the fall racing meets at other Kentucky tracks like Keeneland and Churchill Downs.

Expect the unexpected

This unusual partnership acted as a reminder that business sometimes comes from the most unexpected places. Ottawa yard trucks can be utilized for any array of pulling needs. And you never know when, or for how long, your equipment will be down. Whether you're a distribution center, warehousing facility, or horse track Louisville Switching can help keep your operation up and running by offering Ottawa yard truck rentals and leasing. You can contact us today to talk to a yard truck expert or request a free demo to see an Ottawa yard dog in action at your facility.