W. COTHRAN CAMPBELL, 1927-2018

HorseRacingBusiness.com ordinarily does not publish obituaries, but in the case of the late “Cot” Campbell an exception is required because of the lasting impact he had on horse racing with his pioneering of partnerships.

In the glory days of American horse racing, mega-wealthy families like the Mellons, Phippses, Vanderbilts, and Whitneys were active racehorse owners and linchpins of the sport.  As their participation began to fade, a new genre of everyday people without great wealth were able to become owners via partnerships.  Thus Mr. Campbell made a contribution of inestimable value to propagating horse racing, both in the United States and internationally.

Growing up, Mr. Campbell was no stranger to horses, as he rode and showed American Saddlebreds and his father went broke investing in racehorses.  Mr. Campbell made his mark in the business world as the founder of a highly successful Atlanta-based advertising agency.  He eventually took up the partnership business full time and moved his operation to Aiken, South Carolina, and introduced countless people to horse racing under the banner of Dogwood Stable.   Dogwood-owned horses won major stakes, including the Preakness and the Belmont.

In August 2018, Mr. Campbell joined esteemed company when he was inducted by the National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame into its Pillars of the Turf.

“Cot” Campbell’s exploits are recorded for posterity in three books he wrote.  He candidly addressed the alcohol demon he fought and overcame as a young man.  His example and counsel surely inspired others facing addiction.

Rest in peace, “Cot” Campbell.

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