About Seth

At an early age, Seth Benzel, decided to make thoroughbred racing not only his career but his lifelong passion.  The influences of his family's small breeding operation made a long lasting impression and have fueled his love and devotion to the sport. 

Exposure to the family breeding operation at an early age gave Seth a head start with valuable lessons in horsemanship, literally allowing him to learn from the ground up.

Seth’s journey began around his family’s thoroughbred operation in Newark, New York.   Venturing on to nearby Finger Lakes Racetrack at the age of 14, Seth walked hots and then both groomed and exercised racehorses before becoming a licensed trainer by age 18. 

Eager to learn more and cognizant of the value and the importance of a formal education, Seth remained focused on school during these formative years. He attended nearby Lake Erie College for four years, studying Equine Science. As part of the Equine Science program Seth journeyed to Puerto Rico on an internship at the Breaking and Training Facility Hacienda Siesta Alegre. Here Seth began to lay the early foundation of his horsemanship skills as a manager and trainer.

Ready to try his hand on the senior circuit, Seth made his way to Belmont Park and the shedrow of Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott. Seth would spend over four years with the Mott organization; as exercise rider, foreman and finally as an assistant trainer.

In June of 2002 Seth joined the powerful Todd Pletcher racing stable and immediately took charge of the Saratoga division. Over the next six years Seth would oversee the daily care and training of an average of ninety horses; predominantly two-year-olds.   Seth is especially proud of his six year tenure with Todd; four of those years resulted in Champion Trainer Eclipse Awards for his mentor.

Seth is ready for new challenges and the opportunity to build a first class organization. Seth and his team are eager to take your racing program to the highest level of competition.