Arcaro Impressive, Even as a Young Man

Sixty-one years ago, as a 14-year-old, I was en route, by bus, from Chicago to Boston to attend a youth conference. On a stop in Cincinnati, a young man of 20 got on board, sat next to me, and introduced himself as Eddie Arcaro, a jockey, bound for Suffolk Downs near Boston.

In our conversations, he turned out to be the most self-assured young man I was ever to meet. I literally received a free motivational seminar. During the trip, he borrowed a couple of dollars (I had 20) and said he would pay it back if I came to the track. I never got there because my free time was spent visiting Symphony Hall, since I was a classical music fan.

Rest peacefully, Eddie, and thanks for the memory.

PAUL DERGARABEDIAN

Mission Viejo