Synopsis/Details
Gareth "Gary" Garrison, once a legendary horse jockey, is now a washed-up drunkard. His days of glory are long gone, replaced by a life of cheap booze and questionable decisions. His latest scheme: running a shabby self help rehabilitation group.
Former track star Kevin Johnson, bitter and disillusioned after a career-ending injury, finds himself at rock bottom when he’s fired from yet another job due to his temper. Kevin now fears losing the love of his life when fate intervenes, and he crosses paths with Gary's rehab group.
A desperate Kevin accepts Gary's unconventional offer, agreeing to train at the racetrack, Kevin as the horse jockey, Gary as the trainer, just as long as they both continue rehab. The mismatched duo embark on a hilarious journey, with Gary's outlandish training techniques clashing with Kevin's no-nonsense attitude.
Surprisingly, they get good, but as the big race day approaches, tensions rise. The once-proud athletes must confront their own demons and learn to work together. Gary, with his newfound sobriety and renewed passion, discovers a new appreciation for teaching. Kevin, in turn, rediscovers his love for racing, the thrill of competition, and the importance of partnerships.
Their journey is not without its obstacles. There's the constant threat of Gary's old bad habits resurfacing. And there are many. Not to mention Kevin’s anger management and low tolerance for B.S. But through it all, the two men find a strange kind of friendship, bonded by their shared desire for redemption.
In the end, each race becomes a symbol of their transformation. It's not just about winning; it's about proving to themselves, their loved ones, and to the world, that they’re still worth a damn. If they cross the finish line, they’ll know that they've achieved something far greater than a victory – a second chance. They're more than ready to embrace it, one stumbling step at a time.
All Accolades & Coverage
- Script Completion Second Rounder, Austin Film Festival 2025
- Quarterfinalist, Big Apple Film Festival Screenplay Competition, Spring 2023
- Quarterfinalist, LA International Screenplay Awards, Spring 2023
- Quarterfinalist, Final Draft Big Break Screenwriting Contest, 2023
- Official Selection, Diversity Showcase, 2022
Story & Logistics
Story Situation:
Ambition
Story Conclusion:
Happy
Cast Size:
Few
Characters
Lead Role Ages:
Male Adult, Male over 45
Advanced
Action Elements:
Physical Stunts
Equality & Diversity:
Minority Protagonist
Drug Topics:
Rehabilitation
Sport Topics:
Horse Racing