October 2018
The California Thoroughbred Foundation’s extensive holdings in donated art and trophies include the collection of Connie Ring, an ardent owner, breeder, and supporter of the California Thoroughbred breeding industry. She and her husband, George, operated under the Tree Rings banner. Together with George, or alone, Mrs. Ring bred 36 stakes winners.
California-bred champion Crystal Water was one of Mrs. Ring’s most distinguished runners. During the 1970s he won such races as the Hollywood Derby (G1), Santa Anita Handicap (G1), Hollywood Gold Cup (G1), and Oak Tree Invitational (G1T). The Tree Rings runners also included Windy Sands, Just a Kick, Racing Is Fun, Market Basket, and Bean Bag.
Beyond her success in racing and breeding, Mrs. Ring was known for her charm, generosity, and devotion to horses. After her husband died, she sold his Ring Oil Company to expand Tree Rings Ranch in Beaumont and give all her attention to the horses. A true grande dame of the sport, Connie Ring died in 1990.