Milkshakes and Miracles Date Posted: 10/13/2004 9:46:51 AM  By
Morton Cathro  The recent death of a world-renowned scientist
and the current flap over medications and "milkshakes" have
combined to stir memories of one of the more sensational and
far-reaching episodes in the annals of the American Turf.  I was
barely into my teens at the time, and making my first visit to
the racetrack. So my own recollections of the protagonist in
this tale are limited to remembering the names of some of his
Thoroughbreds, and still seeing in my mind's eye the dazzling,
flamingo-pink colors of his silks.  Yet thanks to newspaper
archives, contacts in academia, and other sources, I've been
able to piece together the story of prominent California
horseman Norman W. Church and his unique contribution to racing
a half-century ago. That contribution ultimately was to lead to
historic medical miracles and scientific breakthroughs that have
been of incalculable benefit to all mankind.  His visage was
several shades brighter than pin