Name that niche (a quiz)

by Trey Nosrac

Somewhat inexplicably, I am involved in a project that takes place into a rather exotic world. After a few wine coolers, it occurred to me that this world has many similarities to the sport of harness horse racing. Both niches run on the same emotional and economic wiring.

Using the clues, without googling, can you guess what niche, hobby, passion, or compulsion I am?

Some call me a hobby.

Some call me a business.

Pedigree determines value.

I require a great amount of research and legwork.

I had my zenith of popularity a century ago.

Some participants are very wealthy, while others are poor, but they coexist well.

The members of my small tribe proudly announce they participate because they feel they are part of a worthwhile endeavor.

There are a few “bad apples.”

We run in tight circles where everybody seems to know everybody.

My history is rich and deep.

People in this niche are not quite sure why their passion has become so important to them.

When members get together, they can talk forever about days past and present.

We love explaining and sharing our passion with new people.

I am as much an identity as an investment.

New people listen attentively, but they rarely get involved.

We worry about the future and those who take our place.

While. J.D. Rockefeller, Leland Stanford, and Cornelius Vanderbilt were passionate about racing harness horses; three other famous Gilded Age tycoons shared their enthusiasm for this niche.

Many of us are introverted.

We love a good auction.

Once we become involved, it is difficult to detach.

Condition greatly affects value.

We learn something new about our world every day.

Billionaires, today and a century ago, are drawn into this world.

Doctor R was our brightest star.

Others think we are a bit daft to spend time and treasure on such a frivolous hobby/business.

Psychologically, our somewhat exotic standing is a badge of honor.

We wish more people understood what we feel about being in our world.

There is a reverence attached to objects that are central to our world – simply touching them is a magical experience.

We could gaze at the objects of our affection all day.

Anyone can join our world, and modern technology can shorten the learning curve.

Where we were once a part of every home, we are disappearing.

Give up? Try this. Unscramble and sort these letters into three words:

INCLOECLRAOBRGETKO

The answer and photographs will appear in the June 7 column.