Unbridled With Richard “Woody” Wood

By Jan Westmark

Richard “Woody” Wood has been a staple in the South Florida equestrian scene since 1987 when he opened Woody’s of Wellington, a boot repair shop located in the original Wellington Mall. Armed with a razor-sharp sense of humor, Woody has not only kept his customers laughing but kept boots repaired, polished and on their feet. Despite his longevity in the business, Woody is retiring and turning the reins of his boot empire over to Anthony Bozzi.

When asked what was the best thing about owning and running Woody’s, the boot baron was quick to say, “My customers and Wellington. It’s such a great town.” But after 32 years in the horse mecca, Woody and his wife are heading to Stuart, Florida. The parents of four children, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, the 72-year-old is looking forward to enjoying life away from the store — and feels confident that Woody’s will continue on in good hands with Anthony. Sidelines caught up with Woody to find out a little about the man behind Woody’s of Wellington.

How did you get the nickname Woody?

The cheerleaders in junior high school gave it to me because of my last name.

You’ve spent your life working with equestrians. Did you grow up around horses?

No, I actually grew up with dairy cattle.

What are you looking forward to about retiring?

Fishing and spending time with my grandchildren

Where did you get your sense of humor from?

My mom and dad

Any memorable experiences over the years that really stick out?

Helping Anne Kursinski get to Barcelona Olympics in 1992. Her boots didn’t fit right and she overnighted her Vogel boots to me so I could fix them — not too loose and not too tight. I sent them back to her the following day just in time for Anne to jump on a plane and head to Spain. She has been a customer ever since.

How many boots do you think you’ve repaired over the years?

Thousands, if not more

What’s your favorite footwear?

I wear Lucchese cowboy boots, made in Texas. But I also like to wear loafers.

Can you give us a short list of people you have fixed boots and shoes for over the years?

I’ve helped 38 Olympians, numerous golfers and tennis players and riders of all ages.

What has been one of your favorite things about being part of the horse world?

People rely on their boots and we keep them going.

If you weren’t involved with boot repair in the horse world, what do you think you would have done?

Been a sandal maker — old Greek and Roman style

If you had a week off, what would you do?

Fish

Who inspires you?

Anyone who faces trials and overcomes them

What talents do you feel you have?

I’m a good listener and have a great memory.

Do you have a personal motto?

Man up!

What’s your favorite item of clothing to wear?

Cotton cargo shorts

What three items can usually be found in your refrigerator?

Lettuce, veggies, orange juice

What’s your favorite meal?

Veal cutlets, mashed potatoes and broccoli

What would be the best gift in the world?

To take my wife back to Maui, Hawaii

If you could have a superpower, what would it be?

To be able to fly

What’s something everyone should try at least once?

Skydiving

How would you like to be remembered?

For having a good sense of humor and being a good human being