tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68833056804603299572024-02-02T11:51:05.110-05:00A Saturday Afternoon HorseSusanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.comBlogger252125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-28403697012359855652015-10-08T16:33:00.002-04:002015-10-08T16:33:59.105-04:00 Saturday's QE 2 Invitational at Keeneland<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The 31<sup>st</sup> running of the Grade 1 QE 2 Invitational
at Keeneland is run this Saturday for 3 year old fillies and is contested
at<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a mile and 1/8 <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>on the turf. It carries a purse of $500,000,
and it is an important prep for the Filly & Mare Breeders Cup Turf. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The weather forecast is calling for a chance of rain on
Friday and clearing skies on Saturday. A firm course is expected.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here is the field of nine fillies, from the rail out.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mizz Money</b> – A 30-1 longshot Grade
3 winner has been a very useful filly with 4 wins and 2 seconds out of 8
tries on turf. But she is in tough here.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Prize Exhibit</b> – Multiple Stakes
winner on the west coast, she finished 4<sup>th</sup> to Lady Eli in last
year’s Juvenile Fillies Turf. She has improved this season with the
addition of blinkers. She has been working well at Santa Anita.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Miss Temple City</b> – A very consistent
filly, with the right connections, she is 7 of 8 starts ITM on turf. A
second place finish to the highly regarded Lady Eli last year on this
course, she will run with Lasix for the first time. Could make the
difference…</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Her Emmynency</b> – Very game second
in the Del
Mar Oaks 56 days ago. The freshening may eliminate any “bounce”</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Return To Grace</b> –Well bred miss
out of filly Champion, Golden Attraction she is 15-1on the morning line,
but the Casse barn has been very live at this meet. Not out of it.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Olorda</b> –Connections do
exceptionally well with these Euros, but this one needs a forward step.
Blinkers OFF, Lasix ON,
a work over the track and first time for Chad. Can’t ignore.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Blond Me</b> – Another Euro who ran
well in her initial US start in the Sands Point. Hard to gauge what type
of fillies she beat in Europe, however.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Feathered </b>- Out of the Phipps mare
Receipt and the family of millionaire Dancing Spree,
this speedy filly changed her running style last out with a very nice
effort after being covered. Yes, it was just an allowance race, but it is
Pletcher/Castellano….</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sentiero Italia</b> – “Path Italy”
is the 6/5 favorite and deservingly so as she is coming off bake-to-back
Graded Stakes wins. Another barn that is on a hot streak.</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of course you always need to consider if the Euros will like
the Keeneland course. It’s anybody’s guess.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s my dime super box ~</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sentiero Italia</b>
is in a groove and another effort like her last two will make her tough to
beat.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That they took <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Miss
Temple City</b> to Ascot this summer shows
what kind of talent her <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>connections
thinks she has. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe Lasix is just what
she needs to bring her game to another level. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Return To Grace</b>
has really done nothing wrong, and she has a right to be given a chance in this
Grade 1.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And I like <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Feathered</b>‘s
last race, maybe she is finally putting it all together.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As always, #FastAndSafe to all our equine friends! </div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-88375958759957591252015-09-25T06:42:00.000-04:002015-09-25T06:42:51.876-04:00A Look at The Joe Hirsch Turf Classic<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s Turf Classic Day at Belmont Park
this Saturday with the highlight being the Grade 1 Joe Hirsch Turf Classic. It
is a mile and a half on turf and a “Win & You’re In” for the Breeders’ Cup
Turf.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Named after the legendary Joe Hirsch, a racing columnist and
the founding President of the National Turf Writer’s Association - <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Hirsch" target="_blank">read more about Joe here.</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let’s take a look at the compact field of 7, from the rail
out.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Red Rifle</b>- Is it curious that
Javier Castellano jumps back aboard this horse after being the regular
rider for Twilight Eclipse? No matter, Red Rifle is a very handy horse who
has enjoyed the right kind of trips in his last several starts He switches
off nicely, can be in between horses and has a nice turn of foot. Second
behind the highly regarded Euro, Flintshire in the Sword Dancer. Two nice
maintenance works since his last start, I think Red Rifle is ready for his
first Grade One win.</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="2" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Perfect Title</b> – A “Huddie” contest
pick for me this year, who helped with my 10<sup>th</sup> place finish
overall…yes. It’s a very ambitious spot for him. Cut out to be a nice
horse early on, he may have found a new life on the turf. If he’s good
enough, the added ground won’t hurt him.</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="3" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Big Blue Kitten</b> – The best of the
3 Chad Brown trainees, where have we seen a Ramsey-Kitten favorite before?
This millionaire, Grade One winner is the class of the field and always
shows up. He is ITM in 25 of 28 starts, and the deserving favorite. </li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="4" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Twilight Eclipse</b> – Another Grade
One winning millionaire and several times the bridesmaid to last year’s
Turf Champ, Main Sequence, he picks up Rosario. It would be a surprise if he
doesn’t get a piece.</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="5" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Slumber </b>– Second of the Chad Brown
charges, and another millionaire. He’s tried the distance 5 times with no
success, but excuses in last two with very troubled trips. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But –Beware- it looks like blinkers have
helped this colt.</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="6" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Quiet Force</b>- Former claimer on the
west coast last year, looks to have improved under Maker’s care. Throw out
his last on yielding turf which he may have disliked. He is a son of
Dynaformer and out of a Royal
Academy mare, which indicates
he should relish the added ground. Looks like a lot to ask of him however.
</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="7" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Shining Copper</b>- WILL BE SENT. Chad
Browns 3<sup>rd</sup> entry and look for him on the front end. However he
needs to carry his speed another quarter of a mile and must hold off the
closing kicks of a few very talented campaigners. Hung tough to the fast
closing The Pizza Man at Arlington.
Strange things happen in turf marathons when a speed horse is left alone
on the lead. He’s your horse if you like that dynamic.</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">My picks:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I like Red Rifle in here and I think it’s his time to shine.
He looks to still have some upside. It will take a good trip, as always, in
these events.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Very curious about just how much talent Perfect Title has
and would not be shocked for him to run very well in here, at a price.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Big Blue Kitten is just so consistent, and he has his
partner Jersey Joe in the tack. If there’s a sure thing, you can bet that he
will be “right there”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The same can be said for Twilight Eclipse, rarely runs a bad
one.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Enjoy Turf Classic Day at Belmont! And, as always, #fastandsafe to all
our equine friends. </div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-70434581308168732822015-06-04T18:47:00.000-04:002015-06-04T18:47:51.502-04:00 The $1,000,000 Knob Creek Manhattan
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
The Grade 1 Knob Creek Manhattan goes as the 10<sup>th</sup>
race on Saturday. It is the race before the Belmont Stakes, on a day that might
well be an historic day in racing history.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
The <st1:city w:st="on">Manhattan</st1:city>
has a purse of one million dollars and is contested at a mile and a quarter
over <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Belmont</st1:place></st1:city>’s
inner turf course. It drew a field of 11 colts and geldings.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
From the rail out -<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>Hyper</strong>
– Second race back after a 17 month layoff was an even effort in the Grade
1 six horse field, over this course. May need another to be back at his
best. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>Twilight
Eclipse</strong> – Highweight and deserving ML favorite, winner of the Man’o War, a
high class horse that always makes his run, but has never run at this
distance.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>Finnegans
Wake</strong> – West coast turf star, dead closer, needs to work out a trip.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>War
Dancer</strong> – Has shown more speed since the trainer change to Mott. Third race
back off a layoff, in light, could have some upside.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>Big
Blue Kitten</strong> – Twelve time winner, another that has never won at the
distance and must work out a trip.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>Legendary</strong>
– Very nice horse but appears a cut below.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>Slumber</strong>
– Hasn’t won in more than 2 years. Not a fan of first time “blinkers on” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>for a 7 year old.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>Biz
The Nurse</strong> – One of 2 Euro horses, classy, yes, not sure if he measures up</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>Magic
Artist</strong> – Would be shocked.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>General
A Rod</strong> – First time turf, out of a Dynaformer mare, breeding says “should
turf” good works, Johnny V aboard, when perhaps he could have ridden Jack
Milton? Have to consider.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>Jack
Milton</strong> – Classy horse, but the big question is…does he want to go this
far?</li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<strong>Twilight Eclipse</strong> is the deserving
favorite here. Regular rider Castellano stays aboard, giving up the mount on
multiple stakes winner Jack Milton. Will he be as effective at this distance?
And do you want to play the fave?<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<strong>General A Rod</strong> is going to the
grass for the first time. TAP was pleased with the way he moved over the lawn
when he worked with stablemate Jack Milton on 5/30. Interesting to me that JV
is aboard. Has a longshot look.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
But my pick for the win is <strong>War
Dancer</strong>. He has shown a recent a change in his running style. It could a
maturity play or the effects of a trainer change - or a little of both. But I
like it. He is also getting 6 pounds from the top two choices. His last race
was a winning effort. With 2 nice works since then, he is worth a long look,
and is my top choice.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
Many thanks to <a href="http://www.thorofan.com/handicappers/" target="_blank">ThoroFan's Handicapping Corner</a>!<br />
<br />
It’s a great card on a great day
of racing,<br />
and as always, <br />
Fast & Safe to all our equine friends!<br />
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-68817280022356066032015-04-30T08:57:00.000-04:002015-04-30T08:57:07.144-04:00
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Woodford Reserve Turf Classic</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The Grade 1 Woodford Reserve Turf Classic is run at a mile
and 1/8 over the Matt Winn Turf course every year on “Derby Day.”</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">And while no match for <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region>’s premier race and the “greatest
two minutes in sports”, race fans and handicappers will still be looking for a winner
and to a great extent, a horse to use in their horizontal wagers.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This year that horse could be the mare, Stephanie’s Kitten.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Runner up in her Breeders Cup Division last year, after
winning the juvenile fillies Breeders Cup the year before, Stephanie’s Kitten
is coming into this race with a win in her seasonal debut in the Hillsborough
at Tampa. She has the services of John Velazquez; she is 3 for 3 on the
Churchill turf and getting weight from every other horse in the field. She gets
the weight allowance is because she is running against colts. Not sure if JV
tacks 115, but even a few pounds over will be an advantage. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Six works since the Hillsborough, this multiple Grade 1
winner says she is ready to face the boys.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Highweight Jack Milton is coming off a very nice win in the “other”
Grade 1 bourbon race at Keeneland. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is
picking up six pounds off that win, has the services of Javier Castellano. He
was an allowance winner over the course last year.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Seek Again is an intriguing horse. Can he break clean? Can
he stay out of trouble? His one start at Churchill was a second in this race
last year after bobbling at the start. He was “out-nodded” by the great Wise
Dan. Not many are better at giving horses time to figure things out than Bill
Mott. This horse has been freshened and could be dangerous.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">And to spice it up a little bit, a horse you have to
consider in your exotics is Scrumpdilicious. Sharp young trainer, Joe Sharp,
seems to have the right feel for knowing where to place his horses. This former
claimer is always “right there”. Of course it’s a huge jump into Grade 1
company and that’s why he is 50-1 on the morning line.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Thank you </span><a href="http://www.thorofan.com/handicappers/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">ThoroFan</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">, it’s good to be back to the Handicapping
Corner especially for the first weekend in May. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enjoy all the great
racing this <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Derby</st1:city></st1:place>
weekend. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">And, as always, FAST & SAFE to all our equine friends.</span> </div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-7429790550509542812014-10-29T16:39:00.001-04:002014-10-29T16:39:27.965-04:00Longines Breeders Cup Turf Analysis for ThoroFan
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">The mile and one
half, 3 million dollar Breeders Cup Turf goes as the 9<sup>th</sup> race on
Saturday, and post time is 6:22. As of this writing it’s a field of 12 and
there is a chance of rain for Saturday in <st1:place w:st="on">Southern
California</st1:place>. Be mindful if the course does indeed take some rain
and becomes less than rock-hard firm. Euros that have shipped to CA usually
come because they expect a good chance of very firm going and they send horses
that PREFER to race over the “top of the ground” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My guess is that there would have to be a
considerable amount of rain to change the Santa Anita turf course. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Here is a
configuration of the 12 furlong test. The starting gate is placed at the bottom
of the short downhill run on the track’s unique turf course. Probably won’t be
a problem for most however. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">From the rail out:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Telescope</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – Galileo colt has never been off the
board. He runs with First Time Lasix. He has never won a Grade 1, and has
never run on firm turf. But trainer Sir Michael Stoute and jockey Ryan
Moore have been very successful bringing horses over for this race. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="2" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Twilight
Eclipse</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – One of 3 US
horses that have been very competitive this year in Grade 1’s, though he
has yet to get by major player, Main Sequence. Was beaten 2 &1/4
lengths in last year’s rendition with a slightly troubled trip. Jock
change to Castellano<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="3" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Imagining</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – Grade 1 winner who as never won at
this distance. Does have versatile running style and Shug doesn’t usually
ship unless confident.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="4" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Brown
Panther</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – English
–bred Grade 1 winner of 10 races. Was entered in a Grade 1 in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Canada</st1:place></st1:country-region> 10
days ago and was scratched after running off in the post parade .Was
jumping out of his skin and looked amazing up to that point. Distance is
no problem for this horse.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="5" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Hangover
Kid</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – Grade 2 winner
and a trier. Would have to step it up to be competitive here.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<ol start="6" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Finnegan’s
Wake</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – Grade 3 winner
who has never won at this distance but has had a race over the track.
Would need much more.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="7" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Flintshire</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – Morning line favorite and looks like
the one to beat. Always prudent to consider any horse that has run in the
Arc. Flintshire has not won this year but was a very good second to 2 time
Arc winner Treve in a 20 horse field. Lots to like.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="8" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><s><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Magician</span></s></b><s><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">- Back to defend his title from BC13,
another son of Galileo who likes this course. Has been off since August
and runs well fresh. Could repeat. </span></s><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">SCRATCHED</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="9" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Hardest
Core</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – Hard Spun 4
year old in the best form of his life, coming off a win in the Arlington
Million, where he beat Magician. Farm trained in the European style. Would
not surprise. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="10" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Starspangled
Heat</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – Local horse who
has never been this far and looks overmatched.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="11" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Chicquita
</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">– Only filly in the
race. Irish Oaks winner who disappointed in the Arc. First Time Lasix and
smart connections. Sending her here after Arc “no-show” and in this spot,
shows confidence - so must consider.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="12" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Main
Sequence</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – This former
Euro has been rejuvenated by H.G Motion. Coming in with 3 Grade 1 wins.
Does he have another stellar performance in him this season? <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region>’s
best hope.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<ol start="13" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Big
Jon B</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – Another local
horse and former claimer who has gotten good. Would need to run the race
of his life.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">If
Flintshire is not gutted from his Arc try, he will be getting the type of
course he loves and should be respected. Main Sequence is totally on top of his
game and it would be great to see <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">America</st1:country-region></st1:place> buck the Euro winning trend
in this race. The filly Chicquita is also intriguing and might be overlooked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Try
to get some final impressions from those on track over the next few days,
either on social media or in print. It is always important to know how a horse
is coming into the race, mentally and physically. The past performances can
only tell you so much. The winner in a contentious race like this will need a
good trip, some racing luck and will be the one who is the best horse, ON THE
DAY.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Wishing
fast and safe to all our equine friends in Breeders Cup 2014!</span></div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-90148109844106673062014-10-09T20:03:00.000-04:002014-10-09T20:03:33.229-04:00Queen For a Day<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Saturday’s feature
race at Keeneland is the Grade 1 Queen Elizabeth Challenge Cup for three year
old fillies, on the turf at 1 & 1/8 miles. This is the 30<sup>th</sup>
rendition of the QE2 and the race is named in honor of the Queen of England who
visited Keeneland on October 11<sup>th</sup>, 1984.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">The race is
sponsored by Lane’s End Farm. Owner William Farish was formerly the <st1:country-region w:st="on">US</st1:country-region> Ambassador to <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Great Britain</st1:place></st1:country-region>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">The purse this year
has been increased to $500,000.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">As of this writing,
a field of 9 will contest the race.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">From the rail out –<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Sistas
Stroll</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – lightly raced
filly by Stroll and trained by Tom Proctor a $20,000 purchase at KeeSept.
She is undefeated on turf and at the distance, with her last win being a
Grade 3. She has won on both firm and soft turf which shows a unique
versatility for the surface. Is stepping up into deeper water here, but
she could still have some upside. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="2" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Minorette</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – A grade 1 winner out of a stakes
winning mare and a half sister to 3 more stakes winners. Chad Brown
trainee ran flat in her last star in mid August, but has had 5 nice works
since then. Could certainly rebound with <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Rosario</st1:place></st1:city> in the tack.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="3" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Speed
Seeker</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> - A $10K
purchase at OBS Aug, this filly is trained by Joan Scott. James Graham
picks up the mount. Winner of a Grade3 at Woodbine and has been freshened
since August 23<sup>rd</sup>. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="4" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Aurelia’s
Belle</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – Well-travelled
filly trained by Wayne Catalano. Very well bred and out of a <st1:place w:st="on">Danzig</st1:place> mare from the family of broodmare of the Year
Courtly Dee, though most of the family’s success has come on dirt, she has
the right genes. This filly can run on anything, but most of her wins have
come on synthetic. Blinkers on in her last two, earned her a win. If you
draw a line through her last on soft ground, she has a chance.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="5" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Personal
Diary</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – A Victoria
Oliver charge that had preformed well enough in Allowance Company, but
sprang an upset in the Grade 1 in the DelMar Oaks at today’s distance. She
likes to come from out of it and needs to work out a trip. If you think
the DelMar turf will play like the Keeneland turf, then maybe this filly
is worth taking a look at for a piece.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="6" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Ball
Dancing</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – Another in
here trained by Chad Brown, this filly made a splash in her first start in
this country when winning the Grade 2 Sand’s Point at <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Belmont</st1:city></st1:place> with Lasix added. Lots of talent
here.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="7" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Sea
Queen</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – Speedy filly
with a win over the track. Clement trained, she can stay out of trouble
and get the perfect trip Has never won a graded stake but it’s only a
matter of time. Lots to like.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="8" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Crown
Queen</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> – Trained by
Bill Mott, she is a half sister to Champion Royal Delta who never ran on
turf. Her races as a 2 year old last year were uninspiring, but she has
put it all together this year with her last win in the Grade 2 Lake
Placid. Bullet works since her last and regular pilot John Velazquez, I
like the way she’s coming into this spot.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<ol start="9" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Daring
Dancer</span></b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"> - You can never
underestimate Graham Motion. This filly has a win over this course, but
her last race at <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Belmont</st1:place></st1:city>
was flat. Only one work since then and she loses her John Velazquez to
Alan Garcia. But she has talent. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Weather
may play a role in the race as rain is forecast for the next several days. That
being said, most of these fillies have proven to run well on less than firm
courses. But should the course get very soft, I give a bigger chance to
Minorette because she is out of a Sadler’s Wells mare. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">I
do like the two “<st1:place w:st="on">Queens</st1:place>” in here. Crown Queen‘s
works for this are sparkling and she may just be getting better and better. Sea
Queen could sprint to the front and be long gone. And if Ball Dancing doesn’t
bounce off her sharp win she will be tough.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">There’s
your super box…Minorette / Ball Dancing / Sea Queen / Crown Queen<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Sounds
like a party in the palace to me!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Good
luck if you are wagering, and fast and safe to all our equine friends.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-87376600877271221752014-06-20T08:52:00.000-04:002014-06-20T09:09:06.151-04:00The Bed O' Roses ~ A SaluteTo A Hall of Fame Filly<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
The Grade 3 Bed O' Roses Handicap on Saturday at Belmont is
a race for fillies and mares, four year olds and up. Inaugurated in 1957, it is contested on the dirt
at seven furlongs.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
It is named for the great <a href="http://www.sagamoreracing.com/" target="_blank">Sagamore Farm</a> homebred filly by
Rosemont o/o Good Thing, by Discovery. Bed O' Roses was Champion Two Year Old
Filly of 1949, and then the Older Mare Champ 0f 1951. She was inducted into
racing’s Hall of Fame in 1976.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
For the <a href="http://thorofan.com/handicappers/" target="_blank">Handicapper’s Corner at ThoroFan</a> I will take a look
at some of the contenders.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Seven furlongs is a tough distance for many horses. It’s
technically a sprint, but many sprinters have a hard time with this distance.
You need some class and stamina to win at seven panels. And to me, the biggest
edge in a race like this is a horse that has already shown an affinity for the
distance. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
The class of the field is <strong>Merry Meadow</strong>. She loves <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Belmont</st1:place></st1:city> and has hit the
board every time she has run there. She can handle the distance, and is coming
off a win in the Grade 3 Vagrancy, although it was a short field. Two
maintenance works since her last, she looks ready for another winning effort.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>Classic Point</strong> for The Chief looks to have a shot. She is
another that loves <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Belmont</st1:place></st1:city>,
has won at the distance. You can throw out the Grade 1 Phipps where she was
sent to the lead and then faltered, and the turn back to 7/8’s will be more to
her liking. She looks to get a piece.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Trainer Eddie Kenneally has two in here, <strong>Street Girl</strong>-who is
dropping in class and the longer priced <strong>Ultimate Shopper</strong> is moving into stakes
company for the first time. Both have worked very well for this. And the longer
priced horse Ultimate Shopper has shown she is quite capable at the distance as
she is two-for-two.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Maybe we need to take a long look at <strong>Calistoga</strong>. Mott usually
spots his horses well. She is moving up in class but there really are no world
beaters in here. And I think the distance will suit her. What jumps off the
page to me is that this filly has tactical speed, but can also can close – as
was evident in the Eight Belles at Churchill -though perhaps those tactics may
not have been by design.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
And then there is an out of towner that deserves respect. <strong>Flattering Bea</strong> is as
consistent as they come and relishes the distance. She has never run with this
kind however.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Good luck to the fillies and mares in the Bed ‘O Roses. I
must say it’s nice that NYRA still remembers this mare after 60 some odd years.
It’s a fitting tribute to a Hall of Fame filly and the glory days of racing! <br />
<br />
</div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-19061515836303372292014-06-06T09:05:00.000-04:002014-06-06T09:05:45.040-04:00Looking For a Longshot in the Grade 1 Manhattan
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
The Grade 1 Manhattan Handicap is the 10<sup>th</sup> race
on Saturday and part of the stellar undercard on what might be an historic day
of racing. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The race is sponsored this
year by Knob Creek and according to the DRF this is the 113<sup>th</sup>
running.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
It is a mile and a quarter on the inner turf course and the
purse is 1 million dollars. Looking ahead at the weekend weather, the course
should be firm and dry.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Here’s a look at the field for <a href="http://thorofan.com/handicappers/" target="_blank">ThoroFan’s HandicappingCorner</a> from the rail out –</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>IMAGINING</strong> – A grade 1 winner at <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Belmont</st1:city></st1:place> in his last, the Man O War, </div>
he gets a rider
switch back to JV who has won on him before. Breaking from the 1 hole he will
come out of there running. He likes this distance and likes this track.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>HEY LEROY</strong> – Has never been the distance, is a cut below but
if you throw out the “off the turf”, this horse is 1-2 every time.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>ROOKIE SENSATION</strong> – Lightly raced, talented colt for good
connections. This horse does have a huge turn of foot however, but not sure it will be as effective on the Belmont turf as it has been on the West Coast. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>GRANDEUR</strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(IRE*) –
Very nice race in the Man’O War, and now adds Lasix. Has been very competitive
at the distance. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>BOISTEROUS</strong> – Winner of this race last year when there was a
little give in the ground. Only millionaire in the field, he always tries and
is coming in with a bullet.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>SEEK AGAIN</strong> – Hmmmm… Mott trainee who was a head back of
champion Wise Dan in a Grade 1 in his last. Juddmonte homebred won the
Hollywood Derby in December. Gets <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Rosario</st1:city></st1:place>
back. Dropping weight from last effort and getting weight from top three. Has a
big look.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>FIVE IRON</strong> - Likes to go to the front and will have company
there. May be the speed of the speed, but where will he be in the final
furlong?</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>REAL SOLUTION</strong> – A Ramsey’s Kitten’s Joy and a very useful
sort. Likes the distance but in 4 starts has never won at <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Belmont</st1:place></st1:city>. Will leading rider Castellano make
the difference?</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>KAIGUN</strong> – Another who has finished second to the Champ going
shorter. Would have to step it up in here</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>CHAMOIS</strong> – Improving colt has moved up with blinkers. Getting
major weight from top three. Can comfortably sit behind the speed and sharp
connections must think he wants more ground. Very live LONGSHOT.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
At first glance it would be easy to say the results of this
race could look a lot like the results of the Man’O War. But Mott’s horse Seek
Again looks very solid in here. However the more I look at Chamois the more I
like him. His very good run in the <st1:place w:st="on">Dixie</st1:place>, his
first start in 6 months should set him up nicely for this. He still has upside potential;
he has tactical speed and will need to secure a good early position from his
outside post. Rider Joe Bravo will do that. The 8 pound weight advantage might
be the key to a win for him here. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s a longshot for sure, but he looks very
live and at his morning line odds of 15-1, I will be using him in my exotic
wagers. Not sure if he's good enough but I'm willing to take a chance on him. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Belmont Day 2014 could go down in the history books.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enjoy the day and fast and safe to all our
equine friends!</div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-31884861478205832542014-05-01T16:13:00.000-04:002014-05-01T16:13:06.933-04:00 The Woodford Reserve Turf Classic
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
I was initially surprised at the number of horses facing Wise
Dan in the Grade 1 Woodford Reserve Classic. But then again, who wouldn’t want
to get a piece of the half million dollar pie? <br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Let’s not forget that Wise Dan is the class of the field.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Yes, the one hole is not ideal.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
But when you win 20 of 28 starts – YOU KNOW HOW TO WIN.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
He has won several times from the same spot. He has his
regular jock. He is 3 for 3 at Churchill, despite trouble and not ideal course
conditions.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
Here are my thoughts for <a href="http://www.thorofan.com/handicappers/" target="_blank">ThoroFan's Handicapping Corner</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
#1 <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Wise Dan -</b> Top weight, 7 year old, two time Horse of The Year will
seek to bring home a second Woodford Reserve win on the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Derby</st1:city></st1:place> undercard. THE HORSE TO BEAT.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
#2 <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bright Thought</b> – Grade 2 winner looks to be rounding back into form
but is over matched in here.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>#3 <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Guys Reward</b> – Useful sort, seems to
prefer give in the ground, not good enough<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
#4 <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Admiral’s Kitten</b> – A Maker-Ramsey-Kitten who has never won a stake
but had a good effort in the Gr. 1 Maker’s Mark Asking a lot but could catch a
piece.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
#5 <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Kaigun</b> – Lightly raced 4 year old has become a new horse on turf
with improving numbers</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
#6 <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">MoroTap </b>- Allowance winning closer coming in very sharp with 2
bullets<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
#7 <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Boisterous </b>- 12 time winning millionaire coming off a nice allowance
prep at Keeneland in a 6 horse field. Should get a piece.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
#8 <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Finnegan’s Wake</b> – Eligible for non winners of 3 has amassed a
bankroll of almost half a million. Will be running off a layoff.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
#9 <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Skyring</b> – Likes the lead and give in the ground. No match for Wise
Dan in 3 previous outings.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
#10 <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Seek Again</b> – Euro with a win in the Grade 1 Hollywood Derby. Classy
sort with <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>nice works coming in and good
turf connections.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
Here’s your trifecta - Wise Dan on
top with Seek Again and Boisterous and maybe a little Kaigun thrown in to
complete the superfecta.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
Dan IS the Man and will prove it
once again with another win in the Woodford Reserve.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
Good luck if you are wagering and, as always, "fast & safe " to all our equine friends. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in;">
</div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-61880300099259224932014-02-13T17:44:00.000-05:002014-02-13T17:44:51.925-05:00Working From Home<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It’s a stormy, snowy day
here on the east coast. A great day to “work from home” and that means there’s
plenty of time to take a look at the weekend turf racing at <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Gulfstream</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place>.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thank you to the
Handicapping Corner at <a href="http://www.thorofan.com/handicappers/">Thoro-Fan</a>
for the forum to express my handicapping opinions!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The co-feature on Saturday
at <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Gulfstream</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place> is the Grade III The Very One. It
is the 29<sup>th</sup> rendition of the race named after a very accomplished
mare from the 70’s. The Very One won major stakes from coast to coast from 2-6 and on occasion beat the boys , (The Dixie Handicap at Pimlico
setting a new track record) She amassed
a bankroll of over a million dollars, with 22 wins, 12 seconds and 8 thirds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Even in defeat, The Very
One finished second to the legendary
John Henry in the Hialeah Turf Cup and second to Bowl Game in the Washington DC
International. Those exactas would have been right up my handicapping alley.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Very One is carded as
the 8<sup>th</sup> race (4:03pm) at a 1 & 3/8ths miles on turf, and while
there is a small chance of wet weather for Saturday, it hopefully will not be enough to impact the
course. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">More than half of the
compact field of mares is coming off a freshening. But with trainers like
Clement, Mott, and Motion, fitness to go the distance shouldn’t be an issue. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Let’s take a look from the
rail out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Aigue Marine</b> – Lightly raced, Clement runner by Galileo out of a stakes winning
Silver Hawk mare .Has a win over the Gulfstream turf course at the distance and
has some back class. She is serious contender for her first Graded Stakes win.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Left A Message</b> – One of 2 Proctor charges in here, this one with a troubled prep at <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Tampa</st1:place></st1:city> 3 weeks ago. Did
she get enough out of that trip? She has been beaten by a few of these before.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Seanchai</b>
– The other Proctor mare ran in this race last year. Has some speed to gallop
along on the front end, but does not seem to have enough finishing kick.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Dame Marie</b>
– Kenneally trained, never been this far but good work pattern on the Palm
Meadows turf course coming in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Preferential</b> – She came around at the end of last year with trainer Bill Mott.
Some speedy works over the main track, she likes to be up close to the lead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Inimitable Romanee</b> – Graham Motion NYbred mare and the only Graded
Stakes winner in the race with her gate to wire win in last year’s Lamplighter.
Not really sure how good she is.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Anjaz</b>
– Well bred mare for Albertrani, has been off for 6 months. According to press
release, nothing major for the layoff, foot bruise and races rained off, but
with this trainer – could need one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Viva Rafaella</b> – Pletcher trainee, Oaks winner in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Brazil</st1:place></st1:country-region> beating 15. Not really
convinced she fits here, but she has the right connections, so second guessing
them may be a mistake.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The Pick</b>:
I like Aigue Marine here for the win. She has continued to train forwardly
since her last race in November. She owns some back class, is well bred with
strong connections and versatile enough to run regardless of turf condition.
She has won on the course, at the distance and has won both on the front end
and in a stalking position. And I really don’t think we have seen the best of
her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Preferential needs a look
too. She has trained very well, with quick works on the main track. She needs
to step it up, but is in capable hands to do so.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It’s hard to fault the
NYBred Inimitable Romanee. She is as consistent as they come and just might
continue her upward progression from last season that produced her stakes win
in wide open company. I see her getting a piece. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Good luck in all your
wagers! </span><span style="font-family: Georgia;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-77504299527933155842013-10-31T15:00:00.000-04:002013-10-31T18:51:36.846-04:00"Looking For Daylight" in the Breeders Cup Turf<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s here! Breeders Cup 2013 and two days of championship
racing has arrived. This year the races are once again at Santa Anita, and
winners in each division will have a huge effect on year end awards.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you to the <a href="http://www.thorofan.com/handicappers/" target="_blank">Handicapping Corner at ThoroFan</a> for the
opportunity to share my thoughts on the 30<sup>th</sup> renewal of the BC Turf.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nineteen of the 29 runnings of the Breeder’s Cup Turf have
been won by horses from <st1:place w:st="on">Europe</st1:place>. That’s a huge
statistic that’s impossible to ignore. They simply breed more distance turf
horses, and many times, though not always, even their second stringers can
compete with our top horses. But make no mistake, this is a salty bunch</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Two fillies have been successful in this race, Pebbles
(Aqueduct 1985) and Miss Alleged (Churchill, 1991) but that was before the
female division had their own race. I had the pleasure of seeing them both .Though
the Breeders Cup was held for the first time in 1984, it wasn’t until 1999 that
the fillies and mares had their own championship race.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is one filly in this race whose connections chose this
race over the Filly & Mare Turf. And that is <b>The</b> <b>Fugue</b>, my pick to win.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So why would someone enter a filly in against colts when
they could run against their own kind?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well there are several reasons. The BC Turf is a mile and a
half- the F&M Turf is a mile and a ¼. The purse is larger as well. They run
for 3 Million. But the biggest reason that The Fugue is competing here
according to her connections is redemption. That and the fact that the added
distance will work to her benefit and give her a little more ground should she
ensue traffic troubles. Like last year in the Filly & Mare Turf. Listen
here, in a Blood Horse video, to trainer John Gosden talk about his filly and how she will <a href="http://bcove.me/x47fl22f" target="_blank">“be lookingfor daylight”</a> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>The Fugue</b> is an aptly named 4 year old filly by Dansili out
of stakes winner Twyla Tharp by Sadler’s Wells. With the influence of Sadler’s
Wells on the dam’s side, one would think The Fugue would like wet ground. But
in fact, she did not run in the Arc this year because of the ground conditions.
Make no mistake, the Breeder’s Cup Turf has been on her dance card for a while
and it is said, she much prefers running over the top of the ground. Her last
two group one wins-one against the boys-were stellar. Draw a line through the
Coral Eclipse Stakes as she was not 100%.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
According to her Twitter account – yes she has one- she has
shipped well and had some light exercise and a trip to the paddock on Tuesday.
Social media pictures and video show a bright, healthy, alert filly, a year
older a year stronger and ready to run a big one.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A prime effort is expected.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let’s take a quick look at the rest of the field, from the
rail out.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Vagabond Shoes</b> – A Gr.2 winner
that has never been the distance. Three tries on the course has produced
one second place finish.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Teaks North</b> – Millionaire 6 year
old has a prep on the course and is working well, but appears in deep.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Twilight Eclipse</b> – Another Gr.2
winner but with 2 wins at the distance. Longshot possibility to get a
share.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Little Mike</b> – Defending champ and
looking like he’s returning to form, with a game win in the Turf Classic.
He’s been there and done that and lookout if he gets loose on the lead.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Skyring</b> - While his <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">daddy</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">English Channel</st1:placetype></st1:place> was successful in
this race, this colt has a long way to go and will be every bit of his
30-1 line. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Tale of a Champion</b> – Ran in the BC
Turf Sprint last year and does have a win over the course. Don’t see him
making any impact here.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>THE FUGUE<o:p></o:p></b></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Point of Entry</b> – Multiple Gr. 1
winning son of Dynaformer loves
this distance. A top class horse, he suffered a condylar fracture in his
right hind leg in June Expert old school connections, he is coming into
this off a layoff, with no prep and has to ship. Undoubtedly capable for
the top prize but lots to overcome.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Indy Point</b> – Multiple stakes
winner in <st1:place w:st="on">Argentina</st1:place>,
with a win over the course in his last- a Gr 2. Connections know how to
win a Breeders Cup.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Big Blue Kitten</b> – One of two
Kittens Joys’ / King Ramsey horses. Multiple Grade 1 winner of 10 races,
he is as consistent as they come.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Magician</b> – Euro son of Galileo
with First Time Lasix. He has some class, but this is his biggest test
yet.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><b>Real Solution</b> – The other “kitten”
he has loads of talent and some upside potential.</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My play for the win is <b>The Fugue</b>. My superfecta box is The
Fugue/Point of Entry/Little Mike / Big Blue Kitten.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Good Luck and enjoy Breeders Cup ’13. And to our equine
friends “Be Fast, and be Safe”</div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-56576223287115656582013-10-10T18:07:00.000-04:002013-10-12T11:39:19.655-04:00Taking a Look at The QE 2<div class="MsoNormal">
The 30<sup>th</sup> renewal of the Grade 1 Queen Elizabeth
Challenge Cup goes as the 9<sup>th</sup> race on Saturday. It is a nine furlong
turf event on the Haggin Course, for 3 year old fillies</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is an important event in its own right, with a purse of
$400,000 but it is perfect timing for a last prep for the Breeder’s Cup F&M
turf and an opportunity for points.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stakes races at Keeneland never come up easy and this is no
exception. This is a good group, and every one of them is in good form, and more
than half the field is coming off a win. But though several of these gals have
come close there is only one Grade 1 winner in the race- and a nose and a neck
prevented her from winning 2 more.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The class of the field and the one to beat is the French filly,
<b>Alterite</b>. She is the leading money
winner in the race, and is coming off a nice win in her first start in this
country in the Gr1 Garden City. She was First-Time-Lasix and drew off nicely
with just a vigorous hand ride. She is owned by Martin Schwartz and trained by
Chad Brown and together that duo has campaigned the last two F&M Breeder’s
Cup Turf winners – Zagora in 2012 and Stacilita in 2011. Both of those fillies were also rewarded with
Eclipse awards in their respective years.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hall of Famer John Velazquez stays aboard the filly, and her
running style should bode well for her. According to her trainer, the filly was
a bit high strung when arriving stateside, but hopefully that is behind her.
Her form shows an affinity for turf that’s less than firm, but I think her
class will prevail. Her 6<sup>th</sup> place finish in the French Oaks to the
Arc runaway winner TREVE, jumps off the page to me. Yes, she got beat 11
lengths, but she still beat half the field and the race was 1/ 5/16ths perhaps
not an ideal distance for her.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But it IS Keeneland, It Is Turf and it’s the Ramsey’s world
and we are all just living in it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You have to take a look at the two fillies by Kitten’s Joy
in here. Both will run in the red and white Ramsey silks but with two different
trainers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Emotional Kitten</b>
is trained by Wesley Ward (33% for the meet) and will be ridden by Channing Hill and is the only one in the field to have a win over the track. She always tries
and her numbers continue to improve. She has held her own when competing in 2 GR
1’s on the West coast and has been freshened. She has a big closing kick and
would need to work out a trip.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Kitten’s Dumplings</b>
is trained by Maker and will be ridden by Julien Leparoux. Also very
consistent, she is a multiple graded stakes winner. A winner of 5, including the <st1:place w:st="on">Lake George</st1:place> and the Regret, she has also been freshened.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s a good chance a “kitten” will be in the mix.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is interesting
that there are 2 fillies in here whose moms have won this race. Say out of (Riskaverse) and Caroline Thomas
(Bit Of Whimsy) But as nice as that would be, no daughters of previous winners
have been able to do it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Speaking of the filly, <b>Say</b>,
the royally bred miss by Galileo is
adding blinkers and running back on seven days rest after making a middle move and then ”faltering” on
a very boggy turf course in the First
Lady last Saturday. Maybe she disliked the course and the jock just wrapped up
on her? I don’t think an exceptional international trainer like Aiden Obrien
would wheel her back so quickly, unless he had a good reason. She is the big
question mark in here and could be worth the gamble.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let’s talk about <b>Concise</b>.
She finished up well in the Garden City behind Alterite, only getting beat a
length and a half. That, after saving ground all the way. She looks to have
improved with blinkers, too. If Edgar can find a way to leave the pocket a
little sooner she could get all the money.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Caroline Thomas</b>
with Rosie aboard could be effective if there is a fast pace. Then, her closing
kick could be more effective.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And there does seem to be a good amount of speed in this
race.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is speed on the inside with the <st1:place w:st="on">California</st1:place> shipper <b>Sarach</b>. And both <st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on"><b>Leigh Court</b></st1:address></st1:street>
and <b>I’m Already Sexy</b> like to be up
on the front end. too. No doubt, coming from the outside posts, they will want
to get their positions early. And if you are a believer in speed figs, I’m
Already Sexy is the only filly in the race that has a triple digit.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My top pick in the QE2 is the class filly, <b>Alterite</b>. I would give <b>Concise</b>, <b>Say</b>, and <b>Emotional Kitten</b>
a look to complete the exotics.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hopefully you have gotten some insight for the runners in
the QE2. My thanks to <a href="http://www.thorofan.com/handicappers/" target="_blank">ThoroFan</a> and the Handicapping Corner and good luck if you
are wagering! </div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-20564879458667653492013-08-09T18:00:00.000-04:002013-08-10T08:51:34.722-04:00It's All Dan in The 'Dave<div class="MsoNormal">
Reigning Horse of the Year, Wise Dan, will try for a repeat
win in the Grade 2 Fourstardave Handicap on Saturday and a win will keep his 7
race streak alive, a streak that began at <st1:city w:st="on">Saratoga</st1:city>
last year.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The 29 th running of the ‘Dave will be contested at a mile
on the inner turf course.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wise Dan, the gelded son of Wiseman’s Ferry, will break from
the one hole and will have to tote 129 lbs on what will most certainly be a
good-to-soft course.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He is giving an enormous amount of weight to the rest of the
field; however, he appears to be thriving in the Spa environment. He is 3/5 on
the morning line.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
His 5 furlong turf breeze on July 27 at the <st1:place w:st="on">Oklahoma</st1:place> turf track was
sublime.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Watch it here.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/CsYIsbO4kVE?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
And it should be noted (thanks to <a href="http://thisishorseracing.com/news/" target="_blank">The Saratoga Special</a> for this bit of info) that Wise Dan's regular exercise rider, who is aboard for this work, packs 152 with tack.<br />
<br />
Don’t waste your time trying to beat the champ. Maybe take a
look at Mr. Commons/Lea/Za Approval to fill out your exotics.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-26308911350964070492013-06-07T09:05:00.000-04:002013-06-07T09:05:12.110-04:00How Many Ways Can You Say " This horse CAN'T LOSE?"<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He’s
a lead pipe cinch<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He’s
an international cinch<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He’ll
run off the screen<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He’ll
run off the charts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He’ll
air<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He’ll
romp<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He’ll
GALLOP<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He’ll
win with his ears pricked<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He’ll
win by daylight<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He’ll
be long gone<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He’s
a single<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He's "live"</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He
can win tied to the gate<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
like money in the bank<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">E-Z
money<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
off the charts <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
a gimme<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
a cakewalk<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
a piece of cake<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
a walk in the park <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
a free square<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
no contest <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
a sure thing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
a good thing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
a lock<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
a mortal lock <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
a slam dunk <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
a shoe-in<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s
a foregone conclusion<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Not
a straw in his path<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">From
footfall to that’s all<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">From
Flagpole to finish<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">By
a pole<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">and
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Katy,
bar the door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Of
course I’m talking about Point of Entry in the 141<sup>st</sup> edition of the
Grade 1, $500,000 Woodford Reserve Manhattan, this Saturday, Belmont Day, going
a mile and a quarter on the Widener Turf Course.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">According
to his trainer, Shug Mc Gaughey, he is training better than ever and “is about
as good as a horse can get” (Notice his back-to-back bullets on turf)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The
Phipps homebred, by Dynaformer, out of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Matlatcha</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Pass</st1:placetype></st1:place>,
by Seeking the Gold has had a freshening since his Feb win in a Grade 1 at
Gulfstream over World Cup/Derby winner Animal Kingdom. There’s not another
horse in this race that has won even one Grade 1!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">This,
horse racing fans, is a huge “class-edge.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">But
this is horseracing and anything can happen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The
forecast is calling for rain and the turf course could be less than firm. While
it is not his favorite footing, Point of Entry has won on yielding turf, AT
BELMONT, in the Turf Classic, last year going a mile and a half. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">And
even IF some horse jumps up and runs the race of his life, it is my opinion
that this race still belongs to Point of Entry. Even WITH the little, <i>rumored</i> “foot
issue” he has in one hind foot. Seriously, he only needs 3 good feet to beat
this bunch. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">He’s
the key horse in any exotics. If you are looking for something long to fool
around with, I would take a little look at the now gelded, Bombaguia, with a ML
of 15-1. Since “the biggest equipment change of all”, his numbers have been
good and improving in his both starts this year. With a troubled trip in his
last, he still ran a huge race. The distance will suit and he gets in light,
getting 9 lbs from the favorite.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Many
Thanks to </span><a href="http://www.thorofan.com/handicappers/" target="_blank">ThoroFan and the Handicapping Corner</a> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">for giving me the opportunity to analyze a
few big turf races every year. I especially had fun writing this post, and
would love to hear from the fans with any additions to this list. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Good
luck to Point of Entry. I am a huge fan
and I hope the Racing Gods are with me on this one. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-30994802684480755962013-05-17T15:55:00.000-04:002013-05-17T15:55:02.037-04:00Quick Cappin' the Black-Eyed Susan and The Hilltop<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Preakness weekend is upon us, and today the fillies are on
center stage. First run at Pimlico in 1919 and called the Pimlico Oaks, it has
long been known as the second jewel of the filly Triple Crown.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It is a Grade 2 event, (since 1976), run at the distance of
1&1/8 with a purse of $500,000. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Walkingwithapurpose, is reportedly walking with a stone
bruise, and was an early scratch. Manuka Honey is also a scratch.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>The Black-Eyed Susan</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The morning line favorite and deservedly so, is Emollient, the
Mott–trained Empire Maker filly. Put a line through the very poor effort in the
Gulfstream Oaks, this filly rebounded nicely in the Grade 1 Ashland at
Keeneland on the poly. She has proven she can run on any surface, and has
overcome troubled trips. She gets Mike Smith as her pilot, once again, and she
has been working sharply since her last effort.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">She looks very tough in here.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Maracuya, though less seasoned, looks like an up and comer.
She is just 2 for 2 and is stepping up to a Graded Stakes. Her breeding
suggests that the distance should suit her, and she is working the right way
heading into this. If she has the quality that it appears that she might have,
there is no better rider than John Velazquez, to make all the right moves with
her, and give her a chance to beat the favorite.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>The Hilltop</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The last race of the day, the get-out race, is the Hilltop
on the turf for 3 year old fillies.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Kitten’s Point is a nice filly who has a Grade 3 win under
her belt. Her <st1:city w:st="on">Ashland</st1:city>
on the poly was a good effort despite getting beat 10 lengths. Love it that
Edgar Prado is aboard, he knows the <st1:state w:st="on">Maryland</st1:state>
tracks better than most. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Summer of Fun could be ready for a big effort. Her 2 year
old season was a good one, with a close 3<sup>rd</sup> in the BCJuviTurf. She
has been freshened since March, with only 1 work showing. A little cause for
concern…But if all is well, she would be tough.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Emotional Kitten is versatile, with a good late kick and has
<st1:place w:st="on">Rosario</st1:place> to
maneuver her thru the field.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Le Fascinator won from the 10 hole in <st1:city w:st="on">Tampa</st1:city>. She has the services of Johnny V</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Drawn widest of all, is Miss Lucky Sevens with Rosie. She is
sharp now and going back to perhaps her preferred surface.</span></div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-34045539610555826882013-05-02T19:24:00.000-04:002013-05-02T20:46:30.038-04:00Kentucky Oaks Quick Pick 6<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here’s my initial look at the Pick 6 for Oaks Day. I don’t generally play the bet, but if I did, I would try to settle on several singles, to keep it affordable ( Tokyo Time / Noble Tune / Close Hatches)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Race 6 </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">#2 Authenticity ~ Verrazano’s workmate</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">#4 Believe You Can ~ Won the Oaks here last year</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Race 7</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">#6 Private Ensign ~ May take to lawn</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">#9 Tokyo Time ~ Better with blinks</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Race 8</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">#3 Blueyesintherain ~ Undefeated</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">#11 Dancinginthecircle ~ Loves the distance</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Race 9</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">#2 Laugh Track ~ scratched for this, bullet on dirt</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">#9 Cyber Secret ~ very good now</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Race 10</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">#4 Noble Tune ~ Class of field</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">#5 War Dancer ~ Improving numbers</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Race 11</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">#4 Unlimited Budget ~ Undefeated and improving</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">#11 Close Hatches ~ Same as above</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv1iHmPgeotnRvzVt_dWovw78wNRW06mnhFMmqvJrM9bqMjMi9q4bd6TQzYdCcoy_WqJAoKxHWJLpjDYr9QrE3jFP0DtI2X50BL0KWG4USBEnCImdq8G6T7Tbpv8gufmCMSCmtP4rXIJk/s1600/Oaks+139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv1iHmPgeotnRvzVt_dWovw78wNRW06mnhFMmqvJrM9bqMjMi9q4bd6TQzYdCcoy_WqJAoKxHWJLpjDYr9QrE3jFP0DtI2X50BL0KWG4USBEnCImdq8G6T7Tbpv8gufmCMSCmtP4rXIJk/s200/Oaks+139.JPG" width="192" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">*All subject to change, if track condition changes.</span></div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-16808730230968753352013-05-02T14:08:00.000-04:002013-05-02T14:08:21.454-04:00Derby Day and the Woodford Reserve<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGqK_ffpaJ3Lp1mKXZ0jjGzc8Yk0GtGR7Tm5WU2caRLTkxEW7z4q5X9Xxc6Yehhwz28x6fXepwgUaU0NQFet5Iqod_GrUgdgM0lRCwK5z_D1VSz6zjqXEMyL-diKUlS4LuHUGvaUsUncM/s1600/Mint+julep.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGqK_ffpaJ3Lp1mKXZ0jjGzc8Yk0GtGR7Tm5WU2caRLTkxEW7z4q5X9Xxc6Yehhwz28x6fXepwgUaU0NQFet5Iqod_GrUgdgM0lRCwK5z_D1VSz6zjqXEMyL-diKUlS4LuHUGvaUsUncM/s1600/Mint+julep.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Make
your Mint Julep, sit back and enjoy <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region>’s most famous horse race
this Saturday.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It’s
Derby Day and while all eyes are on the feature 139<sup>th</sup> running of the
Run for the Roses, horse racing aficionados and handicappers will be watching
with great interest, the co-feature, the Grade 1 Woodford Reserve on the turf,
at a mile and 1/8 for 3 year olds and up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Now
sponsored by the famous distillery in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Versailles</st1:city>,
<st1:state w:st="on">Kentucky</st1:state></st1:place>, some of us remember
when it was called the Early Times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">No
matter what brand of bourbon you want to call it, let’s just call this race
EPIC!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wise
Dan, the 2012 Horse of the Year, and Point of Entry, winner of 4 Grade 1’s last
year, will be running against each other for the first time, and may the best
horse win. It is certainly, as some have called it, “The Clash of the Titans”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Both
horses are huge fan favorites and it will be hard to see one lose.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Let’s
take a look at the field, from the rail out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Middie ~ A Grade 3 winner
on poly, he is coming off nice prep at Keeneland. But he is 30/1 for a
reason. Does have two wins on this turf course, but still can’t recommend.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
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<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Slim Shadey ~ West
coast shipper, and Grade 2 winner seems better, going further. Has never
won at the distance, is turning back, would be a surprise.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
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<ol start="3" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Optimizer ~
Lucas-trained, with the hot, Joel Rosario up on Grade 3 winner , don’t see
it happening, but maybe jock factor can get him into the super?<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
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<ol start="4" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Silver Max ~ Nice colt
who strung 6 wins together last year as a three year old, including a
grade 2 on the Churchill course. Probably needed the race at Gulfstream
and is coming in with a bullet. Possible that this colt has some upside as
a newly turned 4 year old, but his game is speed, and doubt that top two
will let him get too far out of their sight. Tough spot for him, but
interesting…<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
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<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Swift Warrior ~
Consistent sort, who runs well off a freshening. Another Grade 3 winner
who is in tough.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
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<ol start="6" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Jeranimo ~ Another
west coaster, the only other Grade 1 winner other than the top 2. Has an explosive
kick, but came up empty when in with this kind.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
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<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Bim Bam ~ Hasn’t won a
race since who-knows-when. Over matched in here.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
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<ol start="8" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wise Dan ~ Reigning
Horse of the Year, multiple graded wins on dirt, synthetic and grass. I
think this horse can run over broken beer bottles. He is a winner of 14
races and nearly 4 million dollars. He is training like a monster, and his
Keeneland win last month set him up perfect for this. Has never been this
distance on turf (only on dirt and poly), but that is not a concern. Will
be tough to beat.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
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<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Point of Entry ~ Both
he and Wise Dan are equal weights for a reason. Can’t fault him at all,
and don’t think that the fact that he has never run over the course will
make a difference to this colt. He always shows up and he is a tough and
classy competitor. As I am writing
this, I am watching him school in the paddock (Thursday, HRTV) and he is
on the muscle. He looks ready to
explode. He will need to deal with the added excitement of the “derby day
“paddock. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The
Woodford Reserve is a two horse race. If <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Louisville</st1:place></st1:city>
gets any rain, the course could be less than firm, but with that being said, I
don’t think anyone in here would be at a disadvantage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My
choice for the win is Wise Dan. But it won’t be easy. Point of Entry will be
coming after him and we could see a very thrilling finish to the Woodford
Reserve. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-77779478255732105812013-03-25T12:34:00.000-04:002013-03-25T12:34:10.555-04:00Back to The Shed ~ On to Ramsey Farm<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Guest blogger, Lindsay Hunter delivers a mare to Talent Search at Ramsey Farm and recounts some of the rich heritage of the area.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">For pictures and more, visit Lindsay on her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lindsay.hunter.522?fref=ts" target="_blank">FB page</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Ramsey Farm 3.22.13<br /><br /> Friday morning dawned crisp and clear, and by noon the sun was peaking through the tufty clouds. Trailer freshly bedded in blonde pine shavings, I set off towards Danville to collect a mare from a farm close to Herrington Lake.. <br /> The big bay mare stepped happily into the gooseneck, and we set off back up the highway. Bailey rode shotgun, sniffing the clean country air, Solo curled into his hamster position, rear end on the arm rest, his head across my shoulders.<br /> Destination: Ramsey Farm. Date for the day : Talent Search.<br /> Talent Search , a strapping chestnut with a white blaze ,earned $603,360, placing second in the Vosburgh Stakes, and third in the Breeders Cup Sprint, behind Midnite Lute. By Catienus, also a Ramsey Farm stallion popular in New York, and out of Mrs. K by Mr. Prospector, he has stood previously in Pennsylvania, but is now home in Kentucky.<br /> Ken and Sarah Ramsey’s farm is bordered by four well traveled roads in Jessamine County, just slightly south of Lexington, on land formerly known as Almahurst Farm, which in it’s heyday spanned 3335 acres, and was the largest combination Thoroughbred and Standardbred farm in the world. The Knight family had settled on the land, and for his service in the Revolutionary War, James Knight (1750 - 1831 ) was granted the deed to the land in 1778 by Gov Patrick Henry and it remained as a premier horse breeding nursery through five generations of Knights. The farm was established before and is older than the City of Lexington (1779 ) the State of Kentucky (1792 ) and The Constitution (1789 )<br /> Exterminator, foaled on the farm in 1915, won the Kentucky Derby in 1918, earning $252,000 in 100 starts, was voted the greatest ‘cup ‘ horse in American history. Horses racing under the Knight family name were respected all over, and the farm became synonymous with quality bloodstock.<br /> Claude, foaled in 1900, perhaps Mr. Henry Knight’s favorite Thoroughbred, raced coast to coast, starting 108 times, winning 32 of those races. Crowds would turn out to see “Old Bones “ run.<br /> In 1935 Mr. Henry H. Knight , fifth generation, named the farm “Almahurst “ for his wife, Alma Horine (married in 1914 ) and added land, constructed new barns and rebuilt fencing. Everything was painted in light cream, trimmed in red, with green roofs.<br /> The World Champion trotter , Greyhound, out of the grey mare, Elizabeth by Peter the Great, who was taken to Calumet Farm to be bred to Guy Abbey, was foaled in 1932, raised and broken at Almahurst. Purchased as a yearling for $900, he held 15 World Trotting Records, and as a 4 year old trotted a mile in a then unbelievably fast 1.57 ¼. He also made history trotting the fastest mile under saddle at the historic Red Mile in Lexington, with Francis Dodge van Lennep, who had never ridden him before, in the irons. Other great Standardbreds raised by Almahurst were Peter Volo (Greyhounds’ half brother ) who founded a great trotting family, and Nervolo Belle.<br /> In 1950, all of the Standardbred breeding stock was purchased by Castleton Farm, of Francis Dodge van Lennep.<br /> In 1963 Almahurst was purchased by P.J. Baugh, who continued to breed exceptional horses, primarily Standardbreds, and as I recall, stood as many as eight stallions, under the watchful management of Albert Adams, but when the focus on Standardbreds shifted to the Northeast, in the late 80’s, many of the premier Kentucky Standardbred stallions were sent to stand in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. <br /> In 1994, the farm was sold to the Ramseys who had sold their cell phone network franchises for a reported $39 million. Mr. Baugh moved across the road to the former Copeland Farm of Dreabon Copeland, taking the name with him.<br /> The Ramsey’s homebred stallion, Kitten’s Joy (Sarah ‘s nickname is ‘Kitten ’ ) and the exceptional Roses in May, among others racing under the Ramsey banner, have contributed to the Ramsey’s having earned the distinction of being the most successful owners of the decade, with over two dozen awards. Mark Partridge, an English former show jumper from a long line of horsemen, manages the farm and is personally involved in all aspects of operation, including every breeding.<br /> We are first in line, which is good, because I knew Talent Search would be quick. He bounded into the shed, gleaming in bronze chestnut, muscles rippling. The mare was cooperative, and we were soon following the tree lined lanes, past the Kitten Spa , back out to the highway and south to Danville.</span><br /></span></span>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-51380105027185236622013-03-21T15:17:00.000-04:002013-03-21T15:17:18.444-04:00Back to The Shed ~ Historic Gainesway and Hat Trick<span class="userContent"><div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed">
The second half of a busy day, finds Lindsay Hunter delivering a mare to Hat Trick. A great read about the history of Gainesway Farm.</div>
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Gainesway 3/19/13<br /><br /> I’ve been going to Gainesway’s breeding shed since 1980. Back then, before the 4 stall stallion barns (that won an Architectural Design Award ) were built, every morning the mares lined up along the long crushed brick walk waiting to be bred to any one of 38 stallions that stood at stud there.</div>
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Across the parking lot was the small private stallion barn of Nelson Bunker Hunt , that housed , among others, Vaguely Noble, Exceller and Youth.<br /> John Gaines first raised his Trotters and Racehorses on land on Tates Creek Road south of Lexington.. Back in Taylor Made days, I took care of Kerry Way, that won the Hambletonian for him, and was the dam of Classical Way, another great trotter.<br /> This was land that had produced the winner of the first Kentucky Derby, Aristides in 1875. <br /> Joe L. Taylor (father of Duncan, Ben , Frank and Mark ) had come to work for John Gaines in 1950. During his 40 year tenure as Gainesways’ Farm Manager, Joe saw six Gainesway stallions lead the World’s Sire List, the American Sire List, and the European Sire List , namely Bold Bidder, Vaguely Noble, Lyphard, Blushing Groom , Riverman and Sharpen Up.<br /> In 1963, the land was sold for development (Gainesway Subdivision ) and John Gaines purchased 500 acres on Paris Pike, from Greentree Farm, across the road from the renowned Spendthrift Farm of Leslie Combs II, including the cemetery of Greentree, where, amongst others is buried Regret , winner of the1915 Kentucky Derby, who died in 1934.<br /> Home to as many as 38 stallions in the early 80’s,Gainesway produced both Standardbred and Thoroughbred Champions. <br /> John Gaines was a pioneer before his time, having the enlightenment to found the Breeders Cup program, and helped develop the Kentucky Horse Park, just up the road on famous Iron Works Pike. <br /> In 1989, Gainesway was sold to South African horseman and vintner, Graham R. Beck and his family, who have continued the Gainesway traditions. Under the watchful and excellent guidance of Michael Hernon and Neil Howard, Antony Beck’s Gainesway continues to uphold it’s world renowned reputation. <br /> Today I am bringing the mare, Moolakaya to the court of Hat Trick, the almost black son of Japanese stallion, Sunday Silence, who was foaled at Claiborne Farm in Paris, right along the pike in Bourbon County. Hat Trick, foaled in Japan out of the Lost Code mare, Tricky Code, ran one of the fastest miles in history, in a blistering 1.32.1( 8 furlongs in 92.1 seconds . That‘s 11.51 seconds a furlong ! ) and is the only champion and Grade 1 stallion in the US by Sunday Silence. <br /> His son, Bright Thought, just this past Saturday, set a new track record in the $150,000 San Luis Rey Stakes, clipping off the one and half miles in a scorching 2.22.72. Like father, like son !</div>
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<br /> The mare, Moolakaya, by Alzao, a son of Lyphard who stood at Gainesway, unloads quietly and makes herself comfortable in the deep straw of the teasing stall. In the corner overhead, a speaker issues forth the nickering and squealing of a stallion, designed to get the mare ‘in the mood ‘. Meanwhile, the real teaser hangs his head through the teasing hatch, nibbling on her flank and sniffing her tail. Soon she ‘breaks down’ showing her readiness, and we move into the padded wash stocks. <br /> The breeding shed crew hasn’t changed much in 35 years, Carl Buckner has taken over the head position, since long time Stallion Manager, Marion Gross, passed away. Chico and James are still there, Tommy took over Chico’s position washing the mares a few years back. Andre, also from South Africa (like me ) joined the crew after interning at Taylor Made, maybe 8 or 9 years ago. In the staff room still hangs a framed photo from back in the early 80’s and it shows the shed crew that was working when I first started going to Gainesway. James ,Chico,Carl and of course, Marion Gross , were much younger then !<br /> Kim has accompanied me on this trip, and she is busy snapping photos. We are asked not to take any in the shed, but Carl gives permission to snap some of Hat Trick walking over from the Stallion Barn.<br /> James takes the mare and twitches her up. Carl guides Hat Trick, Chico holds the tail, and it’s all over. <br /> Soon we have Moolakaya back in the trailer and headed home to her waiting foal. Maybe she’ll have another speedster !</div>
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</span></span>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-40464144322327267052013-03-21T09:59:00.002-04:002013-03-21T09:59:53.357-04:00Back to The Shed ~ Doing a Double / Spendthrift FirstDouble Header Part 1 ~ A Visit to Arch Arch Arch<br />
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Spendthrift March 19<br />
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Up before the chickens this morning, rolled onto Overbrook in the pitch dark, and loaded I’m A Goodlooker by the lights of the trailer, taking her away from her pretty chestnut foal. We snaked through the farm along the tree lined lanes, being careful to stay between the large landscaping rocks strategically placed to discoyurage drivers from getting on the grass. Traffic was sparse at this early morning hour, and we made it around Lexington and up Paris Pike in no time at all.<br />
Destination : Spendthrift Farm. Date for the day : ArchArchArch<br />
Bred similarly to Horse of the Year Blame, ArchArchArch is by, you guessed it , Claiborne stallion Arch, and out of a Woodman mare.(Woodman being by Mr. Prospector, so same cross as Blame ). Fast and courageous, ArchArchArch could lay off the pace and with a steady burst of speed, come from behind , which he did to win the G1 Arkansas Derby, with career earnings of $832,744.<br />
Purchased in 1937, Spendthrift Farm was named by Leslie Combs 11 for the great grandfather of Man O War, who was owned by Comb’s great grandfather,, Daniel Swigert, of Elmendorf Farm, just next door. Combs developed a vast stallion operation, at one time standing 26 stallions at Spendthrift. It was the first Thoroughbred farm to be publicly traded on the stock market, until the crash of the Thoroughbred industry in the early 80’s, which led to it’s demise, and it was sold and parceled out. Leslie Combs died in 1990, but left a legacy and history with Spendthrift that would be hard to emulate today.<br />
B. Wayne Hughes purchased the Spendthrift property in 2004, and with his team of Ken Wilkins, Ned Toffey and Des Dempsey, has turned Spendthrift around with a carefully managed Stallion Roster.<br />
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Dawn breaks over the trees, and more vans and trailers roll into the parking area. 10 mares are on the morning sheets, and I’m A Goodlooker is third in line. Drivers stand around the teasing and wash rack area, chatting about yesterdays storm. Coffee is brewing in the observation room, if anyone wants it. Wayne Howard , Breeding Shed Manager, cup of coffee in hand, calls for the first mare.<br />
As soon as my mare enters the shed, I slip around to snap photos of ArchArchArch as he walks from the new Stallion Barn. Behind me is the original horseshoe shaped stallion barn of Leslie Comb’s time, with the bronze of Nashua and groom Clem Brooks and the plaque for Raise A Native in the foreground, by the horse’s graves.<br />
In the tongue and groove paneled breeding shed, mostly covered in protective black foam padding, are still displayed the brass nameplates of Spendthrift racehorses, row upon row, since the 1960’s framed on the walls above the padding.<br />
A new addition to the comfortable observation room, is a computer screen displaying information on all Spendthrift’s current stallions, or if you are outwaiting a slow breeder in the shed, internet access . Yay !<br />
Soon I’m A Goodlooker is bred, and I whisk her back across town to her hungry baby, who waits by the stall door, but jumps back when the mare enters, uncertain if this is really his mother. One quick pull of the milkbar, and he decides she’ll do anyway.Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-88143509861884319402013-03-19T17:28:00.000-04:002013-03-19T17:28:49.700-04:00Back to The Shed ~ To First Defence at JuddmonteTag along with Lindsay and Kim to deliver a mare to First Defence at Juddmonte Farm.<br />
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Juddmonte 3/15/13<br />
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At the reasonable hour of 8 am I loaded the mare to drive just a few miles over to Walnut Hill Rd to picturesque Juddmonte Farm. My friend, Kim Ammeter, armed with the camera, met us in the parking area, intent of snapping a few great photos. The sun was topping the trees and the lighting was dramatic, sort of navy blue and gold.<br />
Juddmonte has three farms in Kentucky and is owned by Prince Khalid Abdullah of Saudi Arabia. Beginning with the purchase of 592 acres of the Bluegrass from the Belair estate in 1977, Juddmonte now spans 2508 acres in Kentucky. Winner of 10 Eclipse Awards, breeder of 65 starters in the Breeders Cup Championships who collectively topped earnings of $7.9 million dollars. Breeder of Frankel, now retired, who was undefeated in 14 races, a product of several generations of carefully selected Juddmonte breeding.<br />
Today the mare has come to the court of young stallion, First Defence, who has already made his mark siring the 2 year old runner, Dundonnell. First Defence is by Taylor Made’s big grey stallion , Unbridled Song, who stands just a few miles down the road, and out of Honest Lady by Seattle Slew, a Juddmonte family mare who is a half sister to Empire Maker, who Juddmonte recently sent to Japan.<br />
Cinnamon Charlie, a daughter of Indian Charlie out of a Cox’s Ridge mare, is a tall, dark mare built like her breeding would predict, a career earner of $65,000 and already the dam of winners. We unload, and she walks up the crushed red brick path to the red brick shed with wide curved mantles like the experienced mare she is.<br />
Longtime buddy, Steve Dotsey, Stallion Manager at Juddmonte, soon arrived with the teaser in hand and the show was set to roll. Another truck and trailer pulled in, from Brookledge , bringing an Airdrie mare to be bred to Mizzen Mast.<br />
The holding stalls are spacious and tall, freshly bedded with a thick mat of pine shavings. Steve’s breeding crew shows up,all donning their safety helmets and padded vests and the mare is quickly teased, washed and prepped. Kim and I stand on the wood deck just inside the breeding area,protected by a paneled wall. Kim has to be on tiptoe to look over the wall to get photos.<br />
First Defence, polished to a rich dark mahogany, saunters in to the shed, disappears into the wash stall and soon reappears, washed and ready to breed. Two jumps, and soon Cinnamon Charlie is happily back in the trailer heading back home.Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-42845680761710246732013-03-16T14:23:00.000-04:002013-03-16T14:23:37.683-04:00Back to The Shed ~ Almost Spring at Claiborne<br />
Guest blogger Lindsay Hunter takes a special mare to revisit War Front, and while we hope every made is successfully bred, we cross our fingers a little tighter for this one.<br />
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Sunshine, Daffodils & Claiborne 3.14.13<br />
<br />
For a change, the sun was shining brightly this March morning, and wrapped up against the chill, I set off for the barn in high spirits. Looked like a great day to get horses worked outside, even though the footing was just passable. Abby and I got chores done and five out before lunchtime rolled around.<br />
The elegant bay mare that I load for the trip to Paris is a return breeding from a few weeks ago. The dam of a Breeders Cup winner, earner of $652,000, her last foal came in 2008. She herself earned a half million dollars, and so a baby out of her could be worth a pretty penny at the sales, if she could get in foal just one more time. Her coat is short and slick, testament to the good care she is getting in order to accomplish that goal. She shows her age in the leanness of her face, but her good quality is immediately evident to the beholder.<br />
Date for today : A return trip to War Front, champion son of Danzig.<br />
Driving out between the stone fences of Paris Pike, just past the County Line between Fayette and Bourbon Counties, I fall in behind a Sallee van. This far down the pike, at this time of day, there is a good chance it ,too, is headed for Claiborne’s breeding shed. My powerful Ford Turbo diesel could easily pass the van, but, in respect of the unwritten van driver code of ethics, it would be infra dig to race by and beat him to the shed, so I just settle in tandem.<br />
Through the main thoroughfare into Paris, turning right at the Family Dollar’s big red sign, we cruise on out to the stone pillars and the wide tarmac entrance on the left in the curve. Across the narrow one lane bridge bordered by white poles, and into the shaded parking area. Behind the Sallee van, which backs up to the long low gravel dock, I pulled around and reverse carefully into the marked trailer parking. I am third in line.<br />
Soon there are more trucks and trailer coming down the long driveway. They back carefully into the spaces, while another van driver, first time to Claiborne, anxious runs to the shed with his mares’ papers, where John explains you get bred in the order in which you arrive.<br />
Egyptian geese peck in the grass lining the flowing creek, sun sparkling off the little ripples as it drops over the dam. More geese scull through the water at the edges, the swans are nowhere to be seen.<br />
A rustle of activity at the shed and John hollers out for the first mare to come on in.<br />
Jay Brunker from Halcyon Farm and Wayne Martin from Denali chat in the parking lot by their trailers, enjoying the sunshine.<br />
Claiborne’s routine has remained the same for decades. No fancy barns, no opulent entrance, a working farm dedicated to doing things the right way. And it has worked well, proven by the quality racehorses that have their roots at Claiborne, and by the internationally acclaimed stallion rosters that year after year attract mares from all over the world.<br />
Maybe the only things that change are a fresh coat of paint, sunflower yellow, and the personnel, who are often third generation Claiborne employees.<br />
My mare is unconcerned, going through the motions of teasing, prepping and breeding like she has many times before. War Front is quiet and professional, waiting til she is readied by the shed crew, and then breeding her in one smooth jump. She gets an extra dose of semen from the dismount sample, perhaps enough to insure that a pregnancy results this time.<br />
Back down Paris Pike, I’m forced to break hard behind a soccer mom in an electric car, who suddenly decides she can pull out of a side road and beat the trailer but then slows to a crawl. The bane of my driving existence. NNY is on her license plate, and I think “Yeah, she’s a ninny, alright “.<br />
It’s after hours at the farm, and I unload the mare back to her stall. The rest of the mares in her barn are quietly munching their hay, and she is glad to get to her dinner.<br />
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<br />Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-28102939292105683412013-03-15T09:56:00.001-04:002013-03-15T09:56:26.789-04:00Back to The Shed ~ Snow Flurry at Darley<br />
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Travel along with Lindsay Hunter as she makes another trip back to Darley, this time for a visit to Street Boss.<br />
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Snow Flurry at Darley 3.13.13<br />
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We’re starting to feel like spring is being kept from us. The daffodils bloom yellow in little pockets along Paris Pike, tucked into the bases of newly constructed stone walls, or sprouting between the cracks of the original Irish built sections in the median . It is midday, and as the sun gloomily struggles to peek through the clouds, big fluffy snowflakes swirl through the air.<br />
I’m off to Darley again, this time for the 1.30 pm breeding session. It has been researched and determined that the stallions’ semen volume and strength decreases by half on every subsequent breeding in the same 24 hour period. Most breeding farms like to give their stallions a four hour break between breedings, Darley has opted for six hours between sessions.<br />
Lots of traffic on New Circle Road, but as we exit onto Versailles Road and turn left onto Man O War, the cars thin out a bit. Turn right on Parkers Mill behind the Airport, and a tight left onto Bowman Mill between Mill Ridge Farm and Darley, swoop down the hill and over the narrow one lane dip, and we’re turning into the breeding shed entrance.<br />
Just four mares are on the afternoon sheet, are there is Joe, wrapped up warm in coveralls and woolly hat, topped off with the Darley blue jacket, coming to take the papers. All the mares are here, and my mare goes in stall #1, She is upset, pushy, leaving her first foal for the first time, and she paces the stall, letting the teaser know that she is on edge. He nibbles and licks, cajoling her gently into showing her readiness to be bred. A good teaser is indispensable, and worth his weight in gold. The veterinarian has declared it optimum time, but taking a mare away from home and her foal, can change her demeanor. Slowly she settles down, but the decision to have the teaser ‘jump’ her prior to breeding, is made by Joe.<br />
The teaser, muddy from a roll in the paddock, is already suited up for the job, and Joe takes him into the shed to test the mare’s reaction. She does fine, and they send for the stallion.<br />
Yesterday it was Street Cry I came to visit, today it is Street Boss, his fastest son.<br />
A chestnut, well made with a strong sloping shoulder and big length of hip, Street Boss saunters into the shed. I am up in the observation room, which with it’s heater running wide open ,is considerably warmer than down in the breeding area.. The two wide plate glass windows allow a view of the breeding. Street Boss is a little unsure of this fidgety mare, and they decide to give her a little tranquilizer to relax her. He sniffs her tail, still undecided.<br />
With encouragement from his handler, he agrees to breed the mare. It’s a little like “you can take a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink “, but Street Boss consents to play along, and the pretty chestnut mare is covered. An extra dose from the dismount sample, tail bandage removed, and we are headed for the trailer. Anxiously she loads up, perhaps realizing that I will whisk her home to her foal. Reunited back at the farm , the foal circles suspiciously to check that it really is her mother, and then latches on hungrily to the milk bar, frothy white milk dripping from her whiskery lips. The mare settles immediately, and drops her head to the hay.<br />
Pulling back onto Paris Pike, it is still blowing snow, and I look for the yellow daffodils that promise springs isn’t too many days ahead.Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-63768313843210400082013-03-14T15:53:00.000-04:002013-03-14T15:53:59.269-04:00Back to The Shed ~ Daybreak at Darley<br />
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On the way to the Breeding Shed with Guest Blogger Lindsay Hunter<br />
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Daybreak at Darley 3.12.13<br />
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With the time change, the Corgis and I were rolling out at 5am in the pitch dark to get to the farm to hitch to the trailer and be at the pick up destination by 6.30. The red and yellow clearance lights on the sides of gooseneck seemed like bright sparks in the dark, and the mare loaded easily when I flicked on the interior lighting. We set off for Darley, meeting very little traffic along the way, me and Garth Brooks pounding out “Ain’t Goin ’Down til the Sun Comes Up “ on the steering wheel.<br />
As I pulled up to the wrought iron gate with brass spires along the top, and watched it slowly open, I could see trailer lights pulling up over the rock lined drive to the breeding shed, so I knew I wasn’t first in line.<br />
The mare in the trailer was a maiden, going to be bred for the first time, She stood quiet and well behaved, ready for her date with Street Cry. Stud fee : $150,000.<br />
Sitting in the big parking apron, I had a good view of the Darley acres in two directions. One by one I watched the stall lights flick on in the barns over toward Military Pike. Head lights and tail lights wove their way along tentacles of blacktop that linked the barns to the main areas . People came and went, day crew arriving to set the day’s routine in motion, night watchmen heading home after a long shift foaling mares or checking on their precious charges.<br />
Soon the breeding shed came alive too, and more vans slowly rolled over the hill, carrying mares ready to be bred.<br />
Joe, with his usual cheerful greeting, collected envelopes containing the required shed forms, clean culture slips and any pertinent instructions for each mare. He tells me to bring the mare to holding stall # 2, and she unloads quietly, with all the class and composure of a good mare twice her age.<br />
Street Cry by European sire Machiavellian and out of Helen Street (GB) is the sire of the incomparable Zenyatta, whose earnings of over $7 million dollars in 19 wins, defeated only in her last start, making her a household name and crowd favorite with her own fan club. Street Cry has sired 13 G1 winners, including Street Sense, (winner of $4,383,200 ) Shocking ($3,953,726 ) , Street Boss, Desert Party, and numerous others.<br />
No stranger to the winner’s circle, Street Cry won the Dubai World Cup, and the Stephen Foster Handicap, with a 3 rd in the Breeder’s Cup Juvenile at two. Now he also shuttles to Australia for the Southern Hemisphere breeding season.<br />
The mare is just as sensible in the wash stocks and lets Joe wrap her tail in the flesh colored gauze bandage favored in the breeding sheds. On into the shed, and Phillip takes charge, carefully positioning her as Street Cry walks down from the closest stallion barn. Four men are positioned around her, one on the head, one on the tail, two ready to steady the stallion if needed. Darley’s vet hovers close by, ready to take the dismount (semen ) sample in a little white cup and read it under the microscope<br />
By now it is daylight and an early morning chill pervades the waiting area, the rubber lined floor wet from a fresh disinfecting spray. Soon the big doors slide apart and the mare is handed off to me and we make our way out into the cold sunshine and load back in the trailer.<br />
As I drive back along Man O War Blvd, now humming with rush hour commuters, I wonder if we have just created another champion runner ?Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6883305680460329957.post-35220228198450405062013-03-11T15:52:00.000-04:002013-03-11T15:52:23.973-04:00Back to The Shed ~ A Visit with Mineshaft and a Look Back with Lindsay<br />
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Guest Blogger Lindsay Hunter delivers a mare to Mineshaft and recalls how she developed "horse fever"<br />
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Lanes End Lately & Bitten by the Bug 3/ 4/13<br />
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Athough the breeding season is yet young, most of the busier sheds have been holding evening breeding sessions, and Lanes End is no exception. But tonight there are just two mares to be bred, and I thought if I arrived just a little earlier that the 7 pm appointment, my chances of being first in line and getting the mare bred early were greatly increased.. I knew I was in luck when the night security opened the Stallion Entrance gate from his golf cart, and I cruised along the curving road and into the deserted parking area. Backed the Featherlite into my favorite spot by the ramp, and set off to find out what was happening in the shed.<br />
David, suited up in his khaki coveralls and protective veterinary sterile gloves, met me in the aisle way, as John was off for the evening, and said I could bring in the mare.<br />
The mare in question was returning for a rebreed, having not ovulated her follicle that she was bred on a few days earlier. At this time of year, with fluctuating temperatures and erratic teasing cycles, it’s not unusual to have a mare that you thought was just right for breeding, and the vet doesn’t want to delay any longer based on what he’s feeling on her ovaries, to hold the follicle and not ovulate as expected. As busy as the popular stallions are, sometimes you can get her back to the stallion, sometimes not.<br />
But today she was lucky and Mineshaft was available.<br />
The buckskin teaser reaching his head through the hatch to ‘talk’ to her caught her unawares, and she snorted in surprise, flaring her big nostrils and tossing her head. But she soon came around to his way of thinking, and David had me bring her to the wash stocks.<br />
Tail wrapped and squeaky clean, Asa came to take her to the breeding area. Lanes End’s breeding crew now wears green protective vests and safety approved helmets, just like riders do, in case of a glancing blow from a hoof or a sudden swing of a head. Two plunging horses can be hazardous to life and limb, and working the breeding sheds, dealing with unfamiliar mares that might not respond as predicted, is every bit as challenging as being on the back of a racehorse.<br />
Mineshaft minced along the red rubber brick pathway from the stallion barn, well in hand but eager to breed his evening mare. Neck arching, dark coat gleaming from much grooming and polishing, he was quite a sight to see. The crew set the mare up quickly, protective leather pad on her neck to afford the stallion a place to grab onto while straddling the mare, puffy leather boots on her hind feet , to protect him in the event of a well aimed kick from a cantankerous mare.<br />
But she was ready for breeding and well behaved, and within no time I was headed out the doors and walking the crushed brick path back to the loading ramp.<br />
On the drive home from Midway, I reflected on how I, a suburban -raised girl, from Cape Town, South Africa, could have a job with advantages that many horse crazy kids only dream about - visiting these world class stallions at some of the worlds’ most prestigious Thoroughbred breeding farms in the Horse Capital of the World.<br />
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Bitten by the Bug<br />
I did not come from a ’horsey ’ family. I have photos of both my parents riding horses, but they were by no stretch of the imagination ’horse people “.<br />
I think I must have gotten bit by the ’horse bug ’ on a visit to friends whose daughter, Carol, had a horse . I was quite little, but from then on, I was fascinated by horses. I drew pictures, I read horse stories and books about horses. I hung out at the beach with the beach ponies, offering to lead or brush or whatever I could, in the hope that maybe the old man in charge would let me crawl up in the saddle and see the world from a different perspective, salty mane blowing in my face.<br />
For both my eighth and ninth birthdays, I spent two glorious weeks visiting family friends who had a riding stable, who fox hunted , played polo, and had grown children that evented. I was assigned a pony for my stay and given the opportunity to indulge all my horse related dreams, taking part in lessons, trail rides through the country, tagging along at horse shows, and burying my nose deep in the horse’s neck, inhaling that unique aroma peculiar to horses. If I was bitten by a bug, it had now become a full blown case of horse addictiveness. I’ve never recovered.<br />
Riding lessons, Pony Club, riding Thoroughbreds in bush track races, learning to show at area shows, jumping, dressage, moving on to saddle seat and Five Gaited Saddlebreds. I couldn’t get enough.<br />
My parents were supportive, but not involved, and I jumped at the opportunity to ride other peoples horses, since I couldn’t have my own. I rode a lot of horses, from school ponies to high priced show horses, and I learned a great deal from them all.<br />
For many years I rode a wonderful palomino Arabian stallion, and competed as a Hunter, and as an Arabian, with my favorite class being the Farm Horse Class. Gaeton Gold, brilliant golden coat with pure white mane and tail, was frequently called for the red ribbon (for first place in SA ) after demonstrating his ability to stand ground tied while I walked a circle around him cracking a stock whip, weaved him through poles at the canter, cracking the whip on each side, and stopping to gather up a lamb, riding one handed and manouvering through obstacles. It was fun, and we were good at it !<br />
I set my sights on getting a job in the States and working for a top Saddlebred trainer that would take me on. Along the way, I earned my British Horse Society Instructors Certificate in England at the Moat House Academy in Kent, where Princess Anne had been a pupil also.<br />
Stepping off the plane in Kentucky on the first day of the State Fair and the World Championship Horse Show (for Saddlebreds ) a suitcase in either hand , I knew this was where I was meant to be, although it was a little scary at the time.<br />
Although I just planned to stay for one year, a series of events soon changed that, and now forty years later, I’m still here. But that’s a story for another day.Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13579834663084220823noreply@blogger.com0