Here we are on the eve of the greatest gift giving day on the calendar. A day where it is said, it is better to give than to receive.
That being said, I would like to share with my readers my very own list of gifts to the horse racing community.
Appropriately, I start with,
SANTA ANITA - I give a 2010-2011 season of immeasurable success.
Traditionally the start of the racing calendar in California, the day after Christmas will see Santa Anita begin it's 74th racing season. This meeting will most certainly attract as much attention, if not more, than any of it's other 73.
This year Santa Anita will usher in a new/old surface. They will race on a traditional dirt track for the first time in three years following a "spotty" trial with a synthetic main surface. In doing so, the eyes of the racing world will be on the Arcadia track to see if it can return even partially to it's former glory. Here's hoping it will!
To The CALIFORNIA HORSE RACING BOARD - I give improved, and state of the art testing facilities that most certainly will be overworked this winter.
"Super Trainer" Steve Asmussen recently announced his intentions to bring thirty horses to race at Santa Anita this winter.
This is in addition to the So. Cal. mainstays Doug O'neill, Mike Mitchell, and John Sadler who regularly push the CHRB to the limits. These trainers have somehow gained all the power, and have the upper hand when it comes to staying one step ahead of the spineless CHRB policing tactics.
To the HORSE RACING INDUSTRY itself - I give two gifts. (After all, it's a big industry). First, I give a united governing body.
North American horse racing is in desperate need of organization, and leadership! For too long, there's been a mentality of reaping without sowing. Each year the harvest is getting leaner, and leaner because of it, and this mindset MUST stop before the sport implodes on itself like a black hole.
Impossible as it may seem, the only way I see racing getting back to where it needs to be, is by having a strong, trustworthy individual from within the sport rise up, and get the industry to follow.
In organizing, the industry can attain mass appeal by showcasing a more superior product instead of the watered down, mediocre product that is currently being displayed.
Second, I give racing a Triple Crown winner. Thirty two years is more than enough time to wait, and a TC winner would give racing a "shot in the arm" it so desperately needs.
To the European racing dynasty that is COOLMORE - I give a top stable jockey to replace Johnny Murtagh.
For years, The Coolmore racing conglomerate headed by MESSRS. John Magnier, and Michael Tabor has dominated the European racing scene. Along with their North American presence, they have become arguably the most powerful racing team in the world. Challenged only by the Dubai based Godolphin organization.
Their recent division with Johnny Murtagh leaves one of the top jobs in the industry up for grabs. Names like Ryan Moore, Christophe Soumillon, and Pat Smullen have been bantered about. All fitting of an organization of their stature.
To jockey DANIEL SANDOVAL - I give recognition and success.
A name most racing fans will be unfamiliar with is that of rider Daniel Sandoval. Unheralded, and vastly underrated, my hope is that by this time next year, he will become a rising star in the world of racing.
He is currently based at Los Alamitos Race Course in California. While riding a handful of thoroughbred, and quarter horse races a night, he has quickly impressed me with his ability. He looks well balanced, and multifaceted in his race riding.
As time goes by, he is starting to receive mounts at the "big" meetings in So. Cal. Even though the So. Cal. circuit is often a graveyard for even the most talented riders, the arduous task of riding against some of the best in the world can sometimes benefit a talented rider. Assisting in the honing of his craft.
And finally, last but definitely not least. To my girl. BIG Z! The one and only ZENYATTA - I give a happy, successful retirement. With a happy life of motherhood..........oh yeah, and a Horse Of The Year trophy.
I know some may feel she doesn't deserve it this year. I know the arguments for both sides. I can honestly say I'm not sure if she deserves it this year or not. My heart wont allow me to ponder that argument. The one certainty is that it would be a far bigger injustice for her to have never won a HOY, than for Blame to be denied this year's trophy.
To all my readers I wish a very merry Christmas, and prosperous new year. Let us all remember why we celebrate this time of year, and the glorious birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
God bless you all, and see you in 2011
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
Euphoria To Devastation Quicker Than A Zenyatta Flash
Many of my "Quarter Pole" followers have asked why I waited a full month before updating my blog.
Well, after much persuasion, and a full month has past, I am prepared to share the devastating, and sometimes comical reason why.
I offer you a video of my family and I, as we watch The Great Zenyatta suffer her first, and only defeat in this year's Breeders' Cup Classic.
Enjoy!
Well, after much persuasion, and a full month has past, I am prepared to share the devastating, and sometimes comical reason why.
I offer you a video of my family and I, as we watch The Great Zenyatta suffer her first, and only defeat in this year's Breeders' Cup Classic.
Enjoy!
Sunday, December 5, 2010
The Rules Of The Game
I was up late tonight reading up on the latest information in the world of horse racing. I was routinely browsing my favorites, DRF.com, Equidaily.com, etc., and I came across a story that both puzzled, and angered me.
It was a link on Equidaily that originated from the New York Post website. The link was entitled "appeal abuse".
Surely, most of my readers are quite aware of my necessity to click such a link. The current state of "system abuse", and further lack of responsibility by the human elements of racing, are a common topic of the "Quarter Pole".
The story was a two paragraph story within a full column/blog about the New York racing scene. The paragraphs centered around New York Jockey Maylan Studart. Studart, being a "journey-woman" for less than a year, with moderate success, was suspended fifteen days for an incident that took place in late spring. A suspension she successfully delayed until this winter.
When first reading the story, I was taken back at the length of the suspension. I wondered how odd it was that I hadn't even heard about an incident that, given the penalty, must have concluded with multiple injuries, or deaths. Thankfully, not so!
While reviewing the race in question, I witnessed a rider make an extremely careless, yet strategic action, that was a catalyst to her 41-1 long shot winning the race. Not unlike the example I address further down.
I have no issue with the length of the suspension. As most of you already know, I'm a "hang-'em" type of guy. The more we hold the humans of our sport accountable for their actions, the better it will be.
I just wonder where all those apologists are now. You know, the ones who are always in the streets crying, and clamoring for justice whenever any rider receives a three to five day suspension. Other than this column, half a year later, I haven't seen one single dot of information about this story. I certainly haven't seen anyone come to her defense with the vigor and hyperbole allowed to other riders. Who can forget the apocalyptic reaction to Paco Lopez's five day suspension during the Monmouth summer meet. To hear him, and his lawyer speak, you would have thought the moon would have descended into the seas, and the sun would burn to the Earth's core if P.L. would have had to serve his suspension when it was handed to him this summer.
Unfortunately, the apparent double standard given to jockeys isn't even the most disturbing issue arising from this incident. All too often, the horse's number is allowed to "stay up", and the stewards will deal with penalizing the jockey, at a later date.
In doing so, it badly disrupts the integrity of the whole parimutuel model. By allowing a horse to keep their placing, it's basically allowing the rider to do whatever is necessary to win a race. From a parimutuel, and purse standpoint, the owner, trainer, and jockey loses nothing.
A perfect example was this year's Cinderella stakes at Hollywood Park. Rafael Bejarano rode the 3/5 favorite She'll Heir. While racing along the rail most of the way, he found himself trapped at the head of the lane, and would have had a difficult time finding room in time to win. Instead, he made a very aggressive, and dangerous move to force his way out into a tiring horse, causing that horse to take up dramatically, and lose any chance she had at a better placing. Quite similar to the action taken by Miss Studart.
In doing so, he received a suspension (only five days), but the horse was allowed to "stay up". The owner, trainer, and jockey were all allowed to keep their purse, and parimutuel winnings. I'm sure that in the minds of the stewards, the horse he interfered with would have finished well beaten either way. Maybe so, but by separating a rider's actions and a horse's placing, it tears at the integrity of the game, and perhaps even larger, it becomes a safety issue for the horses that can never be tolerated.
Every horse player knows about poor trips, and racing luck, and have come to live with it. That's just part of the sport. Sometimes your horse is much the best, but doesn't get the trip. Other times, you beat a horse that was much the best, but had a horrendous trip. It may not seem true sometimes, but it usually evens out. It's one of the many things that makes this game so challenging, and provocative to us.
As long as the rules are the same for everyone, we feel protected. Once it starts turning into a wild west rodeo, and riders from a parimutuel standpoint are able to use any strategic means necessary to win, we begin to lose that trust. We can never allow the rules of racing to become so blurred that the public no longer feels protected.
In this instance it was an eighty one thousand dollar stake race. What if it happens in a million dollar race? What does a rider have to lose? He makes room by forcing his way out into a tiring horse and wins. The stewards set him down for five days. Does it really matter at that point? He's already collected his hundred grand from the purse. Five days off for a million dollar race? For most jockeys, I believe it would be more than a fair trade off.
(I've included a video of the Cinderella Stakes, and you can go to calracing.com and search race replays for the horse "Auric Girl", or you can find race 6 from Belmont Park on May 31st through another replay website to see the race.)
It was a link on Equidaily that originated from the New York Post website. The link was entitled "appeal abuse".
Surely, most of my readers are quite aware of my necessity to click such a link. The current state of "system abuse", and further lack of responsibility by the human elements of racing, are a common topic of the "Quarter Pole".
The story was a two paragraph story within a full column/blog about the New York racing scene. The paragraphs centered around New York Jockey Maylan Studart. Studart, being a "journey-woman" for less than a year, with moderate success, was suspended fifteen days for an incident that took place in late spring. A suspension she successfully delayed until this winter.
When first reading the story, I was taken back at the length of the suspension. I wondered how odd it was that I hadn't even heard about an incident that, given the penalty, must have concluded with multiple injuries, or deaths. Thankfully, not so!
While reviewing the race in question, I witnessed a rider make an extremely careless, yet strategic action, that was a catalyst to her 41-1 long shot winning the race. Not unlike the example I address further down.
I have no issue with the length of the suspension. As most of you already know, I'm a "hang-'em" type of guy. The more we hold the humans of our sport accountable for their actions, the better it will be.
I just wonder where all those apologists are now. You know, the ones who are always in the streets crying, and clamoring for justice whenever any rider receives a three to five day suspension. Other than this column, half a year later, I haven't seen one single dot of information about this story. I certainly haven't seen anyone come to her defense with the vigor and hyperbole allowed to other riders. Who can forget the apocalyptic reaction to Paco Lopez's five day suspension during the Monmouth summer meet. To hear him, and his lawyer speak, you would have thought the moon would have descended into the seas, and the sun would burn to the Earth's core if P.L. would have had to serve his suspension when it was handed to him this summer.
Unfortunately, the apparent double standard given to jockeys isn't even the most disturbing issue arising from this incident. All too often, the horse's number is allowed to "stay up", and the stewards will deal with penalizing the jockey, at a later date.
In doing so, it badly disrupts the integrity of the whole parimutuel model. By allowing a horse to keep their placing, it's basically allowing the rider to do whatever is necessary to win a race. From a parimutuel, and purse standpoint, the owner, trainer, and jockey loses nothing.
A perfect example was this year's Cinderella stakes at Hollywood Park. Rafael Bejarano rode the 3/5 favorite She'll Heir. While racing along the rail most of the way, he found himself trapped at the head of the lane, and would have had a difficult time finding room in time to win. Instead, he made a very aggressive, and dangerous move to force his way out into a tiring horse, causing that horse to take up dramatically, and lose any chance she had at a better placing. Quite similar to the action taken by Miss Studart.
In doing so, he received a suspension (only five days), but the horse was allowed to "stay up". The owner, trainer, and jockey were all allowed to keep their purse, and parimutuel winnings. I'm sure that in the minds of the stewards, the horse he interfered with would have finished well beaten either way. Maybe so, but by separating a rider's actions and a horse's placing, it tears at the integrity of the game, and perhaps even larger, it becomes a safety issue for the horses that can never be tolerated.
Every horse player knows about poor trips, and racing luck, and have come to live with it. That's just part of the sport. Sometimes your horse is much the best, but doesn't get the trip. Other times, you beat a horse that was much the best, but had a horrendous trip. It may not seem true sometimes, but it usually evens out. It's one of the many things that makes this game so challenging, and provocative to us.
As long as the rules are the same for everyone, we feel protected. Once it starts turning into a wild west rodeo, and riders from a parimutuel standpoint are able to use any strategic means necessary to win, we begin to lose that trust. We can never allow the rules of racing to become so blurred that the public no longer feels protected.
In this instance it was an eighty one thousand dollar stake race. What if it happens in a million dollar race? What does a rider have to lose? He makes room by forcing his way out into a tiring horse and wins. The stewards set him down for five days. Does it really matter at that point? He's already collected his hundred grand from the purse. Five days off for a million dollar race? For most jockeys, I believe it would be more than a fair trade off.
(I've included a video of the Cinderella Stakes, and you can go to calracing.com and search race replays for the horse "Auric Girl", or you can find race 6 from Belmont Park on May 31st through another replay website to see the race.)
Friday, November 5, 2010
Maybe This Is Why We Shouldn't Be On T.V.
I'm writing my newest blog just minutes after day one of Breeders' Cup 27.
I just finished watching the ever present Unrivaled Belle turn in an electrifying performance to win the Ladies Classic. The BC Ladies Classic run under the lights for the first time, had Unrivaled Belle withstanding a customary furious onslaught by Blind Luck to win, and put a comma on the two day Breeders' Cup program.
This two day BC program has substantial meaning for a sport that for all too long, has been unable to get out of it's own way when it comes to self promoting, and public impressions. Something that had all the makings of rectifying itself this time around.
Everything seemed to be in place.
Riding the cresting wave of it's transcending super-star Zenyatta's profile on 60 Minutes, the one American mainstay of the television landscape, racing finally was receiving the kind of GOOD publicity that rarely comes to a sport starving for popularity.
Day one should have been a starting point to something really special. The "appetizer", just to wet people's appetites, building momentum for the new ambassador of racing to "strut" her stuff in the BC Classic.
Everything was in place. Nothing could damage the path racing was on. To the untrained eye, it may have looked as if there was actually a proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. Unfortunately, the train never stops on this track.
Before the first Breeders' Cup race went official, ESPN was televising a full fledged WWE event with the usually gentlemanly jockeys Calvin Borel, and Javier Castellano shouting, shoving and wrestling with each other in the winner's circle. Borel taking Castellano to task for crossing over into his horse, and another's path, narrowly avoiding a catastrophe much worse than a few bruised faces, and egos.
Admittedly, having the knowledge of the sport, and knowing the competitiveness of the jocks, I was quite amused at the display of emotion. Even from the patriarchal borel.
Still, not a good way to portray the sport on it's biggest days.
Perhaps the only thing worse for public display would be an incident with the welfare of one of the horses. Something for the clamoring minority that can't wait to discredit the sport on the grounds of animal cruelty, or dirty, behind the scenes compromising of the betting public. Surely we would avoid that anomaly this year of all years.......right?
Well, the final race of the day, the Ladies Classic brought us something that surprised, and outraged even me. One of the sports ever diminishing, deeply rooted fan base.
During ESPN's telecast, ex-jockey Jerry Bailey had a "post parade" interview with John Velazquez aboard second wagering choice Life At Ten. John was asked how his horse was "warming up" for the race. To that, John's response was less than encouraging. Saying his horse was not warming up very well, and she was having a hard time "getting into it". All indications were that something seemed "off" with Life At Ten. This was broadcast to the public for everyone to hear.
A later interview with trainer Todd Pletcher confirmed that according to Pletcher, "she wasn't the same in the saddling area". She was very quiet and listless. Now I don't claim to be a vet, but I can assure you, if two of the top people in the sport question the readiness of their horse, something needs to be done to protect the horse, the public, and public perception.
There is absolutely NO WAY that horse should have run!
At the very least, it's a terrible way to portray a sport that's constantly trying to rise above critiques about the lack of diligence given to the horses' well being. Not to mention the real possibility of something catastrophically happening to the horse. Still another reason, regardless of the perception, in this instance, there absolutely was a responsibility to the betting public to protect them. Something that inexcusably was disregarded.
To John Velazquez's credit, he never persevered with Life At Ten. Right out of the gate, it was clear she was not going to run today, and he never asked her to. A result not surprising to anyone who listened to the pre-race interviews.
Someone needs to be held responsible for this debacle. Should John V. have been more persuasive with the vet, and asked him to scratch her? To my knowledge, there was only a cursory look at the horse, if at all. It's unclear how much information was truely shared with all the parties involved. Even the broadcast had conflicting stories as to what the stewards, the vet, and the rider had said to each other.
This whole incident goes to the core of the sport's most detrimental issues.
Did the magnitude of the race have anything to do with it? How about the irony of Todd Pletcher having his charge Quality Road being scratched at the gate in last year's BC Classic?
Luckily, Life At Ten appeared unharmed, and should be able to rebound from whatever seems to be bothering her. Unfortunately, the decency, and integrity of the sport I love continues to damage it's own reputation every chance it gets. That's something that never seems to change.
Regardless of how "unbelievable" Zenyatta's run in the Classic is this year, this time I'm afraid she's been given too much to do. She's finally met an opponent she can't beat. Her sport itself!
I just finished watching the ever present Unrivaled Belle turn in an electrifying performance to win the Ladies Classic. The BC Ladies Classic run under the lights for the first time, had Unrivaled Belle withstanding a customary furious onslaught by Blind Luck to win, and put a comma on the two day Breeders' Cup program.
This two day BC program has substantial meaning for a sport that for all too long, has been unable to get out of it's own way when it comes to self promoting, and public impressions. Something that had all the makings of rectifying itself this time around.
Everything seemed to be in place.
Riding the cresting wave of it's transcending super-star Zenyatta's profile on 60 Minutes, the one American mainstay of the television landscape, racing finally was receiving the kind of GOOD publicity that rarely comes to a sport starving for popularity.
Day one should have been a starting point to something really special. The "appetizer", just to wet people's appetites, building momentum for the new ambassador of racing to "strut" her stuff in the BC Classic.
Everything was in place. Nothing could damage the path racing was on. To the untrained eye, it may have looked as if there was actually a proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. Unfortunately, the train never stops on this track.
Before the first Breeders' Cup race went official, ESPN was televising a full fledged WWE event with the usually gentlemanly jockeys Calvin Borel, and Javier Castellano shouting, shoving and wrestling with each other in the winner's circle. Borel taking Castellano to task for crossing over into his horse, and another's path, narrowly avoiding a catastrophe much worse than a few bruised faces, and egos.
Admittedly, having the knowledge of the sport, and knowing the competitiveness of the jocks, I was quite amused at the display of emotion. Even from the patriarchal borel.
Still, not a good way to portray the sport on it's biggest days.
Perhaps the only thing worse for public display would be an incident with the welfare of one of the horses. Something for the clamoring minority that can't wait to discredit the sport on the grounds of animal cruelty, or dirty, behind the scenes compromising of the betting public. Surely we would avoid that anomaly this year of all years.......right?
Well, the final race of the day, the Ladies Classic brought us something that surprised, and outraged even me. One of the sports ever diminishing, deeply rooted fan base.
During ESPN's telecast, ex-jockey Jerry Bailey had a "post parade" interview with John Velazquez aboard second wagering choice Life At Ten. John was asked how his horse was "warming up" for the race. To that, John's response was less than encouraging. Saying his horse was not warming up very well, and she was having a hard time "getting into it". All indications were that something seemed "off" with Life At Ten. This was broadcast to the public for everyone to hear.
A later interview with trainer Todd Pletcher confirmed that according to Pletcher, "she wasn't the same in the saddling area". She was very quiet and listless. Now I don't claim to be a vet, but I can assure you, if two of the top people in the sport question the readiness of their horse, something needs to be done to protect the horse, the public, and public perception.
There is absolutely NO WAY that horse should have run!
At the very least, it's a terrible way to portray a sport that's constantly trying to rise above critiques about the lack of diligence given to the horses' well being. Not to mention the real possibility of something catastrophically happening to the horse. Still another reason, regardless of the perception, in this instance, there absolutely was a responsibility to the betting public to protect them. Something that inexcusably was disregarded.
To John Velazquez's credit, he never persevered with Life At Ten. Right out of the gate, it was clear she was not going to run today, and he never asked her to. A result not surprising to anyone who listened to the pre-race interviews.
Someone needs to be held responsible for this debacle. Should John V. have been more persuasive with the vet, and asked him to scratch her? To my knowledge, there was only a cursory look at the horse, if at all. It's unclear how much information was truely shared with all the parties involved. Even the broadcast had conflicting stories as to what the stewards, the vet, and the rider had said to each other.
This whole incident goes to the core of the sport's most detrimental issues.
Did the magnitude of the race have anything to do with it? How about the irony of Todd Pletcher having his charge Quality Road being scratched at the gate in last year's BC Classic?
Luckily, Life At Ten appeared unharmed, and should be able to rebound from whatever seems to be bothering her. Unfortunately, the decency, and integrity of the sport I love continues to damage it's own reputation every chance it gets. That's something that never seems to change.
Regardless of how "unbelievable" Zenyatta's run in the Classic is this year, this time I'm afraid she's been given too much to do. She's finally met an opponent she can't beat. Her sport itself!
Saturday, October 23, 2010
20 And Done, Means No. 1
We are now just two weeks shy from one the most significant races in American racing history. November 6th's Breeders' Cup Classic will mark the final run in the still unblemished racing career of the legendary Zenyatta.
Already the winner of nineteen races in as many starts, Big Z will be looking to win her third consecutive Breeders' Cup race by adding her second BC Classic to her lofty resume. In doing so, she will solidify her standing as the best horse in racing history.
The fact that so much of Zenyatta's legacy lies on one race, is quite astounding, if not a little unfair.
As last year's Horse Of The Year farce proved, Zenyatta is still trying to validate her greatness to the "non-believers" in the racing world. Those made up primarily of east coast lobbyists who refuse to acknowledge the significance of her accomplishments.
Constantly trumping up negative arguments that are usually based on insignificant, if not untruthful details, their disapproval can range from when she runs, where she runs, and even what she runs on.
Don't get me wrong, by nature, horse racing is a subjective sport. Without it, where would it be? Our whole parimutuel system is based on the theory of "my horse will beat yours". Knowing that, I'm quite certain half of my readers will disagree with my assertion of Zenyatta being the greatest ever. You know what they say about opinions.........well here's mine.
To me, the two hardest things in racing are to watch a female rider ride a horse I've wagered on, and the other is trying to compare horses from different eras. The former, is something I'll never be comfortable with. The latter, I'll take a stab at.
The first thing I like to focus on when comparing horses from different eras, is were they easily the best of their generation?
If Zenyatta wins the BC, she will have won the richest, and most prestigious "Handicap" race in North America, two years straight. The quality, and depth of this year's running, (Lookin At Lucky, Blame, Quality Road, and others) should easily make this one of the top five Classics ever run. This, along with the longstanding dominance she's had over her division, puts her at the top of her generation.
The next thing would be the longevity, and stature of her career. Has she been at the top of her division over a long period of time? A winner of twelve grade 1, and four grade 2 races against her division, she has won the highly prestigious Apple Blossom Stakes twice, and the Breeders' Cup Ladies Classic once. Two of the biggest races on the racing calendar for distaffers.
The final, and most definitive accomplishment would be Big Z's impeccable resume itself. Twenty races without a loss! No horse has ever been able to finish a career with as many wins in as many races. All but two being grade 2 or better.
The fact that no horse has been able to win as many races in a career without losing should not be taken lightly. Even the likes of Secretariat, Spectacular Bid, Man O' War, and Citation, names that continually come to the forefront of a "greatest" discussion, lost multiple races. To get a horse to run at graded stakes level for eighteen straight, and not get beat, is mind boggling. That's the intangible that solidifies my opinion on Zenyatta.
Unfortunately, without a win in this year's Classic, she will go out as a great female race horse, but not one of the greatest ever. Detractors will continually make their favorite, erroneous argument that "she can't run on a "conventional" dirt surface". Even though, two of her most dominant races have come on the Oaklawn "conventional" surface during her Apple Blossom triumphs. A FACT they refuse to be bothered with.
My argument is based on a win by Zenyatta on the first Saturday in November. Even with a loss I think she's done enough to be considered one of the best. Unfortunately, I suspect there's more than a few people that need to be "convinced" by another win before they allow themselves to believe the same. Because of that, this one start becomes considerably more important than any of her nineteen others, combined.
Without a twentieth win, her uncertain place in racing history will include 19 wins in 20 races, 2 Breeders' Cup wins, 13 grade 1 wins, 4 grade 2 wins, $6.4 million in earnings, more than $300,000 per start over a three year racing career, 3 perfect seasons, and 0 Horse Of The Year trophies.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
What A Career, What A Shame
-Racing lost another champion this week. Although this time, we were fortunate enough to lose our champion to retirement.
In a Tuesday afternoon news release, owner Jess Jackson announced that his champion filly Rachel Alexandra, would be retired to a "less stressful life", and become a broodmare. Jackson also announced his intention to breed Rachel to his two time Horse Of The Year champion Curlin.
Rachel Alexandra retires winning thirteen of nineteen starts, and over three point five million dollars in earnings.
To me, the crowning achievement in her illustrious career will be the way she dismantled the 2009 Kentucky Oaks field. Her twenty length win will forever be etched in my mind as one of the most dominating racing performances I've ever had the pleasure of witnessing. We may have to go back thirty six years, back to "Big Red's" thirty one length Belmont effort, to see anything better.
Her other notable wins included wins against males in the Preakness, Haskell, and Woodward stakes. The latter considered by most to be the linchpin of her 2009 campaign, and subsequent Horse Of The Year honor.
Rachel's legacy in the racing world will stretch far beyond her prestigious wins on the race track. She will forever be remembered for her role in the well discussed, and often heated debate between Zenyatta and Rachel supporters. Racing's version of the "civil war". This time the demarcation wouldn't be along the Mason Dixon, but east, west somewhere along the Mississippi.
For the latter half of 2009, you couldn't talk about Rachel without mentioning the champion race mare Zenyatta. Nor could you avoid the question "who's better, Rachel or Zenyatta?" Being a Zenyatta supporter, I too found myself in the unenviable position of arguing against Rachel. A top class filly that is deserving of most accolades. Except Horse Of The Year!
Like others, I was holding out hope that the "great debate" would finally be decided on the race track where it should have been. At the year end championship of racing, the Breeders' Cup.
The summer and fall racing season could have been fraught with anticipation, as the impending match up of the two heavy hitting distaffers loomed on the horizon. Unfortunately, in a moment that may have changed racing history, Jess Jackson was able to purchase R.A. after the Kentucky Oaks for an undisclosed amount (reportedly in excess of ten million dollars), and the Breeders' Cup would not be in Rachel's future.
Supposedly being an outspoken opponent of synthetic racing surfaces, Jess Jackson made the decision not to bring Rachel to Santa Anita for the Breeders' Cup. A decision that was met with much dismay by some, but with much skepticism by me. The potential of defeat was too great for him to bring her out. His ego was still aching from his champion horse Curlin's disappointing fourth place finish in the previous Breeders' Cup Classic.
Unfortunately he was allowed to conspicuously "hide" from racing's championship day, and still garner a HOY trophy for his filly.
Zenyatta went on to make history in the Breeders' Cup Classic. Winning with her usual, electrifying stretch run, she made history by becoming the first female Classic winner in the twenty six year history.
Rachel's place among the greatest in racing is yet to be seen. She most definitely had one of the most memorable campaigns we've seen. Winning the Kentucky Oaks by twenty lengths, Belmont's Mother Goose by nineteen, and three grade 1 classics against the boys. What a career!
What a shame to think that possibly the two best fillies of our generation will forever be linked without ever lining up against each other. The legacy of Rachel Alexandra as well as racing's history books have forever been influenced by a billionaire's ego.
In a Tuesday afternoon news release, owner Jess Jackson announced that his champion filly Rachel Alexandra, would be retired to a "less stressful life", and become a broodmare. Jackson also announced his intention to breed Rachel to his two time Horse Of The Year champion Curlin.
Rachel Alexandra retires winning thirteen of nineteen starts, and over three point five million dollars in earnings.
To me, the crowning achievement in her illustrious career will be the way she dismantled the 2009 Kentucky Oaks field. Her twenty length win will forever be etched in my mind as one of the most dominating racing performances I've ever had the pleasure of witnessing. We may have to go back thirty six years, back to "Big Red's" thirty one length Belmont effort, to see anything better.
Her other notable wins included wins against males in the Preakness, Haskell, and Woodward stakes. The latter considered by most to be the linchpin of her 2009 campaign, and subsequent Horse Of The Year honor.
Rachel's legacy in the racing world will stretch far beyond her prestigious wins on the race track. She will forever be remembered for her role in the well discussed, and often heated debate between Zenyatta and Rachel supporters. Racing's version of the "civil war". This time the demarcation wouldn't be along the Mason Dixon, but east, west somewhere along the Mississippi.
For the latter half of 2009, you couldn't talk about Rachel without mentioning the champion race mare Zenyatta. Nor could you avoid the question "who's better, Rachel or Zenyatta?" Being a Zenyatta supporter, I too found myself in the unenviable position of arguing against Rachel. A top class filly that is deserving of most accolades. Except Horse Of The Year!
Like others, I was holding out hope that the "great debate" would finally be decided on the race track where it should have been. At the year end championship of racing, the Breeders' Cup.
The summer and fall racing season could have been fraught with anticipation, as the impending match up of the two heavy hitting distaffers loomed on the horizon. Unfortunately, in a moment that may have changed racing history, Jess Jackson was able to purchase R.A. after the Kentucky Oaks for an undisclosed amount (reportedly in excess of ten million dollars), and the Breeders' Cup would not be in Rachel's future.
Supposedly being an outspoken opponent of synthetic racing surfaces, Jess Jackson made the decision not to bring Rachel to Santa Anita for the Breeders' Cup. A decision that was met with much dismay by some, but with much skepticism by me. The potential of defeat was too great for him to bring her out. His ego was still aching from his champion horse Curlin's disappointing fourth place finish in the previous Breeders' Cup Classic.
Unfortunately he was allowed to conspicuously "hide" from racing's championship day, and still garner a HOY trophy for his filly.
Zenyatta went on to make history in the Breeders' Cup Classic. Winning with her usual, electrifying stretch run, she made history by becoming the first female Classic winner in the twenty six year history.
Rachel's place among the greatest in racing is yet to be seen. She most definitely had one of the most memorable campaigns we've seen. Winning the Kentucky Oaks by twenty lengths, Belmont's Mother Goose by nineteen, and three grade 1 classics against the boys. What a career!
What a shame to think that possibly the two best fillies of our generation will forever be linked without ever lining up against each other. The legacy of Rachel Alexandra as well as racing's history books have forever been influenced by a billionaire's ego.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
"Enough Is Enough"!
-Jockey Christian Santiago Reyes made the news again this week. The 2009 Eclipse Award winner for top apprentice, is once again at the center of attention. This time, the California stewards have handed him a thirty day suspension for weighing out with a "prohibited item" prior to Hollywood Park's June 6th opening race.
Jockeys are required to "weigh out" before races to insure they will be carrying the proper weights. On this occasion, his horse Jenny Jenny Emily was assigned to carry 118 pounds. When Reyes first stepped on the scales, he was two pounds under the assigned weight. In a common practice, Hollywood clerk of scales Ruben Hernandez told Reyes' valet he would need to add two more pounds to his saddle to make weight. This is usually accomplished by placing lead weights, or pads in specially designed pockets in the saddle.
When Reyes returned, Hernandez noticed a bulge in one of Reyes' pant legs. After feeling the item through the pants, and questioning Reyes, Hernandez concluded that it was a one pound weight Reyes had stuck in to make the proper weight.
Odd, and perhaps unnecessary, Reyes' actions violated California Horse Racing Board rules regarding weighing out, and having a prohibited item in his possession when attempting to weigh out. Even the stewards had to question the reason for the deceptive action.
My thoughts are that Reyes felt he was gaining an advantage, as slight as it was, over his other riders by having the weight in his pants as opposed to the saddle. It's been a proven theory because of the rhythmic movement of horse and rider, that the weight of the rider (or in this case attached to) is easier for the horse to carry than "dead" weight in a saddle. Innocuous or not, he made a conscious effort to place it there for one reason only. He thought it would benefit him!
Reyes' suspension is scheduled to begin October 14th, but I wouldn't count on it. Having already amassed sixty three days of suspension (yet to be served), for six infractions since May, he and his tireless lawyer are almost certain to make these thirty days take their proper place in que. Giving new meaning to "working the system", lawyer Bing Bush is working overtime coming up with new ways to divert his client's suspensions.
It reminds me of Paco Lopez this summer. With the help of fictitious legal arguments from his lawyer, he was allowed to persuade a judge to rule in his favor on grounds that his rider would be irreparably harmed by serving his suspensions during the last few weeks of the Monmouth meet. A meeting that his client was leading rider at the time. A suspension that actually causes detriment to the offender. Why would anyone want that?
Very similar and self serving are the actions of the "super" trainers. Those poor, unlucky souls whose horses are found to have "magically" ingested some drug, or substance, that just happens to be a performance enhancer, or pain blocker. The same drugs that in some instances, are not even allowed on the track in the first place. There's always a reason why they can't be held accountable for the positive tests. Does anyone remember the "Poppy seed muffin" defense?
Am I really that old that I can remember when character mattered, and shame was a virtue? Where does integrity and fair play fit in today's society? Is it asking too much of people not to try and cheat their fellow competitors, and those who do "the right thing"? When will someone step up to say enough is enough? Unfortunately it's probably too late. The proverbial horse is already out of the barn. Our only hope may be to call a lawyer. At least he can get us an injunction.
Jockeys are required to "weigh out" before races to insure they will be carrying the proper weights. On this occasion, his horse Jenny Jenny Emily was assigned to carry 118 pounds. When Reyes first stepped on the scales, he was two pounds under the assigned weight. In a common practice, Hollywood clerk of scales Ruben Hernandez told Reyes' valet he would need to add two more pounds to his saddle to make weight. This is usually accomplished by placing lead weights, or pads in specially designed pockets in the saddle.
When Reyes returned, Hernandez noticed a bulge in one of Reyes' pant legs. After feeling the item through the pants, and questioning Reyes, Hernandez concluded that it was a one pound weight Reyes had stuck in to make the proper weight.
Odd, and perhaps unnecessary, Reyes' actions violated California Horse Racing Board rules regarding weighing out, and having a prohibited item in his possession when attempting to weigh out. Even the stewards had to question the reason for the deceptive action.
My thoughts are that Reyes felt he was gaining an advantage, as slight as it was, over his other riders by having the weight in his pants as opposed to the saddle. It's been a proven theory because of the rhythmic movement of horse and rider, that the weight of the rider (or in this case attached to) is easier for the horse to carry than "dead" weight in a saddle. Innocuous or not, he made a conscious effort to place it there for one reason only. He thought it would benefit him!
Reyes' suspension is scheduled to begin October 14th, but I wouldn't count on it. Having already amassed sixty three days of suspension (yet to be served), for six infractions since May, he and his tireless lawyer are almost certain to make these thirty days take their proper place in que. Giving new meaning to "working the system", lawyer Bing Bush is working overtime coming up with new ways to divert his client's suspensions.
It reminds me of Paco Lopez this summer. With the help of fictitious legal arguments from his lawyer, he was allowed to persuade a judge to rule in his favor on grounds that his rider would be irreparably harmed by serving his suspensions during the last few weeks of the Monmouth meet. A meeting that his client was leading rider at the time. A suspension that actually causes detriment to the offender. Why would anyone want that?
Very similar and self serving are the actions of the "super" trainers. Those poor, unlucky souls whose horses are found to have "magically" ingested some drug, or substance, that just happens to be a performance enhancer, or pain blocker. The same drugs that in some instances, are not even allowed on the track in the first place. There's always a reason why they can't be held accountable for the positive tests. Does anyone remember the "Poppy seed muffin" defense?
Am I really that old that I can remember when character mattered, and shame was a virtue? Where does integrity and fair play fit in today's society? Is it asking too much of people not to try and cheat their fellow competitors, and those who do "the right thing"? When will someone step up to say enough is enough? Unfortunately it's probably too late. The proverbial horse is already out of the barn. Our only hope may be to call a lawyer. At least he can get us an injunction.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
No Sleeping In Saturday
-This Saturday afternoon, Ascot racecourse will host three graded (grouped) mile races, with strong Breeders' Cup implications.
The Group 1 Queen Elizabeth II Stakes could possibly produce the deepest, and most accomplished field of the season. Fourteen horses are pre-entered to race the eight furlongs. Of the fourteen, seven have finished first or second in their last race. All being at the grouped level.
The two expected to take most of the action will be Makfi, and Canford Cliffs. Makfi is a three year old son of Dubawi who has won four of five lifetime. Included in his wins are the 2000 Guineas in May, as well as his latest triumph, the Prix Jacques Le Marois at Deauville. Behind him that day was two time BC Mile winner Goldikova.
His last may have been his best yet as he was able to settle in behind Goldie who in turn, was drafting behind two pace making stable mates. When both were asked for their best, Makfi was able to out kick the million dollar mare to win very impressively.
Makfi should get his sternest test from three consecutive group 1 winner Canford Cliffs. When last seen, C.C. was running down multiple group 1 winner Rip Van Winkle in July's Sussex Stakes at Goodwood. Canford Cliffs is a five time winner, and been in the money in all eight lifetime starts.
He has faced Makfi two times before. One being the aforementioned 2000 Guineas at Newmarket. A race where Canford Cliffs finished two lengths in arrears to his three year old counterpart. A loss he would later avenge while winning the St. James's Palace Stakes in Makfi's only defeat to date.
Among the other contenders with a great chance to knock off the top two, is multiple Group 1 winning superstar Rip Van Winkle. Ballydoyle's best contender, is a three time group 1 winner in his own right. His lack of early betting support may only be a result of who he's against, in lieu of what he's done.
In looking through his past performances, you see the names of arguably two, if not three legendary, and all time greats of our generation. He faced See The Stars three times, including a second place finish in last year's Eclipse Stakes, Zenyatta in America's Breeders' Cup Classic, and this year against Goldie in the Queen Anne Stakes. That's Racing's equivalent of Zeus, Venus, and Aphrodite over a fifteen month span. Not too bad.
If Cape Blanco decides to run this weekend, he will be another O'Brien contender to upset the top two, but it appears Aidan O'Brien and the Coolmore boys may bypass the race and wait until next month's Arc De Triomphe. The twelve furlong distance of the Arc will probably be more suitable for the son of Galileo.
-Another feature Saturday at the suburban London racecourse will be the group 1 Fillies' mile. A Breeders' Cup "win and you're in" race for the Juvenile Fillies' Turf. It promises to renew the Coolmore, Goldolphin rivalry, as they have the two decided favorites in the race.
Goldolphin has the undefeated two year old filly White Moonstone. The Dynaformer filly is three for three winning a group 3 two back, and putting in a devastating performance to win the Group 2 May Hill Stakes at Doncaster last out.
Coolmore will send out a two year old filly by Galileo named Misty For Me. Fresh off a win in the group 1 Moyglare Stud Stakes, she is now two of four lifetime.
Both fillies seem to be up and coming, and should run a fine race. The Goldolphin runner, already being a winner at the distance, may hold a slight edge. Even so, the Coolmore runner does have a Group 1 win under her belt, so both fillies should give a good account of themselves, and produce an entertaining spectacle.
Given both teams' propensity to bring their runners over to the Breeders' Cup, it should heighten the interest for the North American audience.
-The other Group race of the day is the two year old colt equivalent. The group 2 Juddmonte Royal Lodge Stakes. A "win and you're in" race as well.
An interesting runner is the Galileo colt Frankel. Named after the late Hall Of Fame trainer Bobby Frankel, he's an impressive winner of an allowance race at Doncaster earlier this month. Owned by long time Frankel owner Juddmonte Farms, the undefeated runner is two for two and looks to step up and become a stakes winner for the first time.
All three races will be shown in America on HRTV with the first of the stakes, the Royal Lodge set to go off at 9:30 ET in America. The Filly mile set for 10:05 ET, and the big one, the Q.E. II set for an 11:15 ET post time.
The Group 1 Queen Elizabeth II Stakes could possibly produce the deepest, and most accomplished field of the season. Fourteen horses are pre-entered to race the eight furlongs. Of the fourteen, seven have finished first or second in their last race. All being at the grouped level.
The two expected to take most of the action will be Makfi, and Canford Cliffs. Makfi is a three year old son of Dubawi who has won four of five lifetime. Included in his wins are the 2000 Guineas in May, as well as his latest triumph, the Prix Jacques Le Marois at Deauville. Behind him that day was two time BC Mile winner Goldikova.
His last may have been his best yet as he was able to settle in behind Goldie who in turn, was drafting behind two pace making stable mates. When both were asked for their best, Makfi was able to out kick the million dollar mare to win very impressively.
Makfi should get his sternest test from three consecutive group 1 winner Canford Cliffs. When last seen, C.C. was running down multiple group 1 winner Rip Van Winkle in July's Sussex Stakes at Goodwood. Canford Cliffs is a five time winner, and been in the money in all eight lifetime starts.
He has faced Makfi two times before. One being the aforementioned 2000 Guineas at Newmarket. A race where Canford Cliffs finished two lengths in arrears to his three year old counterpart. A loss he would later avenge while winning the St. James's Palace Stakes in Makfi's only defeat to date.
Among the other contenders with a great chance to knock off the top two, is multiple Group 1 winning superstar Rip Van Winkle. Ballydoyle's best contender, is a three time group 1 winner in his own right. His lack of early betting support may only be a result of who he's against, in lieu of what he's done.
In looking through his past performances, you see the names of arguably two, if not three legendary, and all time greats of our generation. He faced See The Stars three times, including a second place finish in last year's Eclipse Stakes, Zenyatta in America's Breeders' Cup Classic, and this year against Goldie in the Queen Anne Stakes. That's Racing's equivalent of Zeus, Venus, and Aphrodite over a fifteen month span. Not too bad.
If Cape Blanco decides to run this weekend, he will be another O'Brien contender to upset the top two, but it appears Aidan O'Brien and the Coolmore boys may bypass the race and wait until next month's Arc De Triomphe. The twelve furlong distance of the Arc will probably be more suitable for the son of Galileo.
-Another feature Saturday at the suburban London racecourse will be the group 1 Fillies' mile. A Breeders' Cup "win and you're in" race for the Juvenile Fillies' Turf. It promises to renew the Coolmore, Goldolphin rivalry, as they have the two decided favorites in the race.
Goldolphin has the undefeated two year old filly White Moonstone. The Dynaformer filly is three for three winning a group 3 two back, and putting in a devastating performance to win the Group 2 May Hill Stakes at Doncaster last out.
Coolmore will send out a two year old filly by Galileo named Misty For Me. Fresh off a win in the group 1 Moyglare Stud Stakes, she is now two of four lifetime.
Both fillies seem to be up and coming, and should run a fine race. The Goldolphin runner, already being a winner at the distance, may hold a slight edge. Even so, the Coolmore runner does have a Group 1 win under her belt, so both fillies should give a good account of themselves, and produce an entertaining spectacle.
Given both teams' propensity to bring their runners over to the Breeders' Cup, it should heighten the interest for the North American audience.
-The other Group race of the day is the two year old colt equivalent. The group 2 Juddmonte Royal Lodge Stakes. A "win and you're in" race as well.
An interesting runner is the Galileo colt Frankel. Named after the late Hall Of Fame trainer Bobby Frankel, he's an impressive winner of an allowance race at Doncaster earlier this month. Owned by long time Frankel owner Juddmonte Farms, the undefeated runner is two for two and looks to step up and become a stakes winner for the first time.
All three races will be shown in America on HRTV with the first of the stakes, the Royal Lodge set to go off at 9:30 ET in America. The Filly mile set for 10:05 ET, and the big one, the Q.E. II set for an 11:15 ET post time.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Old Friends, Courageous Fortitude, and New Beginnings
-With everything going wrong with racing, this past weekend gave us a little bit of what's right.
Saturday afternoon, September 11th, a day where most of us give at least a cursory glance to the calendar, a different type of drama was playing out in the heartland of American racing. That's the day Kentucky Downs was set to run the Kentucky Cup Turf.
You had the usual nondescript grade 3 performers lined up for the twelve furlong marathon. There were a few horses coming out of Optional Claimers, while others were also rans at the minor stake level.
Except for one.
Looking to become the first ten year old graded stakes winner, Cloudy's Knight came into the Kentucky Cup Turf off a grade 2 win.......eight and a half months ago. Before the layoff, he was an unlucky nose loser to Man Of Iron in the Breeders' Cup Marathon. Layoffs are not uncommon for the veteran warhorse. A winner of over two and a half million dollars, he won last year's renewal coming off a twelve month layoff as a spry nine year old. The runner up from last year, Rezif, was back to try and reverse the tables on his elder.
Reverse the tables indeed! This time, youth was served as Rezif was able to defeat the now ten year old in emphatic fashion. Rallying from far back, the five year old gelding made a furious four wide rally past Cloudy's Knight in the late stages to draw clear late.
Rezif's story is about as improbable as Cloudy's Knight's. He is now a winner of five of sixteen, with earnings close to one hundred eighty thousand. Not too bad considering his very humble beginnings.
After two atrocious defeats at two and three, his previous owner decided enough is enough, and unceremoniously gave Owner Trainer Matthew Jacobson the horse of his lifetime. Rezif's win was the first stakes win for Jacobson. Giving new meaning to "being in the right place at the right time."
It's also nice to see Cloudy's Knight continue to run up to his abilities without losing much due to age. Rider Rosemary Homeister had this to say following their second place finish. “When I asked him to run at the quarter pole, he gave me what he had. The winner was just much the best today, but Cloudy's Knight just loves it. He's very professional, loves his job. … Jonathan (Trainer Sheppard)did a great job with him.”
fittingly, Rezif was piloted by Greta Kuntzweiler. Herself trying to resuscitate her career after being suspended nearly five years for drug abuse, and associated legal issues. Kuntzweiler knows all too well what it means to have people believe in you, and being given a new lease on life. She became quite emotional after the win. Quite understandably considering where she's been, and where she's trying to get back to in the ever competitive life of a jockey.
Let's hope her, Rezif, and Cloudy's Knight can all continue to inspire us to succeed in spite of the obstacles in our way.
September 11th turned out to be an inspirational day of racing. We saw old friends, courageous fortitude, and new beginnings. Some of the best racing has to offer. Let us be our best on this day too, and never forget!
Saturday afternoon, September 11th, a day where most of us give at least a cursory glance to the calendar, a different type of drama was playing out in the heartland of American racing. That's the day Kentucky Downs was set to run the Kentucky Cup Turf.
You had the usual nondescript grade 3 performers lined up for the twelve furlong marathon. There were a few horses coming out of Optional Claimers, while others were also rans at the minor stake level.
Except for one.
Looking to become the first ten year old graded stakes winner, Cloudy's Knight came into the Kentucky Cup Turf off a grade 2 win.......eight and a half months ago. Before the layoff, he was an unlucky nose loser to Man Of Iron in the Breeders' Cup Marathon. Layoffs are not uncommon for the veteran warhorse. A winner of over two and a half million dollars, he won last year's renewal coming off a twelve month layoff as a spry nine year old. The runner up from last year, Rezif, was back to try and reverse the tables on his elder.
Reverse the tables indeed! This time, youth was served as Rezif was able to defeat the now ten year old in emphatic fashion. Rallying from far back, the five year old gelding made a furious four wide rally past Cloudy's Knight in the late stages to draw clear late.
Rezif's story is about as improbable as Cloudy's Knight's. He is now a winner of five of sixteen, with earnings close to one hundred eighty thousand. Not too bad considering his very humble beginnings.
After two atrocious defeats at two and three, his previous owner decided enough is enough, and unceremoniously gave Owner Trainer Matthew Jacobson the horse of his lifetime. Rezif's win was the first stakes win for Jacobson. Giving new meaning to "being in the right place at the right time."
It's also nice to see Cloudy's Knight continue to run up to his abilities without losing much due to age. Rider Rosemary Homeister had this to say following their second place finish. “When I asked him to run at the quarter pole, he gave me what he had. The winner was just much the best today, but Cloudy's Knight just loves it. He's very professional, loves his job. … Jonathan (Trainer Sheppard)did a great job with him.”
fittingly, Rezif was piloted by Greta Kuntzweiler. Herself trying to resuscitate her career after being suspended nearly five years for drug abuse, and associated legal issues. Kuntzweiler knows all too well what it means to have people believe in you, and being given a new lease on life. She became quite emotional after the win. Quite understandably considering where she's been, and where she's trying to get back to in the ever competitive life of a jockey.
Let's hope her, Rezif, and Cloudy's Knight can all continue to inspire us to succeed in spite of the obstacles in our way.
September 11th turned out to be an inspirational day of racing. We saw old friends, courageous fortitude, and new beginnings. Some of the best racing has to offer. Let us be our best on this day too, and never forget!
Monday, September 6, 2010
Champions, The Championship, and Derby Drama
-Cape Blanco took a highly accomplished, group one field on a stroll of the Leopardstown layout Saturday to win the Irish Champions Stakes in Ireland. Sent off as the third choice in a field of six, jockey Seamus Heffernan had little to worry about from the time the barriers opened as he negotiated the ten furlong event with an impressive four to five length margin throughout. Left in his wake were odds on, three time group one winner Rip Van Winkle, and highly regarded Twice over. Finishing second and third respectively.
Adding to the ever plenteous options of the brilliant Coolmore clan, Cape Blanco can justifiably sit alongside stablemates Fame And Glory, and Rip Van Winkle as top contenders for France's Arc De Triomphe, or any of the marquee Breeders' Cup events this fall. Although Fame and Glory has been given favoritism in Europe's early wagering pools for the Breeders' Cup Turf, my sources have indicated to me that Ballydoyle mastermind O'Brien is leaning towards the Breeders' Cup Classic for his talented four year old. If things stay in place, the end of the year championship is setting up to be a true classic with the likes of Zenyatta, Quality Road, Blame, etc. Here's hoping!
-Speaking of the Classic, Quality Road made another start this weekend in one of the premiere summer stake races for older horses, the Woodward Stakes at Saratoga. Won last year by "Horse Of The Year" Rachel Alexandra, this year's running lacked a little in quality, but the workman like win of Quality Road, reiterated the belief that he will be a major contender come November in the B.C. Classic.
-This year's rendition of the Del Mar Derby brought more scrutiny to the already questionable judging abilities of the Southern California stewards. Heavily favored Twirling Candy proved he was much the best against the obviously over matched field. Winning by a convincing three and three quarter lengths.
His performance left me in awe and amazement for two opposing reasons. The first being the ease in which he was able to re-gather himself, and dispose of the group of three year olds after making a move that can only be described as goofy when negotiating the transition from the club house turn to the backside. The second being how he was allowed to keep his athletic victory under questionable circumstances.
The incident in question occurred near the five eights pole as the field entered the back stretch. For reasons known only to Twirling Candy himself, he decided to make a right turn at the five eighths pole and ducked out very sharply into lapped on Summer Movie. After a Stewards' inquiry into the incident, they allowed the result to stand. Denying Summer Movie, his connections, and backers a fair shake. Justifiably so, Trainer Art Sherman was livid with the decision.
Spokesman for the three steward board, Scott Chaney, had three points in defending the ruling. The first being, "it happened five-eighths of a mile from the wire, which makes a disqualification less likely." I agree that most races aren't won or lost that far out from the finish, and if every incident was scrutinized, no result would stand, but at what part of a race is it ok to interfere with a horse to that extent and get away with it. I've seen plenty of disqualifications occur because of a less offensive incident at the start. Sometimes a foul is so egregious it warrants a D.Q. regardless.
Point two: "In our opinion it would have been an unjust result to disqualify a horse that was much the best in order to help a horse that finished out of any monetary placing." This one kind of goes back to what I mentioned earlier. At what point does a foul become a foul. There's no way any horse, with the best of trips could have beaten him this day, but sometimes it's about the integrity and fairness of the sport. When someone gets interfered with that severely, consequences need to be dealt with. This sport is not always fair, but the one thing it should strive for is even handedness across the board.
Point three: "Summer Movie was beaten 6 3/4 lengths for fifth, so it would be very speculative to say that he lost the 6 3/4 lengths for fifth ... on the backside." This is probably the most disturbing of the three. Of course it would be "speculating" to assume where Summer Movie would have finished. It's also "speculative" the incident DIDN'T cause S.M. to "grab" himself, or pull something causing his dismal finish. Taking into consideration S.M. was the third betting choice, and was traveling well enough at the time of the incident, to me it seems to be more of a stretch or "speculation" to believe that he would stagger home last so far from the pack without the incident occurring? Anyone with elementary knowledge of racing should recognize how much it DOES take out of a horse to lose that much position, then have to rush back into contention. Quite often resulting in a very tiring, and deceptive placing. Since when is it not ok for the stewards to "speculate" on a decision anyway? Ninety percent of the time when they rule to keep a number up, they "speculate" that "the interference did not alter the original order of finish." Haven't most of us have been on both sides of that phrase at one time or another? Their whole decision making process is based on "speculation"!
My "speculation" is we need to hold our stewards to a greater accountability, and uniformity in their judgments. Judging by the raucous reaction of the Del Mar crowd, as well as the horsemen to this decision, perhaps we can hold out hope for this to be a catalyst to some sort of steward referendum. Hopefully doubtful.............
Adding to the ever plenteous options of the brilliant Coolmore clan, Cape Blanco can justifiably sit alongside stablemates Fame And Glory, and Rip Van Winkle as top contenders for France's Arc De Triomphe, or any of the marquee Breeders' Cup events this fall. Although Fame and Glory has been given favoritism in Europe's early wagering pools for the Breeders' Cup Turf, my sources have indicated to me that Ballydoyle mastermind O'Brien is leaning towards the Breeders' Cup Classic for his talented four year old. If things stay in place, the end of the year championship is setting up to be a true classic with the likes of Zenyatta, Quality Road, Blame, etc. Here's hoping!
-Speaking of the Classic, Quality Road made another start this weekend in one of the premiere summer stake races for older horses, the Woodward Stakes at Saratoga. Won last year by "Horse Of The Year" Rachel Alexandra, this year's running lacked a little in quality, but the workman like win of Quality Road, reiterated the belief that he will be a major contender come November in the B.C. Classic.
-This year's rendition of the Del Mar Derby brought more scrutiny to the already questionable judging abilities of the Southern California stewards. Heavily favored Twirling Candy proved he was much the best against the obviously over matched field. Winning by a convincing three and three quarter lengths.
His performance left me in awe and amazement for two opposing reasons. The first being the ease in which he was able to re-gather himself, and dispose of the group of three year olds after making a move that can only be described as goofy when negotiating the transition from the club house turn to the backside. The second being how he was allowed to keep his athletic victory under questionable circumstances.
The incident in question occurred near the five eights pole as the field entered the back stretch. For reasons known only to Twirling Candy himself, he decided to make a right turn at the five eighths pole and ducked out very sharply into lapped on Summer Movie. After a Stewards' inquiry into the incident, they allowed the result to stand. Denying Summer Movie, his connections, and backers a fair shake. Justifiably so, Trainer Art Sherman was livid with the decision.
Spokesman for the three steward board, Scott Chaney, had three points in defending the ruling. The first being, "it happened five-eighths of a mile from the wire, which makes a disqualification less likely." I agree that most races aren't won or lost that far out from the finish, and if every incident was scrutinized, no result would stand, but at what part of a race is it ok to interfere with a horse to that extent and get away with it. I've seen plenty of disqualifications occur because of a less offensive incident at the start. Sometimes a foul is so egregious it warrants a D.Q. regardless.
Point two: "In our opinion it would have been an unjust result to disqualify a horse that was much the best in order to help a horse that finished out of any monetary placing." This one kind of goes back to what I mentioned earlier. At what point does a foul become a foul. There's no way any horse, with the best of trips could have beaten him this day, but sometimes it's about the integrity and fairness of the sport. When someone gets interfered with that severely, consequences need to be dealt with. This sport is not always fair, but the one thing it should strive for is even handedness across the board.
Point three: "Summer Movie was beaten 6 3/4 lengths for fifth, so it would be very speculative to say that he lost the 6 3/4 lengths for fifth ... on the backside." This is probably the most disturbing of the three. Of course it would be "speculating" to assume where Summer Movie would have finished. It's also "speculative" the incident DIDN'T cause S.M. to "grab" himself, or pull something causing his dismal finish. Taking into consideration S.M. was the third betting choice, and was traveling well enough at the time of the incident, to me it seems to be more of a stretch or "speculation" to believe that he would stagger home last so far from the pack without the incident occurring? Anyone with elementary knowledge of racing should recognize how much it DOES take out of a horse to lose that much position, then have to rush back into contention. Quite often resulting in a very tiring, and deceptive placing. Since when is it not ok for the stewards to "speculate" on a decision anyway? Ninety percent of the time when they rule to keep a number up, they "speculate" that "the interference did not alter the original order of finish." Haven't most of us have been on both sides of that phrase at one time or another? Their whole decision making process is based on "speculation"!
My "speculation" is we need to hold our stewards to a greater accountability, and uniformity in their judgments. Judging by the raucous reaction of the Del Mar crowd, as well as the horsemen to this decision, perhaps we can hold out hope for this to be a catalyst to some sort of steward referendum. Hopefully doubtful.............
Sunday, August 29, 2010
The Princess and the "P", TheTravers, and Mine, Mine, Mine
-This past weekend saw the return of reigning "Horse Of The Year" Rachel Alexandra in Saratoga's Personal Ensign Stakes. Sent off at a "tepid" 2/5 price, she ran a credible, if not solid second to longshot Persistently. In doing so, questions have manifested into outright concerns as to her ability to get the classic ten furlong distance, and against what level of competition can she get it. She ran another quality race in defeat, but she did seem to "hit the wall" that final eighth.
My gut feeling is we may have seen the last of the "princess", and we will most certainly never see a matchup against the true Queen of racing Zenyatta in the Breeders' Cup Classic. If her connections do allow her to make the Breeders' Cup, the nine furlong Ladies Classic is the safest, and most likely spot for her always P.R. conscious connections to enter her. Will Messrs. Moss and Shirreffs call an audible? We'll see!
-Discreetly Mine has stamped himself as not only the best three year old sprinter in the country, but possibly this year's favorite for the Breeders' Cup Sprint. His performance in last Saturday's Grade 1 King's Bishop can only be described as scintillating! He was pressured most of the seven furlongs through fractions of 21:4, and 44 flat by Bob Baffert's aptly named Bulldogger. After disposing of that one turning for home, he had to hold off momentous charges from Bank Merger and Latigo Shores. Going seven eighths and enduring the ferocious fractions he faced, he would have been excused if he relented to the oncharging duo. Instead he fought through and held them relatively at bay. Admittedly the horses he faced Saturday wouldn't necessarily be considered top notch sprinters, but the way he did it was quite astounding!
-Another disturbing trend has risen up again. Talented young jockey Paco Lopez and his lawyer has found a way to delay his eight day suspension handed to him by the New Jersey Racing Commision. The suspension would have lasted through the final two weekends of the Monmouth meet.
Arguing before a New Jersey Supreme Court Judge, who obviously doesn't know a horse race from a tennis match, Lopez's lawyer was able to convince the judge that the Monmouth summer meet, with it's bloated purses, is horse racing's equivalent to......are you ready for this......you sure......the World Series, the Super Bowl, and the Stanley Cup therefore if he were to serve his suspension and miss the rest of the meet, the punishment would be "unduly harsh".......WHAT THE???? This is surely another case of people within the industry trampling the rules and regulators within the industry to weaken the overall integrity for self gain. Knowing that a less knowledgeable, more sympathetic ear can be found elsewhere.
Is that what society has come down to? Have we lost all integrity when we can be so self absorbed, and self concerned that it's ok to manipulate anyone and anything as long as we don't have to accept the consequences of our actions. How dare Paco Lopez and his lawyer manipulate the obviously ignorant judge with such a disingeuous argument as this.
-Saturday saw the renewal of two one million dollar races across the country. The Travers Stakes turned out to be the race of the day as Afleet Express held off Fly Down in a desperate finsh to the 141st running of the "Midsummer Derby".----The west coast's top older horses convened on Del Mar for the Million dollar Pacific Classic. The Usual Q.T. sent off as the 9/5 favorite, tired in the lane to finish a disappointing fifth while Bob Baffert's Richard's Kid won his second straight Pacific Classic.
My gut feeling is we may have seen the last of the "princess", and we will most certainly never see a matchup against the true Queen of racing Zenyatta in the Breeders' Cup Classic. If her connections do allow her to make the Breeders' Cup, the nine furlong Ladies Classic is the safest, and most likely spot for her always P.R. conscious connections to enter her. Will Messrs. Moss and Shirreffs call an audible? We'll see!
-Discreetly Mine has stamped himself as not only the best three year old sprinter in the country, but possibly this year's favorite for the Breeders' Cup Sprint. His performance in last Saturday's Grade 1 King's Bishop can only be described as scintillating! He was pressured most of the seven furlongs through fractions of 21:4, and 44 flat by Bob Baffert's aptly named Bulldogger. After disposing of that one turning for home, he had to hold off momentous charges from Bank Merger and Latigo Shores. Going seven eighths and enduring the ferocious fractions he faced, he would have been excused if he relented to the oncharging duo. Instead he fought through and held them relatively at bay. Admittedly the horses he faced Saturday wouldn't necessarily be considered top notch sprinters, but the way he did it was quite astounding!
-Another disturbing trend has risen up again. Talented young jockey Paco Lopez and his lawyer has found a way to delay his eight day suspension handed to him by the New Jersey Racing Commision. The suspension would have lasted through the final two weekends of the Monmouth meet.
Arguing before a New Jersey Supreme Court Judge, who obviously doesn't know a horse race from a tennis match, Lopez's lawyer was able to convince the judge that the Monmouth summer meet, with it's bloated purses, is horse racing's equivalent to......are you ready for this......you sure......the World Series, the Super Bowl, and the Stanley Cup therefore if he were to serve his suspension and miss the rest of the meet, the punishment would be "unduly harsh".......WHAT THE???? This is surely another case of people within the industry trampling the rules and regulators within the industry to weaken the overall integrity for self gain. Knowing that a less knowledgeable, more sympathetic ear can be found elsewhere.
Is that what society has come down to? Have we lost all integrity when we can be so self absorbed, and self concerned that it's ok to manipulate anyone and anything as long as we don't have to accept the consequences of our actions. How dare Paco Lopez and his lawyer manipulate the obviously ignorant judge with such a disingeuous argument as this.
-Saturday saw the renewal of two one million dollar races across the country. The Travers Stakes turned out to be the race of the day as Afleet Express held off Fly Down in a desperate finsh to the 141st running of the "Midsummer Derby".----The west coast's top older horses convened on Del Mar for the Million dollar Pacific Classic. The Usual Q.T. sent off as the 9/5 favorite, tired in the lane to finish a disappointing fifth while Bob Baffert's Richard's Kid won his second straight Pacific Classic.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Take That Face!
From the never ending, comedic-tragedy that is California racing, comes another head scratching decision. This past Thursday, the California Horse Racing Board denied a request from the Oak Tree Racing Association to hold it's annual race meeting at Santa Anita. The jewel in the ever diminishing landscape of California race tracks, and arguably one of the finest, and most historic race tracks in North America. This would have marked the forty first racing season that the non profit Oak Tree Racing Association would have been conducted at the famed Arcadia Track.
Siting track safety issues amongst their "concerns", the Thoroughbred Owners of California, and the California Thoroughbred Trainers organizations spoke out forcefully against holding the meeting at Santa Anita. One by one prominent owners, trainers, and race track executives argued that not only would track safety be a concern, but moving the Oak Tree meet to "another location" ie: Hell-Hole = Hollywood Park, would give poor ole Frank Stronach more time to complete his transformation.
Although some reports are stating that the current surface may have some minor "issues", no one has indicated that they would remain unresolved in time for Oak Tree. As for the transformation of the surface, all indications are that it would have been ready well in advance of the Santa Anita winter meet. Three weeks before the meet begins in fact! It remains highly unlikely that anything would occur during that time period that would jeopardize the start of the meet.
What it comes down to is the CHRB, Ca. Owners, and Trainers seized their opportunity to "give it" (for lack of a better word) to the always controversial, outsider Frankie. A plan executed as well as anything we've ever seen conjured up by the Corleone family. Well done California racing industry! In cutting off your nose to spite your face, you found a new way to damage an already ailing sport that in most regions is on life support. After this latest round of egocentric behavior, you're one step closer to giving California racing it's Last Rights.
BTW........Leading Arlington Park Trainer Nick Canani had five more horses test positive for the class 3 medication Etodolac. Although it's a "minor" drug violation, it's pretty interesting how another Frank Calabrese Trainer, who's hitting at about thirty percent, has at least six horses test positive for a drug that's not supposed to be used at all on race-day. I'm sure it's an easy mistake to make. Besides you know he's not using any other illegal drugs on his horses. He's just "spotting them in the right spot"...........right?
Siting track safety issues amongst their "concerns", the Thoroughbred Owners of California, and the California Thoroughbred Trainers organizations spoke out forcefully against holding the meeting at Santa Anita. One by one prominent owners, trainers, and race track executives argued that not only would track safety be a concern, but moving the Oak Tree meet to "another location" ie: Hell-Hole = Hollywood Park, would give poor ole Frank Stronach more time to complete his transformation.
Although some reports are stating that the current surface may have some minor "issues", no one has indicated that they would remain unresolved in time for Oak Tree. As for the transformation of the surface, all indications are that it would have been ready well in advance of the Santa Anita winter meet. Three weeks before the meet begins in fact! It remains highly unlikely that anything would occur during that time period that would jeopardize the start of the meet.
What it comes down to is the CHRB, Ca. Owners, and Trainers seized their opportunity to "give it" (for lack of a better word) to the always controversial, outsider Frankie. A plan executed as well as anything we've ever seen conjured up by the Corleone family. Well done California racing industry! In cutting off your nose to spite your face, you found a new way to damage an already ailing sport that in most regions is on life support. After this latest round of egocentric behavior, you're one step closer to giving California racing it's Last Rights.
BTW........Leading Arlington Park Trainer Nick Canani had five more horses test positive for the class 3 medication Etodolac. Although it's a "minor" drug violation, it's pretty interesting how another Frank Calabrese Trainer, who's hitting at about thirty percent, has at least six horses test positive for a drug that's not supposed to be used at all on race-day. I'm sure it's an easy mistake to make. Besides you know he's not using any other illegal drugs on his horses. He's just "spotting them in the right spot"...........right?
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Rachel, P-Val, and High on Cliffs
This past weekend saw the return of the much heralded, reigning "Horse Of The Year", Rachel Alexandra...............The Lady's Secret Stakes, a race whose purse had been bumped up to 400,000 dollars as a result of Rachel appearing. Six other fillies and mares lined up for the bloated purse, but none had the credentials to even step foot on the same surface as Rachel. Being a stake race as opposed to a handicap, R.A., had only five pounds to give away to the over matched field.
In her usual tracking position early, she was roused to the lead by Borel, and was ridden home to a three length win. A ho-hum performance to say the least. In my opinion, having a twenty length talent edge over the field, should not have equated to an "energetic handling" (DRF Chart commentary) three length win. But such is the legend of Rachel "2009 Horse Of The Year".
Patrick Valenzuela made his riding return to California this week...........In a somewhat surprising move, the California Horse Racing Board reinstated P-Val to ride just in time to make the famed Del Mar meet.
In December of 2007, he had been issued a "life long ban" to ride in California. In this case, I guess the term life long equates to just over thirty months. His latest exile had been for a drunken driving case that had violated the terms of his third, fourth, or fifth.......latest reinstatement. I've lost count!
In being cleared to ride, it shows a preference to a jockey that most people feel has extreme talent. Even to make some wonder if another rider with less success, and or ability, would have been given the "second" chances they have afforded Mr. Valenzuela. Myself included. What example does that show to young riders, as well as the public. I believe in giving people another shot at redemption. In return, the person should also realize the opportunity they have been given. Something he clearly hasn't!
Many Jockeys over the years have made poor choices in regards to controlled substances, but have come back and flourished when given a new beginning. Pat Day, David Flores, Martin Pedroza are just a few that have made the most of their opportunities. Sure there will be measures in place to monitor his behavior, but they are the same measures taken twenty years ago that have clearly been ineffective in controlling his behavior. Ultimately, it's the safety and maybe most of all, the integrity of the sport that bears the risk to this irresponsible decision of the CHRB.
High on Cliffs...........There's a new star across the pond. Irish bred three year old Canford Cliffs won the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood Racecourse this week. It was a very impressive performance. Beating quality Group one winner Rip Van Winkle from the fabled Aiden O'Brien yard. Breaking slow, Cliffs sat at the rear of the field while the O'Brien trio raced near the front. About three hundred meters out, rider Richard Hughes got him in the clear, and raced past a game Rip Van Winkle who had raced a spectacular race himself. Both horses finished well clear of the field.
Trainer Richard Hannon has called him the best horse he's ever trained. Something not to be taken lightly in the land where hyperbole is not spoken as often as it is in the States. He has alluded to running his star in either the Prix Moulin at Longchamp, or the Queen Elizabeth II at Ascot in September. Hopefully we'll be fortunate enough to witness a match up between him and Goldie in the Breeders' Cup Mile.
This past weekend saw the return of the much heralded, reigning "Horse Of The Year", Rachel Alexandra...............The Lady's Secret Stakes, a race whose purse had been bumped up to 400,000 dollars as a result of Rachel appearing. Six other fillies and mares lined up for the bloated purse, but none had the credentials to even step foot on the same surface as Rachel. Being a stake race as opposed to a handicap, R.A., had only five pounds to give away to the over matched field.
In her usual tracking position early, she was roused to the lead by Borel, and was ridden home to a three length win. A ho-hum performance to say the least. In my opinion, having a twenty length talent edge over the field, should not have equated to an "energetic handling" (DRF Chart commentary) three length win. But such is the legend of Rachel "2009 Horse Of The Year".
Patrick Valenzuela made his riding return to California this week...........In a somewhat surprising move, the California Horse Racing Board reinstated P-Val to ride just in time to make the famed Del Mar meet.
In December of 2007, he had been issued a "life long ban" to ride in California. In this case, I guess the term life long equates to just over thirty months. His latest exile had been for a drunken driving case that had violated the terms of his third, fourth, or fifth.......latest reinstatement. I've lost count!
In being cleared to ride, it shows a preference to a jockey that most people feel has extreme talent. Even to make some wonder if another rider with less success, and or ability, would have been given the "second" chances they have afforded Mr. Valenzuela. Myself included. What example does that show to young riders, as well as the public. I believe in giving people another shot at redemption. In return, the person should also realize the opportunity they have been given. Something he clearly hasn't!
Many Jockeys over the years have made poor choices in regards to controlled substances, but have come back and flourished when given a new beginning. Pat Day, David Flores, Martin Pedroza are just a few that have made the most of their opportunities. Sure there will be measures in place to monitor his behavior, but they are the same measures taken twenty years ago that have clearly been ineffective in controlling his behavior. Ultimately, it's the safety and maybe most of all, the integrity of the sport that bears the risk to this irresponsible decision of the CHRB.
High on Cliffs...........There's a new star across the pond. Irish bred three year old Canford Cliffs won the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood Racecourse this week. It was a very impressive performance. Beating quality Group one winner Rip Van Winkle from the fabled Aiden O'Brien yard. Breaking slow, Cliffs sat at the rear of the field while the O'Brien trio raced near the front. About three hundred meters out, rider Richard Hughes got him in the clear, and raced past a game Rip Van Winkle who had raced a spectacular race himself. Both horses finished well clear of the field.
Trainer Richard Hannon has called him the best horse he's ever trained. Something not to be taken lightly in the land where hyperbole is not spoken as often as it is in the States. He has alluded to running his star in either the Prix Moulin at Longchamp, or the Queen Elizabeth II at Ascot in September. Hopefully we'll be fortunate enough to witness a match up between him and Goldie in the Breeders' Cup Mile.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Del Mar, Rachel, and Big Z
Well it's time for another Del Mar meet. This year promises to be full of anticipation as much as a little trepidation. With the continued decline of the Southern California racing industry, even the once insulated Del Mar meet, will make people wonder if they can deliver the deeply competitive fields of years past. Already reduced to a five day week, let's hope they wont have to go the "Hollywood Park route" of unimaginably not being able to fill mid week cards. I tend to think they will.......For now!
Rachel and Zenyatta.....what will their prospective summers consist of? Will Rachel return to her "Horse of the Year" form of 2009? Will Big Z win a third consecutive Clement Hirsch, on her way to a possible Breeders' Cup prep in the Zenyatta Stakes at Oak Tree. Culminating in a "showdown" with Rachel on a traditional surface at Churchill Downs come November. Although myself and about ninety percent of all race fans would love to see it, I wonder if we will. I tend to think Mr. Jackson may still be the main obstacle to that one. There's still too much for him to lose by running against Zenyatta. Right now, he has most fans convinced that he owned the best horse in training last year. In spite of avoiding, ducking, jiving...etc. The Super Bowl of racing because he didn't like the surface. Hey, come to think of it, why were the Indianapolis Colts forced to play in last year's Super Bowl. Didn't they know all they needed to do was go to the NFL and say they weren't showing up to play the Saints. After all they must have done more than enough to be awarded the Lombardi Trophy. Heck they won fourteen games during the regular season. Wasn't that enough for Pete's sake? Why would they be forced to play out doors, on natural grass when they play their games in doors, on synthetic? Surely the NFL dropped the ball on that one.
Rachel and Zenyatta.....what will their prospective summers consist of? Will Rachel return to her "Horse of the Year" form of 2009? Will Big Z win a third consecutive Clement Hirsch, on her way to a possible Breeders' Cup prep in the Zenyatta Stakes at Oak Tree. Culminating in a "showdown" with Rachel on a traditional surface at Churchill Downs come November. Although myself and about ninety percent of all race fans would love to see it, I wonder if we will. I tend to think Mr. Jackson may still be the main obstacle to that one. There's still too much for him to lose by running against Zenyatta. Right now, he has most fans convinced that he owned the best horse in training last year. In spite of avoiding, ducking, jiving...etc. The Super Bowl of racing because he didn't like the surface. Hey, come to think of it, why were the Indianapolis Colts forced to play in last year's Super Bowl. Didn't they know all they needed to do was go to the NFL and say they weren't showing up to play the Saints. After all they must have done more than enough to be awarded the Lombardi Trophy. Heck they won fourteen games during the regular season. Wasn't that enough for Pete's sake? Why would they be forced to play out doors, on natural grass when they play their games in doors, on synthetic? Surely the NFL dropped the ball on that one.
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