I'm going to start off by - once again! - apologizing for the long gap between updates. I've spent most of the last week and a half on trains or in airports in transit from Rochester to Chicago to NYC for a media conference and back again. Finding time to check my e-mail - let alone write an entire blog post - was extremely limited. I'm getting back into the swing of things now, and will re-watch and recap last weekend's action, as well as preview this weekend, later this evening.
Before I get to that, though, there were two notable births last week who I just have to recognize. Isn't springtime fun? Rags To Riches (AP Indy-Better Than Honour, by Deputy Minister) produced her first foal, while La Ville Rouge (Carson City-La Reine Rouge, by Kings Bishop) produced another full brother to the late Barbaro.
Rags To Riches, winner of the 2007 Belmont Stakes and the first filly to take it in over a century, dropped her Giant's Causeway (Storm Cat-Mariah's Storm, by Rahy) filly on March 9. The Blood Horse has an awesome gallery of 'Rags' and baby up on their website. Check it out if you get a chance. It's just stunning how much this little girl looks like her mom - bright chestnut with a ton of chrome, including that big blazed face. Sounds like she's inherited a ton of personality, too. Rags To Riches is booked to Henrythenavigator.
A day later, La Ville Rouge gave birth to her fourth straight colt by Dynaformer (Roberto-Andover Way, by His Majesty). They cannot BUY a filly out of this mare! The 142-pound colt is a full brother to 2006 Derby winner Barbaro, three-year-old Nicanor (recently a solid runner-up in his second lifetime start) and two-year-old Lentenor. By all accounts, mom and baby are doing fine. La Ville Rouge is booked back to -wh0 else? - Dynaformer for 2009.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Monday, March 9, 2009
Derby Top 10
It was a telling weekend with the Gotham and Santa Anita Oaks, so here's this week's installment of the Derby Top 10. A couple of horses have dropped off the list (most notably Stardom Bound, who will stick with the girls for now). With the Rebel and San Felipe coming up this weekend, it's likely to change a lot more.
Agree with the list? Disagree? Comment or find me on Twitter and share your own picks.
2. The Pamplemousse (Kafwain-Comfort Zone, by Rubiano): Physically impressive specimen is dangerous when left alone on the lead, but proved he could re-break and win under slight pressure in the Sham. Waiting to see what happens when someone really looks him in the eye.
3. Friesan Fire (AP Indy-Bollinger, by Dehere): It says something about this year's bunch when this dual stakeswinner (LeComte and Risen Star) is second fiddle in his own barn. He's progressing steadily with each start, and the Louisiana Derby should be a good class test.
4. Pioneerof The Nile (Empire Maker-Star of goshen, by Lord At War): Moving him up because of the way he’s training, and because recent stakes results have really flattered him. Followed gutty win in the Futurity with a workmanlike effort in the Robert B. Lewis; will stretch out in the San Felipe.
5. Dunkirk (Unbridled's Song-Secret Status, by AP Indy): I can't believe I'm putting a two-start allowance winner over several multiple stakeswinners, but that's how highly I think of him. Has a wonderful turn of foot and handled adversity well in his second start. Says a lot about Todd Pletcher's confidence in him that he'll be rolling the dice earnings-wise by using a single stakes prep.
6. I Want Revenge (Stephen Got Even-Meguial, by Roy): Made an impressive turnaround in his first start over natural dirt, making a closely matched field look like easy pickings in the Gotham. Versatile sort can win from on or off the pace, and handled the slop well, too.
7. Chocolate Candy (Candy Ride-Crownette, by Seattle Slew): Good third in the Futurity then won the California Derby and El Camino while stretching out a bit more each time. Don't think he's a world beater, but he's a useful sort and bred to get even more distance.
8. Beethoven (Sky Mesa-Moonlight Sonata, by Carson City): Still think he's going to be noticed in the Triple Crown series, but just hasn't lived up to the billing yet. Did close strongly against a speed bias in the Fountain of Youth.
9. Quality Road (Elusive Quality-Kobla, by Strawberry Road): Fountain of Youth was one of the better performances we've seen so far this year. Waiting to see if he moves forward in his next or if he's just a class miler.
10. Patena (Seeking the Gold-Handpainted, by AP Indy): Second choice for Louisiana Derby is catching the eye with some solid works. Hasn’t exactly sparkled, and was defeated by Friesan Fire last out in the LeComte, but does own a win at a mile and a sixteenth (in last December’s Display Stakes).
On the radar: Mr. Hot Stuff (Tiznow-Sweet Damsel, by Turkoman), the full brother to Colonel John, closed strongly to pick up third in the Sham and appears primed to move forward. Silver City (Unbridled's Song-Proposal, by Mt Livermore) was a game second in the Southwest and will tackle Old Fashioned again in the Rebel. Imperial Council (Empire Maker-Jaramar Rain, by Thunder Gulch) made a nice late move to take third in the Gotham. Haynesfield (Speightstown-Nothing Special, by Tejabo) ran poorly in the Gotham, but planning to keep an eye on this dual stakeswinner anyway.
7. Chocolate Candy (Candy Ride-Crownette, by Seattle Slew): Good third in the Futurity then won the California Derby and El Camino while stretching out a bit more each time. Don't think he's a world beater, but he's a useful sort and bred to get even more distance.
8. Beethoven (Sky Mesa-Moonlight Sonata, by Carson City): Still think he's going to be noticed in the Triple Crown series, but just hasn't lived up to the billing yet. Did close strongly against a speed bias in the Fountain of Youth.
9. Quality Road (Elusive Quality-Kobla, by Strawberry Road): Fountain of Youth was one of the better performances we've seen so far this year. Waiting to see if he moves forward in his next or if he's just a class miler.
10. Patena (Seeking the Gold-Handpainted, by AP Indy): Second choice for Louisiana Derby is catching the eye with some solid works. Hasn’t exactly sparkled, and was defeated by Friesan Fire last out in the LeComte, but does own a win at a mile and a sixteenth (in last December’s Display Stakes).
On the radar: Mr. Hot Stuff (Tiznow-Sweet Damsel, by Turkoman), the full brother to Colonel John, closed strongly to pick up third in the Sham and appears primed to move forward. Silver City (Unbridled's Song-Proposal, by Mt Livermore) was a game second in the Southwest and will tackle Old Fashioned again in the Rebel. Imperial Council (Empire Maker-Jaramar Rain, by Thunder Gulch) made a nice late move to take third in the Gotham. Haynesfield (Speightstown-Nothing Special, by Tejabo) ran poorly in the Gotham, but planning to keep an eye on this dual stakeswinner anyway.
Proud Spell returns Thursday
Last year's champion three year old filly, Proud Spell (Proud Citizen-Pacific Spell, by Langfuhr), will make her 2009 debut in Thursday's feature at Oaklawn, a mile and a sixteenth allowance/optional claimer.
Regular rider Gabe Saez will be up as she breaks from post six in the field of seven. Proud Spell has never been worse than third in 12 career starts while racking up wins in races such as the Kentucky Oaks, Alabama and Matron.
It's good to see this girl back. She adds more flavor to an already loaded Distaff division; after this, the plan is to take on Zenyatta (Street Cry-Vertigineux, by Forli) in the Apple Blossom.
Proud Spell is clearly the class in this event; she'll be the prohibitive favorite and should win easily in this. But just to bring you up to speed on her some of her competition; Devil House (Chester House-Diablo's Bobett, by Diablo) won the Bassinet as a two year old, the Martha Washington and Dixie Belle at three, and the Happy Princess and Lighthouse and ran third in the Kentucky Cup Distaff last year. Superior Storm (Stormy Atlantic-Alittlebitsuperior, by Total Departure) has shone on the Louisiana-bred circuit, taking the Louisiana Breeders' Oaks, Louisiana Champions Ladies Day stakes, Louisiana Premiere Night Starlet, Abadie Memorial and Fantasia Stakes. She took the Premiere Night Distaff in her 2009 debut. Kathleens Reel (Lemon Drop Kid-Coral Sea, by Rubiano) won some ungraded stakes two years ago.
Stardom Bound to stick with the girls
Champion filly Stardom Bound (Tapit-My White Corvette, by Tarr Road) will likely stick with the girls and point to the Kentucky Oaks rather than launching a Derby bid.
Stardom Bound notched her fifth straight grade I victory in the Santa Anita Oaks on Saturday but worked harder than expected, rallying furiously after going wide into the stretch and just getting up by a nose over allowance and minor stakeswinners. On Monday, IEAH announced that she will likely point for Keenland's grade I Ashland followed by the Oaks, rather than taking on males in the Santa Anita Derby.
I'm slightly disappointed she won't be attacking the Derby trail; honestly think this is one of the better fillies we've seen in quite awhile. But she ran her guts out on Saturday, so sticking with her own gender is probably the safe decision for now. There's no shame in being an Oaks winner and continuing a nice little grade I streak, and there's plenty of time to tackle the boys later.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
'Pioneer, Old Fashioned in sharp works
Two of the leading candidates for this year's Kentucky Derby turned in sharp works on Sunday in preparation for the coming weekend's prep races.
At Santa Anita, Futurity and Robert Lewis winner Pioneerof The Nile (Empire Maker-Star of Goshen, by Lord At War) drilled five furlongs in :58 4/5, the fastest of 85 works at the distance. This guy was really flattered by I Want Revenge's win in the Gotham, and he's defeated that one in their last two meetings. He's expected to start in the March 14 San Felipe.
Old Fashioned (Unbridled's Song-Collect Call, by Meadowlake) also worked five furlongs at Oaklawn, going in :59 flat for the fastest of 18 at the distance. The Remsen and Southwest winner is expected to run in Saturday's Rebel.
At Santa Anita, Futurity and Robert Lewis winner Pioneerof The Nile (Empire Maker-Star of Goshen, by Lord At War) drilled five furlongs in :58 4/5, the fastest of 85 works at the distance. This guy was really flattered by I Want Revenge's win in the Gotham, and he's defeated that one in their last two meetings. He's expected to start in the March 14 San Felipe.
Old Fashioned (Unbridled's Song-Collect Call, by Meadowlake) also worked five furlongs at Oaklawn, going in :59 flat for the fastest of 18 at the distance. The Remsen and Southwest winner is expected to run in Saturday's Rebel.
Weekend stakes roundup
With so much action from coast to coast - on the Derby trail, major stakes for older horses, and then some - the only proper way to recap is a roundup like this. Videos are courtesy of the NTRA on YouTube, except for the Kilroe, which was posted by WHR Video.
Santa Anita Handicap: Is there a horse in training today who is more versatile than Einstein (Spend A Buck-Gay Charm, by Ghadeer)? The seven-year-old Brazilian-bred got a perfect trip under Julien Leparoux to score by about a length, pushing his career earnings to over $2 million. It was the first start on a synthetic surface for Einstein, who owns three grade I wins on turf and a win in the grade II Clark Handicap on dirt (he was also second behind Curlin in the grade I Stephen Foster on dirt). Trainer Helen Pitts, who became the first woman to win the Big 'Cap, noted that her charge will probably return to California for some of the major stakes in the summer and could target the Breeders' Cup Classic, also at Santa Anita this year. This horse is so exciting to watch, and this win opened up so many new doors for him. Should make a couple of divisions very interesting this year.
The race was marred by the breakdown of the promising four year old Blue Exit (Pulpit-Black Speck, by Arch), who was pulled up turning for home. He was alter euthanized at the barn due to a fracture. Our condolences to his connections and all who loved him.
Gotham: Speaking of horses who shone on new surfaces, I Want Revenge (Stephen Got Even-Meguial, by Roy) ran off with the Gotham by more than eight lengths in his first start on natural dirt. Seems the change of scenery helped, as he looked very comfortable striding out on the surface. The highly regarded allowance winner Mr. Fantasy (E Dubai-Twice Forbidden, by Spectacular Bid) led to the quarter pole, but looks like this was too far for him; wilted when I Want Revenge came to him and faded back to third behind Imperial Council (Empire Maker-Jaramar Rain, by Thunder Gulch), who closed fairly well for a piece of it. I Want Revenge will stay in New York and train up to the Wood Memorial. Look for Imperial Council to re-emerge there as well.
Santa Anita Oaks: It wasn't pretty but Stardom Bound (Tapit-My White Corvette, by Tarr Road) claimed her fifth straight grade I win in the Santa Anita Oaks. The Eclipse champion filly was seven wide at the top of the lane and rallied from second to las to get up by a nose over Third Dawn (Sky Mesa-Chalmette, by Quiet American), with pacesetter Hooh Why (Cloud Hopping-Magic Merger, by Corporate Report) hanging on bravely another nose behind in third. It sounds like IEAH may now reconsider running her back against the boys in the Santa Anita Derby. Certainly worked harder than she was "supposed" to here, but I will make note of this; good horses still find ways to win when circumstances are against them.
Kilroe Mile: Speaking of girls taking on the boys, the brilliant Juddmonte homebred Ventura (Chester House-Estala, by Be My Guest) almost pulled it off here, but lost focus in the stretch and was just nipped by the hard-charging Gio Ponti (Tale of the Cat-Chipeta Springs, by Alydar). Ventura took the lead from brave pacesetter Dixie Chatter (Dixie Union-Mini Chat, by Deputy Minister) at the sixteenth pole, but then shifted in for a few strides, which was all it took for Gio Ponti to win the photo. It was the first grade I win for Gio Ponti, who is also racing's newest millionaire.
Azeri Stakes: Rising star Acoma (Empire Maker-Aurora, by Danzig) claimed her third straight stakes, taking the lead in midstretch and drawing clear. The half-sister to Arch is a model of versatility herself, taking the Dogwood on the Churchill main track last May before winning the River Run and Mrs. Revere on turf leading up to this.
Toboggan Handicap: Ah Day (Malibu Moon-Endette, by Thirty Eight Paces) returned from a layoff of nearly seven months to rally for the win here, just nipping fellow Maryland-bred Eternal Star (Five Star Day-Retsina's Princess, by Eternal Prince) on the wire. The six year old is a neat little moneyearner. Good to see him back.
Razorback Handicap: It was a brave rally by Let It Rock (Trippi-Timeless Measure, by Timeless Native) between horses in midstretch to claim this one. Also notable was the effort by runner-up Shim's Pride (Awesome Again-Shiroyama, by Seattle Slew), who came from last at the head of the stretch.
Santa Anita Handicap: Is there a horse in training today who is more versatile than Einstein (Spend A Buck-Gay Charm, by Ghadeer)? The seven-year-old Brazilian-bred got a perfect trip under Julien Leparoux to score by about a length, pushing his career earnings to over $2 million. It was the first start on a synthetic surface for Einstein, who owns three grade I wins on turf and a win in the grade II Clark Handicap on dirt (he was also second behind Curlin in the grade I Stephen Foster on dirt). Trainer Helen Pitts, who became the first woman to win the Big 'Cap, noted that her charge will probably return to California for some of the major stakes in the summer and could target the Breeders' Cup Classic, also at Santa Anita this year. This horse is so exciting to watch, and this win opened up so many new doors for him. Should make a couple of divisions very interesting this year.
The race was marred by the breakdown of the promising four year old Blue Exit (Pulpit-Black Speck, by Arch), who was pulled up turning for home. He was alter euthanized at the barn due to a fracture. Our condolences to his connections and all who loved him.
Gotham: Speaking of horses who shone on new surfaces, I Want Revenge (Stephen Got Even-Meguial, by Roy) ran off with the Gotham by more than eight lengths in his first start on natural dirt. Seems the change of scenery helped, as he looked very comfortable striding out on the surface. The highly regarded allowance winner Mr. Fantasy (E Dubai-Twice Forbidden, by Spectacular Bid) led to the quarter pole, but looks like this was too far for him; wilted when I Want Revenge came to him and faded back to third behind Imperial Council (Empire Maker-Jaramar Rain, by Thunder Gulch), who closed fairly well for a piece of it. I Want Revenge will stay in New York and train up to the Wood Memorial. Look for Imperial Council to re-emerge there as well.
Santa Anita Oaks: It wasn't pretty but Stardom Bound (Tapit-My White Corvette, by Tarr Road) claimed her fifth straight grade I win in the Santa Anita Oaks. The Eclipse champion filly was seven wide at the top of the lane and rallied from second to las to get up by a nose over Third Dawn (Sky Mesa-Chalmette, by Quiet American), with pacesetter Hooh Why (Cloud Hopping-Magic Merger, by Corporate Report) hanging on bravely another nose behind in third. It sounds like IEAH may now reconsider running her back against the boys in the Santa Anita Derby. Certainly worked harder than she was "supposed" to here, but I will make note of this; good horses still find ways to win when circumstances are against them.
Kilroe Mile: Speaking of girls taking on the boys, the brilliant Juddmonte homebred Ventura (Chester House-Estala, by Be My Guest) almost pulled it off here, but lost focus in the stretch and was just nipped by the hard-charging Gio Ponti (Tale of the Cat-Chipeta Springs, by Alydar). Ventura took the lead from brave pacesetter Dixie Chatter (Dixie Union-Mini Chat, by Deputy Minister) at the sixteenth pole, but then shifted in for a few strides, which was all it took for Gio Ponti to win the photo. It was the first grade I win for Gio Ponti, who is also racing's newest millionaire.
Azeri Stakes: Rising star Acoma (Empire Maker-Aurora, by Danzig) claimed her third straight stakes, taking the lead in midstretch and drawing clear. The half-sister to Arch is a model of versatility herself, taking the Dogwood on the Churchill main track last May before winning the River Run and Mrs. Revere on turf leading up to this.
Toboggan Handicap: Ah Day (Malibu Moon-Endette, by Thirty Eight Paces) returned from a layoff of nearly seven months to rally for the win here, just nipping fellow Maryland-bred Eternal Star (Five Star Day-Retsina's Princess, by Eternal Prince) on the wire. The six year old is a neat little moneyearner. Good to see him back.
Razorback Handicap: It was a brave rally by Let It Rock (Trippi-Timeless Measure, by Timeless Native) between horses in midstretch to claim this one. Also notable was the effort by runner-up Shim's Pride (Awesome Again-Shiroyama, by Seattle Slew), who came from last at the head of the stretch.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Preview: Free for all in Gotham
The stakes previews continue with a look at the grade III Gotham at a mile and a sixteenth at Aqueduct tomorrow. We've got a number of minor stakeswinners trying to step up to the next level and a bunch of allowance and maiden winners with potential trying to jump into the fray. Basically, a well-matched, highly competitive race with all in desperate need of some graded earnings. I love Derby time.
1. Naos (Lion Heart-Miss Moonwaki, by Miswaki): Mike Luzzi has the mount on this Todd Pletcher trainee, who wired the field in an allowance at Philly Park Feb. 15.
2. Russell Road (Wheaton-Roberta Grump, by Verification): Has won three straight ungraded sprint stakes a bit further south of here (Maryland, West Virginia, etc).
3. Masala (Lion Heart-Countess Marq, by Marquetry): Broke his maiden in the slop at Aqueduct last fall (there’s a chance of rain Saturday), then ran second in an allowance to Take The Points, who was second in the Sham last out.
4. Axel Foley (Officer-Morganza, by Clever Trick): Richard Migliore rides for Kiaran McLaughlin. Makes his first start on conventional dirt after a poor showing in the El Camino Real, where he led into the stretch before fading.
5. Mr. Fantasy (E Dubai-Twice Forbidden, by Spectacular Bid): Alan Garcia has the mount on the half brother to New York favorite Tin Cup Chalice. Has won both of his starts by daylight for McLaughlin, but hasn’t faced anything beyond allowance level.
6. Haynesfield (Speightstown-Nothing Special, by Tejabo): The leader of the New York contingent this year has won four straight, including the Damon Runyon, Count Fleet and Whirlaway. C.C. Lopez will be up on the Steve Asmussen trainee as he gets a class test.
7. Imperial Council (Empire Maker-Jaramar Rain, by Thunder Gulch): Regally bred son of Empire Maker, out of a Thunder Gulch mare, seeks to step up a level as well. Broke his maiden at second asking, but then Shug McGaughey gave him four months off; came back to edge clear late in an allowance sprint. Rajiv Maragh has the ride, as regular rider Edgar Prado opted to ride in the Big ‘Cap instead.
8. I Want Revenge (Stephen Got Even- Meguial, by Roy): Ships in from California and Joe Talamo came all that way to keep the mount. A change of scenery might be for the best, as he’s dropped two close ones to Pioneerof The Nile. Shows some versatility, as he rallied from off the pace for second in the Futurity but closed for the place spot in the Sham; this is his first try on natural dirt.
9. Giant Ryan (Freud- Kheyrah, by Dayjur): Won the first two starts, a maiden special weight and allowance, but dropped his first stakes try, finishing fifth in the ungraded Jimmy Winkfield.
Railbird's pick: It's all about development. Haynesfield is an honest sort who has matured faster than some of these guys, and I feel he'll maintain his edge Saturday. If anyone makes him work for it, it will be Mr. Fantasy, who is improving in leaps and bounds. Imperial Council strikes me as a late bloomer, but could rally for a piece, as could I Want Revenge if he handles the new surface. Pletcher has pulled bigger upsets than this before, so don't discount Masala if the track is a mess tomorrow; he's been running against decent competition, too.
1. Naos (Lion Heart-Miss Moonwaki, by Miswaki): Mike Luzzi has the mount on this Todd Pletcher trainee, who wired the field in an allowance at Philly Park Feb. 15.
2. Russell Road (Wheaton-Roberta Grump, by Verification): Has won three straight ungraded sprint stakes a bit further south of here (Maryland, West Virginia, etc).
3. Masala (Lion Heart-Countess Marq, by Marquetry): Broke his maiden in the slop at Aqueduct last fall (there’s a chance of rain Saturday), then ran second in an allowance to Take The Points, who was second in the Sham last out.
4. Axel Foley (Officer-Morganza, by Clever Trick): Richard Migliore rides for Kiaran McLaughlin. Makes his first start on conventional dirt after a poor showing in the El Camino Real, where he led into the stretch before fading.
5. Mr. Fantasy (E Dubai-Twice Forbidden, by Spectacular Bid): Alan Garcia has the mount on the half brother to New York favorite Tin Cup Chalice. Has won both of his starts by daylight for McLaughlin, but hasn’t faced anything beyond allowance level.
6. Haynesfield (Speightstown-Nothing Special, by Tejabo): The leader of the New York contingent this year has won four straight, including the Damon Runyon, Count Fleet and Whirlaway. C.C. Lopez will be up on the Steve Asmussen trainee as he gets a class test.
7. Imperial Council (Empire Maker-Jaramar Rain, by Thunder Gulch): Regally bred son of Empire Maker, out of a Thunder Gulch mare, seeks to step up a level as well. Broke his maiden at second asking, but then Shug McGaughey gave him four months off; came back to edge clear late in an allowance sprint. Rajiv Maragh has the ride, as regular rider Edgar Prado opted to ride in the Big ‘Cap instead.
8. I Want Revenge (Stephen Got Even- Meguial, by Roy): Ships in from California and Joe Talamo came all that way to keep the mount. A change of scenery might be for the best, as he’s dropped two close ones to Pioneerof The Nile. Shows some versatility, as he rallied from off the pace for second in the Futurity but closed for the place spot in the Sham; this is his first try on natural dirt.
9. Giant Ryan (Freud- Kheyrah, by Dayjur): Won the first two starts, a maiden special weight and allowance, but dropped his first stakes try, finishing fifth in the ungraded Jimmy Winkfield.
Railbird's pick: It's all about development. Haynesfield is an honest sort who has matured faster than some of these guys, and I feel he'll maintain his edge Saturday. If anyone makes him work for it, it will be Mr. Fantasy, who is improving in leaps and bounds. Imperial Council strikes me as a late bloomer, but could rally for a piece, as could I Want Revenge if he handles the new surface. Pletcher has pulled bigger upsets than this before, so don't discount Masala if the track is a mess tomorrow; he's been running against decent competition, too.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Preview: Stardom Bound headlines Oaks
It's a busy weekend from coast to coast in the world of thoroughbred racing. Keep an eye on the blog today, as we'll be previewing four major stakes. We'll begin with the grade I Santa Anita Oaks, featuring three year old fillies going a mile and a sixteenth.
1. Stardom Bound (Tapit-My White Corvette, by Tarr Road): Defending Eclipse champion gets the rail, but it doesn't much matter as she'll drop back and come running with her usual late kick. She's 4-for-6 lifetime, earner of over a million, and is chasing her fifth straight grade I win. Another big score here could put her into the Santa Anita Derby next month. Regular rider Mike Smith is up.
2. Burg Berg (Johannesburg-Snowberg, by Seattle Sleet): Winner of back to back races tries stakes company for the first time. Tyler Baze has the mount.
3. Miss Silver Brook (Cozzene-Brookdale, by Turkoman): Alex Solis is up on this girl, who won her maiden first time out in January, but finished fourth as the favorite on the turf in the La Habra last out.
4. Hooh Why (Cloud Hopping-Magic Merger, by Corporate Report): Florida-bred filly spent most of last year in Canada, running second in a stakes to Patena, who highlights next weekend's Louisiana Derby. She's remarkably consistent, hitting the board in seven of eight lifetime for trainer Carla Gaines. Most recently led until deep stretch of the Sunshine Millions Oaks. Robby Albarado in the irons.
5. Stormy Slew (Hennessy-Hepatica, by Slewpy): John Velazquez has the mount on this maiden.
6. Nan (High Yield-Trip Around Heaven, by Halo): One of two here with only a maiden win to her credit; fourth in the Las Virgenes to Stardom Bound last out. Corey Nakatani rides.
7. Will O Way (Broken Vow-Willow Woodman, by Woodman): Has won only three of seven, but two were stakes; most recently scored a game nose victory in the California Oaks. Russell Baze is in the irons.
8. Beltene (Unusual Heat-Wallis of Windsor, by Wavering Monarch): Joel Rosario up on the winner of the Sunshine Millions Oaks, who is 3-for-3 lifetime.
9. Third Dawn (Sky Mesa-Chalmette, by Quiet American), Rafael Bejarano rides this girl, who broke her maiden at a mile and a sixteenth last out. Bred to run all day.
10. Acronym (Empire Maker-Averti, by Known Fact): Bobby Frankel sends out this filly for Juddmonte Farms. David Flores rides the filly, who finished fifth in her sprint maiden but then won at a mile last out, suggesting she may appreciate the extra distance.
Railbird's pick: I can't ignore the Juddmonte filly in Acronym or the consistency of Hooh Why. But Stardom Bound is just too good. She certainly didn't scare anyone off, but if she gets an honest pace to run at, there's no reason to think she isn't 'bound' for another impressive win.
1. Stardom Bound (Tapit-My White Corvette, by Tarr Road): Defending Eclipse champion gets the rail, but it doesn't much matter as she'll drop back and come running with her usual late kick. She's 4-for-6 lifetime, earner of over a million, and is chasing her fifth straight grade I win. Another big score here could put her into the Santa Anita Derby next month. Regular rider Mike Smith is up.
2. Burg Berg (Johannesburg-Snowberg, by Seattle Sleet): Winner of back to back races tries stakes company for the first time. Tyler Baze has the mount.
3. Miss Silver Brook (Cozzene-Brookdale, by Turkoman): Alex Solis is up on this girl, who won her maiden first time out in January, but finished fourth as the favorite on the turf in the La Habra last out.
4. Hooh Why (Cloud Hopping-Magic Merger, by Corporate Report): Florida-bred filly spent most of last year in Canada, running second in a stakes to Patena, who highlights next weekend's Louisiana Derby. She's remarkably consistent, hitting the board in seven of eight lifetime for trainer Carla Gaines. Most recently led until deep stretch of the Sunshine Millions Oaks. Robby Albarado in the irons.
5. Stormy Slew (Hennessy-Hepatica, by Slewpy): John Velazquez has the mount on this maiden.
6. Nan (High Yield-Trip Around Heaven, by Halo): One of two here with only a maiden win to her credit; fourth in the Las Virgenes to Stardom Bound last out. Corey Nakatani rides.
7. Will O Way (Broken Vow-Willow Woodman, by Woodman): Has won only three of seven, but two were stakes; most recently scored a game nose victory in the California Oaks. Russell Baze is in the irons.
8. Beltene (Unusual Heat-Wallis of Windsor, by Wavering Monarch): Joel Rosario up on the winner of the Sunshine Millions Oaks, who is 3-for-3 lifetime.
9. Third Dawn (Sky Mesa-Chalmette, by Quiet American), Rafael Bejarano rides this girl, who broke her maiden at a mile and a sixteenth last out. Bred to run all day.
10. Acronym (Empire Maker-Averti, by Known Fact): Bobby Frankel sends out this filly for Juddmonte Farms. David Flores rides the filly, who finished fifth in her sprint maiden but then won at a mile last out, suggesting she may appreciate the extra distance.
Railbird's pick: I can't ignore the Juddmonte filly in Acronym or the consistency of Hooh Why. But Stardom Bound is just too good. She certainly didn't scare anyone off, but if she gets an honest pace to run at, there's no reason to think she isn't 'bound' for another impressive win.
Derby Top 10
First off, apologizes for the lack of posting this week. Something-namely midterms-intervened with my regular schedule (such is the life of a college student. I'll be mine for a few more months).
Anyway, without further ado, here is the first installment of View From the Rail's Derby Top 10. In the future, look for these early in the week.
Agree with the rankings? Vehemently disagree? Feel free to comment and share your own thoughts.
1. Old Fashioned (Unbridled's Song-Collect Call, by Meadowlake): Undefeated and love that he already has a win at nine furlongs. Carried his form over from two to three to emerge again with a workmanlike effort in the Southwest. Plenty of questions from the masses about distance limitations and if he'll stay sound, but for now, he's answered each question posed of him with a resounding 'yes.' Won't get off him til we see a 'no.'
2. The Pamplemousse (Kafwain-Comfort Zone, by Rubiano): Physically impressive specimen is dangerous when left alone on the lead, but proved he could re-break and win under slight pressure in the Sham. Waiting to see what happens when someone really looks him in the eye, but for now, I consider him the best horse on the West Coast.
3. Stardom Bound (Tapit-My White Corvette, by Tarr Road): Has not faced the boys yet, but it could be coming if she trounces his rivals in this weekend's Santa Anita Oaks. Has a devastating late move that could be powerful against a field with all the speed the boys are showing this year. One of the most talented three year olds of either gender.
4. Friesan Fire (AP Indy-Bollinger, by Dehere): It says something about this year's bunch when this dual stakeswinner (LeComte and Risen Star) is second fiddle in his own barn. He's progressing steadily with each start, and the Louisiana Derby should be a good test.
5. Dunkirk (Unbridled's Song-Secret Status, by AP Indy): I can't believe I'm putting a two-start allowance winner over several multiple stakeswinners, but that's how highly I think of him. Has a wonderful turn of foot and handled adversity well in his second start. Says a lot about Todd Pletcher's confidence in him that he'll be rolling the dice earnings-wise by using a single stakes prep.
6. Pioneerof The Nile (Empire Maker-Star of goshen, by Lord At War): Followed gutty win in the Futurity with a workmanlike effort in the Robert B. Lewis.
7. Chocolate Candy (Candy Ride-Crownette, by Seattle Slew): Good third in the Futurity then won the California Derby and El Camino while stretching out a bit more each time. Don't think he's a world beater, but he's a useful sort and bred to get even more distance.
8. Beethoven (Sky Mesa-Moonlight Sonata, by Carson City): Still think he's going to be noticed in the Triple Crown series, but just hasn't lived up to the billing yet. Did close strongly against a speed bias in the Fountain of Youth.
9. Haynesfield (Speightstown-Nothing Special, by Tejabo): Winner of the Count Fleet and Whirlaway takes a step up in class this weekend, but he's an honest sort who has quietly made his mark.
10. Quality Road (Elusive Quality-Kobla, by Strawberry Road): Fountain of Youth was one of the better performances we've seen so far this year. Waiting to see if he moves forward in his next or if he's just a class miler.
On the radar: Mr. Hot Stuff (Tiznow-Sweet Damsel, by Turkoman), the full brother to Colonel John, closed strongly to pick up third in the Sham and appears primed to move forward. Silver City (Unbridled's Song-Proposal, by Mt Livermore) was a game second in the Southwest. We'll see if Imperial Council (Empire Maker-Jaramar Rain, by Thunder Gulch) and Mr. Fantasy (E Dubai-Twice Forbidden, by Spectacular Bid), a half to Tin Cup Chalice, live up to their billing this weekend in the Gotham.
Anyway, without further ado, here is the first installment of View From the Rail's Derby Top 10. In the future, look for these early in the week.
Agree with the rankings? Vehemently disagree? Feel free to comment and share your own thoughts.
1. Old Fashioned (Unbridled's Song-Collect Call, by Meadowlake): Undefeated and love that he already has a win at nine furlongs. Carried his form over from two to three to emerge again with a workmanlike effort in the Southwest. Plenty of questions from the masses about distance limitations and if he'll stay sound, but for now, he's answered each question posed of him with a resounding 'yes.' Won't get off him til we see a 'no.'
2. The Pamplemousse (Kafwain-Comfort Zone, by Rubiano): Physically impressive specimen is dangerous when left alone on the lead, but proved he could re-break and win under slight pressure in the Sham. Waiting to see what happens when someone really looks him in the eye, but for now, I consider him the best horse on the West Coast.
3. Stardom Bound (Tapit-My White Corvette, by Tarr Road): Has not faced the boys yet, but it could be coming if she trounces his rivals in this weekend's Santa Anita Oaks. Has a devastating late move that could be powerful against a field with all the speed the boys are showing this year. One of the most talented three year olds of either gender.
4. Friesan Fire (AP Indy-Bollinger, by Dehere): It says something about this year's bunch when this dual stakeswinner (LeComte and Risen Star) is second fiddle in his own barn. He's progressing steadily with each start, and the Louisiana Derby should be a good test.
5. Dunkirk (Unbridled's Song-Secret Status, by AP Indy): I can't believe I'm putting a two-start allowance winner over several multiple stakeswinners, but that's how highly I think of him. Has a wonderful turn of foot and handled adversity well in his second start. Says a lot about Todd Pletcher's confidence in him that he'll be rolling the dice earnings-wise by using a single stakes prep.
6. Pioneerof The Nile (Empire Maker-Star of goshen, by Lord At War): Followed gutty win in the Futurity with a workmanlike effort in the Robert B. Lewis.
7. Chocolate Candy (Candy Ride-Crownette, by Seattle Slew): Good third in the Futurity then won the California Derby and El Camino while stretching out a bit more each time. Don't think he's a world beater, but he's a useful sort and bred to get even more distance.
8. Beethoven (Sky Mesa-Moonlight Sonata, by Carson City): Still think he's going to be noticed in the Triple Crown series, but just hasn't lived up to the billing yet. Did close strongly against a speed bias in the Fountain of Youth.
9. Haynesfield (Speightstown-Nothing Special, by Tejabo): Winner of the Count Fleet and Whirlaway takes a step up in class this weekend, but he's an honest sort who has quietly made his mark.
10. Quality Road (Elusive Quality-Kobla, by Strawberry Road): Fountain of Youth was one of the better performances we've seen so far this year. Waiting to see if he moves forward in his next or if he's just a class miler.
On the radar: Mr. Hot Stuff (Tiznow-Sweet Damsel, by Turkoman), the full brother to Colonel John, closed strongly to pick up third in the Sham and appears primed to move forward. Silver City (Unbridled's Song-Proposal, by Mt Livermore) was a game second in the Southwest. We'll see if Imperial Council (Empire Maker-Jaramar Rain, by Thunder Gulch) and Mr. Fantasy (E Dubai-Twice Forbidden, by Spectacular Bid), a half to Tin Cup Chalice, live up to their billing this weekend in the Gotham.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Midshipman out
Those predicting doomsday for the Unbridled's Song (Unbridled-Trolley Song, by Caro) progeny scored their first point yesterday when Eclipse champion two year old Midshipman (Unbridled's Song-Fleet Lady, by Avenue of Flags) was declared off the Triple Crown trail.
The colt was purchased by Godolphin Racing following his win in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile. They announced Sunday morning that Midshipman suffered a minor soft tissue injury in his lef foreleg during routine training, which will lay him up about two months. The colt had been scheduled to make his 2009 debut next week and ship back to America in April.
Unbridled's Song, famous for throwing fast but fragile progeny, has been red-hot this year as the sire of early Derby favorite Old Fashioned, the talented Dunkirk, consistent Silver City and solid maiden winner Affirmatif. But many have wondered how far these youngsters will go before their breeding catches up with them. As handride put it on Twitter: "Will it be their feet or distance that does in the Unbridled's Song progeny?"
In all fairness, Unbridled's Song progeny are all kinds of fragile, and the distance question is quite valid. But a soft tissue injury is usually caused by a horse hitting himself or some other goof, not from the genetic fragility that might cause bone fractures. So I'm not quite ready to blame daddy for Midshipman missing the big dance just yet. I'm curious to see how well Old Fashioned and Dunkirk hold up with a couple more starts....and definitely will be interesting to see how far the quick Silver City and Affirmatif want to run. For the next couple of weeks, I'm reserving judgement.
The colt was purchased by Godolphin Racing following his win in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile. They announced Sunday morning that Midshipman suffered a minor soft tissue injury in his lef foreleg during routine training, which will lay him up about two months. The colt had been scheduled to make his 2009 debut next week and ship back to America in April.
Unbridled's Song, famous for throwing fast but fragile progeny, has been red-hot this year as the sire of early Derby favorite Old Fashioned, the talented Dunkirk, consistent Silver City and solid maiden winner Affirmatif. But many have wondered how far these youngsters will go before their breeding catches up with them. As handride put it on Twitter: "Will it be their feet or distance that does in the Unbridled's Song progeny?"
In all fairness, Unbridled's Song progeny are all kinds of fragile, and the distance question is quite valid. But a soft tissue injury is usually caused by a horse hitting himself or some other goof, not from the genetic fragility that might cause bone fractures. So I'm not quite ready to blame daddy for Midshipman missing the big dance just yet. I'm curious to see how well Old Fashioned and Dunkirk hold up with a couple more starts....and definitely will be interesting to see how far the quick Silver City and Affirmatif want to run. For the next couple of weeks, I'm reserving judgement.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Zenyatta returns to worktab
Last year's champion older female, the undefeated Zenyatta (Street Cry-Vertigineux, by Kris S) returned to the worktab Saturday morning at Hollywood. She went an easy half mile in :48.80, good for 20th out of 40 works at the distance.
The five-year-old hasn't raced since the Oct. 24 Breeders' Cup Ladies Classic (still hate that name). After a vacation that consisted of walking the shedrow and some easy gallops and jogs, Zenyatta returned to serious training in January. Trainer John Sheriffs has said that the mare is on target for an early spring debut. For this railbird, that can't come soon enough.
The five-year-old hasn't raced since the Oct. 24 Breeders' Cup Ladies Classic (still hate that name). After a vacation that consisted of walking the shedrow and some easy gallops and jogs, Zenyatta returned to serious training in January. Trainer John Sheriffs has said that the mare is on target for an early spring debut. For this railbird, that can't come soon enough.
Affirmatif impresses in maiden score
A few weeks ago, I made a comment on this blog that Todd Pletcher didn't seem to be making as much noise on the Triple Crown trail as in years past. No sooner did I say that than Dunkirk rolled to an impressive win over a loaded allowance field and Take The Points impressed with a solid effort in the Sham.
Looks like Pletcher has another lightly-raced but promising sophomore to watch this spring after Affirmatif (Unbridled's Song-Witchizo, by Affirmed) rolled to a nine-length win in his career debut, a mile maiden on the turf in the Fountain of Youth undercard. His winning time of 1:34.27 was just a tick faster than his stablemate Twilight Meteor ran in winning the Canadian Turf Stakes the same day.
This is a nice sort of horse. A very well built, nice-striding animal who has a good turn of foot. There's been some speculation that we could see this colt in the Blue Grass, followed by the Derby. I'm hoping they take a slightly more conservative approach with him; perhaps another allowance, followed by a run in the Withers and Preakness, a la Bernardini? It's always fun to have fresh, talented challengers lying in wait for the Derby winner.
Looks like Pletcher has another lightly-raced but promising sophomore to watch this spring after Affirmatif (Unbridled's Song-Witchizo, by Affirmed) rolled to a nine-length win in his career debut, a mile maiden on the turf in the Fountain of Youth undercard. His winning time of 1:34.27 was just a tick faster than his stablemate Twilight Meteor ran in winning the Canadian Turf Stakes the same day.
This is a nice sort of horse. A very well built, nice-striding animal who has a good turn of foot. There's been some speculation that we could see this colt in the Blue Grass, followed by the Derby. I'm hoping they take a slightly more conservative approach with him; perhaps another allowance, followed by a run in the Withers and Preakness, a la Bernardini? It's always fun to have fresh, talented challengers lying in wait for the Derby winner.
Video roundup: Feb. 28 Derby preps
For those of you without YouBet, HRTV, HRN, etc, the NTRA has put up some video of recent stakes on its YouTube account. Check them out, and feel free to comment and let me know if you agreed with my earlier thoughts on these races. Enjoy, and thanks NTRA!
The Pamplemousse: Wow!
Odds-on favorite The Pamplemousse (Kafwain-Comfort Zone, by Rubiano) looked every bit the part with a gate-to-wire score in the Sham Stakes yesterday.
The hulking colt got off to a smooth start despite his size, went slightly wide around the first turn and took the lead quickly, setting honest fractions of :23.08, :46.51 and 1:10.29. Take The Points (Tiznow-Sweet Damsel, by Turkoman) sat in second throughout, but never drew closer than a length. At the top of the stretch, The Pamplemousse rebroke and came home under hand urging from Alex Solis to hit the wire better than five in front. He ran a mile in 1:05.09 and finished up in 1:47.86.
This horse is the real deal. Loved how he looked stretching out to nine furlongs for the first time, especially the way he kicked into a new gear at the top of the lane; he doesn't look like just a sprinter with that beautiful long stride. Seems like he's grown into himself and is continuing to mature; will have plenty more seasoning, as it seems he's on target for the Santa Anita Derby, giving him a conventional three preps before the big dance. Question now is if he can transfer his form to conventional dirt.
Take The Points checked in second. Mr. Hot Stuff (Tiznow-Sweet Damsel, by Turkoman), a full brother to Santa Anita Derby and Travers winner Colonel John, was seventh turning for home and made up nearly ten lengths to finish third. Very nice effort by both of these colts. Take The Points is quietly developing into a very good consistent three-year-old; those can be dangerous at this time of year, when wacky paces and inexperienced horses can cause races to fall apart. They have to be pleased with the decision to scratch out of the Fountain of Youth and run here. Meanwhile, Mr. Hot Stuff took another nice step forward in his first try against stakes company. Would like to see how he continues to progress.
The hulking colt got off to a smooth start despite his size, went slightly wide around the first turn and took the lead quickly, setting honest fractions of :23.08, :46.51 and 1:10.29. Take The Points (Tiznow-Sweet Damsel, by Turkoman) sat in second throughout, but never drew closer than a length. At the top of the stretch, The Pamplemousse rebroke and came home under hand urging from Alex Solis to hit the wire better than five in front. He ran a mile in 1:05.09 and finished up in 1:47.86.
This horse is the real deal. Loved how he looked stretching out to nine furlongs for the first time, especially the way he kicked into a new gear at the top of the lane; he doesn't look like just a sprinter with that beautiful long stride. Seems like he's grown into himself and is continuing to mature; will have plenty more seasoning, as it seems he's on target for the Santa Anita Derby, giving him a conventional three preps before the big dance. Question now is if he can transfer his form to conventional dirt.
Take The Points checked in second. Mr. Hot Stuff (Tiznow-Sweet Damsel, by Turkoman), a full brother to Santa Anita Derby and Travers winner Colonel John, was seventh turning for home and made up nearly ten lengths to finish third. Very nice effort by both of these colts. Take The Points is quietly developing into a very good consistent three-year-old; those can be dangerous at this time of year, when wacky paces and inexperienced horses can cause races to fall apart. They have to be pleased with the decision to scratch out of the Fountain of Youth and run here. Meanwhile, Mr. Hot Stuff took another nice step forward in his first try against stakes company. Would like to see how he continues to progress.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Quality Road impresses in Fountain of Youth
Quality Road (Elusive Quality-Kobla, by Strawberry Road) won the Fountain of Youth Stakes by daylight over Theregoesjojo (Brahms-Slewie Blues, by Seattle Slew) Saturday in one of the better performances by a thtee year old yet this year.
The race got off to an awkward start, as the winner, Capt. Candyman Can (Candy Ride-Stormy Way, by Storm Creek), This Ones For Phil (Untuttable-Heavens Gate, by Septime Ciel), Taquarub (Aldebaran-Honor Bestowed, by Honor Grades) and Break Water Edison (Lemon Drop Kid-August Storm, by Storm Creek) jostled each other and Bee Cee Cee (Songandaprayer-Mighty Ride, by Mighty Appealing) and Theregoesjojo got off slowly. You've got to think all the action dramatically affected the pace setup.
After recovering, This Ones For Phil and Quality Road ran 1-2 down the backside, setting fractions of :23.45, :45.55 and 1:09.40. Quality Road was in front by a length at the top of the stretch and steadily increased his lead down the lane to hit the wire four in front. The final time was 1:35.01.
Theregoesjojo was a clear second-best by four lengths over Beethoven (Sky Mesa-Moonlight Sonata, by Carson City), who was tenth early and dramatically passed tired rivals to be third. Gulfstream still has a wicked speed bias. What kind of horse is he to make up that much ground down the lane? I still haven’t given up on this one.
Next came Capt Candyman Can, This Ones For Phil, Bee Cee Cee, Hutcheston winner Notonthesamepage (Catienus-Blue Holiday, by Cure the Blues), Jack Spratt (Candy Ride-Mayapple, by Miners Mark), Taquarub and Break Water Edison, who was eased.
I see Beethoven moving forward out of this and Quality Road becoming a nice horse, if not a Derby horse. Those still hanging on to Break Water Edison as a Triple Crown hopeful can probably give up on that, and This Ones For Phil still looks like a fair sprinter to me.
The race got off to an awkward start, as the winner, Capt. Candyman Can (Candy Ride-Stormy Way, by Storm Creek), This Ones For Phil (Untuttable-Heavens Gate, by Septime Ciel), Taquarub (Aldebaran-Honor Bestowed, by Honor Grades) and Break Water Edison (Lemon Drop Kid-August Storm, by Storm Creek) jostled each other and Bee Cee Cee (Songandaprayer-Mighty Ride, by Mighty Appealing) and Theregoesjojo got off slowly. You've got to think all the action dramatically affected the pace setup.
After recovering, This Ones For Phil and Quality Road ran 1-2 down the backside, setting fractions of :23.45, :45.55 and 1:09.40. Quality Road was in front by a length at the top of the stretch and steadily increased his lead down the lane to hit the wire four in front. The final time was 1:35.01.
Theregoesjojo was a clear second-best by four lengths over Beethoven (Sky Mesa-Moonlight Sonata, by Carson City), who was tenth early and dramatically passed tired rivals to be third. Gulfstream still has a wicked speed bias. What kind of horse is he to make up that much ground down the lane? I still haven’t given up on this one.
Next came Capt Candyman Can, This Ones For Phil, Bee Cee Cee, Hutcheston winner Notonthesamepage (Catienus-Blue Holiday, by Cure the Blues), Jack Spratt (Candy Ride-Mayapple, by Miners Mark), Taquarub and Break Water Edison, who was eased.
I see Beethoven moving forward out of this and Quality Road becoming a nice horse, if not a Derby horse. Those still hanging on to Break Water Edison as a Triple Crown hopeful can probably give up on that, and This Ones For Phil still looks like a fair sprinter to me.
Twilight Meteor takes Canadian
Twilight Meteor (Smart Strike-One Over Prime, by With Approval) ran up to his earlier form with a win in the grade III Canadian Turf Stakes at Gulfstream, edging away late to top stubborn pacesetter Buddy’s Humor (Distorted Humor-Hello Barbara Sue, by Dehere) by a length.
Buffalo Man (El Prado-Perfect Six, by Saratoga Six) was just a head back in third. French import Passager (Put It Back-Restraining Order, by Skip Trial) was back in fifth. The highly regarded Sporting Art (Donerail Court-Playful Run, by Run Softly) got a great trip, saving ground behind an honest pace, but never rallied. Delightful Kiss (Put It Back-Restraining Order, by Skip Trial) checked in tenth after trailing throughout. This has got to nix those Dubai plans. Hey Byrn (Put It Back-Restraining Order, by Skip Trial), making his first start on the lawn, was eased, but appeared to be okay.
The results on the whole were disappointing for horses looking to return to form (Sporting Art), step up to a new level (Vanquisher) or take on new challenges (Delightful Kiss, Passager, Hey Byrn). But definitely look for the winner to move forward off this. He seems to be rounding back to form after his layoff and could be a threat this summer.
Buffalo Man (El Prado-Perfect Six, by Saratoga Six) was just a head back in third. French import Passager (Put It Back-Restraining Order, by Skip Trial) was back in fifth. The highly regarded Sporting Art (Donerail Court-Playful Run, by Run Softly) got a great trip, saving ground behind an honest pace, but never rallied. Delightful Kiss (Put It Back-Restraining Order, by Skip Trial) checked in tenth after trailing throughout. This has got to nix those Dubai plans. Hey Byrn (Put It Back-Restraining Order, by Skip Trial), making his first start on the lawn, was eased, but appeared to be okay.
The results on the whole were disappointing for horses looking to return to form (Sporting Art), step up to a new level (Vanquisher) or take on new challenges (Delightful Kiss, Passager, Hey Byrn). But definitely look for the winner to move forward off this. He seems to be rounding back to form after his layoff and could be a threat this summer.
Da'Tara second in allowance
Last year's Belmont winner Da'Tara (Tiznow-Torchera, by Pirate's Bounty) is still seeking his first win since taking that race after finishing second in a seven furlong allowance/optional claimer at Gulfstream. It was his fifth straight loss. But to me, there were signs of promise in this one.
Under Alan Garcia, the four year old, a usual frontrunner, stumbled at the start and was next to last early. He made up ground to be second on the far turn, and stubbornly held that second by a head as winner Pictural (El Prado-Dance With Grace, by Mr. Prospector) drew off to win by nearly three under Edgar Prado.
Okay, so we've established that last year's three year olds were not exactly a strong crop and that Da'Tara is not a world beater. But today was encouraging. He came back off a brief freshening (off since finishing third in a Nov. 28 allowance) and turned in a not-up-the-track effort. He'll probably do his best running in allowance and ungraded stakes, but if he's happy and performing well there, he could have a happy niche as a 'name' horse there for years to come.
Under Alan Garcia, the four year old, a usual frontrunner, stumbled at the start and was next to last early. He made up ground to be second on the far turn, and stubbornly held that second by a head as winner Pictural (El Prado-Dance With Grace, by Mr. Prospector) drew off to win by nearly three under Edgar Prado.
Okay, so we've established that last year's three year olds were not exactly a strong crop and that Da'Tara is not a world beater. But today was encouraging. He came back off a brief freshening (off since finishing third in a Nov. 28 allowance) and turned in a not-up-the-track effort. He'll probably do his best running in allowance and ungraded stakes, but if he's happy and performing well there, he could have a happy niche as a 'name' horse there for years to come.
Weekend stakes preview: Many looking for breakthrough in CTS
A field of 11 face off in this grade III on the Gulfstream lawn, which immediately precedes the Fountain of Youth.
1. Rogue Victory (Victory Gallop-Romp and Stomp, by Olympio): Won an allowance two starts back.
2. Sporting Art (Donerail Court-Playful Run, by Run Softly): Kent Desormeaux rides this one, who began his career in England before coming to the states last year, when he took the Palm Beach Stakes and Calder Derby. Finished third in the Colonial Turf Cup last time out coming off an eight-mnth layoff.
3. Hey Byrn (Put It Back-Restraining Order, by Skip Trial): Remember his third-place finish to Big Brown in last year’s Florida Derby, when both were just flashy allowance winners? Eddie Plesa trainee is making his first start on grass after winning an allowance to start the year and running up the track in the Sunshine Millions Classic.
4. Buffalo Man (El Prado-Perfect Six, by Saratoga Six): Canadian-bred has lost four straight since a win at Monmouth last summer, including an eighth-place finish over this course last month.
5. Delightful Kiss (Kissin Kris-Deputy's Delight, by French Deputy): Became a millionaire with his third-place finish in the Sunshine Millions Classic after opening the season with a win in the Hal’s Hope. This is his first start on grass since May 2007; they’re hoping to use it as a springboard to a start in the Dubai’s Goldolphin Mile next month. Sox of his 24 starts have been on grass, and he’s only won once on it, in his second career start. Calvin Borel keeps the mount.
6. Passager (Anaaba-Passionee, by Woodman): Edgar Prado rides this French-bred, making his first start in America after earning group III wins overseas.
7. Vanquisher (Gulch-The Relentless Cat, by Storm Cat): Alan Garcia has the mount for trainer Bill Mott. Has won back-to-back races, including the ungraded Talahassee here last time out.
8. Just as Well (AP Indy-No Matter What, by Nureyev): Julien Leparoux rides this one, who was second in the Gulfstream Park Turf Handicap on Feb. 1 to Breeders’ Cup Mile winner Kip Deville.
9. Twilight Meteor (Smart Strike-One Over Prime, by With Approval): Canadian-bred showed some real promise on turf as a three year old; came off a nearly nine-month layoff to be fourth in an allowance here last time out. John Velazquez has the mount.
10. Bujagali (Johannesburg-River Melody, by River Man): Kieran McLaughlin trainee was laid off since April 2008; came back to be fifth and sixth in a pair of starts.
11. Buddy's Humor (Distorted Humor-Hello Barbara Sue, by Dehere): Seventh in the Jan. 10 Ft. Lauderdale last time out.
Railbird's picks: Sporting Art looks to be the class of the field, and Delightful Kiss will take a lot of action despite the question marks about the grass. If neither of those two fires, I like Just As Well to pick up the pieces. Gave a nice effort last time out.
1. Rogue Victory (Victory Gallop-Romp and Stomp, by Olympio): Won an allowance two starts back.
2. Sporting Art (Donerail Court-Playful Run, by Run Softly): Kent Desormeaux rides this one, who began his career in England before coming to the states last year, when he took the Palm Beach Stakes and Calder Derby. Finished third in the Colonial Turf Cup last time out coming off an eight-mnth layoff.
3. Hey Byrn (Put It Back-Restraining Order, by Skip Trial): Remember his third-place finish to Big Brown in last year’s Florida Derby, when both were just flashy allowance winners? Eddie Plesa trainee is making his first start on grass after winning an allowance to start the year and running up the track in the Sunshine Millions Classic.
4. Buffalo Man (El Prado-Perfect Six, by Saratoga Six): Canadian-bred has lost four straight since a win at Monmouth last summer, including an eighth-place finish over this course last month.
5. Delightful Kiss (Kissin Kris-Deputy's Delight, by French Deputy): Became a millionaire with his third-place finish in the Sunshine Millions Classic after opening the season with a win in the Hal’s Hope. This is his first start on grass since May 2007; they’re hoping to use it as a springboard to a start in the Dubai’s Goldolphin Mile next month. Sox of his 24 starts have been on grass, and he’s only won once on it, in his second career start. Calvin Borel keeps the mount.
6. Passager (Anaaba-Passionee, by Woodman): Edgar Prado rides this French-bred, making his first start in America after earning group III wins overseas.
7. Vanquisher (Gulch-The Relentless Cat, by Storm Cat): Alan Garcia has the mount for trainer Bill Mott. Has won back-to-back races, including the ungraded Talahassee here last time out.
8. Just as Well (AP Indy-No Matter What, by Nureyev): Julien Leparoux rides this one, who was second in the Gulfstream Park Turf Handicap on Feb. 1 to Breeders’ Cup Mile winner Kip Deville.
9. Twilight Meteor (Smart Strike-One Over Prime, by With Approval): Canadian-bred showed some real promise on turf as a three year old; came off a nearly nine-month layoff to be fourth in an allowance here last time out. John Velazquez has the mount.
10. Bujagali (Johannesburg-River Melody, by River Man): Kieran McLaughlin trainee was laid off since April 2008; came back to be fifth and sixth in a pair of starts.
11. Buddy's Humor (Distorted Humor-Hello Barbara Sue, by Dehere): Seventh in the Jan. 10 Ft. Lauderdale last time out.
Railbird's picks: Sporting Art looks to be the class of the field, and Delightful Kiss will take a lot of action despite the question marks about the grass. If neither of those two fires, I like Just As Well to pick up the pieces. Gave a nice effort last time out.
Sweetnorthernsaint scratched
A quick update for those of you following today. Just tuned into Gulfstream's feed on my YouBet account and learned that Sweetnorthernsaint (Sweetsouthernsaint-Ice Beauty, by Waquoit) was scratched by the vet out of that optional claimer. Stay tuned for any updates and to find out how Da'Tara and others run today.
Triple Crown alums highlight undercard
Before we get to our previews of the Canadian Turf Handicap and tomorrow's Davona Dale, just a heads up to watch for some interesting horses on the undercard, as last year's Belmont winner Da'Tara (Tiznow-Torchera, by Pirate's Bounty) and 2006 Preakness runner-up Sweetnorthernsaint (Sweetsouthernsaint-Ice Beauty, by Waquoit) will be squaring off in an allowance/optional claimer.
Da'Tara is still hunting for his first win since the Belmont, when he wired the field as favored Big Brown, who was looking for a Triple Crown sweep, was eased late. He could handle this spot, as his only other career win came at seven furlongs at Gulfstream last winter. He's running as an entry with Brave Victory (Lion Heart-I'm In Celebration, by Copelan), who won a six furlong allowance here last out.
As posted here a few days ago, Sweetnorthernsaint is one of only two horses in the race running with the optional claiming tag. He's won one of six starts since switching barns (from Michael Trombetta to Leo Azpurua, Jr.) last summer, and last finished six in an allowance at Tampa Bay earlier this month.
Da'Tara is still hunting for his first win since the Belmont, when he wired the field as favored Big Brown, who was looking for a Triple Crown sweep, was eased late. He could handle this spot, as his only other career win came at seven furlongs at Gulfstream last winter. He's running as an entry with Brave Victory (Lion Heart-I'm In Celebration, by Copelan), who won a six furlong allowance here last out.
As posted here a few days ago, Sweetnorthernsaint is one of only two horses in the race running with the optional claiming tag. He's won one of six starts since switching barns (from Michael Trombetta to Leo Azpurua, Jr.) last summer, and last finished six in an allowance at Tampa Bay earlier this month.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Weekend stakes preview: Deep, speedy field in Fountain of Youth
As promised, here's the second of our stakes previews for the weekend, a look at tomorrow's Fountain of Youth. At a mile at Gulfstream, it serves as a link between the Hutcheston last month and the Florida Derby (won by two of the last three Derby winners).
1. Bee Cee Cee (Songandaprayer-Mighty Ride, by Mighty Appealing): Rallied well to get up for third in the Hutcheston last out. Local favorite Eddie Plesa sends out this colt.
2. Theregoesjojo (Brahms-Slewie Blues, by Seattle Slew): Kent Desormeaux rides this colt, an easy allowance winner last time out. 2-for-3 lifetime.
3. Notonthesamepage (Catienus-Blue Holiday, by Cure the Blues): Earned a 117 Beyer winning the Spectacular Bid on Jan. 3 with a 114 Beyer, finishing the six furlongs in 1:08 and change. Turned in a sharp five furlong work in preparation for this, going in :59.40.
4. Take the Points (Even the Score-Ginger Ginger, by Fred Astaire): Scratched to run in Saturday’s Sham out in California.
5. Jack Spratt (Candy Ride-Mayapple, by Miners Mark): Came flying four wide to take the Dania Beach Stakes in his last start.
6. Rocketing Returns (Gone West-Spring Meadow, by Meadowlake): Fifth in the Hutcheston.
7. Beethoven (Sky Mesa-Moonlight Sonata, by Carson City): John Ward trainee won the Kentucky Jockey Club at Churchill last fall, but ran midpack in the Hutcheston after drawing the extreme outside post. Calvin Borel in the irons.
8. Break Water Edison (Lemon Drop Kid-August Storm, by Storm Creek): Gets a second chance after finishing a disappointing sixth in the Hutcheston on a day when most of the favorites performed poorly. Won the one-mile Nashua last fall. This John Kimmel trainee has started in five graded stakes.
9. Capt. Candyman Can (Candy Ride-Stormy Way, by Storm Creek): Track? Check. Distance? Check. Sat just off the pace and pounced to win the Hutcheston here on Jan. 30. Also won the one-mile Iroquois at Churchill last fall.
10. Taqarub (Aldebaran-Honor Bestowed, by Honor Grades): Undefeated so far for Kieran McLaughlin and Shadwell, this guy ships in from New York to see if he can make some noise on the Derby trail. Alan Garcia has the mount.
11. Quality Road (Elusive Quality-Kobla, by Strawberry Road). Quality colt who wired the field in his debut and finished second to Theregoesjojo after setting the pace in his last start. John Velazquez rides.
12. This Ones for Phil (Untuttable-Heavens Gate, by Septime Ciel): Owned by Paul Pompa, who had Big Brown before the sale to IEAH; trained by the infamous Rick Dutrow; Edgar Prado in the irons. Earned a 117 Beyer for his win in the Sunshine Millions Dash; looks like a sprint prospect to me.
Railbird's pick: I've been very high on Beethoven since last fall and still believe he will be a player on Derby Day. But Ward is known for bringing colts along slowly, so I'm not expecting him to run off the screen to wire this field. Looking for the winner, Capt. Candyman can definitely seems to figure on paper. With a ton of speed in the race, it should set up for a stalker like him or a closer like Beethoven. I expect Break Water Edison to rebound and Quality Road has the class to hold the lead if the pace is soft.
1. Bee Cee Cee (Songandaprayer-Mighty Ride, by Mighty Appealing): Rallied well to get up for third in the Hutcheston last out. Local favorite Eddie Plesa sends out this colt.
2. Theregoesjojo (Brahms-Slewie Blues, by Seattle Slew): Kent Desormeaux rides this colt, an easy allowance winner last time out. 2-for-3 lifetime.
3. Notonthesamepage (Catienus-Blue Holiday, by Cure the Blues): Earned a 117 Beyer winning the Spectacular Bid on Jan. 3 with a 114 Beyer, finishing the six furlongs in 1:08 and change. Turned in a sharp five furlong work in preparation for this, going in :59.40.
4. Take the Points (Even the Score-Ginger Ginger, by Fred Astaire): Scratched to run in Saturday’s Sham out in California.
5. Jack Spratt (Candy Ride-Mayapple, by Miners Mark): Came flying four wide to take the Dania Beach Stakes in his last start.
6. Rocketing Returns (Gone West-Spring Meadow, by Meadowlake): Fifth in the Hutcheston.
7. Beethoven (Sky Mesa-Moonlight Sonata, by Carson City): John Ward trainee won the Kentucky Jockey Club at Churchill last fall, but ran midpack in the Hutcheston after drawing the extreme outside post. Calvin Borel in the irons.
8. Break Water Edison (Lemon Drop Kid-August Storm, by Storm Creek): Gets a second chance after finishing a disappointing sixth in the Hutcheston on a day when most of the favorites performed poorly. Won the one-mile Nashua last fall. This John Kimmel trainee has started in five graded stakes.
9. Capt. Candyman Can (Candy Ride-Stormy Way, by Storm Creek): Track? Check. Distance? Check. Sat just off the pace and pounced to win the Hutcheston here on Jan. 30. Also won the one-mile Iroquois at Churchill last fall.
10. Taqarub (Aldebaran-Honor Bestowed, by Honor Grades): Undefeated so far for Kieran McLaughlin and Shadwell, this guy ships in from New York to see if he can make some noise on the Derby trail. Alan Garcia has the mount.
11. Quality Road (Elusive Quality-Kobla, by Strawberry Road). Quality colt who wired the field in his debut and finished second to Theregoesjojo after setting the pace in his last start. John Velazquez rides.
12. This Ones for Phil (Untuttable-Heavens Gate, by Septime Ciel): Owned by Paul Pompa, who had Big Brown before the sale to IEAH; trained by the infamous Rick Dutrow; Edgar Prado in the irons. Earned a 117 Beyer for his win in the Sunshine Millions Dash; looks like a sprint prospect to me.
Railbird's pick: I've been very high on Beethoven since last fall and still believe he will be a player on Derby Day. But Ward is known for bringing colts along slowly, so I'm not expecting him to run off the screen to wire this field. Looking for the winner, Capt. Candyman can definitely seems to figure on paper. With a ton of speed in the race, it should set up for a stalker like him or a closer like Beethoven. I expect Break Water Edison to rebound and Quality Road has the class to hold the lead if the pace is soft.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Weekend stakes preview: Two favorites headline Sham
Today and tomorrow, we’ll be taking a look at this weekend’s stakes action (particularly the Derby preps) and breaking down the fields.
First on the slate is the grade III Sham Stakes at Santa Anita on Saturday, to be run at a mile and an eighth. Nice chance to stretch out and pick up some graded earnings.
1. Hi Flyin Indy (AP Indy-Go For It Lady, by Mr Prospector): High-priced colt has the pedigree to do it, but just doesn’t have the resume of most in this race.
2. Smart Bid (Smart Strike-Recording, by Danzig): Pennsylvania-bred has Rafael Bejerano in the irons. Has won on both turf and dirt, so should handle synthetic well, and will be pressing the pace.
3. Tiz True (Tiznow-Amelia, by Dixieland Band): Colt may be overmatched here. He broke his maiden on grass, and might be more useful there. Aaron Gryder has the mount for David Hoffmans.
4. Lifeline (Pulpit-Field of Vision, by Deputy Minister): Tyler Baze up on this grandson of champion Meadow Star.
5. The Pamplemousse (Kafwain-Comfort Zone, by Rubiano): Will be interesting to see if he’s gotten any bigger since his last start!! Certainly seems to be growing into himself, as he zipped three furlongs in :35.60 Wednesday. Stretching out a furlong after getting handed an easy lead last time, so questions still abound. Regular rider Alex Solis, who was nominated to the Hall of Fame this week, is very high on him.
6. Balfour Park (Mutakddim-And Guess What, by Kris S): Winner of one of three lifetime and a former claimer. Nice story if he gets up.
7. Mr. Hot Stuff (Tiznow-Sweet Damsel, by Turkoman): Full brother to Colonel John had a nice four furlong move in :47.20 on Tuesday. Impressive maiden winner has a lot to prove, but seems to be hitting his best stuff. Corey Nakatani has the mount.
8. Bourbon Bay (Sligo Bay-Coral Necklace, by Conquistador Cielo): Nice pedigree on this one, who was second in the Cradle and third in the Generous. Waiting to see how he develops.
9. Ventana (Toccet-Full Figure, by Polish Numbers): Baffert’s faith in this colt is perplexing. He was third in the Hollywood Prevue but hasn’t done much else, and was soundly beaten in the San Vicinte last out by Evita Argentina.
10. Mark S the Cooler (Johar-Felucca, by Diesis): Just 5-1-0-1 lifetime. Broke his maiden on the grass.
11. Unbridled Roman (Roman Dancer-Unravel, by Unbridled): Also entered in a weekend allowance, so we’ll see which he scratches out of. Bred to get the distance, with a similar female family to Street Sense. Mike Smith will be aboard.
12. Take the Points (Even The Score-Ginger Ginger, by Fred Astaire): 4-2-1-0 lifetime and quietly becoming a highlight on many Derby lists as a dark horse. Garrett Gomez, who piloted Dunkirk to that big score last week, is up.
Railbird's picks: I really like The Pamplemousse in this spot. Not sure how far he wants to go, but I think he can take this next step anyway. Just training out of his mind; if he doesn't get in his own way, look out. Mr. Hot Stuff is rounding into form, but most of the hype is about his pedigree right now. Want to see him run in a stakes on his own right before we christen him Like Lifeline and Bourbon Bay to develop down the road, but not sure they're at this level just yet. It's not about good horses and bad horses at this stage of the game; it's about early bloomers and late bloomers.
First on the slate is the grade III Sham Stakes at Santa Anita on Saturday, to be run at a mile and an eighth. Nice chance to stretch out and pick up some graded earnings.
1. Hi Flyin Indy (AP Indy-Go For It Lady, by Mr Prospector): High-priced colt has the pedigree to do it, but just doesn’t have the resume of most in this race.
2. Smart Bid (Smart Strike-Recording, by Danzig): Pennsylvania-bred has Rafael Bejerano in the irons. Has won on both turf and dirt, so should handle synthetic well, and will be pressing the pace.
3. Tiz True (Tiznow-Amelia, by Dixieland Band): Colt may be overmatched here. He broke his maiden on grass, and might be more useful there. Aaron Gryder has the mount for David Hoffmans.
4. Lifeline (Pulpit-Field of Vision, by Deputy Minister): Tyler Baze up on this grandson of champion Meadow Star.
5. The Pamplemousse (Kafwain-Comfort Zone, by Rubiano): Will be interesting to see if he’s gotten any bigger since his last start!! Certainly seems to be growing into himself, as he zipped three furlongs in :35.60 Wednesday. Stretching out a furlong after getting handed an easy lead last time, so questions still abound. Regular rider Alex Solis, who was nominated to the Hall of Fame this week, is very high on him.
6. Balfour Park (Mutakddim-And Guess What, by Kris S): Winner of one of three lifetime and a former claimer. Nice story if he gets up.
7. Mr. Hot Stuff (Tiznow-Sweet Damsel, by Turkoman): Full brother to Colonel John had a nice four furlong move in :47.20 on Tuesday. Impressive maiden winner has a lot to prove, but seems to be hitting his best stuff. Corey Nakatani has the mount.
8. Bourbon Bay (Sligo Bay-Coral Necklace, by Conquistador Cielo): Nice pedigree on this one, who was second in the Cradle and third in the Generous. Waiting to see how he develops.
9. Ventana (Toccet-Full Figure, by Polish Numbers): Baffert’s faith in this colt is perplexing. He was third in the Hollywood Prevue but hasn’t done much else, and was soundly beaten in the San Vicinte last out by Evita Argentina.
10. Mark S the Cooler (Johar-Felucca, by Diesis): Just 5-1-0-1 lifetime. Broke his maiden on the grass.
11. Unbridled Roman (Roman Dancer-Unravel, by Unbridled): Also entered in a weekend allowance, so we’ll see which he scratches out of. Bred to get the distance, with a similar female family to Street Sense. Mike Smith will be aboard.
12. Take the Points (Even The Score-Ginger Ginger, by Fred Astaire): 4-2-1-0 lifetime and quietly becoming a highlight on many Derby lists as a dark horse. Garrett Gomez, who piloted Dunkirk to that big score last week, is up.
Railbird's picks: I really like The Pamplemousse in this spot. Not sure how far he wants to go, but I think he can take this next step anyway. Just training out of his mind; if he doesn't get in his own way, look out. Mr. Hot Stuff is rounding into form, but most of the hype is about his pedigree right now. Want to see him run in a stakes on his own right before we christen him Like Lifeline and Bourbon Bay to develop down the road, but not sure they're at this level just yet. It's not about good horses and bad horses at this stage of the game; it's about early bloomers and late bloomers.
Jones featured at ESPN
Paul Moran wrote a very nice column about Larry Jones here at ESPN yesterday. Just wanted to call some attention to it.
Count me in among those "rooting for the story." If ever you believed in the racing gods, Jones is the kind of guy you'd hope they'd bestow a little good karma on this year. Second in the Derby two consecutive years, with Hard Spun and the ill-fated Eight Belles. More than his share of tragedy and struggle along the way. I'm hoping good fortune smiles on him for once in this, what he claims will be his last year as a public trainer. A hard-working throwback of a horseman who has represented the sport so well. When he could have hidden and avoided the media storm following his filly's Derby breakdown, he instead appeared publically to advocate for safer racetracks. A real champion for the sport.
His two colts have an awesome chance to step up for him. Old Fashioned (Unbridled’s Song-Collect Call, by Meadowlake) is unbeaten and returned to the races with a workmanlike score a couple weeks ago; Friesan Fire (AP Indy-Bollinger, by Dehere) is improving with each start and finding his niche. They'll appear next in the Rebel and the Louisiana Derby, respectively.
Count me in among those "rooting for the story." If ever you believed in the racing gods, Jones is the kind of guy you'd hope they'd bestow a little good karma on this year. Second in the Derby two consecutive years, with Hard Spun and the ill-fated Eight Belles. More than his share of tragedy and struggle along the way. I'm hoping good fortune smiles on him for once in this, what he claims will be his last year as a public trainer. A hard-working throwback of a horseman who has represented the sport so well. When he could have hidden and avoided the media storm following his filly's Derby breakdown, he instead appeared publically to advocate for safer racetracks. A real champion for the sport.
His two colts have an awesome chance to step up for him. Old Fashioned (Unbridled’s Song-Collect Call, by Meadowlake) is unbeaten and returned to the races with a workmanlike score a couple weeks ago; Friesan Fire (AP Indy-Bollinger, by Dehere) is improving with each start and finding his niche. They'll appear next in the Rebel and the Louisiana Derby, respectively.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Happy birthday to....
We all know that thoroughbreds officially turn a year older on Jan. 1. But just for something fun after that last sobering post of mine, here's a special nod to some horses whose real birthday coincides with mine today, Feb. 25.
Preachinatthebar (Silver Charm-Holy Nola, by Silver Deputy): Put together a nice little resume that includes the San Felipe, Tokyo City Handicap and Texas Mile. Also one of my all-time favorite names. His dam Holy Nola was christened (no pun intended) after a born-again barmaid that owner Mike Pegram was good friends with. Now at stud in Oklahoma, Preacher's first foals arrive this year.
Better Talk Now (Talkin Man-Bendita, by Baldski): Winner of the 2004 Breeders' Cup Turf and still going strong at age 10. He was the subject of this blog post just a few days ago as he posted his first work of the year. Looking forward to seeing him back.
This Ones for Phil (Untuttable-Heavens Gate, by Septieme Ciel): A member of this year's crop of three year olds, he starts in this weekend's Fountain of Youth Stakes. Hunch play perhaps? He's trained by Paul Pompa, who owned Big Brown before IEAH bought him, trained by Dutrow, and won the Sunshine Millions Dash this winter with an eye-popping 117 Beyer.
And happy early birthday to Folklore (Tiznow-Contrive, by Storm Cat), the champion two year old filly of 2005. She was born Feb. 26, 2003 and was one of my favorites while she was running.
Know of any horses who share your birthday? Feel free to leave a comment and let me know.
Preachinatthebar (Silver Charm-Holy Nola, by Silver Deputy): Put together a nice little resume that includes the San Felipe, Tokyo City Handicap and Texas Mile. Also one of my all-time favorite names. His dam Holy Nola was christened (no pun intended) after a born-again barmaid that owner Mike Pegram was good friends with. Now at stud in Oklahoma, Preacher's first foals arrive this year.
Better Talk Now (Talkin Man-Bendita, by Baldski): Winner of the 2004 Breeders' Cup Turf and still going strong at age 10. He was the subject of this blog post just a few days ago as he posted his first work of the year. Looking forward to seeing him back.
This Ones for Phil (Untuttable-Heavens Gate, by Septieme Ciel): A member of this year's crop of three year olds, he starts in this weekend's Fountain of Youth Stakes. Hunch play perhaps? He's trained by Paul Pompa, who owned Big Brown before IEAH bought him, trained by Dutrow, and won the Sunshine Millions Dash this winter with an eye-popping 117 Beyer.
And happy early birthday to Folklore (Tiznow-Contrive, by Storm Cat), the champion two year old filly of 2005. She was born Feb. 26, 2003 and was one of my favorites while she was running.
Know of any horses who share your birthday? Feel free to leave a comment and let me know.
Now this makes me sad...
Sweetnorthernsaint (Sweetsouthernsaint-Ice Beauty, by Waquoit), winner of the 2006 Illinois Derby and runner-up in the Preakness that year, is in for a $62,500 claiming tag at Gulfstream on Saturday. It's never stopped giving me a little jolt when I see names like that in claimers.
Granted, this horse is not a world-beater; he won a couple of stakes and placed in a few others, but never made much noise after May. And granted, this is not a bottom-rung claimer at Finger Lakes or something. But still, it makes me sad when you see a stakes winner who was actually one of the Derby betting choices that year in for a tag. Uusually, this just ends in a downward spiral where the horse is passed from hand to hand til he ends up God knows where.
I realize that many owners need to make a profit. I realize horses need to run where they'll be competitive. I realize that, when horses simply can't run at the level they started off at anymore, not every owner has a big, lush farm to simply retire them to. But still....this is a living creature who probably gave you some very happy moments and at the very least, gained you a little notoriety in the game. Would it be too much to ask for you to turn a slightly smaller profit and sell your former stakeswinner as a high-priced riding horse to a decent operation somewhere where you'll at least know he wound up in safe hands?
That ends my rant for this evening. Best wishes for Sweetnorthernsaint and every other claimer in America (and Canada, and Europe, and Asia, and...).
Granted, this horse is not a world-beater; he won a couple of stakes and placed in a few others, but never made much noise after May. And granted, this is not a bottom-rung claimer at Finger Lakes or something. But still, it makes me sad when you see a stakes winner who was actually one of the Derby betting choices that year in for a tag. Uusually, this just ends in a downward spiral where the horse is passed from hand to hand til he ends up God knows where.
I realize that many owners need to make a profit. I realize horses need to run where they'll be competitive. I realize that, when horses simply can't run at the level they started off at anymore, not every owner has a big, lush farm to simply retire them to. But still....this is a living creature who probably gave you some very happy moments and at the very least, gained you a little notoriety in the game. Would it be too much to ask for you to turn a slightly smaller profit and sell your former stakeswinner as a high-priced riding horse to a decent operation somewhere where you'll at least know he wound up in safe hands?
That ends my rant for this evening. Best wishes for Sweetnorthernsaint and every other claimer in America (and Canada, and Europe, and Asia, and...).
Baffert and trainees head HOF nominations
Bob Baffert, one of racing’s most visible figures, and a pair of his Eclipse Award winners headline this year’s nominees for the hall of fame.
In just under two decades training thoroughbreds full-time, Baffert has won eight Triple Crown races, seven Breeders’ Cup races and trained 10 Eclipse winners. His first two Derby winners, Silver Charm and Real Quiet, came within a length and a nose, respectively, of winning the Belmont. He completed the Derby/Preakness double again in 2002 with War Emblem, but the colt ran eighth in the Belmont.
Baffert is up against the late Frank Wheeler, who campaigned the champion filly Silver Spoon and multiple stakeswinner Bug Brush. Wheeler, who died in 1992, took back to back running of the Santa Anita Derby with Silver Spoon in 1969 and Tompion the next spring.
In the other “human” category, it’s a tight contest between riders Randy Romero, Eddie Maple and Alex Solis. Romero was the regular rider of champion filly Go For Wand and the unbeaten champion Personal Ensign. Maple won a pair of Belmonts, was a regular rider aboard several champions for the late Woody Stephens and was aboard Secretariat for the last start of his career. Solis, who owns a win in the 1986 Preakness on Snow Chief, has won three Breeders; Cup races and has the call on Derby contender The Pamplemousse.
The contemporary horse categories honor runners who have been active within the last quarter century. In the contemporary male category, we have Best Pal (Habitony-Ubetshedid, by King Pellinore), who won 17 stakes races from age two through seven, earning over $5.6 million. Point Given (Thunder Gulch-Turkos Turn, by Turkoman) put together a record of 12-9-3-0 lifetime, earning wins in the Santa Anita Derby, Preakness, Belmont, Haskell and Travers enroute to Horse of the Year honors in 2001. Tiznow (Cees Tizzy-Cees Song, by Seattle Song) earned $6.4 million while becoming the only two-time winner of the Breeders’ Cup Classic in history. He was Horse of the Year in 2000.
The contemporary female category features three millionaire fillies. Open Mind (Deputy Minister-stage Luck, by stage Door Johnny) won back to back Eclipse Awards in 1988-89 and won the New York Filly Triple Crown along with the Kentucky Oaks and Alabama. During her career, she put together a 10-race win streak that included seven grade I’s. Silverbulletday was a champion at two and three for Baffert, winning the Juvenile Fillies, Ashland, Oaks, Alabama and Gazelle. She earned over $3 million. Sky Beauty (Blushing Groom-Maplejinsky, by Nijinsky) won the New York Filly Triple Crown and Alabama in 1993 and was champion older female the following year.
The top vote-getter from each category (assuming he/she receives a majority) will be inducted at Saratoga this summer. If it were up to me, my votes would go to Baffert, Maple and Best Pal, hands down. If Point Given or Tiznow is honored before one of the hardest-knocking horses of the modern era, I'll have words for the voters. The contemporary female category gets a little trickier, but I think my vote would go to Open Mind. All three ladies deserve their spot in the Hall; let's take turns now, shall we?
In just under two decades training thoroughbreds full-time, Baffert has won eight Triple Crown races, seven Breeders’ Cup races and trained 10 Eclipse winners. His first two Derby winners, Silver Charm and Real Quiet, came within a length and a nose, respectively, of winning the Belmont. He completed the Derby/Preakness double again in 2002 with War Emblem, but the colt ran eighth in the Belmont.
Baffert is up against the late Frank Wheeler, who campaigned the champion filly Silver Spoon and multiple stakeswinner Bug Brush. Wheeler, who died in 1992, took back to back running of the Santa Anita Derby with Silver Spoon in 1969 and Tompion the next spring.
In the other “human” category, it’s a tight contest between riders Randy Romero, Eddie Maple and Alex Solis. Romero was the regular rider of champion filly Go For Wand and the unbeaten champion Personal Ensign. Maple won a pair of Belmonts, was a regular rider aboard several champions for the late Woody Stephens and was aboard Secretariat for the last start of his career. Solis, who owns a win in the 1986 Preakness on Snow Chief, has won three Breeders; Cup races and has the call on Derby contender The Pamplemousse.
The contemporary horse categories honor runners who have been active within the last quarter century. In the contemporary male category, we have Best Pal (Habitony-Ubetshedid, by King Pellinore), who won 17 stakes races from age two through seven, earning over $5.6 million. Point Given (Thunder Gulch-Turkos Turn, by Turkoman) put together a record of 12-9-3-0 lifetime, earning wins in the Santa Anita Derby, Preakness, Belmont, Haskell and Travers enroute to Horse of the Year honors in 2001. Tiznow (Cees Tizzy-Cees Song, by Seattle Song) earned $6.4 million while becoming the only two-time winner of the Breeders’ Cup Classic in history. He was Horse of the Year in 2000.
The contemporary female category features three millionaire fillies. Open Mind (Deputy Minister-stage Luck, by stage Door Johnny) won back to back Eclipse Awards in 1988-89 and won the New York Filly Triple Crown along with the Kentucky Oaks and Alabama. During her career, she put together a 10-race win streak that included seven grade I’s. Silverbulletday was a champion at two and three for Baffert, winning the Juvenile Fillies, Ashland, Oaks, Alabama and Gazelle. She earned over $3 million. Sky Beauty (Blushing Groom-Maplejinsky, by Nijinsky) won the New York Filly Triple Crown and Alabama in 1993 and was champion older female the following year.
The top vote-getter from each category (assuming he/she receives a majority) will be inducted at Saratoga this summer. If it were up to me, my votes would go to Baffert, Maple and Best Pal, hands down. If Point Given or Tiznow is honored before one of the hardest-knocking horses of the modern era, I'll have words for the voters. The contemporary female category gets a little trickier, but I think my vote would go to Open Mind. All three ladies deserve their spot in the Hall; let's take turns now, shall we?
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Lucky seven for fan favorites?
Some exciting news about a couple of fan favorites in Einstein (Spend A Buck-Gay Charm, by Ghadeer) and Jambalaya (Langfuhr-Muskrat Suzie, by Vice Regent). Both seven, they seem to be nearing their 2009 debuts, but are on decidedly different paths.
The versatile Einstein already owns grade I wins on turf and some grade I placings on dirt. The next challenge for the Brazilian-bred will be synthetic, as plans call for him to ship out to California for the Santa Anita Handicap on March 7. He's been working steadily at Gulfstream and should be a stellar addition to a field that is already expected to include Cowboy Cal, Champs Elysees, Colonel John and Tiago. It's nice to see that this guy has done so well for Helen Pitts, who lost Curlin to a big sale after his first start.
Meanwhile, 2007 Arlington Million winner Jambalaya is also in Florida and working toward his first start since that Million win. Railbirds down south say he looks outstanding training in the mornings. Look for trainer Catherine Day Phillips, who was the first female trainer to win the Million, to find a spot for him before the end of the Gulfstream meet.
The versatile Einstein already owns grade I wins on turf and some grade I placings on dirt. The next challenge for the Brazilian-bred will be synthetic, as plans call for him to ship out to California for the Santa Anita Handicap on March 7. He's been working steadily at Gulfstream and should be a stellar addition to a field that is already expected to include Cowboy Cal, Champs Elysees, Colonel John and Tiago. It's nice to see that this guy has done so well for Helen Pitts, who lost Curlin to a big sale after his first start.
Meanwhile, 2007 Arlington Million winner Jambalaya is also in Florida and working toward his first start since that Million win. Railbirds down south say he looks outstanding training in the mornings. Look for trainer Catherine Day Phillips, who was the first female trainer to win the Million, to find a spot for him before the end of the Gulfstream meet.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Success Brocken takes thrilling February
The February Stakes lived up to its billing as a deeply competitive race, with Success Brocken (Symboli Kris S-Success Beauty, by Sunday Silence) emerging the victor in a four-horse blanket finish Sunday. He finished up in a stakes record 1:34.6
Success Brocken closed steadily on the outside down the stretch, gradually wearing into the leaders and getting up just in time. The globetrotting Casino Drive (Mineshaft-Better Than Honour, by Deputy Minister) had the lead in the shadow of the wire, but settled for second He’s heading to Dubai next, and you have to be encouraged by this, his first really solid showing against top-class competition.
The ever-resilient Kane Hekili (Fuji Kiseki-Life Out There, by Deputy Minister) checked in another head back in third after bravely forging through between rivals. Pacesetter Espoir City (Gold Allure-Eminent City, by Brians Time) threatened to go gate to wire but tired and hung on well to be fourth.
Defending champion Vermilion (El Condor Pasa-Scarlet Lady, by Sunday Silence) finished well back and another former February winner, Sunrise Bacchus (Hennessy-Real Sapphire, by Real Shadai) left his race in the paddock and was next to last.
Add Success Brocken to the list of ‘maybes’ for the World Cup; Vermilion is also planning a trip to Dubai. What a race this is shaping up to be.
As an added note, the legacy of prominent Japanese sire Sunday Silence (Halo-Wishing Well, by Understanding) is very much evident in this race nearly seven years after his death. He’s the broodmare sire of Success Brocken and the grandsire, through Gold Allure, of Espoir City. He appears in the first two generations of the pedigree of four of the top seven finishers here.
Success Brocken closed steadily on the outside down the stretch, gradually wearing into the leaders and getting up just in time. The globetrotting Casino Drive (Mineshaft-Better Than Honour, by Deputy Minister) had the lead in the shadow of the wire, but settled for second He’s heading to Dubai next, and you have to be encouraged by this, his first really solid showing against top-class competition.
The ever-resilient Kane Hekili (Fuji Kiseki-Life Out There, by Deputy Minister) checked in another head back in third after bravely forging through between rivals. Pacesetter Espoir City (Gold Allure-Eminent City, by Brians Time) threatened to go gate to wire but tired and hung on well to be fourth.
Defending champion Vermilion (El Condor Pasa-Scarlet Lady, by Sunday Silence) finished well back and another former February winner, Sunrise Bacchus (Hennessy-Real Sapphire, by Real Shadai) left his race in the paddock and was next to last.
Add Success Brocken to the list of ‘maybes’ for the World Cup; Vermilion is also planning a trip to Dubai. What a race this is shaping up to be.
As an added note, the legacy of prominent Japanese sire Sunday Silence (Halo-Wishing Well, by Understanding) is very much evident in this race nearly seven years after his death. He’s the broodmare sire of Success Brocken and the grandsire, through Gold Allure, of Espoir City. He appears in the first two generations of the pedigree of four of the top seven finishers here.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Strong field for Japan's February Stakes
Casino Drive (Mineshaft-Better Than Honour, by Deputy Minister), a half-brother to Belmont winners Jazil and Rags To Riches, will start this Sunday in the prestigious February Stakes in Tokyo City, Japan. He secured a starting spot at the last minute due to a handful of defections, including the injury and retirement of the highly regarded Daiwa Scarlet (Agnes Tachyon-Scarlet Bouquet, by Northern Taste). In an ironic twist, veteran jockey Katsumi Ando, who was set to ride the mare, will be aboard.
Casino Drive, affectionately known as "the most mismanaged horse of 2008," won the Alexandrite Stakes by daylight in the mud last month. The globetrotting colt started his career in Japan early last year, ventured to New York in May only to be scratched the morning of the Belmont, went home to Japan for a summer vacation, hit up California and ran flat in the Classic, then home to Japan again. Following the February Stakes, he'll rack up some more frequent flyer miles with a planned start in the Dubai World Cup. After that? If anyone out there is listening, please just leave him in one country for oh, a season, and let him mature and do his thing.
His work is certainly cut out for him here in this, Japan's first grade I dirt race of 2009. Kane Hekili (Fuji Kiseki-Life Out There, by Deputy Minister) won the Japan Cup Dirt in December enroute to earning the JRA's dirt horse of the year title. He won that race off a ridiculous layoff of two years and four months, knocking off a top-ranked field that included Casino Drive among others. He's picked up two stakes wins since then and looks really tough.
Vermilion (El Condor Pasa-Scarlet Lady, by Sunday Silence) is defending champion here and dropped a heartbreaker in the Japan Cup, finishing third by a head and a neck. He has yet to beat his nemisis in three previous meetings. This guy is closing in on becoming the first runner to earn over a billion yen. The race also features another former February Stakes winner in 2007 champion Sunrise Bacchus (Hennessy-Real Sapphire, by Real Shadai).
Kane Hekili looks like the winner here, but Vermilion is certainly capable of pulling the mild upset here. Don't think Casino Drive will disgrace himself, but just don't see him getting by these two.
Casino Drive, affectionately known as "the most mismanaged horse of 2008," won the Alexandrite Stakes by daylight in the mud last month. The globetrotting colt started his career in Japan early last year, ventured to New York in May only to be scratched the morning of the Belmont, went home to Japan for a summer vacation, hit up California and ran flat in the Classic, then home to Japan again. Following the February Stakes, he'll rack up some more frequent flyer miles with a planned start in the Dubai World Cup. After that? If anyone out there is listening, please just leave him in one country for oh, a season, and let him mature and do his thing.
His work is certainly cut out for him here in this, Japan's first grade I dirt race of 2009. Kane Hekili (Fuji Kiseki-Life Out There, by Deputy Minister) won the Japan Cup Dirt in December enroute to earning the JRA's dirt horse of the year title. He won that race off a ridiculous layoff of two years and four months, knocking off a top-ranked field that included Casino Drive among others. He's picked up two stakes wins since then and looks really tough.
Vermilion (El Condor Pasa-Scarlet Lady, by Sunday Silence) is defending champion here and dropped a heartbreaker in the Japan Cup, finishing third by a head and a neck. He has yet to beat his nemisis in three previous meetings. This guy is closing in on becoming the first runner to earn over a billion yen. The race also features another former February Stakes winner in 2007 champion Sunrise Bacchus (Hennessy-Real Sapphire, by Real Shadai).
Kane Hekili looks like the winner here, but Vermilion is certainly capable of pulling the mild upset here. Don't think Casino Drive will disgrace himself, but just don't see him getting by these two.
Better Talk Now back to work
Fan favorite Better Talk Now (Talkin Man-Bendita, by Baldski) posted his first published work of the year this morning, breezing three furlongs in :37.20 over firm turf at Palm Meadows.
Better Talk Now is now 10, more than triple the age your average grade I winner retires at. He was a 'youthful' five when he took the Breeders' Cup Turf, but continues to go strong in his golden years; at eight, he took the grade I Manhattan and was third in the Sword Dancer, and at nine, he was second in the Sword Dancer and third in the Man O'War.
His lifetime record stands at 48-14-7-4 with nine grade I wins or placings. Lifetime earnings are. $4,216,664.
Kudos to his connections for keeping him sound, giving him so much time off between seasons and picking his spots well. It's too bad turf horses in America don't get more publicity, because he and his connections are exactly what racing needs. Longevity. Visible compassion.
And plus, he shares my birthday. What's not to like about that?
Better Talk Now is now 10, more than triple the age your average grade I winner retires at. He was a 'youthful' five when he took the Breeders' Cup Turf, but continues to go strong in his golden years; at eight, he took the grade I Manhattan and was third in the Sword Dancer, and at nine, he was second in the Sword Dancer and third in the Man O'War.
His lifetime record stands at 48-14-7-4 with nine grade I wins or placings. Lifetime earnings are. $4,216,664.
Kudos to his connections for keeping him sound, giving him so much time off between seasons and picking his spots well. It's too bad turf horses in America don't get more publicity, because he and his connections are exactly what racing needs. Longevity. Visible compassion.
And plus, he shares my birthday. What's not to like about that?
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Notes from the Derby trail
- Sounds like Dunkirk (Unbridled's Song-Secret Status, by AP Indy) will head straight to the Florida Derby and try to head straight from there to the big dance. Leaves him no room for a mis-step; probably a must-win in order for him to pick up the graded earnings to make the field. Tells me they are supremely confident in this colt. That conservative route always worries me, despite how it's become a trend in recent years. If he pulls it off, he'd be the third horse in the last four years (following Barbaro and Big Brown) to pull off the double.
- Maiden winner Mr. Hot Stuff (Tiznow-Sweet Damsel, by Turkoman) worked six furlongs in 1:13.20 for Eoin Harty. The full brother to Colonel John is expected to start in the Sham on Feb. 28.
- The Pamplemousse (Kafwain-Comfort Zone, by Rubiano) worked six furlongs in 1:12.40 out at Santa Ania. Jay Privman of the Daily Racing Form raved about this work. This horse is a physical monster and is finally growing into himself. Look out. He won the San Rafael last time out and will also be heading to the Sham.
- Hal Wiggins, trainer of Martha Washington Stakes winner Rachel Alexandra (Medaglia d'Oro-Lotta Kim, by Roar) gave an insightful Q&A over at the Blood Horse. There's a small bandwagon clamoring for this filly to take on the boys, but he seems to be leaning toward sending her to the Honeybee or Fair Grounds Oaks next. Wiggins didn't shut any doors though, noting that the Rebel on March 14 would probably "enter the discussion."
- Maiden winner Mr. Hot Stuff (Tiznow-Sweet Damsel, by Turkoman) worked six furlongs in 1:13.20 for Eoin Harty. The full brother to Colonel John is expected to start in the Sham on Feb. 28.
- The Pamplemousse (Kafwain-Comfort Zone, by Rubiano) worked six furlongs in 1:12.40 out at Santa Ania. Jay Privman of the Daily Racing Form raved about this work. This horse is a physical monster and is finally growing into himself. Look out. He won the San Rafael last time out and will also be heading to the Sham.
- Hal Wiggins, trainer of Martha Washington Stakes winner Rachel Alexandra (Medaglia d'Oro-Lotta Kim, by Roar) gave an insightful Q&A over at the Blood Horse. There's a small bandwagon clamoring for this filly to take on the boys, but he seems to be leaning toward sending her to the Honeybee or Fair Grounds Oaks next. Wiggins didn't shut any doors though, noting that the Rebel on March 14 would probably "enter the discussion."
Brilliant but batty Country Star retired
Grade I winner Country Star (Empire Maker-Rings A Chime, by Metfield) has been retired after her latest gate mishap.
The four-year-old was scratched from the Feb. 14 Santa Maria after she flipped in the gate, emerging unscathed. She also missed the Gazelle last fall after a similar incident. Got her way and will never have to load in that big metal contraption again - thanks to her people for listening to her before she or anyone else was seriously injured. But what a shame that she was so neurotic. After her two grade I scores as a two-year-old, I honestly thought she would be something big. All the talent in the world, but not the mental package to go with it. Her granddam Toussaud's antics were pretty legendary as well.
No breeding plans have been announced yet. Many seem to love the idea of Distorted Humor, but not too sure about the temperament there. Someone suggested Pulpit, which I could go for; or, if they want to go with the outcross and my personal favorite, Street Cry.
The four-year-old was scratched from the Feb. 14 Santa Maria after she flipped in the gate, emerging unscathed. She also missed the Gazelle last fall after a similar incident. Got her way and will never have to load in that big metal contraption again - thanks to her people for listening to her before she or anyone else was seriously injured. But what a shame that she was so neurotic. After her two grade I scores as a two-year-old, I honestly thought she would be something big. All the talent in the world, but not the mental package to go with it. Her granddam Toussaud's antics were pretty legendary as well.
No breeding plans have been announced yet. Many seem to love the idea of Distorted Humor, but not too sure about the temperament there. Someone suggested Pulpit, which I could go for; or, if they want to go with the outcross and my personal favorite, Street Cry.
Dunkirk rolls to win
Dunkirk (Unbridled's Song-Secret Status, by AP Indy) made it 2-for-2 lifetime with an impressive win over a deep allowance field Thursday at Gulfstream.
The $3.7 million yearling purchase was caught five wide on the first turn, sat in fourth down the backside, advanced on the turn for home to take the lead and pulled away steadily down the stretch to win by daylight, finishing up in 1:50.15 for nine furlongs. Garrett Gomez was aboard for trainer Todd Pletcher.
Warrior's Reward (Medaglia d'Oro-For All You Do, by Seeking the Gold) and More Than Willing (More Than Ready-Greeley's Click, by Mr. Greeley) made impressive moves together on the turn for home. Warrior's Reward finished a workmanlike second, while More Than Willing flattened out to be fourth. Sincero (Repent-Twisted Truth, by Distorted Humor) checked in third after being involved in the early pace.
This was my first chance to get a good look at Dunkirk - if you can define that tiny live video screen on YouBet.Net as a "good look." I was impressed with what I saw. He handled the added distance well - remember, his maiden score was at seven furlongs - to come home in good time (final furlong in :12 and change) and did so while handling some adversity. He handled himself maturely in the post parade and gate, and looks poised to take a step forward into stakes competition.
I'm also quite taken with Warrior's Reward. This underrated colt has really grown on me, breaking his maiden and running second to a good horse today with professional, honest efforts. Pedigree says he should continue to improve with distance. Expected to see more from Alma d'Oro (Medaglia d'Oro-Brenda D, by Fortunate Prospect) and American Dance (AP Indy-Quiet Dance, by Quiet American), both of whom looked nice warming up.
The $3.7 million yearling purchase was caught five wide on the first turn, sat in fourth down the backside, advanced on the turn for home to take the lead and pulled away steadily down the stretch to win by daylight, finishing up in 1:50.15 for nine furlongs. Garrett Gomez was aboard for trainer Todd Pletcher.
Warrior's Reward (Medaglia d'Oro-For All You Do, by Seeking the Gold) and More Than Willing (More Than Ready-Greeley's Click, by Mr. Greeley) made impressive moves together on the turn for home. Warrior's Reward finished a workmanlike second, while More Than Willing flattened out to be fourth. Sincero (Repent-Twisted Truth, by Distorted Humor) checked in third after being involved in the early pace.
This was my first chance to get a good look at Dunkirk - if you can define that tiny live video screen on YouBet.Net as a "good look." I was impressed with what I saw. He handled the added distance well - remember, his maiden score was at seven furlongs - to come home in good time (final furlong in :12 and change) and did so while handling some adversity. He handled himself maturely in the post parade and gate, and looks poised to take a step forward into stakes competition.
I'm also quite taken with Warrior's Reward. This underrated colt has really grown on me, breaking his maiden and running second to a good horse today with professional, honest efforts. Pedigree says he should continue to improve with distance. Expected to see more from Alma d'Oro (Medaglia d'Oro-Brenda D, by Fortunate Prospect) and American Dance (AP Indy-Quiet Dance, by Quiet American), both of whom looked nice warming up.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Strong allowance field Thursday at GP
Check out this very strong allowance field going postward Thursday afternoon at Gulfstream. Mile and an eighth, $42,000. While these guys would have to hustle hard and not have a single mishap in order to gain the experience and graded earnings to get a spot in the Derby starting gate, there's some serious potential in this field. The winner takes a definite step forward.
1. More Than Willing (More Than Ready-Greeley's Click, by Mr. Greeley): Kent Desormeaux rides for Ken McPeek, who is just loaded with promising colts this spring.
2. Warrior's Reward (Medaglia d'Oro-For All You Do, by Seeking the Gold). Gritty maiden win last time out in a race that received national attention for the debut of Nicanor. Doubt most people noticed this guy won. Calvin Borel gets the mount.
3. Jet Set Vinny (Vindication-Fighting Jet by Copelan). Elvis Trujillo rides for Cam Gambolati.
4. They're Late (Mineshaft-Whitewater, by Forestry). Nick Zito trainee.
5. Alma d'Oro (Medaglia d'Oro-Brenda D, by Fortunate Prospect). Edgar Prado rides this colt, who turned in a five-length victory in his maiden score for Rick Dutrow. Take note that Prado picked this guy over keeping the mount on likely favorite Dunkirk.
6. American Dance (AP Indy-Quiet Dance, by Quiet American). Todd Pletcher has been quiet so far this spring. This colt was third to Southwest winner Old Fashioned in the Remsen last fall. He's also a half-brother to the late Saint Liam, 2005 Horse of the Year and Classic winner.
7. Sincero (Repent-Twisted Truth, by Distorted Humor). Julien Leparoux has the mount.
8. Dunkirk (Unbridled's Song-Secret Status, by AP Indy). What do you know, just as I'm commenting on Pletcher's absence this spring, here he is with this awesome colt. Son of an Oaks winner was a $3.7 million yearling purchase who looked worth every penny running away with his maiden by daylight going seven furlongs. Let's see if he can keep it going. Garrett Gomez comes in to ride.
9. Stately Character (Pleasant Tap-London Character, by Fast Play). Won the Foolish Pleasure Stakes last time out. Alan Garcia up.
10. Saint Reade (Pulpit-Dixie Flag, by Dixieland Band). McAleney has the mount.
My pick? I have a ton of respect for Dunkirk. Awesome physical specimen who lived up to his billing last out. But if he regressess off that debut or backs up at this distance, I like American Dance to pick up the pieces. Bred to run all day. There's quite a bit of speed down on the rail; he should get a decent trip and be coming on late.
1. More Than Willing (More Than Ready-Greeley's Click, by Mr. Greeley): Kent Desormeaux rides for Ken McPeek, who is just loaded with promising colts this spring.
2. Warrior's Reward (Medaglia d'Oro-For All You Do, by Seeking the Gold). Gritty maiden win last time out in a race that received national attention for the debut of Nicanor. Doubt most people noticed this guy won. Calvin Borel gets the mount.
3. Jet Set Vinny (Vindication-Fighting Jet by Copelan). Elvis Trujillo rides for Cam Gambolati.
4. They're Late (Mineshaft-Whitewater, by Forestry). Nick Zito trainee.
5. Alma d'Oro (Medaglia d'Oro-Brenda D, by Fortunate Prospect). Edgar Prado rides this colt, who turned in a five-length victory in his maiden score for Rick Dutrow. Take note that Prado picked this guy over keeping the mount on likely favorite Dunkirk.
6. American Dance (AP Indy-Quiet Dance, by Quiet American). Todd Pletcher has been quiet so far this spring. This colt was third to Southwest winner Old Fashioned in the Remsen last fall. He's also a half-brother to the late Saint Liam, 2005 Horse of the Year and Classic winner.
7. Sincero (Repent-Twisted Truth, by Distorted Humor). Julien Leparoux has the mount.
8. Dunkirk (Unbridled's Song-Secret Status, by AP Indy). What do you know, just as I'm commenting on Pletcher's absence this spring, here he is with this awesome colt. Son of an Oaks winner was a $3.7 million yearling purchase who looked worth every penny running away with his maiden by daylight going seven furlongs. Let's see if he can keep it going. Garrett Gomez comes in to ride.
9. Stately Character (Pleasant Tap-London Character, by Fast Play). Won the Foolish Pleasure Stakes last time out. Alan Garcia up.
10. Saint Reade (Pulpit-Dixie Flag, by Dixieland Band). McAleney has the mount.
My pick? I have a ton of respect for Dunkirk. Awesome physical specimen who lived up to his billing last out. But if he regressess off that debut or backs up at this distance, I like American Dance to pick up the pieces. Bred to run all day. There's quite a bit of speed down on the rail; he should get a decent trip and be coming on late.
Old Fashioned impresses with win
Old Fashioned showed why he’s atop most early Derby lists with a workmanlike victory over Silver City in the Southwest Stakes at Oaklawn Monday afternoon in his three year old debut. Ramon Dopminguez was aboard.
Silver City (Unbridled’s Song-Proposal, by Mt. Livermore) led through honest early fractions of :22.47, :45.98 with 2-5 favorite Old Fashioned (Unbridled’s Song-Collect Call, by Meadowlake) sitting a length behind. The latter drew to even terms on the far turn and appeared he would draw off easily, but had to work to get by before hitting the finish a comfortable three lengths in front. Silver City held well to be second.
The final time, 1:37.41 for the mile, has drawn remarks from skeptics, noting that the colt’s pedigree and final furlong of :13.18 may point to distance limitations. However, Old Fashioned will continue to lead my Derby list, simply because he’s done everything asked of him so far, and he’s done it with grittiness and professionalism. It was encouraging to see him hold his form from last fall to his sophomore season, and telling to see him struggle with an opponent and prevail. He’s got two wins at a mile and one at nine furlongs (in last fall’s Remsen).
Old Fashioned is on course to stretch out to 1 1/16 miles in the Rebel on March 14 before presumably running his last prep in the April 14 Arkansas Derby. Meanwhile, stablemate Friesan Fire (AP Indy-Bollinger, by Dehere) will head to the March 8 Louisiana Derby. Both colts are owned by Rick Porter and trained by Larry Jones, the same duo who sent Hard Spun and the late Eight Belles to runner-up Derby efforts the last two years.
Silver City (Unbridled’s Song-Proposal, by Mt. Livermore) led through honest early fractions of :22.47, :45.98 with 2-5 favorite Old Fashioned (Unbridled’s Song-Collect Call, by Meadowlake) sitting a length behind. The latter drew to even terms on the far turn and appeared he would draw off easily, but had to work to get by before hitting the finish a comfortable three lengths in front. Silver City held well to be second.
The final time, 1:37.41 for the mile, has drawn remarks from skeptics, noting that the colt’s pedigree and final furlong of :13.18 may point to distance limitations. However, Old Fashioned will continue to lead my Derby list, simply because he’s done everything asked of him so far, and he’s done it with grittiness and professionalism. It was encouraging to see him hold his form from last fall to his sophomore season, and telling to see him struggle with an opponent and prevail. He’s got two wins at a mile and one at nine furlongs (in last fall’s Remsen).
Old Fashioned is on course to stretch out to 1 1/16 miles in the Rebel on March 14 before presumably running his last prep in the April 14 Arkansas Derby. Meanwhile, stablemate Friesan Fire (AP Indy-Bollinger, by Dehere) will head to the March 8 Louisiana Derby. Both colts are owned by Rick Porter and trained by Larry Jones, the same duo who sent Hard Spun and the late Eight Belles to runner-up Derby efforts the last two years.
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