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Zarkava produces first foal
The filly, sired by the Aga Khan's Dalakhani, was born at 9:30 p.m., according to the Aga Khan Studs website. Pat Downes, the Irish Manager of the Aga Khan Studs, was on hand to witness the foaling. The Dalakhani-Zarkava filly is "a lovely individual that is correct, strong and full of quality," Downes observed. "It was a straightforward foaling, and Zarkava has proved herself to be a good mother. The Dalakhani filly is a good size for a first foal." The filly is the offspring of two sensational performers, both winners of the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (Fr-G1). Dalakhani claimed the spoils in 2003, and Zarkava capped her perfect seven-for-seven career in the 2008 Arc. Each also captured French classic races, with Dalakhani winning the Prix du Jockey-Club (French Derby) (Fr-G1) and Zarkava capturing the Poule d'Essai des Pouliches (French One Thousand Guineas) (Fr-G1) and Prix de Diane (French Oaks) (Fr-G1). |
Like Zarkava, Dalakhani was himself honored as Europe's Horse of the Year in the wake of his Arc victory. Unlike Zarkava, he suffered one defeat, a half-length loss in the Irish Derby (Ire-G1).
Plans call for Zarkava to visit another scintillating Arc hero, world champion Sea the Stars, in 2010.
Bim Bam comes again to upset Interactif in Hallandale Beach
When 4-5 favorite Interactif (Broken Vow) put his head in front of the pacesetter BIM BAM (Deputy Wild Cat) in the stretch of Sunday's $125,000 Hallandale Beach S., the fans' choice appeared ready to edge away to a popular victory. That snapshot view failed to take into account the unflagging resolve of J D Farms' homebred Bim Bam, however. Stubbornly fighting back along the rail, the David Brownlee sophomore came again to deny Interactif by a nose at the wire.
Under a canny ride by Eibar Coa, Bim Bam went to the early lead and posted leisurely fractions of :24 3/5, :49 4/5 and 1:14. Interactif, who broke widest of all from post 8, moved up to prompt the leader while breathing down his neck along the backstretch. Bim Bam clung to a narrow lead on the far turn, but looked as if he would be put away by the heavy favorite once straightening for home.
Although Interactif struck the front, he could not shrug off the persistent presence of Bim Bam to his inside, and the two slugged it out down the lane. Bim Bam clawed his way back to even terms, then thrust his nose down in the nick of time. The winner blitzed 1 1/16 miles in 1:42 on Gulfstream Park's firm turf and paid $10.60, $3.60 and $3 as the 4-1 third choice.
"My plan was to sit right behind the speed," Coa explained, "but when they let me go, I was able to make the lead and then go that slow. And I know my horse is a fighter, and he doesn't like to let horses go by. I knew if they challenged him he was going to fight back. When the other horse (Interactif) went by, I knew my horse was going to try, so I kept riding and digging because I knew he could come back, and he did."
"It didn't look like there was much speed in the race," Brownlee observed, "so our plan going in was to go to the lead and hope to slow it down, which is the way it went. From there it was up to Eibar. He knows the horse very well. We know he'll fight back like he did the last time (beaten a neck in the Dania Beach S.) and they went 1:08 (for six furlongs) in that race. We're going to stick to turf with him and he'll come back in the Palm Beach (G3) here (March 6)."
Interactif returned $2.40 and $2.40 for finishing two lengths clear in second. Jockey Kent Desormeaux reflected on the narrow loss.
"Was it the trip I wanted? Yes," Desormeaux said. "It went very well. But I'm shocked. I didn't think I could get beat from the quarter-pole."
Asphalt (War Chant), the 7-2 second choice, grabbed third by a nose from Dean's Kitten (Kitten's Joy). Show was good for $3.20, and the exotics totaled $27.60 (exacta), $77 (trifecta) and $429.20 (6-8-1-3 superfecta). Our Champion (Value Plus) checked in fifth, Lucas Brady (Trippi) and Cat Park (Tale of the Cat) dead-heated for sixth, and Thunder Brew (Milwaukee Brew) reported home last of the octet.
Bim Bam had a recency edge over Interactif. While Interactif had not raced since his third in the November 7 Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf (G2), and was embarking upon a possible road to the Kentucky Derby (G1) in this spot, Bim Bam was coming off a near-miss runner-up effort in the January 16 Dania Beach.
The Hallandale Beach may shed light on the Triple Crown trail in another respect. Bim Bam had chased Jackson Bend (Hear No Evil) unsuccessfully three times last season, finishing third to that highly-regarded colt in the Dr. Fager, Affirmed and In Reality divisions of the Florida Stallion S.
When not facing Jackson Bend, Bim Bam captured the Foolish Pleasure S. and Arthur I. Appleton Juvenile Turf S. The bay colt's scorecard now stands at 9-4-1-4, $296,295. The Florida-bred was produced by the multiple stakes-placed Laurel Light (Colony Light), whose latest offspring is a newborn filly by Xchanger.
Blind Luck, American Lion look ahead to rescheduled races
Accordingly, the connections of BLIND LUCK (Pollard's Vision), a prohibitive favorite for the Las Virgenes, and AMERICAN LION (Tiznow), a leading contender in the Lewis, are fine-tuning their plans in light of the postponement. "Blind Luck will have an easy work Tuesday," Dan Ward, assistant to trainer Jerry Hollendorfer said. "She's very smart." Ward recalled a similar delay involving a past Hollendorfer-trained star, Heatseeker (Ire). |
"Two years ago, when Heatseeker ran second in the San Antonio (G2), they had pushed it back so that there were only three weeks until the Santa Anita H. (G1), and he won anyway, so there wasn't much difference," Ward noted.
Blind Luck, who captured last year's Hollywood Starlet S. (G1) and Oak Leaf S. (G1), is one of only eight fillies nominated to the 2010 Triple Crown.
The colt American Lion, last seen landing the Hollywood Prevue S. (G3), is scheduled to work Monday in advance of the Lewis.
"No major adjustments," trainer Eoin Harty said. "We'll just try again."
Mike Machowsky expressed similar sentiment when asked about unbeaten Lewis contender CARACORTADO (Cat Dreams).
"He'll work five furlongs Monday, and there's not much difference from his routine," the trainer said. "We'll just keep him in shape until the race."
Caracortado extended his mark to four-for-four in the California Breeders' Champion S. last out.
Eightyfiveinafifty 'full of energy' following Whirlaway incident
EIGHTYFIVEINAFIFTY (Forest Camp) should be able to return to training in a week after receiving 14 stitches to repair a cut suffered during his premature departure from the racetrack during the running of Saturday's $100,000 Whirlaway S. at Aqueduct, trainer Gary Contessa reported Sunday morning.
"We have absolutely dodged a bullet here," Contessa explained. "This could have been the end of his career and instead this horse is out a week. He has always been a very level-headed horse so there is no reason to think he will not forget this incident and return to being the fastest three-year-old in the country."
Jorge Chavez, who was unseated during the incident, also escaped injury and is expected to return to riding on Wednesday, according to his agent, Mike Monroe.
Eightyfiveinafifty, the 2-5 favorite in the Whirlaway off his impressive 17 1/4-length maiden victory at the Big A in January, went extremely wide on the first turn of the 1 1/16-mile race and unseated Chavez when he crashed through the outer railing, jumping another fence before taking off through the stable area.
He was nabbed inside Gate 6 by a security guard, suffering a two-inch cut on his right hind leg. Contessa said that when he was caught, Eightyfiveinafifty's bit was broken in two and the bridle was off his head, but added he did not know if the equipment malfunction occurred before the colt bolted or as he was wandering through the barn area.
Eightyfiveinafifty was sound and full of energy Sunday morning, according to Contessa. The trainer, who planned to use the Whirlaway as a stepping-stone toward the traditional New York preps for the Kentucky Derby (G1), the Gotham S. (G3) on March 6 and the April 3 Wood Memorial (G1), did not speculate on when the colt would next run.
"Yesterday was just another example of how difficult it is to have everything go right in this game," Contessa said. "Let's let the horse do the talking and he will tell me when and where he returns to race again."
PEPPI KNOWS (Stephen Got Even), who went on to a one-length victory over AFLEET AGAIN (Afleet Alex) in the Whirlaway, is being pointed to the Gotham.
Chavez took off his lone mount on Sunday, but Monroe said he would be back on Wednesday. The jockey was taken after the race to North Shore University Hospital complaining of back pain and was released Saturday evening after X-rays and a CAT scan were negative.
Champions, Breeders' Cup winners head 336 early Triple Crown nominees
The first of the classics -- the 136th Kentucky Derby (G1) -- will be run May 1 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, to be followed by the 135th Preakness S. on May 15 at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore and the 142nd Belmont S. (G1) on June 5 at New York's Belmont Park. The early nomination period, at $600 per horse, closed January 16. A late period for nominations, at $6,000 each, will close on March 27. At the head of the 2010 class are champion two-year-old male LOOKIN AT LUCKY (Smart Strike) and Breeders' Cup Juvenile (G1) winner VALE OF YORK (Ire) (Invincible Spirit). Lookin at Lucky is trained by Bob Baffert, a three-time winner of both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness who was ushered into racing's Hall of Fame last summer. Vale of York is trained by Saeed bin Suroor for Godolphin's Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, who has overseen the development of that massive racing operation into a worldwide racing powerhouse. Vale of York and Lookin at Lucky, just a head apart in their memorable 1-2 finish in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile, are joined on the roster of Triple Crown nominees by all the other runners from that race with the exception of Alfred Nobel (Ire) (Danehill Dancer). |
In addition, eight fillies are nominated for the Triple Crown. They include Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1) winner and champion two-year-old filly SHE BE WILD (Offlee Wild) as well as multiple Grade 1 winner BLIND LUCK (Pollard's Vision), who finished third in the Juvenile Fillies before winning the Hollywood Starlet (G1) by seven lengths.
The 2010 early nomination total is down from the 401 three-year-olds initially made eligible for the three-race series in 2009. Eleven horses were added to the overall list during last year's late nomination phase.
"Our nomination total is down a bit, but the 366 horses on the roster of nominees represent as deep a field of quality prospects as we've seen over the years," said Donald R. Richardson, senior vice president, racing, for Churchill Downs Inc. "All the major players in the United States have come forward for these classics and have been joined by 17 representatives from abroad. The list includes eight of the top nine horses from the 2009 Experimental Free Handicap for two-year-old males, along with the fillies that were considered the top two of their gender in 2009, so it's clear that interest in this special series of classics that include the Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont Stakes remains deep and widespread."
Of the 17 overseas nominees, eight -- led by Vale of York and promising recent purchase TAHITIAN WARRIOR (Maria's Mon) -- are part of the ongoing bid by Godolphin Racing to capture the Kentucky Derby, one of the few major races in the world that has eluded Sheikh Mohammed. The rest of the overseas contingent hail from England and Ireland and include horses conditioned by trainers such as John Gosden, Aidan O'Brien, Dermot Weld and Jeremy Noseda.
After giving way to two-time Eclipse Award winner Steve Asmussen to end a six-year run as the trainer nominating the most horses to the Triple Crown, Todd Pletcher returns to that familiar spot this year with 20 nominees. Making a spectacular return to the big stage this year is Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas, who made a habit to be at the head of the list for nominations. Lukas' presence among the major nominators has diminished in recent years, but he returned with a vengeance in 2010 with 19 nominations, which ranks second on the list. Lukas has won 13 Triple Crown races and is tied for the highest career total of Triple Crown wins with Hall of Fame trainer "Sunny Jim" Fitzsimmons, who saddled a pair of Triple Crown winners in Gallant Fox and Omaha in 1930 and 1934, respectively.
Hall of Famers Nick Zito and Baffert, always among the top nominators, are prominent again this year. Zito has 15 on the list and Baffert 13. Joining them at the double-figure level are Southern California conditioners John Sadler, with 16 nominees, and Richard Mandella, another Hall of Fame trainer, with 11. Asmussen, the trainer of Preakness winners Curlin (2007) and Rachel Alexandra (2009) who led trainers in 2009 with 25 nominations, has nominated six horses to this year's Triple Crown races. His aforementioned Preakness winners have earned Horse of the Year honors in each of the last three years.
Taking over the leadership at the top of the owner rankings is Thoroughbred Racing Legends, a partnership that has parceled its horses to Lukas, Zito and Baffert. The partnership is represented by 12 Thoroughbreds. Close behind is WinStar Farm with 10 early nominees. Spendthrift Farm of B. Wayne Hughes and the Gary and Mary West Stables join Godolphin with eight nominations. Zayat Stables, which led owners with 22 early nominees in 2009, nominated just two horses in the early phase this year.
Leading the sire list of nominees are Distorted Humor and Tiznow, each with 10. Following closely with nine are Unbridled's Song and Maria's Mon. Afleet Alex and Giant's Causeway are, respectively, the sires of eight early nominees.
Rachel breezes a half-mile at Fair Grounds
Horse of the Year and champion three-year-old filly RACHEL ALEXANDRA (Medaglia d'Oro) breezed four furlongs Saturday morning in :50 3/5 and galloped out five-eighths in 1:04, according to Fair Grounds clockers. Regular exercise rider Dominic Terry was aboard the four-year-old filly, who was accompanied by assistant trainer Scott Blasi on his pony while trainer Steve Asmussen also kept a watchful eye from horseback. Rachel Alexandra entered the track from the half-mile gap at 6:31 a.m (CST). Following the same routine as her first official work of the year on Sunday, she backtracked more than a half-mile "the wrong way," clockwise, into the Fair Grounds stretch. Turning back with the traffic, Rachel Alexandra galloped a few paths toward the center of the track into the backstretch before Terry eased her to the rail and picked up speed approaching the half-mile marker. Rachel Alexandra worked to the finish line before galloping out the extra eighth of a mile in an easy :13 2/5. She continued to jog down the backstretch to the start of the far turn and playfully reared up twice after being rejoined by Blasi and his pony to lead her off the track. "She's very special," Asmussen said back at his barn shortly afterward. "I thought she looked beautiful. She went :50 3/5 today off of her :52 the other day. I think that's pretty much the progression that we're expecting." |
Asked whether Rachel Alexandra could be ready for a race in the next two months, Asmussen reiterated that they would "do what's right by her." This morning's work, he said, was simply "the next step in the process."
Rachel Alexandra established herself as one of the all-time great fillies last year with historic wins in the Kentucky Oaks (G1) and Preakness S. (G1), as well as six other stakes races. Her three Grade 1 victories against the boys -- the Preakness, Haskell Invitational and Woodward -- helped to establish a new standard for excellence by a female racehorse in the modern era.
Peppi Knows takes Whirlaway as Eightyfiveinafifty unseats rider
Philip J. Messina's PEPPI KNOWS (Stephen Got Even) flattered the form of Remsen S. (G2) winner Buddy's Saint (Saint Liam) with a one-length victory in Saturday's $100,000 Whirlaway S. at Aqueduct, but the real story of the 8 1/2-furlong test was 1-5 favorite Eightyfiveinafifty (Forest Camp) blowing the first turn.
The scratch of Turf Melody (Maria's Mon) left Eightyfiveinafifty without a rival to his inside when the gates opened. Jockey Jorge Chavez appeared to be either hustling his mount to the front or trying to control him as he angled over toward the rail, but Eightyfiveinafifty was rank throughout the whole process and blew the turn, bolting toward the outside fence. The Gary Contessa-trained bay eventually hit the outer barrier and unseated Chavez.
Chavez was conscious and taken by ambulance to North Shore University Hospital for further evaluation. Eightyfiveinafifty suffered a cut on his hind leg, but was otherwise in good condition.
"The horse is OK," Contessa said "He has a two-inch cut on his right hind leg, and he'll need a couple of stitches, but he was walking sound. I'm completely mystified as to what happened. I don't know if it was the horse, the jockey, or an equipment malfunction. The bit was broken and the rein was shredded -- the equipment was in shambles -- but I don't know if that happened during the race or after he bolted. He's handled the turns fine in the mornings. I have no idea what happened."
While this was taking place, Papa's Nice Cat (One Nice Cat) was leading the field through the first half-mile, setting splits of :23 3/5 and :48 3/5. Peppi Knows and Richard Migliore was pressing the pace just to the outside of that rival and took over while passing the three-quarter mark in 1:14 3/5. Drawing off in the stretch, the gelding found his margin cut down by a rallying Afleet Again (Afleet Alex) but still held to win in a final time of 1:47 on the fast inner dirt.
"Everything went well, obviously what happened with (Eightyfiveinafifty), I don't know," said Timothy Kreiser, trainer of Peppi Knows. "It helped things, I guess, maybe it didn't. It would have been nice to see that horse run just to see what we had there. We can't do anything about that, he ran his race and we're really happy.
"The rider did everything perfect -- he didn't rush him, he just settled him down. With that horse out -- that's what all the talk was about -- so if he's out of it, you think you have a heck of a chance. We took advantage of it."
"It worked out real good for us," Migliore said. "We got to save ground when the other horse didn't make the turn. He's just a real nice handy little horse. He's not a whole lot to look at, but he has a big heart. Anytime he felt the presence of the other horse, he ran on a little more.
"I just hope Jorge's alright."
Sent off the 7-1 third choice in the five-horse field, Peppi Knows returned $17.40, $5.60 and $7.70 while keying the $161.50 exacta. Afleet Again, the 21-1 longest shot on the board, closed well to take second by a half-length over Three Day Rush (Harlan's Holiday), paying $8.40 and $9.80. Three Day Rush was carried out by Eightyfiveinafifty on the first turn, but managed to get for third as the 9-2 second pick, giving back $5.50. The 3-4-5 trifecta totaled $437, and it was another 21 3/4 lengths back to a tiring Papa's Nice Cat.
Bred in Kentucky by G. Watts Humphrey Jr., Peppi Knows was a bargain in the sales ring, bringing $23,000 as a Keeneland November weanling before selling for $6,500 at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale. He captured his initial two starts at Penn National, and suffered his first loss while making his stakes bow a third-place finish in the Fitz Dixon Jr. Memorial Juvenile S. at Presque Isle Downs. The bay gelding posted a head score in the Finger Lakes Juvenile S. in late October, and completed his juvenile season with a 4 3/4-length second to Buddy's Saint in the Remsen. Making his three-year-old debut in this spot, Peppi Knows improved his career line to 6-4-1-1 and has now banked $178,400 in earnings.
Out of the winning Seeking the Gold mare Miracle Worker, Peppi Knows has a pair of unnamed younger half-siblings, a juvenile colt by Orientate and a Jump Start weanling filly. His second dam is Grade 2 queen Heart of Joy (Lypheor [GB]), who beat the boys in the 1992 San Simeon H. (G3) and ran second in the 1990 editions of the English (Eng-G1) and Irish (Ire-G1) One Thousand Guineas. Other notables in the family include Grade 2 victor Unbridled Energy (Unbridled's Song) as well as Grade 3 scorers Inexplicable (Miswaki) and Midnight Cry (Smart Strike).
Peppi Knows' fourth dam is black-type winner Arachne (Intentionally), who would go on in the breeding shed to produce Acaroid (Big Spruce), hero of the 1983 United Nations H. (G1) and Manhattan H. (G2).
Rain forces Santa Anita to cancel once again
Live racing was canceled for Saturday at Santa Anita due to heavy overnight and early morning rain that rendered the main track unsuitable for racing, according to racing officials. The decision to cancel was made at 8:30 a.m. (PST).
"This is obviously very disappointing," Santa Anita General Manager George Haines said. "The main track is draining better than it was a month ago, but we got very substantial rain overnight and this morning and as a result, we had standing water in several areas.
"As we've said all along, safety is going to be our number one priority in determining whether or not we're able to run and the situation this morning was not good. That said, this weather system is supposed to be completely cleared out by late this afternoon and we are optimistic about being able to run tomorrow."
Santa Anita was scheduled to run 10 races on Saturday, including five stakes: the $250,000 Las Virgenes S. (G1), $200,000 Strub S. (G2), $150,000 Robert B. Lewis S. (G2), $65,000 Leroidesanimaux H. and $60,000 Wishing Well H.
"We're going to remain in consultation with the horsemen and we hope to have a decision as to when all of these important races will be rescheduled just as soon as possible," Haines said. "We know that in many cases, owners and trainers are plotting schedules with their respective horses and they need to know when these races are going to be offered back. This is a very difficult situation and we will let everyone what our plan is as quickly as possible."
On Saturday afternoon, Santa Anita announced that the Las Virgenes, the Robert B. Lewis and the Strub have all been rescheduled for February 13. All three races will be redrawn, and all horses that were nominated are eligible to be entered. The Santa Maria H. (G2) will also be carded as originally scheduled next Saturday.
The Leroidesanimaux and the Wishing Well will be redrawn and carded for either Thursday or Friday. The remaining five overnight races that were canceled on Saturday will be offered again as extra races to horsemen in the coming week. Those races that are used will be redrawn and are open to all horses who meet eligibility requirements.
Santa Anita also offered a Pick 6 carryover on Saturday of $85,150. The carryover will be offered on the next live racing program, which is scheduled for Sunday.
Saturday's cancellation marked the fourth cessation of live racing at the current meet, as racing was also canceled due to rain January 18, 21 and 22.
Santa Anita remained open Saturday for simulcasting, with free admission and parking. All fans who received Mystery Mutuel Tickets through the mail for Saturday could use the tickets for simulcast racing Saturday, or they may use them next Saturday. Club House passes that were included with the mailing will also be honored next Saturday.
In deference to the Super Bowl, Santa Anita has an early first post time scheduled for Sunday, with the first of eight races scheduled to go at 11 a.m.
For more information, fans are encouraged to visit www.santaanita.com, or call (626) 574-6417.
Soneva prevails in Cape Verdi; Allybar upsets Presvis on undercard
Soneva was reserved in fourth early, traveling comfortably behind the early leader Synergy (Victory Note) and the stalkers Cheyrac (Smadoun) and Vattene (Kendor). Aspectoflove, meanwhile, was a couple of spots farther back in the field. After hugging the fence into the stretch, Soumillon switched Soneva to the outside, and at just the right moment, drove her onward. The eventual winner thus got first run on the belatedly-closing Aspectoflove. Soneva mowed down Synergy and Cheyrac, struck the front, and found enough to deny Aspectoflove's late momentum. She completed about one mile on the good to firm turf in 1:38 2/5. |
"She is a nice filly who I used to ride in France," Soumillon said. "That was a nice performance."
Aspectoflove, who narrowly failed to become Godolphin's third winner on Friday, pulled 1 1/4 lengths clear in second. A stubborn Synergy hung on for third from Cheyrac and the slow-starting Purple Sage (Danehill Dancer).
Next came the Mike de Kock-trained Zirconeum (Jallad), KwaZulu-Natal's reigning Horse of the Year, who found her 129-pound impost and a bump at the top of the stretch too much to overcome. Nevertheless, the South African star still finished with some interest for sixth. Fourpenny Lane (Efisio), Indiana Gal (Intikhab), Yana (Razeen), Vattene and Ahla Wasahl (Dubai Destination) rounded out the order of finish.
Soneva's scorecard now reads 10-4-4-0, $339,837. Formerly trained by Yves de Nicolay, the dark bay captured the 2008 Prix d'Aumale (Fr-G3) at two and the Prix de Lieurey (Fr-G3) and Prix la Camargo last season at three. Her resume also includes close runner-up efforts in the Prix de la Grotte (Fr-G3) and Prix Amandine, along with a respectable fifth in the Poule d'Essai des Pouliches (French One Thousand Guineas) (Fr-G1). Soneva was coming off the only poor performance of her career, a non-threatening 13th in the October 3 Prix de la Foret (Fr-G1).
Bred by Mineola Farm II Limited Partnership, D.R. Houchin, J.W. Hirshmann et al. in Kentucky, Soneva brought $170,000 as a Keeneland September yearling. She is out of the Nureyev mare Lakabi, who is also responsible for multiple stakes winner Coronado Rose (Coronado's Quest). This is the family of recently-crowned Canadian Broodmare of the Year Pico Teneriffe (Red Ransom), the dam of two-time Canadian champion older horse Marchfield (A.P. Indy).
Storming clear beneath Ahmed Ajtebi, Allybar crossed the wire all alone in a final time of 2:14 1/5. Presvis, the 132-pound highweight who was conceding 13 pounds to the winner, checked in 5 1/4 lengths ahead of Zulu Chief. |
With this sparkling bow for Saeed bin Suroor, Allybar boosted his bankroll to $253,214 from his 13-4-1-4 line. The $539,238 sales topper at the Arqana Arc Sale in October, the chestnut had landed the Prix Francois Mathet in early 2009 for previous trainer Carlos Laffon-Parias. He also placed in the Prix Greffulhe (Fr-G2), Prix Guillaume d'Ornano (Fr-G2), Prix Daphnis (Fr-G3) and the September 19 Prix du Prince d'Orange (Fr-G3) last out.
Bred by Wertheimer et Frere in Ireland, the four-year-old Allybar is out of the winning Irika (Irish River [Fr]). His dam is a half-sister to multiple French Group 2 queen Ithyka (Secretariat), who has produced Grade 1-winning millionaire and French classic-placed Atticus (Nureyev). Irika is also a full sister to the unraced Toujours Irish (Irish River [Ire]), the dam of Italian co-highweight and Group 1 heroine Dubai Surprise (King's Best).
Bin Suroor and Ajtebi made a winning combination again in the 3RD race, when ANMAR (Rahy) rallied to a 1 3/4-length decision over Godolphin stablemate Emirates Champion (Haafhd).
"It has been a good night and it is great to ride my first Meydan winners," Ajtebi said.
The Saudi-based SO SHINY (Indygo Shiner), last year's U.A.E. One Thousand Guineas queen, kicked off the Friday action by defeating males in an about six-furlong handicap. After collaring the pacesetter Frosty Secret (Put It Back), So Shiny staved off the late challenge from fellow distaffer Oasis Star (Senure) by a half-length.
"She is a naturally speedy filly and battles hard," winning rider Olivier Peslier said.
Trainer Doug Watson saddled the winners of the other two sprints on the card -- FORCE FREEZE (Forest Camp), who pounced to a 1 1/2-length verdict in the 4TH race, and BARBECUE EDDIE (Stormy Atlantic), who set up shop on the front end in the 5TH and powered home by 2 1/4 lengths.
"We thought both would run well, and Force Freeze is a horse we really have high hopes of," Watson said. "Willie (Supple) has stolen that race on Barbecue -- it was a great ride."
Fading to a disappointing 10th behind Barbecue Eddie was West Side Bernie (Bernstein). Last seen finishing ninth in the Kentucky Derby (G1), the Grade 3 veteran was making his first start for Godolphin here.
Dubai Group 3 victor SNAAFY (Kingmambo), sidelined since his seventh in last year's Dubai World Cup (UAE-G1), made a triumphant return for trainer Musabah al Muhairi in the 7TH race. Reverting to turf for the first time in more than two years, Snaafy scored by 1 1/4 lengths in the metric mile affair.
"He is a much improved horse and that gives us plenty of options," jockey Richard Hills observed. "The 1,800 meters of the Dubai Duty Free ([UAE-G1] on March 27) would really suit him."
In the 8TH and nightcap, KAL BARG (Medicean) was along in time in the about 1 3/16-mile Tapeta test, his second start for horseman Dhruba Selvaratnam.
Tracks cancel in advance of winter storm
With a storm that is expected to dump up to 28 inches of snow in the Baltimore-Washington D.C. region over the next two days, the Maryland Jockey Club has canceled live racing at Laurel Park for Friday and Saturday.
There will be simulcasting at Laurel and its sister track, Pimlico, on Friday afternoon but not Saturday.
Saturday's $70,000 Marshua S. will now be contested on February 15 as part of a card that is headlined by the General George H. (G2).
The Laurel racing office took entries Friday for next Wednesday's card and will not work on Thursday's program until Monday. Entries for Thursday had been scheduled to close Saturday.
Penn National has also canceled both of its Friday and Saturday night cards as weather reports call for the winter storm to drop between one and two feet of snow in many parts of the Mid-Atlantic region.
"Based on all the weather models, this was the prudent decision to make in consideration of our fans and horsemen," Director of Racing Rob Marella said. "The snow is expected to arrive here Friday afternoon and not end until midday Saturday. The shippers won't have to worry about getting on the road."
Marella said the two-day cancellation will enable local horsemen, and those that ship into Penn National, to re-enter their horses as quickly as possible. The Friday night card has been scuttled, while Saturday's program will be brought back in its entirety for Thursday night.
Full-card simulcasting will end early on Friday, but Marella expects a full day of simulcasting for Saturday.
In addition to to Laurel and Penn National, Beulah Park and Charles Town have also canceled their Friday and Saturday cards. Philadelphia Park has called off Saturday live racing.
Oaklawn announces $5 million Apple Blossom
Calling it "one of the most important moments at Oaklawn and in Arkansas sports," Oaklawn President Charles J. Cella announced Thursday that Oaklawn will increase the purse of the April 3 Apple Blossom H. (G1) to $5 million, provided Horse of the Year RACHEL ALEXANDRA (Medaglia d'Oro) and dual champion ZENYATTA (Street Cry [Ire]) both start. At a morning press conference, Cella reported that he has spoken with the owners of both Rachel Alexandra (Jess Jackson) and Zenyatta (Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Moss). Both showed enthusiasm for bringing their champions to Oaklawn for the first Saturday of the famed Racing Festival of the South. Rachel Alexandra (three-year-old filly) and Zenyatta (older mare) were unanimous Eclipse Award winners in their respective divisions in 2009 and were the only finalists for horse racing's highest honor -- the Eclipse Award for Horse of the Year. Oaklawn has long been perceived as the ideal neutral ground for the dream match-up, because both have used the Arkansas oval as a launching pad to future success. |
"We have always pursued a goal of bringing the world's best racing to Arkansas," Cella said. "That is what led us to create the Racing Festival of the South more than 30 years ago. We have been even more fortunate in recent years. That gives us the opportunity to fulfill the promises we continually make to our fans, our horsemen and all of our supporters -- should this race come off as expected, it will most certainly fulfill every promise made."
As a lightly-raced but promising four-year-old in 2008, Zenyatta captured her first Grade 1 victory in that year's Apple Blossom, beating then reigning champion Ginger Brew among others in her only start outside of California and only start on a conventional dirt surface. She has since gone on to post a perfect 14-for-14 record, highlighted by her victory in the 2008 Breeders' Cup Ladies' Classic (G1) and her win against males in the 2009 Breeders' Cup Classic (G1), in what was believed at the time to be the final race of her career. Rumblings about Zenyatta's "un-retirement" began to be felt in December and Moss made it official on January 16. "We're all very excited about the opportunity," said Dottie Ingordo-Shirreffs, racing manager for the Mosses and wife of trainer John Shirreffs. "It would be fabulous for the fans and the racing industry. It's a race we've won before, so she likes the track. We'll do our best to make the race, but obviously, it all depends on Zenyatta and how she's doing." Tentative plans call for Zenyatta to make her comeback race at Santa Anita in the March 13 Santa Margarita H. (G1). |
Rachel Alexandra kicked off her three-year-old campaign at Oaklawn with a pair of eye-popping stakes wins in the Martha Washington S. and the Fantasy S. (G2). Her record victory in the Kentucky Oaks (G1) the day before the Kentucky Derby (G1) clearly stamped her as the best three-year-old filly in the nation. She proved more than that in her next start when she became the first filly to win the Preakness S. (G1) in 85 years. Rachel Alexandra beat three-year-old colts again in the Haskell Invitational S. (G1) and became the first three-year-old filly to win the prestigious Woodward S. (G1) against older males in September.
"My family and I would love to see (Rachel Alexandra) run at Oaklawn Park," Jackson said in a statement. "If she is in top form and it fits in our schedule, we will be there. Rachel, as you know, likes the track, having won twice there last year. "As you have heard me say many times before, a number of factors must be considered when deciding where to race a horse -- the number one factor being the condition of the horse. Rachel will tell us when she is ready to start her 2010 campaign and we humans must agree she is in top form." Rachel Alexandra enjoyed a "happy gallop" once around the Fair Grounds main track Thursday morning at about 6:30 a.m. (EST), according to Fair Grounds clocker Billy Pettingill. "She looked great doing it," Pettingill said. "She came out right after (trainer Steve) Asmussen's first set so they could see where the going was best on the off track. Dominic Terry was aboard, she was accompanied by (assistant trainer) Scott Blasi going to the track and she was kept well off the rail during the gallop." Should both Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta start, this year's Apple Blossom will be an invitational event. Other leaders in the filly and mare division will be invited to participate. The $5 million purse will be the largest purse for a filly and mare race in the history of North American Thoroughbred racing. The distance of the race, historically contested at 1 1/16 miles, will be extended to 1 1/8 miles. |
Should Rachel Alexandra or Zenyatta fail to start, the Apple Blossom will revert to its original status, with a purse of $500,000.
Alexandros impresses in Al Rashidiya
Godolphin's ALEXANDROS (Kingmambo) displayed a smart burst of speed to capture Thursday's $200,000 Al Rashidiya (UAE-G3), the first race ever contested over the turf at the new Meydan Racecourse. Trained by Saeed bin Suroor and ridden by Frankie Dettori, the classy five-year-old cruised up to the leaders in the stretch, and right on cue, bolted away to a commanding 3 1/2-length victory. Alexandros toured about nine furlongs on the good to firm ground in 1:51 3/5, and in the process, raised his profile as a contender for the March 27 Dubai Duty Free (UAE-G1). In the opening stages, the mare Front House (Sadler's Wells) strode to the lead and set a moderate tempo, with Tam Lin (GB) (Selkirk) tracking on the outside and Alexandros well placed in a ground-saving third. Tam Lin threw down a challenge to Front House in the stretch, but Alexandros was still under wraps as Dettori angled him to the outside. Wider out came a rallying Black Eagle (Cape Cross [Ire]) to make it a quartet in the frame. Alexandros, however, was traveling best of all. Still in hand while cantering up to the leaders, he burst clear in a matter of strides and won geared down. "It is a great track (the turf)," Dettori said, "and I was really impressed with the conditions it is in, and especially the sweeping bends. Alexandros likes to get his toe in and he has handled it well. He is a nice horse with some very good form in the book. Hopefully he can improve from that." |
Crowded House (Rainbow Quest), who had not raced since his sixth-place effort in the Derby (Eng-G1) at Epsom last June, made eye-catching late progress from the rear to grab second. Tam Lin reported home another half-length back in third, followed by Black Eagle, Kalahari Gold (Trans Island), Front House, Naval Officer (Tale of the Cat), Frozen Fire (Montjeu [Ire]) and Oiseau de Feu (Stravinsky).
Alexandros now sports a mark of 22-8-4-4 with $1,131,087 in earnings. Successful in the 2007 Prix de Cabourg (Fr-G3) and Prix Roland de Chambure as a juvenile for Andre Fabre, he also placed third in that year's Prix Morny (Fr-G1). The Darley-bred joined Godolphin in advance of his three-year-old campaign, highlighted by a strong second-place finish versus his elders in the 2008 Diomed S. (Eng-G3) at Epsom.
Kicking off his 2009 season in Dubai, Alexandros won a pair of handicaps before garnering third in a typically deep renewal of the Dubai Duty Free. He went on to miss by a whisker in the Lockinge S. (Eng-G1) at Newbury, and concluded the year with a close seventh in the December 13 Hong Kong Mile (HK-G1) last out.
Alexandros was bred in Great Britain and has a juvenile three-quarter sister named Margravine (King's Best). He is the first foal from the winning Arlette (Ire) (King of Kings [Ire]), who is a three-quarter sister to French highweight, Breeders' Cup Turf (G1) winner and successful sire In the Wings (GB) (Sadler's Wells), as well as French Group 2 victors Morozov (Sadler's Wells) and Hunting Hawk (Sadler's Wells). They were all produced by Italian co-champion filly and dual classic-placed High Hawk (Ire) (Shirley Heights). This is the family of High-Rise (High Estate), hero of the 1998 Derby; Virginia Waters (Kingmambo), queen of the 2005 One Thousand Guineas (Eng-G1); and Irish and French highweight Dubawi (Dubai Millennium), victor of the 2005 Irish Two Thousand Guineas (Ire-G1) and Prix Jacques le Marois (Fr-G1).
The Al Rashadiya was the middle leg of a three-race triple for Godolphin on Thursday evening. The team's other two winners each got up in dramatic fashion in the final stride.
With Ted Durcan aboard, GLOBAL CITY (Exceed and Excel) thrust his nose in front in an about six-furlong handicap on the Tapeta, carded as the 5TH race, just prior to the feature. Finishing 2 1/4 lengths back in third was the veteran sprint champ Thor's Echo (Swiss Yodeler), returning from a 19-month layoff for trainer Satish Seemar. The 2006 Eclipse Award winner and Breeders' Cup Sprint (G1) romper was last seen checking in fourth in the 2008 Alfred G. Vanderbilt H. (G2) at Saratoga.
Immediately following the Al Rashidiya, Dettori lifted AGE OF REASON (Halling), the runner-up in last year's Gran Premio di Milano (Ity-G1), to a last-gasp score in an about 1 3/4-mile turf handicap in the 7TH race.
"This horse was champion juvenile at home last season and is one we have high hopes for," de Kock noted. "We will go to the Guineas ([UAE-G3] at about one mile on February 18) with hope now." De Kock has taken this race with subsequent Dubai classic winners Asiatic Boy (Arg) and Honour Devil (Arg) (Honour and Glory) in recent years -- both in the same colors as Musir, those of Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa al Maktoum. |
Bred in Australia by his owner, Musir improved his record to 4-3-1-0, $77,301. He had not raced since July 4, when he sealed his divisional championship with a 3 1/2-length coup in the Golden Horseshoe S. (SAf-G1) at Greyville. Musir is out of the stakes-placed Encosta de Lago mare Dizzy de Lago, and he hails from the family of Japanese champion and emerging young sire King Kamehameha (Kingmambo).
In the very next race, the 4TH, the de Kock-trained MR BROCK (Fort Wood) galloped to a 3 3/4-length triumph going about 1 3/16 miles with Kevin Shea. De Kock added the 8TH and final contest to his total, courtesy of KING OF ROME (Montjeu [Ire]). Also guided by Shea, the Irish Group 2 veteran crossed the wire 1 1/2 lengths in front of Brazilian star Hot Six (Burooj) in the about 10-furlong handicap.
AL ARAB (Redattore [Brz]) romped by 4 1/4 lengths in the opener at about one mile for Brazilian trainer Antonio Cintra, while MUTHEEB (Danzig) dominated the 2ND race, an about seven-furlong handicap, by five lengths for Musabah al Muhairi.
Sting to perform at Dubai Racing Carnival
Meydan announced Thursday that internationally renowned recording artist Sting will perform live at the Dubai International Racing Carnival's Super Thursday on March 4.
A composer, singer, actor and activist, Sting has evolved into one of the world's most distinctive and highly respected performers, collecting as a solo performer 11 Grammys, 2 Brits, a Golden Globe, an Emmy, three Oscar nominations, Billboard Magazine's Century Award, and MusiCares 2004 Person of the Year.
"Sting is not only one of the best in his field, a perennial performer who has seen not only international success but also longevity in his career span," said Mohammad A. Nasser Al Khayat, commercial director of Meydan. "He appeals to both young and old and is a true citizen of the world who cares about the people and the environment around him. Sting represents many of the values Meydan upholds for itself, as we hope to set the same benchmarks when it comes to international racing, the same way Sting has achieved worldwide acclaim over the course of his career."
"Sting is an excellent addition to our Super Thursday program as his music transcends all," added Frank Gabriel Jr., CEO of the Dubai Racing Club. "It is important to us that performances at the Dubai International Racing Carnival are appreciated by general audiences, as our race meetings see participants from various geographies, and Sting's music is a universal example of how it can bring people together regardless of nationality or language. The concert is the perfect complement to end an exciting evening at the races."
Sting is booked by Live Nation, the largest producer of all live concerts in the world. Producing more than 22,000 concerts annually for 1,600 artists in 33 countries, they will be working together with award-winning event company M-is from the United Kingdom to deliver a stunning and unforgettable night with Sting on Super Thursday at Meydan.
The concert is in conjunction with Dubai International Racing Carnival's Super Thursday race meeting and is expected to commence after the last race.
Ticket prices start from approximately $41 for free standing admissions, and approximately $200 for premium seats. Tickets are on sale now from Virgin Megastore, Box Office and Time Out.
Winslow Homer sidelined, off Derby trail
Holy Bull S. (G3) winner WINSLOW HOMER (Unbridled's Song) is off the Kentucky Derby (G1) trail after the discovery of a stress fracture in a cannon bone, according to a statement by owner Rick Porter on his website. "Winslow Homer had a little sensitivity in his shin Sunday morning. We went over him with a fine-toothed comb and found a small stress fracture in his cannon bone, resulting in Winslow having to go on the shelf for the next 60-90 days," Porter said. "Winslow should return to training in early April. This is another tough luck story for me and the Fox Hill (Farm) fans but hopefully we will have a huge summer and fall with Winslow Homer." |
Conditioned by Tony Dutrow, Winslow Homer has won his last three races since dropping his Delaware Park debut by a neck in July. He rebounded from that third-place finish to record a three-length maiden win at Saratoga over seven furlongs on August 22. He returned on November 20 and captured an allowance over a mile at Philadelphia Park by 12 1/2 lengths.
Winslow Homer defeated Jackson Bend (Hear No Evil) by three parts of a length when making his stakes debut in the January 23 Holy Bull over a one-turn mile at Gulfstream Park. The gray colt has bankrolled $152,825.
This is the latest in a series of setbacks for Fox Hill Farm-owned Derby candidates in recent years. Rockport Harbor and Old Fashioned, both by Unbridled's Song, were sidelined due to injury before the Kentucky Derby in 2005 and 2009, respectively.
The stable campaigned Kentucky Derby runners-up Hard Spun (2007) and Eight Belles (2008).
Fair Grounds releases logos for Louisiana Derby, FG Oaks
The Louisiana Derby logo -- inspired by the longtime Fair Grounds coat of arms that was adopted as the first logo for the Mardi Gras Krewe of Endymion -- depicts a pair of silhouetted rearing horses flanking a crest adorned with a fleur de lis and topped by a crown. The history of Endymion is deeply intertwined with that of the Fair Grounds. In 1963, Ed Muniz, who grew up in the shadow of the track, had narrowed the possibilities for his new krewe's moniker to two mythological figures, Endymion and Bacchus. When George Widener's horse Endymion won that year's New Orleans H. with Jimmy Nichols aboard, that settled it for Muniz. For its first 10 years, Endymion began its parade at De Saix Boulevard and Trafalgar Street, just beyond the Fair Grounds stable area. |
The Fair Grounds Oaks logo accentuates the feminine for a race restricted to fillies with the outline of an athletic horse's head in light, flowing pink strokes.
The Louisiana Derby will be run March 27 and the Fair Grounds Oaks will be run one day prior to that, on March 26.
The $750,000 Louisiana Derby at 1 1/8 miles serves as an important final prep race for three-year-olds pointing to the Kentucky Derby five weeks later. Louisiana Derby winners Black Gold (1924) and Grindstone (1996) went on to win the Kentucky Derby, as did Louisiana Derby runner-up Funny Cide (2003). |
The $400,000 Fair Grounds Oaks at 1 1/16 miles serves as an important final prep race for three-year-old fillies pointing to the Kentucky Oaks five weeks later. Four of the last five winners of the Fair Grounds Oaks have gone on to win the Kentucky Oaks (Horse of the Year Rachel Alexandra, Proud Spell, Summerly and Ashado; the Fair Grounds Oaks was not run in 2006).
Halter worn by Rachel Alexandra up for auction
Horse of the Year RACHEL ALEXANDRA (Medaglia d'Oro) had her first recorded work of the 2010 racing season at Fair Grounds Sunday morning, but beginning Friday a special commemorative stable halter once worn by the magnificent filly will go on display in the Fair Grounds clubhouse.
The halter, encased in a handsome shadow box, includes the signatures of trainer Steve Asmussen and jockey Calvin Borel as part of the display, and has already become the subject of a silent auction to kick off a barn-raising fundraiser for the Remember Me Racehorse Rescue facility operated by Fair Grounds-based trainer Dallas Keen and his wife Donna.
"We are deeply indebted to Steve (Asmussen) and Mr. (Jess) Jackson for supporting Remember Me Racehorse Rescue by donating Rachel Alexandra's halter to help support retired racehorses," Donna Keen said. "We want to thank them for their gesture."
Remember Me Rescue placed 36 retired racehorses in new homes in 2009, some of which were rescued from slaughter by the couple, but new horses are coming in constantly.
"We have to put forth a huge fundraising effort to build a new barn," Donna Keen explained on Remember Me Rescue's website, teamkeen.com. "I refuse to stop taking in new horses, so the fundraising begins."
On March 20, the silent auction for Rachel Alexandra's halter and shadow box will end, and the top two bidders will be asked to participate in a live auction at Fair Grounds on March 26 when the Fair Grounds Oaks (G2) will be run. Rachel Alexandra won last season's Fair Grounds Oaks on her way to Horse of the Year honors, and became the fourth of the last five Fair Grounds Oaks winners to go on and win the Kentucky Oaks (G1) later in the spring.
For information on submitting a bid, visit teamkeen.com.
Rachel Alexandra records first official workout of 2010
Horse of the Year RACHEL ALEXANDRA (Medaglia d'Oro) posted her first official work of the year on Sunday over Fair Grounds' fast dirt, breezing a half-mile in :52 with regular exercise rider Dominic Terry aboard. "I even asked for a touch slower but for her that's just physically impossible," said Scott Blasi, assistant to Rachel Alexandra's trainer, Steve Asmussen. "Dominic did a good job. He had to trick her into going that slow but right now that's what's best for her." Rachel Alexandra entered the track at the half-mile gap at 6:25 a.m. (CST) with Terry up and led by Blasi aboard his pony. Together they backtracked more than a half-mile "the wrong way," clockwise, to about the eighth-pole at the midway point of the Fair Grounds stretch. After standing for a few moments, Rachel Alexandra and Terry faced east and eased into a strong gallop, which they kept up around the first turn and down the backstretch. The filly picked up speed into the far turn and dropped down to the rail to let loose approaching the half-mile pole. "It was a perfect work," Blasi said. "We're not out to impress anybody at this point. I'm happy with how manageable she is, how happy she is being out there. Looking at her body motion, she's happy with what she's doing." Blasi said that Rachel Alexandra would "breeze weekly from here on," though on which day of the week depends on a number of factors, including weather and track conditions. |
Back at Asmussen's barn, Blasi was asked if it's nice to have the champion filly breezing again. Grinning widely he said, "Anytime you can wake up like I do and walk in the barn and see Rachel Alexandra is a good morning."
Record 288 entries for Dubai World Cup
The Dubai Racing Club announced Sunday that it has received a record number of 288 entries for the 2010 Dubai World Cup (UAE-G1), scheduled for March 27 at the newly unveiled Meydan Racecourse.
At the closure of the free entry stage on January 13, a total of 1,951 entries have been received from 23 countries for the entire eight-race program, highlighted by the 15th running of the $10 million Dubai World Cup.
The Dubai World Cup, run for the first time on an all weather surface, Tapeta, attracted the highest number of nominations in its history, dual Eclipse Award winner GIO PONTI (Tale of the Cat) and two-time Japanese Horse of the Year VODKA (Tanino Gimlet) prominent among the entries received. The latter leads a powerful contingent from Japan which also includes the dual Classic winner and champion three-year-old filly BUENA VISTA (Special Week), Japan Cup Dirt (Jpn-G1) winner ESPOIR CITY (Gold Allure) and SUCCESS BROCKEN (Symboli Kris S).
GLORIA DE CAMPEAO (Brz) (Impression) also returns for a third Dubai campaign hoping to go one better than his second placing to Well Armed (Tiznow) last year, while Godolphin's REGAL RANSOM (Distorted Humor) is among 34 entries from the stable and aiming to become the first horse to win the Dubai World Cup 12 months after a U.A.E. Derby (UAE-G2) success. Hong Kong Cup (HK-G1) first and second VISION D'ETAT (Chichicastenango) and COLLECTION (Peintre Celebre) are also among the early entries.
The Dubai World Cup's 288 entries come from 82 trainers and 15 countries, Saeed bin Suroor (34 entries) with the most number of nominations and one of seven trainers having tasted Dubai World Cup success previously, the others being Kiaran McLaughlin (four entries), Bill Mott (two), Steve Asmussen (one), Bob Baffert (seven), Eoin Harty (one), Sir Michael Stoute (two).
Among this year's entries for the $5 million Dubai Duty Free (UAE-G1) are the top three from the 2009 renewal -- GLADIATORUS (Silic [Fr]), PRESVIS (Sakhee) and ALEXANDROS (Kingmambo). The three, along with the highly rated COURAGEOUS CAT (Storm Cat), are among a massive 400 entries from 19 countries.
The Dubai Duty Free and the $5 million Dubai Sheema Classic (UAE-G1) traditionally attract a strong level of international entries, and this year proves no different. Like the Dubai Duty Free, those prominent in the 2009 Dubai Sheema Classic are again among the entries for this year's renewal which has attracted 242 nominations from 17 countries. The first seven home in 2009 are all aimed at the race in 2010, as are PRESIOUS PASSION (Royal Anthem) from the United States and Europe's outstanding filly DAR RE MI (GB) (Singspiel [Ire]).
The Dubai Golden Shaheen (UAE-G1) has long been the domain of horses from the United States since 2000, and Breeders Cup Sprint (G1) winner DANCING IN SILKS (Black Minnaloushe) spearheads the American entries. In all, the Golden Shaheen has attracted 205 entries from 16 countries. Japan's LAUREL GUERREIRO (King Halo) and Australia's unbeaten filly BLACK CAVIAR (Bel Esprit) will be attempting to halt American dominance of this race. Richard Mandella, trainer of the 2004 Dubai World Cup winner Pleasantly Perfect, also has his eye on this race, with his charge CROWN OF THORNS (Repent) entered here. For the first time this year, the Dubai Golden Shaheen will be run around a bend.
The addition to the program of the Al Quoz Sprint (SAf-G3) on the turf is proving to be extremely popular, with the race receiving 202 entries from 16 countries. ALL SILENT (Belong to Me), BLACK CAVIAR, TURFFONTEIN (Johannesburg) and GOLD TRAIL (Hussonet) are among a powerful group of 15 from Australia while Singapore's star ROCKET MAN (Viscount) and Hong Kong champion SACRED KINGDOM (Encosta de Lago) are also entered. Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint winner CALIFORNIA FLAG (Avenue of Flags), the globetrotting CANNONBALL (Catienus), Prix de l'Abbaye (Fr-G1) winner TOTAL GALLERY (Namid) and the outstanding South African OUR GIANT (Giant's Causeway) are also included.
Baffert and owner Mike Pegram have tasted Dubai World Cup success with Captain Steve and their LOOKIN AT LUCKY (Smart Strike), winner of the Eclipse Award for champion two-year-old male of 2009 heads the 173 entries for the $2 million U.A.E. Derby. Godolphin's bin Suroor and South Africa's Mike de Kock remain the only trainers to have prepared winners of the U.A.E. Derby and unsurprisingly, both are well represented again. Breeders' Cup Juvenile (G1) winner VALE OF YORK (Ire) (Invincible Spirit) heads Godolphin's 18 strong entry, while South Africa's champion two-year-old of last season, MUSIR (Redoute's Choice), is one of six entries from de Kock.
Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile (G1) winner FURTHEST LAND (Smart Strike) heads a 61-strong American entry for the $1 million Godolphin Mile (UAE-G2), those entries among a total of 370 received from 16 countries. GAYEGO (Gilded Time), second in the race last year, and stablemate MIDSHIPMAN (Unbridled's Song) are prominent among powerful entries from the UAE.
The $250,000 Dubai Kahayla Classic for the purebred Arabians has attracted a total of 71 entries, among them the winners of the two previous runnings in MIZZNA and FRYVOLOUS.
For a full list of nominations, please visit www.dubairacingclub.com
Bold Chieftain crowned in Classic; Sweet Repent scores fifth straight in Distaff
"There were three veterans out there: the rider, the trainer and the horse," Morey said. "These are the kinds of things that leave you breathless and make the game so much fun, and we're supposed to have fun out here. There's a little bit of money in it, too." Bold Chieftain was in traffic throughout the Classic, racing between rivals as Enriched (High Brite) set a pressured pace through splits of :23 1/5, :46 3/5, 1:10 4/5 and 1:35 3/5. Making his way three wide around the turn, the eventual winner suddenly found his way blocked and was forced to steady in midstretch. He continued to run in close quarters down the lane, split horses in deep stretch and just got up for the victory. |
"This ranks right up there with any race I've ever won, anywhere," Baze said. "We were in some pretty tight straits there turning for home. I didn't know if I was going to get through or not, but a hole presented itself coming to the three-sixteenths and we got through, but then I had to check up and we clipped heels. Even though we got through I had that horse (Unusual Smoke) laying on me and it's hard for a horse to move when he's got horses laying on him like that, but (Bold Chieftain) did it."
Palladio (Lycius) chased Bold Chieftain on a clearer path and just missed to pay $6.60 and $4.40 as the 6-1 fourth choice. It was another length back to 50-1 longshot Unusual Smoke (Unusual Heat), who just edged Jeranimo (Congaree) by a nose to give back $13.40. The $1 exotics were worth $36.80 (exacta), $926.80 (trifecta) and $6,145.20 (9-4-5-1 superfecta). Acclamation (Unusual Heat) was a half-length back in fifth, while Enriched just missed that spot by a neck. Next under the wire were Wicked Style (Macho Uno), Unusual Suspect (Unusual Heat) and even-money favorite The Usual Q. T. (Unusual Heat), who was rank early while forcing the pace and gave way in the stretch. Bad Action (Brahms) and Compari (Redattore [Brz]) were both withdrawn, with the former finishing sixth in Saturday's Sunshine Millions Turf at Gulfstream.
"The race set up badly for us," trainer Jim Cassidy said about The Usual Q. T. "There was too much pressure too early...my horse got rank. We'll discuss whether he'll go back on grass, but right now, that's certainly what I would think."
Bold Chieftain had a three-race win streak broken when making his seasonal bow last out in the San Pasqual H. (G2), running just two lengths behind in fourth. Prior to that, he strung together easy scores in the Governor's H., California Cup Classic and San Quentin S. This win improves his stakes tally to 12, and he's also placed in eight other black-type events, including last year's San Francisco Mile (G2) and Berkeley S. (G3). Having already joined the millionaire's club a few starts back, the dark bay winner's share of the $500,000 purse moved his lifetime earnings to $1,406,411 and his line now reads 34-15-6-4.
"Trips make races," Morey responded when asked if Baze might have moved too soon on Bold Chieftain in the San Pasqual. "I'm not taking anything from the winner, but in that race we might have rushed a little early for second money, plus, he might have need that race a little bit.
"We were really gearing for this one. This is the one we were after. We stayed here. We didn't go back up Highway Five (to his Bay Area headquarters). We camped out here at Santa Anita. He was really going to have to jump up with a monster today to continue thinking of going on (racing), and he came through, so I guess he wants to keep going. He's got the ball. If he doesn't want to do it anymore, just let us know, but when he runs races like this, it's pretty hard not to be looking down the road at another one."
Bred in California by his co-owners, Bold Chieftain is out of the stakes-placed Hooked on Music (Seattle Dancer) and counts as half-siblings multiple Grade 3-placed Hooked on Niners (Mr. Greeley), an unraced sophomore filly named Roman Lady (Roman Ruler), a juvenile filly named Briarbrookes Pride (Malibu Moon) and an unnamed yearling colt by Lemon Drop Kid.
While Bold Chieftain had a rough trip in the Classic, SWEET REPENT (Repent) had a much easier time of it to take the $300,000 Sunshine Millions Distaff at Gulfstream Park earlier on the day. The Buongiorno A Tutti Stable's colorbearer raced just off the rail while stalking the early pace duel of Amazing (Greatness) and Jessica is Back (Put It Back), angled out for the stretch run and easily ran down the latter filly to score a 3 3/4-length victory. Trained by J. David Braddy, Sweet Repent ran 1 1/8 miles on the fast main track in 1:49 1/5.
Jessica is Back was so eager she broke the gate open prior to the start, and immediately moved to the front once the race started. She wasn't alone though, as Amazing challenged for the lead, setting the opening split of :23 2/5 before Jessica is Back took command through a half in :46 4/5. Amazing stuck her head in front through three-quarters in a swift 1:10 4/5, but by this time was beginning to feel the effects of the swift pace. Jessica is Back logged a mile in 1:36 1/5, but Sweet Repent and jockey Manoel Cruz were just winding up. Blowing past the front runner, the pair easily pulled away as the 8-5 favorite in the nine-horse field.
"I was concerned when he (Cruz) was asking her in the far turn and not really getting to the leaders (Jessica is Back and Amazing), but she got going and wore them down," Braddy said. "She had some time off last year (February through July) with some problems with her feet. She was a better three-year-old than a two-year-old and is still maturing. She gets a vacation now, probably about 60 days off."
"I waited to ask my filly for her run because I know that she is game, and I just had to be consistent with her," Cruz explained his strategy. "I knew she would run for me in the final eighth, and that she was going to give me a whole bunch of run. She has improved a lot as she has gotten older and more experienced, and she keeps getting better."
Sweet Repent returned $5.20, $3 and $2.60 to her faithful backers while keying the $16.60 exacta. Jessica is Back held second by 1 1/2 lengths over Even Road (Stephen Got Even), who rallied from last to just get up for third over Amazing. Jessica is Back paid $3.60 and $3 as the 5-2 second choice, while show was worth $6.40 at 17-1. The trifecta gave back $94.60 and the 4-7-6-5 superfecta totaled $343.40. Christmas Ship (Montbrook), who was steadied sharply going into the first turn after diving for a hole on the rail that suddenly closed, dead-heated with Scolara (Quiet American) for fifth, while Unforgotten (Northern Afleet), Cat Can Do (Adcat) and Granted Tiger (Tiger Ridge) completed the order under the line.
Sweet Repent began her four-year-old season the exact same way she ended 2009 -- on a winning note. The dark bay lass began her current five-race win streak with a pair of nose victories at Calder, including the Judy's Red Shoes S., and followed those up with a 3 1/4-length score in the Elmer Heubeck Distaff H. She just held in the Stage Door Betty H. (G3) by a nose once again to conclude her sophomore campaign, and boosted her earnings to $464,190 with this victory, which also improved her career mark to 13-7-2-1.
Bred in Florida by Nikki and Roger Schick, Sweet Repent was an OBS October weanling RNA. She is out of the winning Formal Dinner mare Sweetbabe, who has since produced an unnamed juvenile filly by With Distinction and an unnamed yearling colt by City Place. This is the same family as Grade 3-placed stakes winner Sugar's Image (Valid Appeal), herself the dam of multiple Grade 3-winning sire Halo's Image (Halo).
Propulsion, Precision preserve streaks in Sunshine Millions Turf races
Florida-breds JET PROPULSION (Double Honor) and TIGHT PRECISION (Pure Precision) each extended their winning streaks to three in their respective Sunshine Millions races on Saturday. Jet Propulsion, making his first start off the claim for Farnsworth Stables and Marty Wolfson, capitalized on his role as lone speed to wire the field in the $300,000 Sunshine Millions Turf S. at Gulfstream Park, while E.J. Sukley's Tight Precision employed stalk-and-pounce tactics in the $300,000 Sunshine Millions Filly & Mare Turf S. at Santa Anita. Although Jet Propulsion was dropped in for a $50,000 tag last out, the seven-year-old gelding had back class. The bay had captured three stakes earlier in his career, including the 2007 Miami Mile H. (G3), and his resume featured a quartet of stakes placings, topped by the 2008 Appleton H. (G3). Jet Propulsion showed that he could still compete on the stakes level as recently as last August, when he finished third in the West Virginia House of Delegates Speakers Cup S. Dropped in class following a last-of-eight effort in the Red Bank S. (G3) at Monmouth, Jet Propulsion promptly won two in a row at Calder. He disposed of allowance rivals by 2 1/2 lengths in October, then captured the aforementioned optional claimer by the same margin in December. Once haltered by Wolfson, Jet Propulsion promised to take a step forward on the class hike, and he delivered Saturday. Jet Propulsion rolled straight to the early lead for new rider Julien Leparoux and never saw a challenger. He enjoyed a comfortable lead through an opening quarter in :24 1/5, widened his advantage to six lengths through a half in :48 1/5, and maintained a 3 1/2-length cushion while reaching six furlongs in 1:11. |
Four lengths in front through one mile in 1:33 4/5, Jet Propulsion continued to do enough inside the final furlong to keep his stablemate Pickapocket (Mecke) safely at bay. The winner had two lengths to spare at the wire in a final time of 1:45 4/5 for 1 1/8 miles on the firm turf. Sent off as the 3-1 second choice, Jet Propulsion paid $8, $5.40 and $4.00.
"I've been watching this horse for a couple years," Wolfson said. "He's beat up on horses of mine a number of times. I never thought he'd be dropped in for a tag, but when he was, I took him with this race in mind. He's settled down a lot in the last six weeks. I don't have anything in mind for him right now, but I think a mile and an eighth might be his best distance."
"I was happy, but not surprised, that they didn't come with me in the first turn," Leparoux said. "We got an easy lead and that was good for us. At the three-eighths pole I started to go, and I kind of looked back a couple of times on the final turn to see if they were coming, but they weren't. My horse made a big move and we won easily."
Fellow Wolfson trainee Pickapocket, a clear second by three lengths, returned $6.60 and $4.20 at 6-1. Picou (With Approval), also a 6-1 chance, rallied from last for third and gave back $4.60. Defending champion and 9-5 favorite Soldier's Dancer (Lost Soldier), who bided his time at the rear in the early going, lacked his usual punch and checked in another neck back in fourth. The exotics were worth $42.40 (exacta), $170.20 (trifecta) and $656.60 (11-10-1-8 superfecta).
Tie Rod (Old Topper), Bad Action (Brahms), Roman Tiger (Tiger Ridge), Fearless Eagle (Invisible Ink) and Ballonenostrikes (Lost Soldier) completed the order of finish. Wicked Style (Macho Uno) opted to run in Saturday's Sunshine Millions Classic S. at Santa Anita, finishing a troubled seventh, while Duke of Mischief (Graeme Hall) was scratched in favor of next Saturday's Donn H. (G1).
Jet Propulsion, who was also bred by Farnsworth Farms, improved his record to 45-13-10-3 with $564,523 in earnings. Out of the winning Northjet (Ire) mare Her Jet, he is a half-brother to stakes victress J. T.'s Jet Liner (Line in the Sand). This is the family of Belgian champion Ztunami (Hold Your Peace), Grade 2 heroine Shining Light (Simply Majestic) and Grade 3 scorer Withholding (Hold Your Peace).
Several minutes later on the West Coast, Florida shipper Tight Precision drove to a 1 1/2-length victory in the companion race for distaffers, defeating the California-breds on their home turf. Dispatched as the 6-5 favorite off a pair of scores in overnight company, the Tom Proctor mare was earning her first stakes coup after four stakes placings.
Tight Precision was well positioned by Joel Rosario in second, stalking Bootleg Annie (Go for Gin) through splits of :23 1/5, :47 2/5 and 1:11 4/5. Pretty Unusual (Unusual Heat) was full of run as she tracked just off the leader's heels, and swinging into the stretch, she sliced between rivals to put her head in front at the eighth-pole. Meanwhile, Tight Precision was launching her bid on the outside, and Bootleg Annie was still fighting on the rail. Pretty Unusual was unable to outfinish either of them.
Rallying boldly in deep stretch, Tight Precision spurted away to finish 1 1/8 miles in 1:47 1/5 on the firm turf. The five-year-old dark bay rewarded her backers with mutuels of $4.40, $3 and $2.40 while keying the $1 exotics -- $14.50 exacta, $97.30 trifecta and $265.10 superfecta (2-5-3-1).
"The trainer told me to do whatever I wanted," Rosario said. "She's a very classy filly. Going to the top of the stretch, I saw the three (Pretty Unusual) coming inside of me, but I wasn't worried. She's got a real long stride and when I asked her she gave it to me."
The 7-1 Bootleg Annie reclaimed runner-up honors by a nose from Pretty Unusual, paying $5.80 and $4. Show was good for $4.60 at 9-1. Proctor's other runner, Closeout (Repriced), crossed the wire another 1 1/4 lengths back in fourth. Next came You Lift Me Up (Lord Carson), Saucey Evening (More Than Ready), Catsalot (Momentum) and Century Park (General Meeting).
"I thought they both had a nice chance," Proctor said of his contestants. "I thought the filly that won had the better trip. I've got no thoughts right now about what might be next for her. It's just good to win a $300,000 race, and it's nice to win in California. I haven't been that lucky out here. I was here Breeders' Cup day (November 6 and 7), but as far as training on a regular basis, it's been the first part of 2001 or something like that since I left."
Tight Precision now sports a mark of 14-5-3-2, $337,970. All of her prior stakes experience came during her sophomore season in 2008, capped by a terrific runner-up effort behind Acoma (Empire Maker) in the Valley View S. (G3). She was sidelined for nearly one year, and in her second start off the shelf, she swept to a four-length allowance score at Churchill Downs in November. Tight Precision prepped for this engagement with an allowance/optional claiming victory earlier this month at Gulfstream.
Bred by Charles Patton, Tight Precision is a half-sister to a noted Proctor performer of the past, four-time stakes victor and Grade 2-placed Therecomesatiger (Tiger Ridge), as well as the stakes-placed Herecomesacat (Storm Creek). They were all produced by the Artistry (SAf) mare Come Tight. This is the family of Canadian champion turf horse Hasten to Add (Cozzene) and Grade 1 queen See How She Runs (Maria's Mon).
This Ones for Phil, Quisisana win photos in Sunshine Millions sprints
THIS ONES FOR PHIL (Untuttable) and Pashito the Che (Flatter) put on quite a show in the $200,000 Sunshine Millions Sprint at Gulfstream Park, the first in Saturday's six-race Sunshine Millions series that pit Florida-breds against California-breds. Eyeballing each other for more than a quarter-mile, the two turned in a scintillating stretch duel that neither in the end deserved to lose. Ultimately, the photo-finish camera judged This Ones for Phil the winner by a nose after six furlongs were scorched in 1:08 4/5 over the fast main track. Guided by John Velazquez, This Ones for Phil returned $4, $2.40 and $2.20 as the even-money favorite.
Pashito the Che, the 9-5 second choice, burst out to an early advantage of one length through an opening quarter in :21 2/5, but was soon joined by This Ones for Phil, who was only a head behind after a half-mile in :43 1/5. Those two turned the Sprint into a two-horse race early as the remainder of the field lagged far behind as the duel for the win developed. Pashito the Che easily held the place by 10 1/2 lengths and gave back $2.60 and $2.20. Drift King (Concorde's Tune), the 32-1 longest shot, edged 5-1 third choice Accredit (E Dubai) for the show and paid $5.40. The exacta returned $9.40, the trifecta $87.20, and the 6-4-5-3 superfecta returned $247. Farther behind Accredit were Sneaking Uponyou (Snuck In), Machismo (Trippi) and Rockerfeller (Maria's Mon).
This was the second consecutive Sunshine Millions victory for This Ones for Phil, who last year captured the Dash for three-year-olds at Gulfstream, a race that was not renewed this year. He preceded that score with a victory in the Seacliff S. and placings in the Foolish Pleasure S. and Arthur I. Appleton Juvenile Turf in 2008. After a nondescript fifth in the Fountain of Youth S. (G2) following his Dash victory, This Ones for Phil reached the winner's circle via disqualification in the Swale S. (G2) after being interfered with by Big Drama (Montbrook). Subsequently second in the Withers S. (G3), This Ones for Phil was sidelined for nearly six months after a fifth in the Woody Stephens S. (G2) in June due to ankle chips. He returned to the track on November 28 and easily took an allowance/optional claimer at Laurel by more than three lengths.
"We hope for an invitation to Dubai down the straightaway like we did with Benny the Bill a couple years ago," said trainer Richard Dutrow, referring to the March 27 Dubai Golden Shaheen (UAE-G1) at Meydan over six furlongs on Tapeta. Benny the Bull won the 2008 Golden Shaheen at the now-defunct Nad al Sheba on dirt.
Bred in Florida by owner Gilbert Campbell, This Ones for Phil is out of the unraced Septieme Ciel mare Heaven's Gate and counts the stakes winner Tap Dancer (Sword Dance [Ire]) as a half-brother. He also has a juvenile half-brother named Caseros (Candy Ride [Arg]) and a yearling half-brother by Artie Schiller. Heaven's Gate is a half-sister to Grade 2 victress Stolen Beauty (Deputy Minister) and Grade 2 hero Finality (Dehere). This is the female family of Grade 1-winning millionaire Island Sand (Tabasco Cat), who finished second in the 2004 Kentucky Oaks (G1); 2004 Queen's Plate victor Niigon (Unbridled); and three-time Canadian champion Eternal Search (Northern Answer).
This Ones for Phil now sports a record of 15-6-2-1, $493,360.
Dubai Majesty, the 3-1 second choice and runner-up in this race a year ago at Gulfstream, settled for bridesmaid status again and gave back $4.40 and $3.40. Dotsy Jean (Lit de Justice), at 9-1, was close to the lead a furlong out but did not have the sufficient kick to fend off the top two and paid $5.80 after finishing 2 1/2 lengths clear of pace presser Miss McCall (Lightnin N Thunder). The $1 exotics were worth $31.80 (exacta), $247.30 (trifecta) and $809.30 (12-10-4-3 superfecta). |
Emmy Darling (Graeme Hall), Via Veneto (Orientate), U R All That I Am (Valid Wager), Sleep Tight (Exchange Rate), Rate of Exchange (Exchange Rate), Fearless Leader (Suave Prospect), Libor Lady (Exchange Rate), defending champion High Resolve (Put It Back) and Magdalena's Chase (Cape Town) rounded out the bulky field of 13.
A maiden claiming graduate for $80,000 in late 2007, the five-year-old Quisisana, who is trained by Mike Puype, has had a relatively light career. She earned minor checks in three prior stakes appearances, running third in the 2008 Fleet Treat S., fourth in the 2008 Cascapedia S. and third in the California Cup Distaff last October. She preceded this win with a 2 1/2-length score in an allowance/optional claimer at Hollywood Park on December 13. Her scorecard now reads 10-5-1-2, $275,758.
Bred in California by Todd Gerbovaz, Quisisana was produced from the unraced Mink Kiss (Distinctive Cat) and has an unnamed yearling full sister. This female family is responsible for Grade 3 winner Native Heir (Makin).
Rachel Alexandra gallops at Fair Grounds
"She came out on the track at 6:25 this morning accompanied by (assistant trainer) Scott Blasi on a pony," Fair Grounds clocker Billy Pettingill said. "After she broke off from the pony she dropped in to the rail and stretched her legs in an open gallop all the way around the course. "I can tell you that she was a very happy horse coming off the track," Pettingill added. "She enjoyed being out there and never turned a hair. I would say she was going about 60 percent." |
Blasi said that Rachel Alexandra would "pick it up" more on Sunday morning as she continues building up to an official breeze in coming days.
Two-time Eclipse Award-winning trainer Steve Asmussen was out of town Saturday but, according to Blasi, "the boss will be back tomorrow."
Rachel Alexandra, who has been freshened since her historic victory in the September 5 Woodward S. (G1) at Saratoga, sports a career mark of 14-11-2-0, $2,948,354.
Champs Elysees named Canada's Horse of the Year
Juddmonte Farms' CHAMPS ELYSEES (GB) became the late Hall of Fame trainer Bobby Frankel's final champion when he was named Canada's 2009 Horse of the Year at the Sovereign Awards ceremony in Toronto Friday night. Also named the Dominion's champion turf male, Champs Elysees saved his best for last by taking the October 17 Canadian International (Can-G1) for his only stakes win of the season. Though unplaced in two of his first three starts of the year, Champs Elysees registered second-place finishes in the Santa Anita H. (G1) and Sky Classic S. (Can-G2) and thirds in the Northern Dancer Turf S. (Can-G1) and Nijinsky S. (Can-G2). He retired to stud with a mark of 29-6-9-7 and $2,931,818 in earnings.
Originally trained in France by Andre Fabre, the bay placed second in the Prix Daphnis (Fr-G3) and Prix du Prince d'Orange (Fr-G3) as a sophomore in 2006. At four, he earned his first stakes score in the Prix d'Hedouville (Fr-G3) and placed in the Gran Premio del Jockey Club (Ity-G1), Grand Prix de Deauville (Fr-G2) and Prix Maurice de Nieuil (Fr-G2). Champs Elysees was transferred to Frankel in the fall of 2007, and his American debut was a troubled second in the Hollywood Turf Cup (G1).
Champs Elysees's North American resume also included victories in the 2008 Hollywood Turf Cup, Northern Dancer and San Marcos S. (G2).
Bred in Great Britain, Champs Elysees is the final in a series of outstanding winners sired by Danehill and produced by the French stakes-winning Hasili (Ire) (Kahyasi). Others from this cross include Dansili (GB), French and English highweight in 2000; Banks Hill (GB), American champion turf mare in 2001 and a champion in Europe in 2001 and 2002; and Intercontinental (GB), American champion turf mare in 2005. Another accomplished sibling is Cacique (Ire), winner of the Man o' War S. (G1) and Manhattan H. (G1) in 2006. Their half-sister, Heat Haze (GB) (Green Desert), was a multiple Grade 1 winner in 2003. This is the family of Leroidesanimaux (Brz) (Candy Stripes), the champion turf horse of 2005; English co-highweights Promising Lead (GB) (Danehill) and Three Valleys (Diesis [GB]); and multiple Group 3 queen Visit (GB) (Oasis Dream [GB]).
Champs Elysees has joined his brothers Dansili and Cacique at Banstead Manor Stud in Suffolk, England.
HOLLINGER (Black Minnaloushe) and BIOFUEL (Stormin Fever), were named champion two-year-old colt and filly, respectively. Hollinger was undefeated in four starts including the Cup and Saucer S. and Coronation Futurity, while Biofuel scored in the Mazarine S. (Can-G3) before finishing a solid fourth in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1) at Santa Anita.
Despite going unplaced in his final two starts of the year, EYE OF THE LEOPARD (A.P. Indy) did enough over the summer to garner champion three-year-old colt honors. He scored neck victories in both the Queen's Plate and Plate Trial S. while missing by the same margin in the second jewel of the Triple Crown, the Prince of Wales S. MILWAUKEE APPEAL (Milwaukee Brew) was named champion three-year-old after narrowly losing both the Queen's Plate and Prince of Wales to males and beating fillies in the Woodbine Oaks and Star Shoot S. Milwaukee Appeal placed in four other stakes including the Alabama S. (G1) and Selene S. (Can-G3).
Offspring of A.P. Indy were also chosen as the best in the older horse divisions. MARCHFIELD was named the leading older male with wins in the Sky Classic on turf and the Dominion Day H. (Can-G3) over Polytrack. He also placed second in the Nijinsky and Eclipse S. (Can-G3). SERENADING was named the leading older female following late-season scores in the Maple Leaf S. and Falls City H. (G2). Canada's champion turf female of the year was POINTS OF GRACE (Point Given), who notched the Dance Smartly S. (Can-G2) and River Memories S.
FIELD COMMISSION (Service Stripe) was honored as the top male sprinter following wins in the Nearctic S. (Can-G2) and Vigil S. (Can-G3) and runner-up finishes in the Play the King S. (Can-G2), Highlander S. (Can-G3) and Kennedy Road S. (Can-G3). TRIBAL BELLE (Tribunal) was judged the best of the female sprinters with consecutive wins in the Seaway S. (Can-G3), Ontario Fashion S. and Bessarabian S.
In the human categories, Patrick Husbands was named top jockey; Omar Moreno the leading apprentice jockey; Roger Attfield the champion trainer; and Eugene Melnyk was named leading breeder while his racing stable was honored as the top owner.
Canada's broodmare of the year, PICO TENERIFFE (Red Ransom), is the dam of Marchfield as well as last year's San Pedro S. winner Congor Bay (Speightstown).
Troop wins National Handicapping Championship
Troop, 61, opened a sizable lead on the rest of the 302-person field with a Day 1 total of $232.60, smashing the previous Day 1 record of $190 set by Gwyn Houston in 2001, and comfortably held off all challenges with a $33.40 score on Day 2. Robert Gregory of Durango, Colorado, accumulated more than $100 on both days to finish second, earning a second-place prize of $150,000 with a $249.80 total. Ted Simmons of Lexington, Kentucky, compiled a Day 2-best score of $181.80 to rally for third, collecting $100,000 for his $249.20 total. Brian Herrity, of Mankato, Minnesota, came next at $240.80, pocketing $40,000 for fourth, and Elaine Kowaleski of Farmingdale, New Jersey, rounded out the top five at $237.80 and won $25,000. |
Troop's score was the third-highest winning score in NHC history behind Steve Wolfson Jr.'s $279.60 in NHC VI and Richard Goodall's $272.30 in NHC IX. He managed to maintain his lead on Day 2 despite having just one winner and one place horse on Saturday.
"I was lucky, a lot of short prices came in," Troop said. "I feel like I backed into it."
A member of BRISnet.com since 2008, Troop qualified for the tournament in a December 6 contest that took place at Turfway Park. He finished fourth in that event, but the top two in that competition had previously qualified, leaving the way clear for Troop to earn his second straight berth in the NHC.
Troop also automatically earns an exemption into next year's finals. NHC XII will be held again at Red Rock on January 28-29, 2011.
Registrations for the 2010 NHC Tour are now being accepted at www.ntra.com/nhctour. Full standings and results for this weekend's just completed NHC can be found at www.ntra.com.
Highlights of NHC XI are available at Twinspires.com.
Troop in first place following Day 1 of NHC
Brian Troop of Barrie, Ontario, moved atop the leaderboard standings of the 11th annual Daily Racing Form/NTRA National Handicapping Championship (NHC) following the sixth mandatory race on Friday. As the rest of the day played out, none of the other handicappers were able to topple Troop, who compiled a total bankroll of $232.60 by day's end.
Troop, a member of BRISnet.com since 2008, qualified for the tournament in a December 6 contest that took place at Turfway Park. He finished fourth in that event, but the top two in that competition had previously qualified, leaving the way clear for Troop to earn his second straight berth in the NHC.
Troop's closest rival at the end of Day 1 is Gary Johnson, of Cleveland, Ohio, who has compiled a bankroll of $153.40.
Record 302 horseplayers set for NHC
Defending champion John Conte heads a record field of 302 horseplayers who will gather at Red Rock Casino, Resort and Spa in Las Vegas on January 29-30 to vie for horse racing's official title of "Handicapper of the Year" and a first-place prize of $500,000 in the $930,000 Daily Racing Form/NTRA National Handicapping Championship (NHC).
The NHC has enjoyed outstanding growth since its inception. By way of comparison, the first NHC in January 2000 carried a total prize pool of $200,000 and a winner's share of $100,000.
"We are delighted to return to Red Rock in Las Vegas for what has become the most anticipated tournament in the world among horseplayers," said Keith Chamblin, senior vice president of communications and industry relations for the NTRA. "This year's field of 302 is our biggest ever, which means this year's NHC will be the most competitive in the event's history."
Conte, of Oceanside, New York, received a special exemption into the tournament as the 2009 NHC winner to defend the title he won last January when he bested 300 other horseplayers in the two-day competition. The 69-year-old Conte won by amassing a mythical bankroll of $228 from a total of 30 $2 win-and-place wagers pared from a mind-numbing menu of more than 130 races run at seven different tracks.
Conte was only in 11th place heading in to the last race of the 2009 NHC, but a successful longshot bet in the day's finale propelled him to the top. He will look to become the first ever two-time winner of the NHC, but will face six other past champions who qualified for the finals this year. Judy Wagner (NHC II), Kent Meyer (NHC V), Jamie Michelson Jr. (NHC VI), Ron Rippey (NHC VII), Stanley Bavlish (NHC VIII) and Richard Goodall (NHC IX) will all be in the field with the same goal of a historic win in Las Vegas.
Contestant Bryan Wagner will be hoping to make NHC history of a different kind. As the winner of the second annual NHC Tour in 2009, Wagner not only won a $100,000 bonus for his top scores in the year's NHC qualifying events, he is eligible to receive a $2 million bonus should he emerge victorious in the January 29-30 competition. A win by Wagner in Las Vegas would result in a payday of $2.5 million ($500,000 first-place NHC purse + $2 million NHC Tour bonus). Wagner is the husband of the aforementioned NHC II winner, Judy Wagner.
In its 11th year, the NHC is the most important tournament of the year for horseplayers and is the culmination of a year-long series of NTRA-sanctioned local tournaments conducted by racetracks, casino racebooks, off-track betting facilities and horse racing and handicapping web sites, each of which sends its top qualifiers to the national finals. This year's finalists advanced from one of 85 local tournaments held at more than 50 different sites across North America since last February.
A "last chance" tournament will be held at Red Rock on January 27 in order to fill the remaining five starting berths in the field of 302. Red Rock will also host the second annual "Red Rock Shootout" on January 31. The Sunday event will serve as the first NHC qualifying event of the 2010 contest year.
The tournament format for the NHC is meant to be the best possible test of overall handicapping ability. Players attempt to earn the highest possible bankroll based on 15 mythical $2 win-and-place wagers on each day of the two-day tournament. Eight of those wagers will be on mandatory races as selected by a panel comprised of Daily Racing Form national handicapper Mike Watchmaker, NTRA Senior Director of Media Relations Eric Wing and Red Rock Casino Director of Race and Sports Jason McCormick.
The remaining seven races each day are optional plays to be made on races at one of seven designated NHC tournament tracks: Aqueduct, Fair Grounds, Golden Gate Fields, Gulfstream Park, Laurel Park, Oaklawn Park and Santa Anita Park.
Regular NHC updates will be posted on the internet throughout the two-day contest at both www.ntra.com and www.drf.com. Video updates, hosted by Jill Byrne, will be available at www.twinspires.com.
Richard's Kid scores in San Antonio
Zabeel Racing International's RICHARD'S KID (Lemon Drop Kid) put in a furious rally up the rail in the stretch of Sunday's $150,000 San Antonio H. (G2) at Santa Anita to post a head victory under jockey Garrett Gomez. The Bob Baffert-trained five-year-old, who was using this 1 1/8-mile Pro-Ride test as a prep for the March 27 Dubai World Cup (UAE-G1), finished up in 1:49 to return $5.20, $3.40 and $3 as the 8-5 favorite. Mast Track (Mizzen Mast) took the lead soon after the start, setting splits of :24 1/5, :48 4/5 and 1:13 while closely tracked on his outside by Pick Six (Dynaformer). All the while, Richard's Kid was saving ground while racing in the back of the pack. Rounding the turn, the dark bay was still in the rear as Pick Six moved up to take command through a mile in 1:36 3/5. Richard's Kid looked beat in midstretch, but Gomez angled his mount over the rail and the five-year-old hit another gear, accelerating up the inside to score in his 2010 debut. "I stayed down inside with him because there wasn't a whole lot I could do about it," Gomez said. "Nobody was really stopping today, so the only way we were going to overcome that was to save ground. He's got a great kick." |
Dakota Phone (Zavata), off at 34-1, had his head in front of Philatelist (Rahy) on the wire to take second and pay $21.40 and $10.80. Show gave back $7.80 at 18-1, and the $1 exotics were worth $47.20 (exacta), $466.50 (trifecta) and $5.281.90 (8-7-4-5 superfecta). Pick Six followed by another half-length, but was only a head in front of Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile (G1) victor Furthest Land (Smart Strike), who in turn had a head up on Mast Track. Completing the order of finish were Marsh Side (Gone West), Nownownow (Whywhywhy), Quasicobra (Wild Rush), Giganticus (Giant's Causeway) and Slew's Tiznow (Tiznow).
Richard's Kid earned his first stakes win last February when taking the John B. Campbell H. at Laurel Park by one length over eventual Whitney H. (G1) hero Bullsbay (Tiznow). He was sixth next out in the New Orleans H. (G2) and made his last start under the tutelage of trainer Richard Small when fourth in the May 16 William Donald Schaefer S. (G3). The dark bay reappeared in Baffert's shedrow at Del Mar in July, finishing seventh in the Eddie Read H. (G1), then gave a hint of what was to come when just missing by a nose in the Cougar II H. while going 1 1/2 miles.
Richard's Kid earned his biggest win to date with a 24-1 upset of the Pacific Classic (G1), following that up with a close third in the Goodwood S. (G1). He closed out his four-year-old campaign with a sixth-place finish in the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1). This victory improved his record to 22-7-2-5, $891,370.
Bred in Maryland by Fitzhugh LLC, Richard's Kid is out of Tough Broad (Broad Brush), who during her career captured six stakes and placed in seven others, including the 1996 Noble Damsel H. (G3). He is the first stakes winner for his dam, who is a full sister to 1997 Kent S. third Broad Choice. Other stakes scorers in the family include 1971 Derby Trial victor Vegas Vic (T. V. Lark), who placed in such events as the Washington Park H. (G3), Oak Tree Invitational, Santa Anita Derby; Unky and Ally (Heff), queen of the 1997 Sorority S. (G3); and multiple Calder stakes winner Kid Colin (Baldski).
Quality Road in a class by himself in Donn
Edward P. Evans' homebred QUALITY ROAD (Elusive Quality) overwhelmed eight opponents and broke his own track record in taking Saturday's $500,000 Donn H. (G1), once again stamping himself as a horse to be reckoned with in the race for divisional honors. Quality Road and pacesetter Past the Point (Indian Charlie) put some distance between themselves and the rest of the field through the opening seven furlongs, and after Past the Point set splits of :23 1/5, :46 and 1:09 4/5, jockey John Velazquez asked Quality Road to move on by that rival and the colt responded with authority. Opening up on the field, Quality Road won as he pleased by 12 3/4 lengths in a time of 1:47.49, bettering the nine-furlong record of 1:47.72 he posted in winning the Florida Derby (G1) last March. The 2-5 favorite returned $2.80, $2.40 and $2.10. "Watching the replay it looked awesome, it felt awesome. It was just awesome," Velasquez said. It was a scramble for second, with Suburban H. (G2) hero Dry Martini (Slew Gin Fizz) rallying up the inside to gain the place by a length at 13-1. He paid $6.20 and $4.20 while completing the $17.80 exacta. Well out in the middle of the track, Delightful Kiss (Kissin Kris) won a three-way photo for the show by a head at 13-1, returning $4.80. The trifecta gave back $93 while fourth-placer Mambo Meister (King Cugat) completed the 4-5-10-8 superfecta worth $537.60. Next under the wire were Helsinki (Distorted Humor), Past the Point, Kiss the Kid (Lemon Drop Kid), Duke of Mischief (Graeme Hall) and Dubai Gold (Deputy Commander). You and I Forever (A.P. Indy) was scratched. |
"The plan for him here all along was to run in the Hal's Hope (S. [G3]) and then the Donn, give him a little break, and then point for the (Metropolitan H. [G1]) and the big races at Saratoga before the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) in the fall," trainer Todd Pletcher said. "Mr. Evans and I will talk about it again, but I think that will be the plan."
Quality Road showed promise early on in his three-year-old career, capturing the Fountain of Youth S. (G2) and Florida Derby under the tutelage of trainer Jimmy Jerkens. Though he set a new track record for the latter event, the bay colt's Kentucky Derby (G1) aspirations were plagued by quarter-crack issues and he ultimately never got to run in any of the Triple Crown races.
Evans transferred Quality Road to Pletcher, who saddled his new charge to an easy victory in the Amsterdam S. (G2) at Saratoga. Quality Road set another track record in the Amsterdam, running 6 1/2 furlongs in 1:13.74, then finished third and second to Summer Bird (Birdstone) in the Travers S. (G1) and Jockey Club Gold Cup (G1), respectively, on sloppy tracks. The sophomore suffered a meltdown at the gate of the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) and was scratched out of the championship event. More reserved when reappearing in the January 3 Hal's Hope S., the bay proceeded to win the one-turn mile by a comfortable 2 3/4 lengths. With this second top-level victory, Quality Road has now bankrolled $1,332,830 from a scorecard of 9-6-2-1.
The Virginia-bred is out of Kobla (Strawberry Road [Aus]), who has since produced a juvenile filly named Kobla Cat (Tale of the Cat). Quality Road is also a half-brother to Mt. Kobla (Mt. Livermore), herself the dam of dual Group 2-placed King Ledley (Stormin Fever). Kobla is a full sister to 1997 champion three-year-old filly and Breeders' Cup Distaff (G1) heroine Ajina, an earner of more than $1.3 million. She also counts multiple Grade 3 victor Rob's Spirit (Theatrical [Ire]) as a half-brother. Quality Road's third dam is Irish champion Highest Trump (Bold Bidder), whose descendants include multiple English Group 1 winner and highweight Bahri (Riverman).
Court Vision inherits GP Turf after 'Points gets taken down
Starlight Partners' Take the Points (Even the Score) crossed the wire first in Saturday's $300,000 Gulfstream Park Turf H. (G1), only to be judged guilty of interference and demoted to fifth, elevating 4-5 favorite COURT VISION (Gulch) to the victory. After driving to the lead in the stretch, Take the Points crossed into the path of Yate's Black Cat (Black Minnaloushe), who took up and ultimately clipped heels. IEAH Stables, Resolute Group Stables and WinStar Farm's Court Vision stayed clear of the incident on the outside, while checking in 1 1/2 lengths adrift of Take the Points at the wire. The final time for the 1 1/8-mile test on firm turf was 1:46 4/5.
Trained by Rick Dutrow and ridden by Robby Albarado, Court Vision thus improved on his third-place effort in last year's Gulfstream Park Turf.
"I had a great trip," Albarado said. "I think my horse ran a great race and it was a good comeback for him. I was in striking distance with a chance to win and wasn't bothered in the stretch."
The early pace was dictated by Le Grand Cru (Dynaformer). Striding to the front through an opening quarter in :23 1/5, Le Grand Cru enjoyed an uncontested lead through splits of :46 2/5 and 1:10. Take the Points took up a close stalking role, in conjunction with Court Vision's uncoupled stablemate, Adagio (GB) (Grand Lodge). Yate's Black Cat was settled in fourth, just ahead of Court Vision in fifth.
Entering the stretch, Le Grand Cru hung tough and reached the mile in 1:34 2/5. By this point, Take the Points was just lengthening stride, however, and he quickly powered past the longtime leader.
Then Kent Desormeaux aboard Yate's Black Cat was attempting to thread the needle between Take the Points and Le Grand Cru. The hole closed before Yate's Black Cat could muscle his way through, as Take the Points lugged in under Edgar Prado's right-handed whip. Desormeaux steadied his mount, who was also engaged in some scrimmaging with Le Grand Cru. Yate's Black Cat clipped heels and eventually crossed the wire in fifth.
Meanwhile, on the outside, Court Vision was mounting a rally, and Never on Sunday (Fr) (Sunday Break [Jpn]) was gaining ground even more rapidly in deep stretch. Neither got close enough to threaten a driving winner in Take the Points.
The stewards immediately flashed the inquiry sign. After reviewing the incident at the sixteenth-pole, they disqualified Take the Points for impeding Yate's Black Cat and placed him fifth.
Todd Pletcher, the trainer of Take the Points, commented on the decision.
"Mr. (Jack) Wolf (of Starlight Stables) and I have already talked about it and we'll consider an appeal," Pletcher said. "The head-on (camera) shot on turf is not really a true one. We thought the one (Le Grand Cru) came out a little (into Yate's Black Cat). The thing that bothers me most is that there was no way the horse he was supposed to have bothered was ever going to beat him. I've always thought that if it isn't clear you just leave it alone."
Court Vision paid $3.80, $2.60 and $2.10. Never on Sunday, the nearly 9-2 third choice, reported home another neck back. The promoted runner-up returned $4.20 and $3.40 while ending the $15 exacta. Le Grand Cru, who came in a neck back of Never on Sunday, gave back $5.40 at nearly 15-1. The trifecta totaled $87.80, and with the 5-1 Yate's Black Cat awarded fourth place, the 3-4-1-2 superfecta was worth $290. Adagio was the only runner unaffected by the disqualification, finishing last of six.
Formerly trained by Bill Mott, Court Vision had ranked as a leading juvenile on the dirt in 2007, capturing the Remsen S. (G2) and Iroquois S. (G3), and was accordingly regarded as a top Kentucky Derby (G1) prospect. Court Vision did not enjoy the same level of success on the surface at three, winding up third in the Fountain of Youth S. (G2) and Wood Memorial S. (G1), and he ultimately checked in 13th in the Run for the Roses. He then found a new home on the turf. Court Vision fell short of Gio Ponti (Tale of the Cat) by a nose after a prolonged stretch duel in the 2008 Virginia Derby (G2), but turned the tables on that rival in the Jamaica H. (G2) and Hollywood Derby (G1).
Court Vision's four-year-old campaign produced mixed results. In the first half of the season, his best finishes were thirds in the Gulfstream Park Turf and the Woodford Reserve Turf Classic (G1) at Churchill Downs. After a lackluster sixth in the United Nations S. (G1), Court Vision was switched to Dutrow. The dark bay was subsequently diagnosed with an ascended testicle, and once undergoing surgery for the problem, he began training sharply.
Since joining Dutrow, Court Vision is now two-for-three. In his debut for his new barn, he captured the Shadwell Turf Mile (G1) at Keeneland, and next time out, he was a rallying fourth in the Breeders' Cup Mile (G1). His record now stands at 20-7-2-4, $1,777,430.
Bred by William S. Farish and Kilroy Thoroughbred Partnership in Kentucky, Court Vision brought $180,000 as a Keeneland September yearling and $350,000 as a Fasig-Tipton Calder two-year-old.
He is out of the unraced Weekend Storm (Storm Bird), a full sister to 1990 Preakness S. (G1) hero Summer Squall as well as a half-sister to 1992 Horse of the Year and mega-sire A.P. Indy (Seattle Slew) and multiple Grade 3-placed stallion Honor Grades (Danzig). Court Vision is himself a full brother to multiple Hong Kong stakes victor Garcia Marquez; Kipling, the sire of Breeders' Cup Mile winner Kip Deville; and an unnamed yearling colt.
Weekend Storm has also produced Canadian Grade 3 heroine Smart Surprise (Smart Strike), Grade 1-placed stakes winner Lord Snowdon (Seeking the Gold), the stakes-placed Weekend Strike (Smart Strike) and an unraced sophomore colt named Hailstone (City Zip).
Tottie gets first stakes win Suwannee River
J.H. Richmond-Watson's TOTTIE (GB) (Fantastic Light) stalked a slow pace in second until midstretch and took command late in Saturday's $125,000 Suwannee River S. (G3), notching her first stakes victory by three-quarters of a length. Following a European campaign that featured only one success in nine starts, the four-year-old filly has now won two straight on American soil, both at Gulfstream Park.
The Chad Brown-trained lass closed from far off the pace to capture an allowance in her first start stateside on January 7, but she wisely changed tactics on Saturday. Jockey Jose Lezcano hustled her a little from post 9 to secure second entering the first turn, within a few lengths of the uncontested pacesetter, 45-1 outsider In My Glory (Honour and Glory), who established tepid opening fractions of :24 3/5 and :50 4/5. Tottie closed the gap to a length through three-quarters in 1:15 2/5 and loomed an ominous presence on the outside as they turned for home.
In My Glory grimly held to a half-length advantage as she passed the mile mark in 1:38 4/5, but Tottie was clearly going the better of the two and edged away in the final sixteenth of a mile, completing 1 1/8 miles in 1:50 1/5 on the firm turf.
Favored at 9-5, the bay paid $5.60, $3.80 and $3.20. The late-running Cable (Dynaformer), who got up in the shadow of the wire to nip the pacesetter by a neck for second, returned $5.80 and $4.40 as the 6-1 fourth choice and completed the $38.60 exacta. In My Glory yielded $14.60 while capping the $966.80 trifecta. It was another head back to the 16-1 Sweet and Flawless (Unbridled's Song), who rounded out the $4,946.60 superfecta (11-5-9-2), and Long Approach (Broad Brush), Indigo North (Grand Slam), Astrologie (Fr) (Polish Precedent), Aaroness (Distorted Humor) and Good Time Sally (Forestry) came next under the wire. Crawford County (Century City [Ire]), Lady Shakespeare (Theatrical [Ire]), Lemonette (Lemon Drop Kid) and main-track-only runner Miss Match (Arg) (Indygo Shiner) were all scratched.
Out of English stakes winner Katy Nowaitee (Komaite), Tottie was bred in Great Britain by Lawn Stud and hails from the same female family of Group 1 winners Untold (Final Straw) and Sally Brown (Posse). She finished third last year behind eventual Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1) winner Midday (GB) (Oasis Dream [GB]) in the Oaks Trial S. at Lingfield, but concluded her European campaign with five straight unplaced finishes. After turning things around in her last two starts, Tottie has now earned $116,484 from her 12-3-0-1 line.
HANDICAPPING INSIGHTS
FEBRUARY 5, 2010
by Dick Powell
Meydan Racecourse opened last week to great fanfare in Dubai. Seven Thoroughbred races were carded with the usual large fields that has made racing from Dubai very challenging and rewarding for those that choose to follow it.
In order to give the spanking new turf course more time to grow, there was no turf racing in week one and all the races were run on the Tapeta Footings' main track. The main track seemed to be a bit slow for opening night but that should change as the meet goes on. Horses were able to win in front, from midpack and from far back while racing inside or outside.
In previous years, when Dubai racing was conducted at Nad al Sheba, horses racing on the main track did well when in front and when in the clear on the outside. Because of the kickback that the front runners produced, horses that raced in behind others often lost interest. Riders constantly commented how severe the kickback was and how it determined where they placed their horse.
Now, with the Tapeta main track, there is little kickback and riders can sit in behind others while saving ground. We saw a perfect example of this in race 3 last week when international riding superstar Christophe Soumillon was able to go to the front, yield the lead while racing on the rail, and then slip through on the inside in the stretch to win easily. In the past, his horse probably would have lost interest while taking the kickback or Soumillon would have had to take him out in the clear to avoid it. Now, they can ride the way they want to.
The two dominant stables each year at the Dubai International Racing Carnival are Godolphin and Mike de Kock. Godolphin usually rides Frankie Dettori first call but with all the runners they have, a lot of business spills over to youngster Ahmad Ajtebi and veteran Ted Durcan.
This year, Soumillon is riding first call for the de Kock juggernaut and they have already combined for three wins in the first two days of racing. De Kock's other two winners were ridden by Kevin Shea, who will also get many live mounts from the South African trainer.
Many of the races at Meydan are run under handicap conditions and it pays to visit www.emiratesracing.com to see how the horses are rated and how it affects the weight they carry. Pay attention to the conditions of the handicap races. Some are for horses rated between 90 and 105. These are usually for horses that are just below the group stakes level. The next class is for horses rated between 95-110, which sometimes attracts a former group stakes winner. Handicap races for horses rated 100+ often attract major group stakes winners that might be prepping for bigger stakes engagements.
Like Woodbine in Canada, Meydan has its turf course on the outside nearest the grandstand with the main track inside of it. One lap around the turf course is 2,400 meters or approximately 1 1/2 miles. Because it is on the outside, there is a backstretch chute that enables races run at 1,800 meters (about 1 1/8 miles) and 2,000 meters (about 1 1/4 miles) to be run around one turn. There were two turf races run on Thursday and two more are scheduled for Friday of this week, but the Carnival will have fewer total turf races run on it this season as the root system matures. It's been no problem since the horses in Dubai almost all train on Tapeta and most are racing over it very effectively.
Betting on racing from Meydan is available on nearly all ADW platforms. The pool sizes this year have been very strong so far and the average field size after two days of racing is 12.73.
*****
Oaklawn Park announced today that they will increase the purse for the Apple Blossom H. (G1) to $5 million if both 2009 Horse of the Year RACHEL ALEXANDRA (Medaglia d'Oro) and undefeated ZENYATTA (Street Cry [Ire]) run in it. The race will increase to nine furlongs and will be an invitational event.
Oaklawn Park owner and president Charles Cella said that both camps have been contacted and are receptive to the idea. Considering the fact that both females have raced at Oaklawn Park in the past and that you would think that Cella has his ducks in a row before making this kind of announcement, it looks like the race that everyone wants to see will actually take place. I've already booked my flight and hotel room.
KENTUCKY DERBY REPORT
FEBRUARY 4, 2010
by James Scully
After winning the Holy Bull S. (G3) a week earlier, WINSLOW HOMER (Unbridled's Song) was diagnosed with a stress fracture in his cannon bone and taken off the Derby Trail on Tuesday. If he makes a full recovery, the gray colt is expected back this summer.
It's gut-wrenching when an exciting Kentucky Derby (G1) prospect is sidelined, and Winslow Homer looked like a potential force following his stakes debut in the Holy Bull, but his health woes didn't come as a shock. He's a lightly-raced colt by the superb sire Unbridled's Song, who dealt with soundness issues during his three-year-old campaign. Winslow Homer isn't the first offspring of the 17-year-old stallion to face similar hurdles.
After winning the Breeders' Cup Juvenile (G1) in his third career start, Unbridled's Song entered 1996 as the Derby favorite. He opened his sophomore season with a pair of runner-up finishes as the odds-on favorite in the Hutcheson S. (G2) and Fountain of Youth S. (G2), and then flashed his immense talent in the Florida Derby (G1), romping by 5 3/4 lengths. That performance stamped him as the horse to beat at Churchill Downs, but something wasn't right with one of his feet. With a bar shoe applied to the bad wheel, Unbridled's Song still managed to lead the Derby field by two lengths at the top of the stretch, but the favorite faltered in the final furlong to fifth behind Grindstone.
Unbridled's Song is too good not to be represented by a Derby winner eventually, but he's lost his top contender this year in Winslow Homer. Grade 3-placed Mission Impazible, who returned from an eight-month freshening to finish second in a six-furlong allowance on January 9, is probably his best hope left in 2010. This happened last year with Midshipman, who looked the part when capturing the Breeders' Cup Juvenile but wound up sidelined until September. Other setbacks include Buddha, who was knocked out on Derby week in 2002 after opening the year with three straight victories. The Wood Memorial S. (G1) winner never raced again. Old Fashioned, Rockport Harbor and Eurosilver were all top-class juvenile performers by Unbridled's Song who didn't stay sound throughout their Derby season.
The ill-fated Eight Belles, runner-up in the 2008 edition, is his best Derby runner so far. Dunkirk looked talented enough in 2009, but trainer Todd Pletcher couldn't get him to the races at two (career debut on January 24) and his inexperience showed in the mud on Derby Day. The promising colt was retired following a second in the Belmont S. (G1).
Among present-day sires, Unbridled's Song is unsurpassed in terms of producing talented Derby prospects, but his offspring don't always get the chance to show it.
Drossel
With no stakes action to review from last week, DROSSELMEYER's (Distorted Humor) victory over allowance/optional claiming rivals on Sunday stands out. The Bill Mott-trained colt dropped his first three career starts on synthetics/turf last year, but he finally found his groove when trying dirt at Churchill Downs in mid-November, registering a six-length maiden special weight victory that was good for a 99 BRIS Speed rating. He netted a 105 Speed number for his 1 3/4-length decision at Gulfstream Park on Sunday.
The chestnut rated comfortably off a fast early pace (:22 4/5 and :46 4/5) in the 1 1/8-mile event, bided his time along the rail in tight quarters through the far turn, and accelerated nicely after being guided to the outside at the top of the stretch, collaring the leaders and drawing clear beneath Kent Desormeaux. It was a strong performance time-wise, with Drosselmeyer receiving a 101 BRIS Late Pace rating after running his final eighth in :12 4/5, and he established himself as another top prospect for WinStar Farm.
WinStar's deep roster already includes Kentucky Jockey Club S. (G2) winner SUPER SAVER (Maria's Mon), Delta Jackpot S. (G3) victor RULE (Roman Ruler) and Hollywood Prevue S. (G3) scorer AMERICAN LION (Tiznow), and Drosselmeyer, while still unproven against stakes rivals, has the highest Speed rating of the bunch. He looks like a stakes-quality colt, an improving type who may have shown more earlier if not stuck in synthetic/turf races, and his Hall of Fame trainer has become much more focused upon winning the Derby in recent years.
Dirt experience
Champion two-year-old filly She Be Wild (Offlee Wild) wasn't viewed as a Derby contender prior to Sunday's Forward Gal S. (G2), but her fifth-place effort shows the pitfalls of assuming that every top-class synthetic horse will run well on dirt. Her subpar performance may prove irrelevant in future Grade 1 dirt races -- Colonel John won the Travers (G1) after disappointing in the Derby -- but it's an example worth noting.
Champion LOOKIN AT LUCKY (Smart Strike) is a serious racehorse who is bred to handle a dirt track, but there's no guarantee he'll make a seamless transition, especially if his connections decide to experiment in front of 150,000 people against 19 rivals. It isn't the same as shipping in from California for the Wood Memorial or Arkansas Derby (G1). Lookin at Lucky can get a feel for dirt in the mornings at Churchill Downs, but he'll face different circumstances during the afternoon. Trainer Bob Baffert talked openly about getting him a dirt prep race following his win in the CashCall Futurity (G1), and that's sound strategy for all the synthetic-based contenders in California.
Upcoming
AMERICAN LION will make his highly-anticipated three-year-old bow in Saturday's Robert B. Lewis S. (G2) at Santa Anita, and the Eoin Harty-trained colt will face six rivals in the 1 1/16-mile test. Baffert will send out two of the challengers, including TIZ CHROME (Tiznow). The unbeaten colt broke his maiden at Churchill Downs and concluded his juvenile campaign with an easy four-length win in the Stuka S. at Hollywood Park.
Saturday's Whirlaway S. at Aqueduct marks the stakes bow for EIGHTYFIVEINAFIFTY (Forest Camp), who created quite a stir when breaking his maiden by a 17 1/4-length margin in early January.
THOROUGHBRED BEAT
JANUARY 22, 2010
by James Scully
Outcome: Horse of the Year went to the younger filly on Monday night, and the vote wasn't that close. Jess Jackson and Jerry Moss each displayed plenty of class and grace during their acceptance speeches, and I loved Moss' comments afterward: "Nobody's beaten her on the racetrack. So they beat her by proxy as far as I'm concerned."
Even though a tie would've been preferable, I wasn't disappointed to see RACHEL ALEXANDRA (Medaglia d'Oro) win over ZENYATTA (Street Cry [Ire]). I thought it was a shame, though, that neither the Mosses nor John Shirreffs (finalists in the leading owner and trainer categories) were honored with an Eclipse Award. In addition to the unbeaten Zenyatta, who became the first female winner of the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1), the Moss' light green and pink silks were represented by graded stakes performers like Zardana (Brz) (Crimson Tide), Madeo (Mizzen Mast) and Neko Bay (Giant's Causeway) last season.
Shirreffs was even more deserving. With about 200 fewer horses than Steve Asmussen, he got the absolute most out his runners in 2009. It was a marvelous training job with multiple Grade 1 heroine Life is Sweet (Storm Cat), who earned the first of her four graded victories in the January 18 El Encino S. (G2). Shirreffs kept her going all year, and the filly delivered a career-best when romping by 2 1/2 lengths in the Breeders' Cup Ladies' Classic (G1).
Both parties wound up finishing second in their respective categories. There are always complaints about an East Coast bias with the Eclipse Awards, so we probably shouldn't have been surprised to see the Mosses and Shirreffs fall short.
Anticipation: After being retired following the Classic, Zenyatta returned to the worktab in early December. She recorded three half-mile breezes before the Mosses confirmed the rumors last Saturday, announcing that the six-year-old mare will be back under silks in 2010. That decision brought pure joy to Thoroughbred racing fans everywhere, setting the stage for the elusive match-up that everybody craves: Rachel Alexandra vs. Zenyatta.
Where, when and how often that happens is now a topic of endless speculation and debate. The April 3 Apple Blossom H. (G1) at Oaklawn Park, where both distaffers have won before, looked like the perfect spot before Jackson dismissed the idea at the Eclipse Awards, stating that Rachel probably won't be ready in time. She's based at Fair Grounds this winter, and the wet weather in New Orleans has had a negative impact upon her early-season conditioning.
The La Troienne S. (G2) (formerly the Louisville Distaff) on the Kentucky Oaks (G1) undercard is positioned favorably on the calendar for both runners. Zenyatta, who shipped to Churchill Downs last year for the race but was scratched due to the wet track, could easily target a return trip, and Rachel loves Churchill. It makes sense as long as the track is fast.
However, field size should be a concern for Zenyatta's connections. They don't want to hook Rachel in a tiny field that essentially sets up as a match race because it plays to the speedster's advantage. And how many other fillies or mares will enter a race with these two heavy-hitters present?
That brings males into the equation; they won't be scared off by the ladies even if they have little chance of beating them. The Pimlico Special H. (G1), which returns to the stakes schedule this year before the 135th running of the Preakness (G1), is on the table, but it's tough to envision Zenyatta shipping to the Maryland track. The June 12 Stephen Foster H. (G1) at Churchill Downs may be the best spot for their initial encounter.
With the Breeders' Cup Classic being held at Churchill Downs, the 1 1/8-mile Foster holds even more importance for the best older horses in training this year. Imagine what Rachel and Zenyatta would add to the equation.
Gulfstream bias: The rail wasn't the place to be in one-turn dirt races early in the Gulfstream Park meeting. After the first seven days of racing (through January 13), horses starting from the innermost post captured only one of 48 races (2 percent win rate). And that came in a 7 1/2-furlong, off-the-turf event. It was almost the equivalent of starting in quicksand for horses at the rail.
As a result of the bias, horses breaking from inside posts (1-3) were at a big disadvantage on the main track, producing only six victories from 144 starters. I'm willing to excuse a poor showing from an inside gate during that time period and will upgrade any horse who ran well from there. QUALITY ROAD (Elusive Quality) falls into the latter category. He easily won the one-mile Hal's Hope S. (G3) on the opening-day program, but people have knocked his final time. However, critics are probably overlooking the fact that he had to overcome post 2. In the first two races at a mile that afternoon, the exacta paid on 9-10 and 13-12.
The rail is still not preferable going one turn on dirt, but horses have performed better from inside posts recently.
2009 TURF AWARDS
JANUARY 6, 2010
In this third annual installment of the Reilly Turf Awards, my stab at a year-in-review exercise, I'll once again pay tribute to heroes (and call out a few villains) over a bewildering array of categories, ranging from the dubious to the most august.
For the past two years, I've unveiled the most prestigious Reilly of them all -- the World's Best Turf Performer Award -- at the conclusion, following the pageant of lesser lights.
This arrangement would be woefully inadequate for 2009. This past season, we were fortunate enough to witness a colossus, a larger-than-life figure whose exploits will set the standard for years to come. To put him off to the end, in a misguided attempt to build up suspense, would be as laughable as it is unjust.
So, this time, I'll recognize him first before all, as befits one in a class by himself. And, if you haven't guessed his identity by now...
World's Best Turf Performer: SEA THE STARS marched through the year undefeated, garnering an unprecedented sweep of the Two Thousand Guineas (Eng-G1), Derby (Eng-G1) and Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (Fr-G1), with the Eclipse S. (Eng-G1), Juddmonte International (Eng-G1) and Irish Champion S. (Ire-G1) thrown in for good measure. As impressive as that list is, the bald recitation of facts cannot convey the air of supreme authority that he exhibited in each and every instance, regardless of distance, venue or pace scenario.
Sea the Stars began his campaign as one of a clutch of well-bred classic hopefuls, not a pre-ordained legend in the making. Hence, his unique talents became clearer over the course of the season, each triumph revealing something new about him. In the Guineas, we saw a colt with superior cruising speed, able to stalk the pace while still on the bridle, and stay on well to the finish. In the Derby, the John Oxx pupil showed that he was happy to do enough to score without unduly extending himself. In the Eclipse, we saw a colt who could make more than one winning move. In the Juddmonte, we learned that Sea the Stars had courage and an unflinching will to win. In the Irish Champion, we discovered that the fast-ground enthusiast could trounce his opponents on yielding turf too. And in the Arc, Sea the Stars proved that he could extricate himself from traffic in a flash, and even more tellingly, that he stayed a truly-run 1 1/2 miles standing on his head, so to speak.
In this era, the word "great" has been denuded of its meaning, and reduced to a term tossed around with trite abandon, much like the pernicious grade inflation that afflicts our educational establishment. How refreshing, then, to hail a horse truly worthy of the title, one who has earned it the old-fashioned way, not one who was given it to boost his self-esteem, or that of his admirers. Before anyone hurries to anoint the next "great" performer, let's pause and ask, "Yes, but how does he compare to Sea the Stars?"
Now we'll turn to our regularly scheduled awards program. As always, each category will have three winners -- one in the Turf division (T), one in the Filly & Mare Turf division (F/M T), and one from the International scene (I). As the Empress/Kaiserin/Tsarina of these awards, I decree that a horse may be honored in only one category.
Race with the Most Mayhem
I -- FLEETING SPIRIT (Ire) (Invincible Spirit) did her best impression of a wrecking ball in the July Cup (Eng-G1), careening around and interfering with her hapless rivals en route to her 1 1/4-length victory. Had she really been an ethereal apparition, she wouldn't have done as much damage.
T -- The River City H. (G3) at Churchill featured an unusual display from the pacesetting KARELIAN (Bertrando), who bolted to the far outside on the backstretch, looked sure to be pulling up, but got his act together, rejoined the field, vied once more for the lead, and ultimately faded from contention. Perhaps inspired by his name, was he trying to employ the creative Finnish tactics on the Karelian Isthmus during the Winter War?
F/M T -- A logjam on the first turn of the Garden City S. (G1) nearly brought down 2-5 favorite GOZZIP GIRL (Dynaformer). The athletic filly regained her footing, and Kent Desormeaux regained the stirrups. Although she ultimately wound up fourth, she did well to avert disaster.
Most Unfortunate Disqualification
I -- The Longchamp stewards deserved all the opprobrium heaped upon them for their disqualification of DAR RE MI (GB) (Singspiel [Ire]) from her deserved victory in the Prix Vermeille (Fr-G1). Those officials were the only ones with the eagle-eyed ability to perceive Dar Re Mi interfering with a beaten rival, for the rest of us visually-challenged mortals saw nothing of the sort. Did their extraordinary powers of perception enable them to peer into the subatomic level, sensing that the other filly's quarks were shaken by their proximity to Dar Re Mi's closing rush? Or did the stewards glimpse an alternate universe in which the so-called aggrieved party could actually have finished any closer than she did?
T -- MARSH SIDE (Gone West), judged guilty for causing interference to Champs Elysees (GB) in the Northern Dancer Turf S. (Can-G1), was disqualified from a hard-fought victory and placed fourth. It would have been a tough enough call if the drifting Marsh Side had acted alone, but he appeared to have a willing accomplice in Quijano (Ger) (Acatenango), the one who actually crowded Champs Elysees. Despite that, Quijano was held blameless and actually profited from the deed, as he was promoted to second. If these were two human defendants, I'd be tempted to think that Quijano was granted immunity from prosecution in exchange for testifying against Marsh Side.
F/M T -- BLUEGRASS PRINCESS (Dynaformer), who had been knocking heads unsuccessfully with a slew of talented turf fillies all season, finally broke through with a clear-cut score in the Valley View S. (G3) at Keeneland. Sadly, post-race tests showed that she still had trace levels of the bronchial dilator ipratropium in her system, and the princess had to be stripped of her Bluegrass crown. The rules must be upheld, of course, but it was a disappointing postscript to an otherwise good-looking victory.
Most Lethal Surprise
T -- INTERPATATION (Langfuhr) was about as radically unlikely a hero of the Joe Hirsch Turf Classic Invitational (G1) as can be imagined. The seven-year-old gelding had not won in two years, decided to set the pace for the first time in his life, and was summarily passed by the prohibitive favorite Gio Ponti (Tale of the Cat), but the 43-1 longshot came again on the inside to deny the presumptive champion.
F/M T -- LAHALEEB (Ire) (Redback) seemed to have several strikes against her in the E.P. Taylor S. (Can-G1). She was coming off three poor efforts, had never been past about a mile, and was believed to need rain-softened turf to produce her best. Nevertheless, the 44-1 shot inhaled the field and powered clear to post her biggest career score.
I -- QUEEN SPUMANTE (Jungle Pocket) appeared totally out of her depth in the Queen Elizabeth II Commemorative Cup (Jpn-G1). After all, she was an infrequent stakes runner and had never won a graded event. Yet on that day, she ran all of her more accomplished rivals off their feet to record a 77-1 shocker, in an unforeseeable display of effervescence.
Most Mysterious Fizzle to a Promising Campaign
T -- MONTEREY JAZZ (Thunderello) turned in a couple of brilliant improvisations at Hollywood, blaring to a new course record in an allowance and dominating his opponents in the American H. (G2). We never saw that cool cat again, as his remaining efforts were all marred by sour notes. MIDSHIPS (Mizzen Mast) held his form longer, racking up consecutive victories in the San Luis Rey H. (G2), San Juan Capistrano Invitational H. (G2) and Charles Whittingham Memorial H. (G1), but was torpedoed in the Man o' War S. (G1) and did not resurface.
F/M T -- BACKSEAT RHYTHM (El Corredor) was among the best three-year-old turf fillies of 2008, and her up-in-time coup in the Hillsborough S. (G3) in early 2009 suggested that she would continue to play an important role at four. Then, for some inscrutable reason, owner Paul Pompa Jr. uprooted her from the Pat Reynolds barn, and she was never the same in three ensuing starts. While it may not be fair to pin her deteriorating form on the trainer switch, it does beg the question of why one feels it necessary to tinker with success. Backseat Rhythm has since moved again, this time to Rick Dutrow, and she has been training forwardly for her return. If that is any indication, she may be getting in sync again.
I -- BEHESHTAM (Peintre Celebre) dropped hints that he would be the next big thing for the Aga Khan, and encouraging words from Alain de Royer-Dupre only added fuel to the fire. The chestnut never quite managed to live up to his publicity, capping his French career with a 12th in the Arc, and he has since been sold to Hong Kong interests. Perhaps new trainer John Moore will manage to translate this "Behistun inscription" into a winning formula at Sha Tin, or even longer-term, in the Melbourne Cup (Aus-G1).
Most Crushing Piece of News
T -- Just three days after his victorious reappearance in the Poker S. (G3), SAILOR'S CAP collapsed and died of Colitis X-induced cardiac arrest. The Jimmy Toner pupil had shown plenty of ability at three in 2008, and his potential will remain forever untapped. In a profoundly sad irony, KIP DEVILLE, the beaten favorite in the Poker, is currently waging a valiant battle against life-threatening laminitis. North America's top miler for two years, when he won the 2007 Breeders' Cup Mile (G1) and finished second to French star Goldikova (Ire) (Anabaa) in 2008, Kip had wildly exceeded the expectations for an obscure Oklahoma-bred. Hopefully he can triumph over the odds again and win his fight for life.
F/M T -- JIBBOOM, yet another quality filly from the Juddmonte Farms pipeline, emerged as a dual-surface threat with a score in the grassy Monrovia H. (G3) and in the off-the-turf Buena Vista H. (G2). Her smooth sailing ended when she picked a suspensory injury and was retired.
I -- Unbeaten Hungarian sprint sensation OVERDOSE (Starborough) exited his comeback romp with a debilitating hoof injury, costing him his chance to strut the world stage for the rest of the season. Australian Horse of the Year WEEKEND HUSSLER (Hussonet) likewise had his bold international plans scrapped after coming up with an inflamed joint, which posed maddening difficulties and was finally addressed by shock wave and stem cell treatment. Both are on course for comebacks in 2010.
Comeback Player of the Year
T -- When CLOUDY'S KNIGHT (Lord Avie), Canada's champion turf horse of 2007, flopped as an eight-year-old in 2008, most logical observers would have thought that he would quietly ride off into the sunset of retirement. That prognostication failed to take into account the restorative powers of Hall of Fame trainer Jonathan Sheppard. Coming off a year-long layoff, at the grand old age of nine, Cloudy's Knight captured the Kentucky Cup Turf (G3) and went on to win three of his remaining four starts -- the Sycamore S. (G3), Valedictory S. and W.L. McKnight H. (G2). "The Knight" might well have come out on top in his Breeders' Cup Marathon joust too, if Man of Iron (Giant's Causeway) hadn't enjoyed the perfect rail-hugging trip to pip him at the wire.
F/M T -- DANZON (Royal Academy) likewise returned from a year-long absence to score in the Kentucky Cup Ladies Turf S., on the same day as Cloudy's Knight's improbable reappearance.
I -- SACRED KINGDOM (Encosta de Lago) suffered a fractured sesamoid in 2008, forcing him out of his title defense in the Hong Kong Sprint (HK-G1) and toppling him from the standings as the world's top-rated sprinter. The Ricky Yiu trainee took three prep runs to reach his peak after a nine-month break, but ultimately regained his best form of old. Successful in the KrisFlyer International Sprint (Mal-G1) and Sprint Cup (HK-G2) in the spring, Sacred Kingdom concluded the year on a high note by winning the Hong Kong Sprint for the second time, and re-established his benevolent rule.
Best Turf Debut
I -- GHANAATI had only a Polytrack maiden win to her credit when she lined up in the One Thousand Guineas (Eng-G1), but the royally-bred filly slammed her more seasoned opponents in a fast time for the Newmarket classic. The Barry Hills pupil followed up with a course record-breaking decision in the Coronation S. (Eng-G1) at Royal Ascot. Although Ghanaati, whose name reportedly means "my love" in Arabic, lost her ardor as the season progressed, she had sent her infatuated fans head over heels with those first two efforts.
T -- COLONEL JOHN was scintillating in the Wickerr S. at Del Mar, where he showed a bit more tactical speed than usual and flew home to flirt with course-record time. Off that evidence, "The Colonel" may have been fighting on the wrong battlefield throughout his career, putting his Travers S. (G1) and Santa Anita Derby (G1) scores in a new perspective. Too bad that he never got another chance on the grass.
F/M T -- MARY'S FOLLIES (More Than Ready) lived up to her turf-oriented pedigree with a professional score in the Boiling Springs S. (G3), but didn't race on the surface again until her convincing tally in the Mrs. Revere S. (G2). Since she is now two-for-two on the grass, let's hope that the Dutrow filly will establish a more enduring presence in this division.
Best Sportsmanship for Staying in Training
T -- As a dual Grade 1-winning son of blue hen Hasili (Ire), CHAMPS ELYSEES might have been expected to retire to stud in 2009. The Juddmonte brain trust kept him on the track for a six-year-old campaign, and he responded by snaring his most important career victory in the Canadian International (Can-G1). With that gaudy trophy on his resume, Champs Elysees likely wrapped up a Sovereign Award as Canada's champion turf horse.
F/M T -- Most owners would probably have sent FOREVER TOGETHER to the paddocks after her Eclipse Award-winning season in 2008, but George Strawbridge Jr. gave her the opportunity to defend her title. While the gray couldn't manage another championship, she joined an elite group of two-time Diana S. (G1) heroines and also recorded a deceptively easy stroll in the Jenny Wiley S. (G2).
I -- Although YEATS (Ire) had already become a Royal Ascot icon by virtue of his three straight Gold Cup (Eng-G1) scores, his Coolmore connections voted for an ambitious fourth tilt at the crown in 2009. The eight-year-old rose to the occasion at his favorite course to coast by 3 1/2 lengths from a gallant Patkai (Indian Ridge), with his old rival Geordieland (Johann Quatz [Fr]) another 15 lengths back in third. Yeats' other three races of the year were forgettable, but the Gold Cup was his principal aim, and Aidan O'Brien had him trained to the minute for his unprecedented grand slam.
Best Campaign without a Grade/Group 1 Score
T -- JUSTENUFFHUMOR (Distorted Humor) reeled off six straight victories, culminating in swashbuckling heroics in the Fourstardave H. (G2) and Bernard Baruch H. (G2). His skein was snapped in the Shadwell Turf Mile (G1), winding up sixth over a boggy Keeneland turf course that he didn't handle. The Kiaran McLaughlin charge rebounded with a rallying third in the Breeders' Cup Mile, and in the process, turned the tables on Shadwell winner Court Vision (Gulch). Had Justenuffhumor attempted any Grade 1 races longer than one mile, he might well have broken through at the highest level by now. He should get the last laugh under the Godolphin banner in 2010.
F/M T -- TUSCAN EVENING (Ire) (Oasis Dream [GB]) was a mainstay in the division, racking up a 10-6-1-2 mark while improving over the course of the season. The Jerry Hollendorfer mare was entitled to do well stateside, judging by her near-miss in the 2008 Irish One Thousand Guineas (Ire-G1), but she took some time to fulfill her potential. To illustrate her progress, Tuscan Evening needed a photo-finish to win the Royal Heroine Mile (G2) in the summer, but she was positively authoritative in the Las Palmas H. (G2) in the fall. In her final start of 2009, she found only the magnificent Ventura too hot to handle in the Matriarch S. (G1). With judicious spotting, Tuscan Evening should find a Grade 1 to suit her in 2010.
I -- DELEGATOR (GB) (Dansili [GB]) had the misfortune to play second fiddle to Sea the Stars in the Guineas and Mastercraftsman (Ire) in the St. James's Palace S. (Eng-G1). To his everlasting credit, he delivered potent challenges to both of them. While Sea the Stars smoothly pulled out a bit extra to see Delegator off by 1 1/2 lengths, Mastercraftsman had to dig much deeper to claw his way to a neck decision. In an ordinary year, Delegator may well have won either the Guineas or St. James's Palace, or possibly even turned the double.
Most Exciting Two-Year-Olds
T -- INTERACTIF (Broken Vow) showed a ferocious turn of foot to romp in the With Anticipation S. (G3), and he overcame a ton of ground loss to capture the Bourbon S. (G3). Either one of those triumphs would have marked him as a serious individual, so the two in combination make him that much more attractive. The Todd Pletcher colt could not defy another wide trip in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf (G2), finishing a grudging third, but he has the credentials to become a top-class sophomore. It also doesn't hurt that his third dam is unbeaten Hall of Famer Personal Ensign.
F/M T -- Smashing Saratoga maiden romper HOUSE OF GRACE (Limehouse) was the only closer to land a blow in the speed-dominated Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf, where she worked her way into a creditable third. Two starts back, the Ken McPeek pupil finished with a flourish to win the off-the-turf Jessamine S. in the last jump, and it begs the question of how she might have fared in a grassy Jessamine. Plenty of her contemporaries will be coming out of the woodwork in 2010, but judging by her pedigree, House of Grace has lots of upside herself.
I -- Coolmore's highly-regarded ST. NICHOLAS ABBEY (Montjeu [Ire]) revealed why he enjoyed such a big reputation at home with comprehensive wins in a maiden and the Beresford S. (Ire-G2). Those first two appearances were nothing compared to his third outing in the Racing Post Trophy (Eng-G1). It is no hyperbole to say that he utterly destroyed a deep and talented field in the span of a few strides in that key Doncaster contest. St. Nicholas Abbey is far from being the interiorly-directed contemplative type. Rather, he seems destined to play the role of a colorful historic figure, much like the 17th century Jacobean mansion in Barbados for which he is undoubtedly named.
Best Late Bloomers
T -- JUST AS WELL's (A.P. Indy) early career was compromised by physical problems, leading owner/breeder Strawbridge to give the well-bred colt away to trainer Sheppard. After nearly two years off, Just as Well reappeared in 2008 and won three races, which just served as a warm-up act for what he would achieve in 2009. As a six-year-old, the dark bay held his own while facing the leading lights of the division. Awarded the Northern Dancer Turf via disqualification, he captured the Arlington H. (G3) in his own right; finished a barnstorming second in the Arlington Million (G1), Gulfstream Park Turf (G1) and Dixie S. (G2); and rounded out the year with a respectable seventh in the Japan Cup (Jpn-G1) -- not bad for a horse who was once considered doubtful for the racetrack.
F/M T -- DIAMONDRELLA (GB) (Rock of Gibraltar [Ire]) appeared to have found her niche as a late-running turf sprinter in 2008, but she discovered an entirely new dimension at the age of five in 2009. Under the patient management of Angel Penna Jr., Diamondrella stretched out to a mile and twice defeated Forever Together in the Just a Game S. (G1) and First Lady S. (G1).
I -- PRESVIS (Sakhee) didn't even make his debut until he was a four-year-old in 2008, when he developed into a smart handicapper for Luca Cumani. He ascended much higher in 2009, proving himself a bona fide Group 1 globetrotter by winning the Queen Elizabeth II Cup (HK-G1), missing by inches in the Singapore Airlines International Cup (Mal-G1), and rallying for runner-up honors in the Dubai Duty Free (UAE-G1) and third in the Hong Kong Cup (HK-G1). KASBAH BLISS (Kahyasi), a top-class hurdler for the past few seasons, emerged as a high-caliber runner on the Flat for Francois Doumen. The seven-year-old won his second straight Prix Gladiateur (Fr-G3), narrowly failed to lift the Prix du Cadran (Fr-G1) on Arc Day, and stayed on strongly for a close third in the Hong Kong Vase (HK-G1) after looking beaten on the turn.
Most Impressive Front-Running Tour de Force
T -- PRESIOUS PASSION (Royal Anthem) won this award four times over, to such an extent that this category might have to be renamed in his honor. In the Mac Diarmida S. (G2) and Monmouth S., he looked for all the world as if he were imploding in the stretch, only to roar back and snatch the victory. In the United Nations S. (G1) at Monmouth, Presious Passion sizzled through unheard-of fractions for the 1 3/8-mile distance, opened up a 20-length lead, and held on by two lengths in course record-shattering time. The Mary Hartmann charge didn't resort to the razzle-dazzle in the Clement L. Hirsch Memorial Turf Championship (G1), putting on a clinic by bowling along through comfortable splits and winning handily by 2 1/2 lengths.
F/M T -- It was difficult to find fault with CRITICISM (GB), who was just as deadly as Presious Passion on the front end, but in a very different way. The Tom Albertrani mare perfected the art of loping along through an early crawl, then accelerating away from her pursuers in the Sheepshead Bay S. (G2), La Prevoyante H. (G2), The Very One S. (G3) and Long Island H. (G3).
I -- GLADIATORUS (Silic [Fr]) put a star-studded field to the sword in the Dubai Duty Free, sprinting to a massive lead and rendering his more accomplished rivals totally helpless. Although the Godolphin colorbearer was unable to duplicate that effort against subsequent Group 1 fields, he did pummel an overmatched bunch in the Premio Vittorio di Capua (Ity-G1) later in the year. SO YOU THINK (High Chaparral [Ire]) demolished the Cox Plate (Aus-G1) in only his fifth lifetime start. Trained by the legendary Bart Cummings and beautifully ridden by Glen Boss, the sophomore bustled to the lead, took a breather and let the field close in on him, then stormed clear again turning in the stretch.
Best Arrival in the Nick of Time
T -- CONDUIT (Ire) pockets this award for the second straight year. The Sir Michael Stoute trainee had to work to overtake Presious Passion in full flight in the Breeders' Cup Turf (G1), and in the process, joined High Chaparral (Ire) as the only two-time winners of the event. As an added feather in his cap, Conduit owns the two fastest times in the history of the Breeders' Cup Turf -- 2:23 2/5 (2008) and 2:23 3/5 (2009).
F/M T -- MAGICAL FANTASY had her late rally down to a science in Southern California. After the Paddy Gallagher filly just held on by a nose in the Santa Barbara H. (G2) in April, she was determined to be the last one on the scene. Uncorking her long, raking stride and leveling off in deep stretch, Magical Fantasy got up in time in the Gamely S. (G1), John C. Mabee S. (G1) and Yellow Ribbon S. (G1).
I -- SARISKA (Pivotal) easily wins on style points for her contemptuous canter in the Irish Oaks (Ire-G1). Sashaying by on a tight rein, jockey Jamie Spencer cheekily waved at a rival rider while passing him. Honorable mention goes to DARYAKANA (Selkirk), who was nowhere at the top of the stretch in the Hong Kong Vase, but rallied to nip Spanish Moon (El Prado [Ire]) at the wire.
Most Admirably Reliable Overachiever
T -- BATTLE OF HASTINGS (GB) (Royal Applause [GB]) was a warrior throughout his nine-race campaign, finishing first or second eight times. His lone blemish was a fourth on miserable ground in the Shadwell Turf Mile. Except for that hiccup, the Jeff Mullins trainee was constantly in the firing line at the death. Successful in the Baldwin S. (G3) and La Puente S. to kick off the year, he was a closing second in the American Turf (G3) on Kentucky Oaks Day. In the height of summer, he scraped his way to narrow victories in the Virginia Derby (G2) and Colonial Turf Cup (G2), and was just nailed at the line in the Del Mar Derby (G2). In November, Battle of Hastings finished second to the rapidly-progressing The Usual Q. T. (Unusual Heat) in the Oak Tree Derby (G2) and Hollywood Derby (G1). For maintaining a high level of form over the long haul, Battle of Hastings deserves the nod here.
F/M T -- PURE CLAN (Pure Prize) showed up with her "A" game each and every time in 2009. In addition to storming home by daylight in the Flower Bowl Invitational S. (G1) and Modesty H. (G3), she was a rallying runner-up in the Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1) and Mint Julep H. (G3). The Bob Holthus filly was arguably unlucky in the Beverly D. S. (G1), yet still managed to force her way into the frame. Racing far back off a slow pace on rain-affected ground, Pure Clan rolled home for third, just missing second. With a different set-up, she might have won the Beverly D. as well.
I -- MIDDAY (GB) (Oasis Dream [GB]) was not the most naturally gifted athlete on the international scene, but the Henry Cecil filly was a consummate professional who knew her job and did it well at the highest level. The Juddmonte Farms homebred was never worse than third from seven starts in 2009. A troubled runner-up to Sariska in the Oaks (Eng-G1), Midday earned her first Group 1 laurel in the Nassau S. (Eng-G1) and crowned her year with a triumph in the Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf. Perhaps her willing attitude shone most brightly in her biggest defeat of all, a distant third to Sariska in the Irish Oaks, when she was plainly ill at ease on the bottomless ground from halfway out, yet she never stopped trying.
Bravest Performance in Victory
T -- THORN SONG (Unbridled's Song) had no shortage of problems in 2009, but amid his thorns bloomed one spectacular rose. Beset by no fewer than three challengers in the Shoemaker Mile (G1), the front-running gray fought on tenaciously under maximum pressure for the entire length of the stretch, and held on by a head.
F/M T -- BLACK MAMBA (NZ) knuckled down to prevail in a couple of all-out struggles. On both occasions, she was spotting the runner-up six pounds. When bidding for her second straight Beverly Hills H. (G2), the John Sadler mare had to go into overdrive to collar a stubborn Charming Legacy (Ire) in the shadow of the wire. Black Mamba contended with an entirely different sort of problem in the C.T.T. and Thoroughbred Owners of California H. Caught flat-footed and passed on the far turn by an enterprising Lemon Chiffon (Lemon Drop Kid), Black Mamba gamely came again to defeat her rival by three-quarters of a length.
I -- As VODKA (Tanino Gimlet) roared clear in the Japan Cup, the nation's reigning Horse of the Year appeared well on her way to a rousing triumph. Then suddenly a sea change occurred. Vodka, whose stamina was questioned at the 1 1/2-mile trip, began to shorten stride, while Oken Bruce Lee (Jungle Pocket) unleashed a withering kick on the outside. The confirmed stayer appeared to have Vodka on the ropes as he closed in for the kill. Vodka refused to yield, however, and digging down deep for one last effort, she managed to hang on. The margin of victory was technically two centimeters, but in reality, it was the oversized gallantry of Vodka's heart.
Most Heroic Performance in Defeat
T -- COURAGEOUS CAT (Storm Cat) lived up to his name in the Breeders' Cup Mile to beat everyone but the sublime Goldikova. Only a three-year-old, tackling older stakes rivals for the first time, the Bill Mott trainee chased the torrid pace, struck the front, opened up a 1 1/2-length lead, and made Goldikova pull out the stops to run him down. Even more notably, Courageous Cat was the only horse within shouting distance of the pace who stayed around in the drive.
F/M T -- CARRIBEAN SUNSET (Ire) (Danehill Dancer) did everything right in the Diana, and came within a head of upsetting Forever Together. Granted, Carribean Sunset had the perfect stalking trip, and was getting five pounds from Forever Together, but she tried her utmost to capitalize on those advantages. When the champion appeared poised to roll right on by, Carribean Sunset proved more than ready for a tussle, and actually made things a bit too close for comfort for Forever Together's fans.
I -- The O'Brien duo of RIP VAN WINKLE (Ire) (Galileo [Ire]) and MASTERCRAFTSMAN threw down the most serious challenges to the mighty Sea the Stars, and thus share jointly in the award. "Rip" followed in Sea the Stars' slipstream in the Eclipse, and after the dual classic hero skipped clear, Rip produced a sparkling turn of foot to draw alongside him. For a moment, Sea the Stars looked vulnerable, but he had another gear and pulled away a second time. Rip gained stature in defeat, for he pushed Sea the Stars to post a stakes-record time, and he left Conduit well adrift in third. Mastercraftsman tested Sea the Stars in the opposite way, by stealing a march on him in the Juddmonte International. Again, Sea the Stars appeared to be up against it, but he surged in time to overwhelm the stubborn Mastercraftsman, who forced him to set a new course record at York.
Most Breathtaking, Instantaneous Acceleration
T -- Presumptive divisional champion GIO PONTI owns this category with his devastating moves in the Frank E. Kilroe Mile H. (G1), Manhattan H. (G1), Man o' War and Arlington Million. Whether on firm turf or rain-softened ground, off a fast pace or steady tempo, at one mile or 1 3/8 miles, Gio Ponti flashed that electric burst of speed to zap his rivals. Of his unprecedented grand slam, the Arlington Million was my favorite. The Christophe Clement trainee moved earlier on that occasion, employing his lightning-quick special effects to gain command in the blink of an eye on the far turn.
F/M T -- VENTURA, whose only turf loss in 2009 came at the hands of Gio Ponti in the Kilroe, has won this award twice over. The Juddmonte Farms homebred was incendiary in her Woodbine Mile (Can-G1) triumph, scorching from near last to first in her own inimitable style. Not only did she become the first distaffer to win, and in stakes-record time to boot, but she also appeared to have a little something extra up her sleeve in the end. The Juddmonte Farms homebred later punished fellow fillies and mares in the Matriarch, and in so doing, paid a fitting tribute to her late Hall of Fame trainer, Bobby Frankel. It was as if Ventura knew that she was given this swan song only at Frankel's behest, and she honored his memory by delivering her most dominating performance on the turf.
I -- While GOLDIKOVA garnered four top-level prizes in 2009, one stands out among the rest: her extraordinary, six-length demolition job in the Prix Jacques le Marois (Fr-G1). Her startling acceleration must be seen to be believed. Indeed, the Freddie Head filly was traveling with her customary aplomb, and before one could grasp what happened, she was streets ahead of her male opponents. The clock told the rest of the story -- Goldikova smashed the stakes record in one of France's most prestigious mile events. In comparison to her Marois procession, her Falmouth S. (Eng-G1), Prix Rothschild (Fr-G1) and even the Breeders' Cup Mile were just efficient.
Lifetime Achievement Award: URBAN SEA (Miswaki), who died last March from foaling complications at the age of 20, would have merited this honor based purely on her accomplishments at the time of her death. A champion racemare, Urban Sea belongs to that rarefied company of female Arc winners, having captured Europe's fall championship in 1993. She has excelled herself still further as a broodmare. Her offspring include European champion and hot young sire Galileo (Ire) (Sadler's Wells), who landed the 2001 Derby, Irish Derby (Ire-G1) and King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond S. (Eng-G1); Black Sam Bellamy (Sadler's Wells), winner of the 2002 Gran Premio del Jockey Club (Ity-G1) and 2003 Tattersalls Gold Cup (Ire-G1); and 2007 Diana queen My Typhoon (Ire) (Giant's Causeway).
The best of all Urban Sea's foals, though, is Sea the Stars, whose historic 2009 campaign served as a posthumous tribute to his dam. When Sea the Stars emulated his half-brother Galileo by capturing the Derby, Urban Sea became the second mare in the last century -- and the first in 36 years -- to produce two winners of the Blue Riband. When Sea the Stars garnered the Arc, Urban Sea became only the second Arc winning-mare in history to produce an Arc hero.
With Galileo off to a successful start at stud, and with Sea the Stars likely to follow suit, Urban Sea's influence will extend for generations to come.
COMMENTARY
DECEMBER 23, 2009
The Ballot
by Vance Hanson
After a one-year hiatus I am pleased to again have the privilege of filling out an Eclipse Award ballot, this time as a newly admitted member of the National Turf Writers Association (NTWA). This is my 10th year of voting for the sport's divisional champions, but the first where I have a forum to publicly acknowledge my selections and explain the thought process behind my choices. I'll also take this opportunity to give some insight into the criteria I use when determining champions in certain divisions.
Before proceeding, some past performance information. In nine previous years, I cast a vote for roughly 90 equine divisional champions with 79 (87.8 percent) of those coming out on top when all the votes were tallied. In Horse of the Year balloting, I was six-for-nine. I recall abstaining only once from an equine category, for 2007 champion female sprinter, as a protest against the splitting of the sprint category into separate male and female divisions (which I still feel is unnecessary given the success and near-success many fillies and mares have had at landing divisional honors against the boys). My abstention did not hurt Maryfield's candidacy one bit.
From 1999 through 2007, I correctly selected the winners every year for champion two-year-old filly, older male and older female. In other words, I know how to shoot fish in a barrel. I differed with a majority of my peers most frequently in the turf male and sprint divisions, going six-for-nine in each. I've never regretted a single selection, only the final ones that differed from my own.
Let's begin with the categories where there should be little room for argument or need for much explanation.
Three-year-old male:
SUMMER BIRD (Birdstone). Clinched this honor with his victory in the Jockey Club Gold Cup (G1).
Three-year-old filly:
RACHEL ALEXANDRA (Medaglia d'Oro).
Older female:
ZENYATTA.
Turf male:
GIO PONTI (Tale of the Cat). I've had no qualms in the past about selecting a European import for either turf category, even one with a single victory in the United States. However, I go overseas only in the complete absence of a clear-cut leader among domestic runners. Gio Ponti won four of the five grass races he contested this season, and his unlikely loss in the Joe Hirsch Turf Classic Invitational (G1) was to a challenger he had soundly beaten previously in the Man o' War S. (G1) and Manhattan H. (G1).
Female sprinter:
INFORMED DECISION (Monarchos). She's a completely different animal on synthetic, but purists like myself are placated somewhat by the token dirt score in the Humana Distaff (G1).
Steeplechaser:
MIXED UP (Carnivalay). The 10-year-old's campaign was inconsistent, but he appeared to avenge all of his seasonal losses in winning the Colonial Cup (NSA-G1), A.P. Smithwick Memorial (NSA-G1) and the restricted Imperial Cup. This was a less-than-spectacular year for the division following the mid-season defection of two-time champion Good Night Shirt (Concern), who exited the stage due to injury after two starts and most likely would have won a third consecutive Eclipse if healthy.
And now for some slightly more contentious races.
Turf female:
I felt Goldikova (Ire) (Anabaa) would be a worthy recipient in the wake of her second consecutive win in the Breeders' Cup Mile (G1), but the late-season heroics of VENTURA in the Matriarch S. (G1) undoubtedly enhanced her credentials for this honor. Her victory over males in the Woodbine Mile (Can-G1) was as aesthetically pleasing as Goldikova's Breeders' Cup triumph, and her lone setback on turf during the year was to presumptive turf male champion Gio Ponti in the Frank E. Kilroe Mile (G1). How often do we see the leaders of these two divisions separated by such a small margin?
Male sprinter:
The strength of this division was concentrated in the east as Zensational's three stakes win in California were Grade 1s in name only, a prime example of why I never take a race's grade at face value without scrutinizing the entire field's composition and quality. While he enjoyed a less consistent campaign than rival Fabulous Strike (Smart Strike), KODIAK KOWBOY did beat his foe in two of their three meetings, including the Vosburgh S. (G1) at a distance many figured would favor Fabulous Strike. Kodiak Kowboy's win in the Cigar Mile (G1) enhanced his reputation but had no bearing on my selection as it was not technically a sprint.
There is a hint of truth to the adage that "a good horse can run anything," but one should be careful to stretch that to mean horses are equally adept on all surfaces. A very select few are, but the vast majority have their preference.
The decision to contest the Breeders' Cup on a synthetic surface for two consecutive years angered a lot of folks, but for me the most serious drawback was that it unnecessarily muddled the picture in several Eclipse Award categories. Aside from engaging in voluntary masochism, there was no justifiable reason for Eastern-based horsemen with a potential champion in the barn to risk losing on a non-dirt surface. Likewise, California-based horsemen had fewer incentives to ship their best runners east to run on non-synthetic surfaces. This situation was especially problematic in the juvenile divisions as we didn't see the very best from each region face each other.
Two-year-old male:
The Eastern-based colt I was most impressed with, Jackson Bend (Hear No Evil), spent a large chunk of his campaign running in restricted stakes. Buddy's Saint (Saint Liam) and D' Funnybone (D'wildcat) had their moments as well, but none really did enough to overtake the California-based LOOKIN AT LUCKY (Smart Strike) for divisional honors. While purists will hold their nose given his complete lack of dirt form, the fact he is kin to Jim Dandy S. (G2) and Dwyer S. (G2) winner Kensei (Mr. Greeley) suggests he might have run effectively on a more traditional surface.
Two-year-old filly:
She Be Wild (Offlee Wild) might very well back into this award following her Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1) win, but if anyone was flattered in that particular race it was HOT DIXIE CHICK (Dixie Union), who easily dispatched eventual Juvenile Fillies runner-up Beautician (Dehere) in the Spinaway S. (G1) and Schuylerville S. (G3). And Beautician, who lost the Breeders' Cup by less than a length, is clearly no lover of synthetics given her lackluster defeats in the Alcibiades S. (G1) and Hollywood Starlet (G1). Hot Dixie Chick was the best juvenile filly I saw this year, and it should be noted that previous divisional champions such as Ruffian (1974) and Dearly Precious (1975) did not run past Labor Day weekend nor win stakes beyond seven furlongs.
There is one more division to discuss, older male, as well as Horse of the Year. As my choice for the latter has partially influenced my selection for the former, I'll get the big one out of the way first.
Horse of the Year:
Many racing writers like to point out there is no established criteria for Horse of the Year. While technically true, that statement overlooks the established voting patterns of the past seven decades. The champion three-year-old male or the champion older male, whichever is better, has been the default choice of voters more than 60 times since formal polling began in 1936. That makes perfect sense as they are often the biggest stars of the sport and, physiologically, the fastest and strongest of the season's champions. In the absence of an impressive enough champion in either division, the top turf male is usually the most likely beneficiary of the gold Eclipse. If he, too, is unworthy, then we have a year like 2009.
The two leading candidates this time are a filly and a mare, both of whom defeated older males. That simple qualification, adhered to by unanimous Horse of the Year winners Twilight Tear, Busher, All Along and Lady's Secret, was ignored by the majority of voters who supported Azeri in 2002. I'm personally glad to have it back.
The three-year-old achieved feats that generations of racing fans had literally never seen before: victories in the Preakness S. (G1) and Woodward S. (G1) and a demolishing of her male champion counterpart by a margin of six lengths in their only meeting in the Haskell Invitational (G1). The older mare will go down in history as the first female winner of the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1), a race that routinely attracts the very best Thoroughbreds in training. And she barely broke a sweat doing so.
In the absence of a showdown between the two, I've come to the conclusion that the accomplishments of RACHEL ALEXANDRA trump those of Zenyatta. Since 1936, there has never been an instance where a champion three-year-old filly won a classic, defeated her male champion counterpart by an overwhelming margin, and defeated a group of older males at scale weights (or conceding weight on the scale) over a distance of ground all in the same season. We witnessed a campaign by Rachel Alexandra many of us are unlikely to ever see again by horse of her age and sex. While Rachel Alexandra stepped outside her division three times, Zenyatta's campaign outside the Classic was a conservative carbon copy of her 2008 season. I think she was capable of successfully handling a more aggressive schedule and should have been given the opportunity to do so.
Supporters of Zenyatta's candidacy have typically argued two things. First, Zenyatta defeated a far better group in winning the Breeders' Cup Classic than Rachel Alexandra did winning the Woodward, and did so more easily. Second, that the Breeders' Cup is the sport's ultimate event, the equivalent of the Super Bowl, and was created to decide championships and thus should not be bypassed for any reason other than ill health.
I will not dispute that the composition of the Classic was better than the Woodward. It simply was. I would argue, however, that Zenyatta enjoyed a far greater edge than most of her rivals in that race based on her multiple winning experiences over Pro-Ride. Of her 11 rivals, six had winning experience on a synthetic surface and only four had a significant win on Pro-Ride. Repeating my earlier statement that most horses have a surface of preference, in my mind more than half the Classic field had a built-in excuse for not winning even before the gates opened. In contrast, the Woodward was entirely comprised of dirt winners and, for what it's worth, the best older males in training based on the East Coast at that point. Rachel Alexandra enjoyed no significant surface edge at Saratoga.
Regarding the Breeders' Cup, if it's sole raison d'etre was to decide championships, well, we already had those kind of races before 1984. They just weren't conducted on the same afternoon at the same track and packaged for network television. Those that are still around are unceremoniously considered "preps" for the various Breeders' Cup events that displaced them. Most, like the Woodward, are still prestigious events and are worth winning. If I'm entirely wrong about that and the view the Breeders' Cup was conceived foremost as a marketing tool, let those who disagree be vocal in calling for their abolition. There's no sense in running them anymore if the Breeders' Cup is the one and only definitive event on the fall calendar, which is hard to believe considering it was a only a year ago that a less popular result in the Classic was ignored by Eclipse voters.
Older male:
My NTWA colleague, Gary West, beat me to the punch in noting the parallels between the 2009 class of older males and those in the class of 1970, the year prior to the institution of the Eclipse Awards. So inscrutable was the division in 1970 that Daily Racing Form voters gave year-end honors to turf champion Fort Marcy despite the fact he never made a single stakes appearance on dirt that season. The Thoroughbred Racing Association (TRA) poll awarded divisional honors to Nodouble, who won the San Pasqual H. and Metropolitan H., ran third in the Californian S. and was unplaced in the Santa Anita H., Gulfstream Park H., Michigan Mile and One-Eighth H. and Vosburgh H. A forgettable championship season to be sure, but the TRA was historically correct in awarding it to a dirt specialist as turf horses have their own award for a reason.
Some have argued that this year's Fort Marcy equivalent, Gio Ponti, deserves older male honors given the dearth of a consistent main track performer. While his runner-up finish in the Breeders' Cup Classic was a noteworthy effort, he was only fifth in the Strub S. (G2) in his only other non-turf effort. I can not possibly support a horse who won only on turf for an award that historically honors excellence, so to speak, on dirt or its nominal equivalent.
Einstein (Brz) won the Santa Anita H. (G1) on Pro-Ride over turf specialist Champs Elysees (GB) and lost the Donn H. (G1), Stephen Foster H. (G1) and Clark H. (G2) on dirt. Rail Trip (Jump Start) was consistent but counted the the Hollywood Gold Cup (G1) as his only significant win. Richard's Kid (Lemon Drop Kid) took the Pacific Classic (G1) after some inexcusable losses in minor dirt events. As far as accomplishment, Albertus Maximus (Albert the Great) and Well Armed (Tiznow) were both "one and done" by March.
I felt Bribon (Fr) (Mark of Esteem [Ire]) would have been a possible dark horse candidate if he had held on in the Cigar Mile, which would have given him three consecutive main track wins to go with scores in the Metropolitan H. (G1) and Westchester S. (G3). On his best day, he's a solid racehorse.
Ultimately, my decision came down to Bullsbay (Tiznow) and MACHO AGAIN (Macho Uno). While Bullsbay finished ahead of Macho Again in three of their five meetings, Macho Again conceded weight to Bullsbay in each of those losses. His victories in the New Orleans H. (G2) and Stephen Foster with seconds in the Whitney H. (G1) and Woodward, finishing a mere head behind my Horse of the Year selection in the latter, look pretty good even if the other half of his campaign does not.
In my opinion, it's the least defensible vote I'll have made in 10 years. But hey, Macho Again's record looks a lot better than Nodouble's.
COMMENTARY
NOVEMBER 17, 2009
A personal tribute to Bobby Frankel
by The Wizard
On Monday morning, the racing world lost its brightest star in trainer Bobby Frankel. It would take many pages to list all his accomplishments.
I had the fortune to have several great conversations with him at Saratoga. Frankel was a family friend, who frequented my grandfather's restaurant in New York City when he trained horses there in the 70s and 80s before heading west.
Frankel was a man of very few words, especially with the press, because it was never about him. It was all about the horses and the people who cared for them.
Several times I would plead with him to take my binoculars and watch one of his Grade 1 stakes races from the stands. Frankel never did. He had to watch every race of his on a TV monitor in the racing secretaries' office.
As a kid growing up in the city, I was able to support myself, including paying for college, betting on Frankel and Buddy Jacobson claimers at Aqueduct.
Thirty plus years later, you would never have imagined that Frankel would have gone on to win 3,654 races from 17,657 starters and his horses earned $227,947,775, second all-time on the money list to D. Wayne Lukas.
I am hoping that every racetrack in the country pays tribute this week to one of the greatest horseman and human beings the racing world has ever known.
COMMENTARY
NOVEMBER 14, 2009
Horse of the Year debate
by John Mucciolo
Since the debate regarding who should be voted Horse of the Year for 2009 will be running rampant until the selection takes place at the Eclipse Awards in January, I figured that chiming in with my two cents couldn't hurt, right?
Excellent cases can be made for each of the two wunderkind female athletes in what is clearly the most entertaining and historic year of racing since I got sucked into this way of life more than a decade ago. In a normal year, the voting would be a no-brainer with either of this sensational duo, but in 2009, with otherworldly performances by both Rachel Alexandra (Medaglia d'Oro) and Zenyatta, it seems unfortunate that one of them must not win the grandest prize at the Eclipse Award ceremonies. Still, it has to be Rachel Alexandra.
Rachel, as she is commonly referred to as, won all eight of her races this year and turned back the clock to be the first filly since Nellie Morse in 1924 to win the Preakness S. (G1). In addition to that courageous victory, she thoroughly dominated her sophomore filly counterparts with incomparable ease and also defeated males in both the Haskell Invitational S. (G1) (over soon-to-be three-year-old champion Summer Bird [Birdstone]), and the Woodward S. (G1) (the first filly ever to win that demanding and prestigious race). And while I'm not sure if captivating a racing nation and bringing a plethora of new racing fans to our sport matters in this particular vote, she undoubtedly did so.
What especially must be taken into account is whom Rachel defeated this year, and that's where her argument is strongest. The burly Kentucky-bred was much, much the best over the winners, either previously or subsequently, of the following 2009 races: Kentucky Derby (G1), Belmont S. (G1), Santa Anita Derby (G1), Travers S. (G1), Jockey Club Gold Cup S. (G1), Whitney H. (G1), Stephen Foster H. (G1), Arkansas Derby (G2), Acorn S. (G1), Test S. (G1), Coaching Club American Oaks (G1), Woody Stephens S. (G2), Illinois Derby (G2) and Tom Fool H. (G2) -- to say that she beat some accomplished horses is an outrageous understatement! Her connections went after the Horse of the Year title, and racing is better for it.
Her voyages took her to Oaklawn Park, Pimlico, Churchill Downs, Aqueduct, Belmont, Fair Grounds and Monmouth Park. Her durability can never be questioned. This has to be considered one of the greatest individual campaigns recorded in recent times.
The incomparable, invincible, unbeatable, etc...Zenyatta, did everything she was asked of in 2009 -- and in her lifetime -- but we must remember that we are voting on this year and not a whole body of work. The majestic five-year-old capped off yet another flawless campaign with an historic score over a top-notch field in the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1), becoming the first female ever to accomplish the feat.
Her foes earlier in the year left something to be desired, though, as dual Grade 1 heroine Life is Sweet (Storm Cat) is the only noteworthy runner she topped in 2009 prior to the Classic. The all-timer had chances to run with better in the Pacific Classic S. (G1), Hollywood Gold Cup S. (G1) and Santa Anita H. (G1), but her connections opted not to pursue the Horse of the Year trophy. It's not her fault, but, unfortunately, she must be punished for that.
We can't take away from the 11 she cruised past in the Classic, featuring Grade/Group 1 winners Gio Ponti (Tale of the Cat), Twice Over (GB) (Observatory), Rip Van Winkle (Ire) (Galileo [Ire]), Einstein (Brz) (Spend a Buck), Colonel John, Mine That Bird (Birdstone) and Summer Bird. But even in that event, I question if she beat the real Summer Bird, or the real Mine that Bird, or even the real Girolamo (A.P. Indy), the real Regal Ransom (Distorted Humor); I hope you catch the drift of my intention. Not to say that she wouldn't or couldn't have trounced those same foes on a dirt oval, but one must acknowledge that she had a major edge over many of her counterparts in the Classic -- both in surface and locale. Zenyatta raced solely in Southern California this year with virtually no travel and never put in a dirt or turf effort, focusing solely on synthetic starts.
If there was to be a truly run race with both Zenyatta and Rachel Alexandra among the competitors, I would think that the five-year-old would win more times than not. She's just too athletically talented and mentally gifted to let a horse in front of her get away. But that is not what this vote is all about. The focus has to be on the whole body of work for 2009, not who might win a match race.
As I type this, it becomes increasingly clearer to me that Rachel should actually win Horse of the Year with little or no debate. This is far from an East Coast bias, just common sense. I told whoever would listen that nothing would beat Zenyatta prior to the Classic, and I have become a giant fan of hers, so I'm not playing favorites. I was at both the Classic and Preakness and admittedly cried after both. We might not have another year of racing like this for a very long time -- if ever.
But it should be forever known as the Year of Rachel!
INTERNATIONAL DIARY
NOVEMBER 1, 2009
Throughout history, the celestial realm has been viewed as the abode of surpassing excellence. "They that are learned shall shine as the brightness of the firmament, and they that instruct many to justice, as stars for all eternity," as the Book of Daniel expresses it in the Judeo-Christian tradition. In the pagan Roman world, the appearance of a comet following the assassination of Julius Caesar was thought to be his deified soul, blazing his trail toward the gods. In our own time, our lexicon bristles with such words as "star," "stellar," "heavenly," and "other-worldly" to describe the exceptionally good. With this in mind, it now seems a matter of destiny that SEA THE STARS (Cape Cross [Ire]) has lived up to the loftiest implications of his name.
By concluding his career with a triumph in the October 4 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (Fr-G1), Sea the Stars has added the one important item previously missing from his resume -- a victory over older horses at 1 1/2 miles. Not only did he answer that question, but the John Oxx colt did so in emphatic style after adversity that would have wrecked the hopes of a lesser horse.
Sea the Stars broke sharply and found himself alongside a Ballydoyle pacemaker in the opening strides. When Mick Kinane eased him back into a ground-saving spot off the pace, the all-conquering champion began to pull fiercely, perhaps the hardest he has ever pulled in the early going. That alone would have posed a concern, but in addition, Sea the Stars was shuffled back further in the field. From the pan shot, it appeared that he was jostled and bumped, and for an instant, I was afraid that he might slam into the rail. A horrible thought flashed across my mind: "Everything's going wrong for him; if he can't overcome this brutal trip, he'll have plenty of valid excuses, and we'll never know if he would have passed this test."
Sea the Stars saved us from that worst of all endings -- the ambiguous, inconclusive, and ultimately unknowable -- by overcoming those early trials with his typical panache. Straightening up into the stretch, as STACELITA (Monsun) overtook the exhausted rabbits, and DAR RE MI (GB) (Singspiel [Ire]) challenged her, Sea the Stars commenced his startling rally.
The royally-bred bay once again showed his speed and agility by diving through a gap along the inside. In a few strides, as the entire field was quickening, he accelerated even faster to reach contention, his brilliance equaled only by his characteristic nonchalance about it all. Sea the Stars' lightning-quick move made his rivals look downright ordinary.
Once Sea the Stars had charged onto Stacelita's heels, the outcome was a foregone conclusion. He angled out, split the fillies Stacelita and Dar Re Mi, and strode two lengths clear, flashing his "ears up" signal as he crossed the wire. The beauty of his victory was that it left no room for quibbling. Sea the Stars stayed more than every yard of the trip, for he actually kicked away again when a rival came near him on the gallop-out.
Perennial bridesmaid YOUMZAIN (Sinndar) barreled home late to grab runner-up honors for the third straight year. As a one-run closer, the Mick Channon charge doesn't have tactical options, and he did as well as could have been expected. The six-year-old will now head to the December 13 Hong Kong Vase (HK-G1), and he will stay in training for a fourth tilt at the Arc.
Youmzain got up in a three-way photo in the Arc, besting the three-year-old CAVALRYMAN (Halling) by a head, with CONDUIT (Ire) (Dalakhani) finishing strongly another head back in fourth. Dar Re Mi ran a tremendous race to hold on for fifth, especially considering that she was forwardly placed in the main body of the field throughout, following the pacemakers. (I'll be writing more about Conduit and Dar Re Mi in an upcoming Breeders' Cup feature.)
Cavalryman, hero of the Grand Prix de Paris (Fr-G1) and Prix Niel (Fr-G2), turned in the best performance by a sophomore not named Sea the Stars. Despite breaking from the dreadful post 19, and stalking early, the Andre Fabre colt kept on in determined fashion. In the process, Cavalryman continued the potent trend of Niel winners doing well in the Arc. Plans call for him to join the Godolphin banner in 2010, when he may light up the inaugural Dubai World Cup night at the Meydan facility.
The biggest disappointment of the Arc was sixth-place finisher FAME AND GLORY (Montjeu [Ire]), who raced evenly most of the way and never threatened. Stacelita tired inside the final furlong and checked in seventh, dead-heating with the unheralded longshot LA BOUM (Monsun). Of the remainder, the most notable was VISION D'ETAT (Chichicastenango), who wilted to 10th.
Vision d'Etat was in the hunt in the stretch before Sea the Stars shot past him. Ironically, he was similarly humbled in the 2008 Arc, when he was in the vicinity of Zarkava before she dusted him. He had stayed on better last year, finishing fifth, but his stamina cracked this time at a fast-run 12 furlongs. Trainer Eric Libaud has mentioned that he will cut back to 1 1/4 miles for the December 13 Hong Kong Cup (HK-G1), and judging by his successes in the 2008 Prix du Jockey-Club (French Derby) (Fr-G1) and the 2009 Prince of Wales's S. (Eng-G1) at similar trips, he should be a prime contender.
Stacelita is another who couldn't see out the trip in a fast-run Arc, but this season's Prix de Diane (French Oaks) (Fr-G1) heroine turned in a high-caliber effort for the first 11 furlongs. The Jean-Claude Rouget filly raced at the head of the main body of the field throughout, with only the rabbits in front of her, and she stormed into the lead proper in the stretch. Stacelita figures to be a major player in the top-tier 10-furlong events next year, and I'd love to see her try something like the Prince of Wales's, Eclipse S. (Eng-G1), or Juddmonte International (Eng-G1) because she's world-class. She'd be well worth another try at 1 1/2 miles too, as long as the early pace weren't too fast. After all, she was just collared by Dar Re Mi in the Prix Vermeille (Fr-G1) at the Arc course and distance two back (and was subsequently awarded the victory upon the outrageous disqualification of Dar Re Mi).
Fame and Glory had no such excuse in the Arc, for the race was run to suit him, but the Aidan O'Brien colt did not keep up his end of the bargain. There are two ways to read this performance: either he was flattered by his previous efforts, especially his romp in the Irish Derby (Ire-G1), or he simply ran below par in the Arc. I think it's too soon to render a definitive verdict, but at the moment, I'd incline toward the idea that he's off form. In a surprisingly quick return in the October 17 Champion S. (Eng-G1) at Newmarket, Fame and Glory came under pressure early and toiled home sixth again (more on the Champion below). This was not the same horse who chased home Sea the Stars at Epsom, or even the one he swept past in the Irish Champion S. (Ire-G1). Given his lackluster displays of late, it's just as well that he isn't coming for the Breeders' Cup Turf (G1).
Sea the Stars has now completed his golden season as the first horse ever to sweep the Two Thousand Guineas (Eng-G1), Derby (Eng-G1) and Arc, a triple that eluded such luminaries as Nijinsky II, Mill Reef and Dancing Brave. Remarkably, he has not merely coped with the rigors of the season, but he thrived on them and gained strength from them. Like a statesman who grows in office, rising to meet the challenges of his time, Sea the Stars scaled heights that few could have predicted at the start of the year. Remember, as recently as April, he was just one of a number of classic contenders -- promising, to be sure, but not reportedly supposed to be the stuff of greatness.
Six months later, Sea the Stars has joined the immortals. I'll resist the temptation to turn this into a year-in-review piece, saving that kind of retrospective for my third annual Reilly Turf Awards, but will wrap up the Arc by returning to our opening theme about the symbolism of stars. Sea the Stars has conquered his opponents handily without crushing them mercilessly, and off the course, he has shown a well-ordered, calm, and kindly temperament even when besieged by his most ardent fans. For these reasons, it may not be out of place to comment that Sea the Stars has excelled according to both the Judeo-Christian view, which prizes moral achievement, and the Roman view, which honors political/military success.
While it would have been fascinating to watch how Sea the Stars might have fared as a four-year-old, facing the cream of the next crop, I agree with the decision to retire him to stud. Short-term, of course, we fans will keenly feel his absence and wonder how next year's classic crop would have measured up against him.
Taking a long-term view, however, there's a fiduciary responsibility to the breed. A horse of such magnificent gifts, and no visible flaw, could exert a profound influence at stud. Keeping him in training, and racing him at four, would necessarily entail risks. Sea the Stars has been sound as a bell, but how often have we heard that about a horse who ultimately suffers a tragic mishap? Rather than risk something going amiss, the Tsui family has chosen wisely to retire him now, and safeguard his future as a potentially breed-shaping stallion. Furthermore, lest anyone contend that money was at the root of this decision, remember that the Aga Khan retired his homebred filly Zarkava in similar circumstances one year ago -- no stallion value at issue there, just safely retiring her to his broodmare band so that her exquisite bloodlines could be passed on to ensuing generations.
Nor am I disappointed that Sea the Stars will not appear in the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1). Why should he have to prove himself on an alien surface, an entire ocean and continent away, after he reigned supreme in Europe? Is there any doubt that he's sewn up the title of "world champion" already? The Classic has developed into America's championship race, with significant international flair, but it does not have the history or cache of the races that Sea the Stars has already won. Indeed, the Arc was a glorious exclamation point; what pressing need was there to follow it up?
Sea the Stars will have an able representative, so to speak, in the Classic in RIP VAN WINKLE (Ire) (Galileo [Ire]). The O'Brien colt was a sneakily-good fourth to Sea the Stars in both the Guineas and Derby, and he threw down a real challenge in the Eclipse S. (Eng-G1) before Sea the Stars brushed him aside in stakes-record time. Had Sea the Stars stayed home for the Irish Derby, instead of going to the Eclipse, "Rip" would have been a devastating winner by 4 1/2 lengths over Conduit. If Rip prevails in the Classic, it can be read as a victory by proxy for Sea the Stars.
Also Breeders' Cup Classic-bound is Juddmonte Farms' homebred TWICE OVER (GB) (Observatory), who captured the aforementioned Champion over 1 1/4 miles at Newmarket last time out. Reserved off the pace, the Henry Cecil charge rallied into contention and stayed on resolutely to score by a half-length from an unlucky MAWATHEEQ (Danzig), with Oaks (Eng-G1) victress SARISKA (Pivotal) a solid third at a distance short of her best.
Mawatheeq, who was cutting back in trip after taking the 1 1/2-mile Cumberland Lodge S. (Eng-G3), would have finished even closer with clear sailing. The regally-bred four-year-old was making a bold move before being squeezed back when Twice Over drifted out. Mawatheeq lost momentum as he had to angle to the left of Twice Over. Nevertheless, he regrouped quickly and was closing the gap approaching the wire. An objection was lodged against Twice Over, but the stewards allowed the result to stand. Other jurisdictions may have reached a different verdict.
Twice Over was finally fulfilling his early promise after losing his way a bit. A narrow winner over eventual Breeders' Cup Classic hero Raven's Pass in last year's Craven S. (G3), he was third to Henrythenavigator and Raven's Pass in the St. James's Palace S. (Eng-G1) and ended his sophomore campaign with a distant runner-up effort in the 2008 Champion, which New Approach won in grand style in course-record time.
Earlier this year, Twice Over had come close a couple of times in top-level company, beaten all of a half-length when third in the Lockinge S. (Eng-G1) and tiring to fourth very late in the Prince of Wales's at Royal Ascot. The bay returned on relatively short rest in the Eclipse and never landed a blow in seventh. Cecil freshened him thereafter and gave him class relief in his next two starts, resulting in confidence-boosting wins. Twice Over was trained to the minute for the Champion and duly delivered, thrusting him unexpectedly into the Breeders' Cup picture.
My upcoming Breeders' Cup features will include more analysis of recent European developments.
With the curtain coming down on the European Flat season, the International Diary will go into winter quarters, to return next spring when the European classics are in full swing.
The center of gravity now shifts to the other side of the globe. Following the Melbourne Cup (Aus-G1), on Monday night U.S. time, the year's final major events will take place in Japan and Hong Kong. Japan's Autumn International Series comprises the November 15 Queen Elizabeth II Commemorative Cup (Jpn-G1), the November 22 Mile Championship (Jpn-G1), the November 29 Japan Cup (Jpn-G1) and the December 6 Japan Cup Dirt (Jpn-G1). As has become customary, the December 13 Hong Kong International Races promise to end 2009 with a bang, and in early 2010, all eyes will be fixed upon the Dubai International Racing Carnival at Meydan.
HANDICAPPING FEATURE
OCTOBER 17, 2009
The Jockey as a Handicapping Factor
by Steve Zacks
For most of my handicapping career I regarded the jockey factor as incidental. Still I could never escape the feeling after many of the tough beats that are a part of the game that I was the victim of a poor ride, and that maybe the jockey factor really did matter more than I was prepared to give it credit for.
I recently explored the jockey as a handicapping tool to see if a jockey-based method of play could be found or if the jockey factor could aid in deciphering those otherwise unfathomable handicapping puzzles that so often creep into the serial bet sequences.
After spending too many hours and not getting the hoped for results, I did reach several conclusions. The jockey is a very significant factor in the handicapping/decision-making process; one way or another they influence the outcome of every race that is run, either through clever or plain-bad riding.
I did not find a consistent way to use the jockey factor automatically. With the proper judgment, discipline, effort and bankroll, a workable and profitable methodology might be devised that starts (and ends) with the jockey factor. There are in fact winning players who focus on every handicapping tool using them profitably -- be it pace, speed, trainer and work patterns and more.
I assembled and explored dozens of ideas; after paring the numbers and getting them into a manageable format I tested the final group at Del Mar and Saratoga, thinking that if ever riders wanted to do well and gain a higher profile these summer meetings were ideal. You can likely add in any of the other major boutique or high-profile meetings. The longer the meeting, the more likely swings in and out of form are likely to occur.
My judgments were soft and personal, intending to capture the intent of the law. I research by hand and have no programming skills so I am limited in the data I accumulate. I do not track the number of starters, only the winners. I use my powers of observation to make judgments and do not rely just on the simple numbers!
The sample covered the 703 non-steeplechase races run at Del Mar and Saratoga in 2009. Maiden races accounted for 158 of these and 57 of the maiden subset were won by first-time starters. About 15 percent of winners paid $20 or more and almost 40 percent paid off at 5-1 or higher.
Right Questions
If one looks simultaneously through the windows of the trainer, the jockey's agent and the handicapper, you should ask most of the right questions. Some handicappers and race observers might even like to throw the horse into the mix as well.
Sometimes the questions will be hard to answer; that fact alone could send up a warning flag. When you see a top-five rider on a ship-in or from a low-key outfit does it hint of a sharp performance today or does it mean that that outfit has a promising young horse in the barn? What should you think when the leading rider from another circuit ships to ride a seemingly overmatched horse in Saturday's stakes race? Is the horse live, or does the rider simply want to ride at Saratoga?
Finding plausible answers to these questions will help you to decide whether a horse has a legitimate chance. Just as you, the handicapper, wants to win races and cash bets, so do trainers and jockeys. The latter, with their agents, are only as good as the live horses they ride in the right spots. An agent's job is political; his job is as much about managing other horses and future races as it is finding the right horse today.
A trainer might ask:
-- I have a ready horse, who is the best rider I can get?
-- that horse ran big for the bug-boy, maybe I can get a top rider for him
today. He is doing really well and might even have a better race in him.
-- I have a really nice two-year-old or a European stakes shipper...who will do
me a favor with this one to get on that other later?
An owner might think:
-- I have guests coming on Saturday and want to impress them; which
high-profile rider can I get?
-- Do I want to interfere with or make demands on my trainer?
The horse might think like this, and a good trainer should do it for him:
-- I like to run my races in a certain way, which rider do I have confidence in? I need soft hands, I need to be allowed to settle, I hate being inside etc... Which rider will give me the best ride so that I can run my best and win?
An agent has a lot of questions to ask:
-- I have a top rider, which horse do I want to ride in today’s race?
-- Will my steady customers allow me to ride another horse today, so I can ride
their new prospect later on? Or will I lose the barn if I go elsewhere today?
-- That horse ran a big race with the 10-pound bug up; there is a good race for
him next week; I am open so I will see the trainer to get the mount (for the
meet's leading rider).
As a handicapper:
-- Does the outfit care about riders? Does this rider fit their normal
profile?
-- I like this horse in a race, which riders would I like to see? And which
others will I accept to make a bet?
-- Will this rider make any difference to the way my horse runs today?
-- Does this rider produce wake-up performances when he rides a new horse?
-- What story did a trainer have to give the agent to ride this horse today;
after all the last race was not too good, and/or it is taking a big class rise,
and/or it is coming off a layoff with a non-descript work tab and so on? If this
coincides with a top rider riding for a non-client or non-descript trainer it
may take on greater significance and if one of the rider's regular customers has
a live horse in the same race maybe this is a live long shot?
Winning Profiles
Here are eight ideas that frequently show up in the profiles of winners. The problem with them is that so many of the horses share one or more of these concepts that it has little direct value in terms of winner selection. Rarely is there only one in a race. What may be the most significant of all is the fact only about 10 percent of the winners had none of the jockey-related factors on their resume for their winning race. More than three-quarters of the winners had more than one factor.
1) Hot Trainer: I wanted to know if trainer status was important. It is. At the recently concluded Saratoga meeting, names such as Alan Jerkens, Bruce Levine and Tom Albertrani were cold as ice. Riders need live and well-meant horses to win races. That is when smart rides really matter.
A trainer was "hot" if at the time the race was run the trainer was (a) one of the meet's leading trainers (b) a high-percentage outfit (20%+) but not on the leading trainers' list due to limited starters or (c) a trainer had won at least one race within a few days of today's race (I chose to leave many doors open; determining when short cycles begin and end is an art form and mostly guesswork). Some stables are historically slow or fast starters or win races in bunches; some just pick their spots. More than 400 winners, or almost 60 percent, were won by jockeys riding for live outfits that fit these parameters.
2) Hot Rider: This is a potent factor as almost 70 percent of the winners at both meetings fit my definition of a hot rider. I included every rider who had won a race within the last three racing days. The condition book influences the flow of races, thus a trainer's or jockey's win patterns. The meet leaders generally qualify as they have recent wins; occasionally a top rider might qualify for some of his wins and not for others; this is frequently the case for trainers. At Saratoga, several top 10 riders went for a week or more without a win. Frequent updating allows you a better understanding of whether fallow periods relate to the rider being cold or the improbable horses he was riding. If you are using this factor and playing 20 tracks, the statistics will likely have to speak for themselves.
Two peculiar situations occur regularly: one is when a certain rider wins three or more races. Twenty-five times a rider scored three wins, and on seven occasions there were four (evenly divided between meets). If you think a rider may be in the midst of one of these days, he may be worth including in serial plays or take a look at the win price and bet any overlays. Occasionally a rider ships in for a day. Jeremy Rose held a hot hand on everything he rode at Saratoga. Justin Sheppard shipped into Lone Star for a day and scored five wins on the card. While these days are usually unpredictable in advance, it can produce dividends to be alert when these events are in progress.
3) Winning Combination: Horse and Rider: The rider has won with the horse in the past. I based this on the last 10 starts; if you have particular local knowledge you may qualify a horse if the rider has won with the horse at any time. Both approaches work well. Based on the races for winners, more than 40 percent of the winners had been ridden by jockeys who had won with them before. Of these winning combinations, 25 percent switched riders for today's race while 75 percent had ridden them last time.
4) Go-To Rider: Trainer and Rider: BRIS reports "trainer with jockey" for the past 60 days in many of their PPs. Many outfits use multiple riders on their winning horses. Your definition of "go-to" will influence the qualifying horses. I included those with a past win on the horse, regardless of the timing as well as those with one win from five or fewer starts, or more than one from six or more starts in the BRIS stats for the last 60 days. Using these definitions, go-to riders rode about 60 percent of the winners.
5) Rider Switch: Excluding debut winners, about half the races were won with a rider switch and half with a returning rider. Did today's winning jockey ride the horse last time, was he riding the horse for the first time or had he ridden the horse in the past and was switching back today? Did the switch entail the move from a lesser rider to a top-five, or go-to rider, or back to a winning combination? This may be one of the more fertile areas for exploration and tinkering for a playable method. This was the best factor for 10-1+ winners; 65 of the 109 had rider switches.
More than a quarter of all winners were repeaters, and 33 percent of them switched riders (many were shipping to a different circuit) and 67 percent were ridden by the same. While one would have expected more of the switches to have come at Saratoga, because of several injuries to top jockeys at Del Mar, they were almost evenly balanced.
Paying attention to a rider switch makes sense, though a switch can also fool you. When a rider vacates a last-out winner or a dropping horse in good form, what does it say about that horse or the other horse he is riding today? Success with this idea is dependent upon making the right judgment. A rider may have ridden a winner for one of his occasional customers and may be vacating that one to ride for one of his regulars today. The new barn may have a promising young horse or a stakes horse to ride later on. What you see in these situations may not always be what you see on the surface.
On the day after the Travers (G1), third-leading rider Rajiv Maragh jumped off back-to-back winner Beneath the Crown (Regal Classic); he left the Timmy Hills horse to ride a non-descript looking, allowance horse, Piazza Di Spagna (Lycius), for Gary Sciacca. Maragh guided him home to a $20+ win mutuel.
On September 18 at Belmont, Kent Desormeaux switched off a live Bill Mott second-time starter Show the Way (Forest Camp) to ride a first-time starter Peteloveshisboots (Texas Glitter) for A.J. Bizelia and Paul Pompa Jr. Desormeaux had ridden several first-time turf winners for Mott at the Spa. Mott's horse won at generous odds. There is a strong likelihood that Peteloveshisboots has a future and might be worth another shot -- especially if Desormeaux rides him back.
Rider switches are a productive source of winners at good prices! Asking why the rider is on the horse today is an interesting approach when a top rider shows up on a morning-line long shot, or for some relatively unknown or low-profile trainer. It is more interesting when one of his prime connections has a seemingly live horse entered in the same event.
6) Top-Five Rider: Statistical: The top five riders frequently win 50 percent of the races at any given meeting. The makeup of the list can be in constant flux as occurred this summer past. The intent of the rule is to focus on riders who are riding well and for live outfits. One can focus on this group.
Most trainers with fit and ready runners try to get the best rider they can especially at these boutique meets where everybody wants to win. A rider attracts attention by winning a lot of races or a high-profile event or two. Then his agent gets more live calls. Success breeds success. Trainers and owners want live riders; agents with hot riders get live mounts far more easily than for a rider with one win from 25 mounts.
The Top Five won close to 50 percent at both meetings. Del Mar totals were influenced by injuries to two top prospects. Saratoga had eight constantly vying for several of the top five spots so counts could vary.
7) A Personal List: One of the ideas I experimented with was to make up a personal list of top riders. This works better if you know the jockey colony well. The list might include some of the top five riders, some of the unappreciated lesser-profile riders and some specialists and is flexible and variable and personal. Where did you put Edgar Prado going into the Saratoga meeting after the rather quiet Belmont? He came alive at Saratoga but has been quiet again back at Belmont. Jose Lezcano was in the top five at the Belmont spring meeting and while he had had good success over the winter at Gulfstream and had made a successful transition to Belmont in the spring it was uncertain that his profile and client base would keep him up top.
If there is a very strong rider colony such as there was at Saratoga, limiting the list to four or five may be self-defeating. Variable lists for fast, slop, turf, routes and sprints will work in some cases. The list changes as riders heat up or cool off. The list is your perception of the various riders on your circuit.
A lesser-known or lower-profile rider with talent who is underappreciated by the betting public is a great addition to your list. A few years back a friend suggested I pay serious attention to Alan Garcia when he came to New York; it did not take long for me to jump on his bandwagon and he has been paying dividends since. While Dominguez was on my radar a long, long time ago, he is too popular at the windows; while you rarely get a generous overlay on him, you do get a reliably good ride very consistently. Maragh, now in the top-five rankings, still rides numerous generously-priced winners.
Due to a couple of accidents involving top riders at Del Mar, the numerical and personal lists were in a state of flux. Alonso Quinonez made my personal list as under-appreciated and rewarded me with several long-shot winners I might not otherwise have played.
Each should bring your own ideas to this process. The more personal the approach the more likely it is to be a little outside the norm and therefore have some wager value attached to it.
8) Top Rider: 10-1 Odds: While it is dependent upon your skill and decision-making, there is one nugget that comes close to a profitable and semi-automatic play. It is to pick one or several top riders (you can also do this with a list of trainers) and play that rider automatically when the horse goes off at odds of 10-1 or higher. To make it automatic you would have to rely on the morning line and live with the fact that some will be bet down too low and that you may miss a few which could turn the angle either positive or negative at any given meeting.
I find that you can select a couple that make the top five list; it is also useful if you have a name or two that flies under the radar, but who you think is capable but underrated.
At Del Mar, leading rider Joel Rosario was productive with four $20 + winners; Tyler Baze had two, Joey Talamo scored six winners mostly near 10-1, Garret Gomez a trio. Two under the radar riders there, Michael Baze won four and Quinonez five to lead the bomb squad.
At the Spa, second leading rider Garcia hit the $20 number five times, as did Javier Castellano and the steady, though not-in-fashion Mike Luzzi, a year-round New York mainstay. Desormeaux won a trio of races at 10-1+ and all were first time on the turf; leading rider Dominguez scored two, Robby Albarado and Maragh had four baggers.
Conclusion
When all is said and done, whether you are an owner, a trainer, or simply a handicapper with an opinion on a horse in a race, your fate ultimately rests with the jockey and the decisions he or she makes during the running of the race.
As a player, no one single factor is likely to frustrate you as much as some of the rides you get! Just how important the jockey factor should be to you is a decision you must make to suit your own game. The better the jockey the lower the odds are likely to be; you must tie your tolerance for poor rides to your desire for higher odds.
In the process of using the jockey factor one must learn to separate the horse and his training from the blame the rider game. Losses are frequently the horse’s fault as it will not run inside or lacks the athleticism/turn-of-foot to explode through the holes when they open. Big stables have a much better chance of schooling their horses in the mornings. Young horses can go out in sets of five or six and can train inside, outside and between others and can learn to take dirt in their faces. If one exercise rider does not get along with a horse, then maybe another will. The smaller stables frequently lack these opportunities and the horses get their in-company experience in their early races. If a trainer knows any of these quirks of a particular horse it is his responsibility to warn the rider of its foibles.
In evaluating horses, rides and trips, one should appreciate all of these factors along with stable intent. If the trainer's win percentage is 12 percent with debut runners and 28 percent with second-time starters, it may not be a bad ride if the horse fails to get there in time. The intent was to give the horse an education.
Five decades of racing experiences in all facets of the game teach that the jockey cannot win the race without the horse. The best horse can win without the best ride and a less-than-best horse can win a lot of races with a good ride and/or when the best horse gets a poor ride. So many races are very contentious that the trip along with the luck of the draw and the various rides in the race determine who is in the photo. Saving ground and expending the horse's energy at the right time are usually crucial. Along with their other skills, the better riders do this more frequently than the less successful ones. A lot has to do with the horses they ride, but the cream normally rises to the top.
Most of the top outfits go out of their way to get top riders, or a rider with a particular style that suits the horse. Why put in so much time and effort and then leave the last detail to chance? When every effort has been made to get a horse properly prepared they tend to go for the best in terms of athletic skill and in-race judgment.
The better riders have better physical skills and a better style of race riding. They make fewer errors in judgment. They try to save ground and save horse and avoid trouble. Generally the top riders make the right decisions more often than do the lesser riders. Thus they get the choice of the better mounts. Simply put: the good jockeys lose fewer races on the best horse. They tend to understand the surface they are riding over, find ways of getting the horse the good trip and avoiding trouble.
Using the rider as an entry point is never an easy game. After two weeks of the Belmont Championship fall meeting, three of the names atop the Saratoga final list are not near the top, while a couple of those who are usually near the top, but who could not be found at the Spa seem to be back riding in better form. Some of this relates to trainers who were not productive at Saratoga but are winning races on Long Island.
Paying particular attention to jockeys, those who are riding well, those who are cold and those who fly beneath the public radar are all worthwhile endeavors that will add to your bottom line.
Unfortunately, there appears to be no easy or simple or work-free way to use the jockey as a key handicapping factor. That said, any time you can get 10-1 or more on a top rider, along with any reason that helps to explain why he is there, you might be on to something. At the current Belmont meeting, the vast majority of the $15 to $40 winners have been ridden by those who are near the top of the jockey standings. Sometimes it works...but alas...not always!
Good Luck!
COMMENTARY
OCTOBER 6, 2009
A horse for all seasons
by Vance Hanson
I've never had the privilege of meeting or speaking to legendary Irish horseman John Oxx and I suspect I never will. If given the opportunity, however, I would personally thank him for his role in reassuring me not once but twice over the past decade that an affliction that's lasted with me for nearly a quarter-century is best left uncured.
Admittedly a hard person to please when it comes to the relative merits of the modern Thoroughbred, few runners of recent years have left with me the impression of being the equal of, or better than, the champions I witnessed during my formative years as a spectator in the mid-to-late 1980s. Indeed, I've been more apt to marvel and wax poetic about the immortals whose careers ended long before I drew my first earthly breath. Thankfully, 21st-century technology has allowed me to escape the often dreary American racing landscape in search of equine heroes from far distant lands, rejuvenating my compulsive love for the Thoroughbred sport.
The first foreign-based runner to win my heart was Sinndar, Oxx's first superstar colt whom I selected to win the 2000 Epsom Derby (Eng-G1). As exhilarating as it was to watch the Aga Khan's homebred come through in the Blue Riband via live satellite transmission at Keeneland, crass commercialism dampened the mood somewhat as no wagering on the race was available and the sweetest 7-1 prime bet of the year had passed me by like a thief in the night.
Despite not being paid for my profound forecast, there was something about Sinndar's performance that suggested he was more than just an average Derby winner. He was now "my" horse and I faithfully followed the remainder of his brief career with gusto, bragging to anyone who would listen how I spotted greatness earlier than most. My bravado was vindicated following Sinndar's tour-de-force romp in the Irish Derby (Ire-G1). After an easy prep in the Prix Niel (Fr-G2), the mighty bay was a smart winner of the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (Fr-G1), a race I was able to wager a few bucks on. He was nowhere near 7-1, but at least he wasn't the favorite.
I still hold firm to the belief that Sinndar is one of the more underrated European champions of the past generation. Unfortunately, a lot of the headlines that would have gone his way that season went instead to Giant's Causeway, who reeled off five consecutive Group 1 wins and won the admiration of American racing fans with his life-and-death stretch duel with Tiznow in the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) in his one and only start on dirt. There's still no doubt in my mind who the better three-year-old was, though in reality it's an apples-and-oranges debate. Was the 12-furlong specialist better or the "Iron Horse" who was tough as nails in the eight-to-10 furlong range?
There is no debate in the year 2009. SEA THE STARS (Cape Cross [Ire]) is the horse for all seasons and distances.
While most American horseplayers were trying to make heads or tails of the Kentucky Derby (G1) in the days leading up to the event, in retrospect a futile endeavor for most, I blocked out time in my busy schedule to study the Two Thousand Guineas (Eng-G1). Enlightened business practices in the United States now allow wagering on nearly every important English horse race, and it has now become ritual for international racing fans to focus in on Newmarket on the morning of the first Saturday in May.
You can probably guess where this is going. Yes, I was on the Sea the Stars bandwagon early. As in 9-1 in the Two Thousand Guineas early. Since honesty is the best policy in such matters, I must admit to betting another horse in addition to Sea the Stars, hedging as a result of being somewhat indecisive. But I have witnesses who can confirm I verbally committed to Sea the Stars 12 hours or so before post time.
Besides the value on the board, what did I like about Sea the Stars? Two things. It's hard to overlook a pedigree like his, being out of the blue hen Urban Sea (Miswaki) who had already produced a superstar in Galileo (Ire) (Sadler's Wells). Here was a colt who, though not guaranteed to stay, had the genetic hoofprint to be absolutely any kind. The clincher for me was that he was trained by Oxx, a hero from the Sinndar days. Sea the Stars could not have been in more capable hands.
My love affair with Sea the Stars this season has followed the same course as that of Sinndar nine years ago. Though it was no longer possible to profit financially from him following the Epsom Derby, commercialism ultimately yields to sport when we're talking about horses of this caliber. Fans of Rachel Alexandra (Medaglia d'Oro), of which I am also one, should understand this clearly.
I can debate the relative merits of major American champions from about 1950 onwards, but will defer to the more knowledgeable with respect to where Sea the Stars belongs in the pantheon of European champions of the past half-century. I'm familiar with the accomplishments of Mill Reef, Nijinsky II, Dancing Brave and *Sea-Bird, and a consensus is developing that Sea the Stars has joined that exalted company following his victory in Sunday's Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
It's been a certainty for many months that Sea the Stars would not race beyond this year. While I can accept the point that he has nothing more to prove, it would be great fun to see him add his name to the roster of such races as the Coronation Cup (Eng-G1), Prince of Wales's S. (Eng-G1), King George VI and Queen Elizabeth S. (Eng-G1) and Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud (Fr-G1), or become a two-time winner of the Arc.
If the retirement of Sea the Stars is imminent, it is suggested here that he exit the stage on top rather than run in the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1). For months, American commentators have been clamoring for the presence of Sea the Stars in a Classic already devoid of probable Horse of the Year Rachel Alexandra and potentially comprised of what can be delicately labeled a subpar group of older males. Some went so far as to pray for a deluge of rain before the Arc, hoping Oxx would then forfeit Europe's year-end championship and send the colt instead to California. To wish that Sea the Stars' legacy not be decided on Longchamp's famous French turf in what is annually the best race on the European continent was parochialism of the worst kind.
Other than for material gain, there is virtually no reason for Sea the Stars to contest the Breeders' Cup Classic. Some have taken the results of last year's Classic contested on Pro-Ride, which was dominated by Europeans, and proclaimed the surface and distance tailor-made for Sea the Stars. Besides being purely speculative, that belief overlooks the fact that Sea the Stars' reputation would not be appreciably enhanced by defeating several of the same foes he's already proven himself superior to in Europe, or American runners nowhere near his level of class. After all he's accomplished this year, would it be fair to Sea the Stars to ship him thousands of miles to run over a surface he has no experience over?
This is not to say I'm totally against clashes of an international flavor. But there has to be a modicum of common sense about when and where these should occur. For example, running Giant's Causeway in the 2000 Breeders' Cup Classic at Churchill Downs made sense as he was a son of Storm Cat and Mariah's Storm (Rahy), who captured the Falls City H. (G3) over the same track. In contrast, neither attempt at the same race by George Washington (Ire) in 2006-07 seemed proper given the lopsided amount of turf blood flowing through his veins (outweighing the presence of his broodmare sire Alysheba) and his relative inexperience at 1 1/4 miles. Regardless of a single afternoon's results on Pro-Ride last October, there is absolutely nothing in his pedigree to suggest that Sea the Stars should run on anything but turf.
While every race won by Sea the Stars this season will forever be emblazoned on my mind, perhaps the most indelible memory of this historic campaign were words uttered by Oxx that described the character and majesty of this special colt. Speaking to Racing Post's Brough Scott in July, Oxx said:
"As everyone has seen, he has a terrific big-race temperament, but when he goes in to the racecourse stables he will roar like a stallion. It's a territorial thing. Once he has established who is boss, he's all right."
That's Sea the Stars. Truly the king of the herd.
INTERNATIONAL DIARY
OCTOBER 3, 2009
Trainer Aidan O'Brien may be feeling like an Austrian general after the Battle of Austerlitz. No matter the dispositions of his troops, or the intricate designs of his tactics as he envisions them on the map, his forces are still getting smashed to pieces by Napoleon, or in this case, SEA THE STARS (Cape Cross [Ire]). Like the Corsican luring on the Allies in advance of Austerlitz, Sea the Stars led us into wondering whether he might be in a precarious position heading into the September 5 Irish Champion S. (Ire-G1). After all, had he not just scraped home in the Juddmonte International (Eng-G1) at York?
Like Napoleon in his finest hour, Sea the Stars sprang the trap to perfection in the Irish Champion. Far from losing his edge, as his life-and-death Juddmonte struggle may have implied, the John Oxx colt was in fact brimming with energy as he posted his most dominating victory of the season.
The indications were plain to see early on at Leopardstown. While Sea the Stars had been uncharacteristically quiet in the opening stages at York, he was very much into the bridle right out of the gate in the Irish Champion. After giving Mick Kinane a well-mannered tug, Sea the Stars settled well off the taxing pace dictated by the Ballydoyle rabbits.
The O'Brien-trained MASTERCRAFTSMAN (Danehill Dancer) tracked his pacemakers in third for much of the way, gaining on them as they weakened on the turn. Meanwhile, his stablemate FAME AND GLORY (Montjeu [Ire]), who had been reserved much farther back -- even behind Sea the Stars -- tried to get first run on his archrival. Under a heady Johnny Murtagh ride, Fame and Glory launched his move early, passing an on-hold Sea the Stars and advancing to join Mastercraftsman turning for home.
It would have been a brilliant maneuver, if Fame and Glory had the speed to open up enough of an advantage, and if Sea the Stars were a bit flat. Unfortunately for Ballydoyle, neither was true. As Fame and Glory seized command from Mastercraftsman at the top of the stretch, Sea the Stars was smoothly cantering up behind him, just waiting for Kinane to turn him loose. Fame and Glory never really got much of a head start. Judging by the way Sea the Stars took off on cue, it wouldn't have mattered even if Fame and Glory had been able build up a couple of lengths' separation.
Unlike in the Juddmonte, Sea the Stars' response was immediate, and Fame and Glory's doom was sealed. Rapidly striking the front, Sea the Stars did not bother to hang around for his opponent, but surged clear and won well in hand by 2 1/2 lengths. Also unlike the Juddmonte, where his ears were pinned for some time past the wire, here they shot up right away, as if to reinforce how easy a stroll it had been.
Fame and Glory was made to look like a one-paced, 1 1/2-mile horse in this 1 1/4-mile race. But that was only in comparison to the all-conquering winner, for Fame and Glory was well clear of the rest. Mastercraftsman, who had forced Sea the Stars to go all out at York, was another 2 1/2 lengths back in third. The much greater margin of defeat here was partly attributable to the heck-bent-for-leather pace, but I'm still convinced that Sea the Stars just wasn't himself at York. The real Sea the Stars beat Mastercraftsman pointless in the Irish Champion.
Other than demolishing any speculation regarding his condition at this point in an arduous campaign, however, the Irish Champion did not tell us anything terribly new. Since taking the Two Thousand Guineas (Eng-G1) and Derby (Eng-G1), Sea the Stars has now won three straight contests in the vicinity of 1 1/4 miles -- the Eclipse S. (Eng-G1), the Juddmonte and now the Irish Champion. Judging by what we saw of him earlier in the season, he was entitled to win these last two.
Perhaps the one intriguing fact to take away from the Irish Champion is that Sea the Stars flew on the good-to-yielding ground. As his juvenile races suggested, he can handle some moisture in the ground -- maybe not an inordinate amount, but some give in the ground clearly didn't inconvenience him here.
Might we have learned something more about Sea the Stars if he had contested the September 12 St Leger (Eng-G1), where the elusive English Triple Crown was his for the taking? I doubt it, considering how the world's oldest classic actually shaped up. There were no scintillating performances that would have tested Sea the Stars, and even if he didn't truly stay the extended 1 3/4-mile trip, he would probably have won on class alone -- exactly like Nijinsky II, the last English Triple Crown winner, in 1970. And also like Nijinsky, the effort would have left its mark.
Turning to those who actually took part in the St Leger, Godolphin's KITE WOOD (Galileo [Ire]) had every chance to win, and actually held a narrow lead in the stretch, but he could not fend off the persistent challenge of his stablemate MASTERY (Sulamani [Ire]), who proved the stronger of the two in the waning yards. Godolphin's second string edged away by three-quarters of a length.
My knee-jerk reaction was that Mastery may end up rating as the least consequential St Leger winner since Bollin Eric in 2002, but only time will tell if that verdict is too harsh. Third-place finisher MONITOR CLOSELY (Oasis Dream [GB]) had convincingly defeated Mastery in the Great Voltigeur S. (Eng-G2), and back at 12 furlongs, he's likely to do so again. Sea the Stars' stablemate MOURAYAN (Alhaarth) was the victim of a terrible trip in the St Leger and ultimately checked in fifth. With a trouble-free passage, he would have finished much closer. It's a shame that O'Brien's AGE OF AQUARIUS (Galileo [Ire]) was ruled out by a setback; I suspect that the race would have set up well for him, he had beaten Mastery in his prior start, and he has no shortage of stamina in his pedigree.
Having resisted the antiquarian charms of the St Leger, Sea the Stars is in a stronger position going into Sunday's Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (Fr-G1). A victory would make him a legend, on the order of Dancing Brave (1986) and Mill Reef (1971). Unlike those all-time greats, however, Sea the Stars has not raced at 1 1/2 miles since the Derby. He swerved the summer's most significant inter-generational clash at that distance, the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth S. (Eng-G1), a prize captured by Mill Reef and Dancing Brave on their march toward the Arc. While Mill Reef and Dancing Brave had already thrashed elite older horses at Europe's classic distance, Sea the Stars arrives at Longchamp to take an examination that is entirely new to him. Of course, he's aced all of his tests this season, even the one he had to work the hardest for, and he is quite simply the best horse, on merit, in the race.
But before prematurely handing him the trophy, it's worth considering the obstacles that could stand in his way. The draw is not one of them, as he has landed a plum spot in post 6. Two other potential obstacles may have already been cleared. No deluge of rain is expected, so the ground shouldn't be a factor. Moreover, Sea the Stars is reportedly in fine form, so it's possible that he's avoided the dreaded end-of-the-season bounce that has cost others dearly in this race. One can't know that with metaphysical certainty, though, and rival rider Kieren Fallon has ruminated in the Racing Post about the prospects for such a bounce.
An obvious concern is a crowded, 19-horse field, and indeed, Oxx has admitted as much. On the other hand, Sea the Stars travels so well, and has so many gears, that one would expect him to be able to extricate himself from traffic jams. The best horses tend to make their own luck, and he has an expert guide in Kinane.
The question of the course and distance may pose a more difficult challenge. The fact that he coped with 1 1/2 miles at Epsom, which is friendly to horses with his speed and handiness, does not necessarily mean that he will be equally suited to a truly-run 1 1/2 miles at Longchamp. For some historical perspective on the matter, let's turn to the Arc's official historian, Arthur Fitzgerald. In his Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, 1965-1982, Fitzgerald assesses the great Nijinsky, who suffered his first career loss in the Arc:
"On account of the gradients on the course at Epsom, the Derby can be won by a high-class colt, who does not really stay a mile and a half, but is in reality a ten or eleven furlong horse. Sir Ivor was a notable example....It is probable that Longchamp's mile and a half course is the stiffest and most searching test of stamina of any major racecourse in Europe. Therefore the 1970 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, for which he started 5 to 2 on favorite, was likely to provide Nijinsky with the greatest test he had ever faced. Although ostensibly on paper and in the great majority of people's minds, the outcome was a mere formality; there remains a suspicion that some people's judgment at that time was mesmerised by the brilliant and explosive bursts of acceleration that Nijinsky had shown at Newmarket, Epsom and Ascot" (p. 69).
Of course, Nijinsky was also coming off a grueling victory in the St Leger, but the larger point remains: Are we being similarly mesmerized by Sea the Stars' brilliance? Remember that, even after the Derby, Oxx and Kinane suggested that 10 furlongs was his ideal trip. Perhaps that factored into Oxx's decision to skip the King George, although he emphasizes that his primary reason was just the spacing between races. Still, it was shrewd to tailor his campaign around 10-furlong races, than risk his still-developing reputation over 12 furlongs in the King George. Now that he is universally hailed as a great horse, this is the time to pop the distance question.
Win or lose, Sea the Stars is already in the pantheon. He essentially has two alternative destinations: either he is classed alongside Nijinsky and Sir Ivor as brilliant champions who failed to add the Arc to their resume, or he joins Dancing Brave and Mill Reef. Whatever happens on Sunday, Sea the Stars is in rare company.
If Sea the Stars puts the seal on his golden season, he would also elevate his dam's historic profile. Urban Sea (Miswaki), who captured the 1993 Arc, would become just the second Arc heroine to produce an Arc winner. The first was Detroit (Fr) (Riverman), the 1980 Arc winner, who produced 1994 Arc hero Carnegie (Ire).
(Sunday Note: Thanks to a reader for kindly reminding me of Detroit! I had overlooked her in the original posting of the diary, and have corrected the preceding paragraph accordingly.)
To highlight how incredible a breeding accomplishment that is for a mare, consider that only six Arc-winning males have sired Arc winners. Four Arc winners have progeny to represent them on Sunday -- Fame and Glory, a son of 1999 hero Montjeu (Ire); CONDUIT (Ire), by 2003 Arc star Dalakhani; YOUMZAIN, a son of Sinndar, who won for Oxx in 2000; and BEHESHTAM, by 1997 champion Peintre Celebre.
Of Sea the Stars' rivals in the Arc, Oxx has mentioned Fame and Glory as a principal danger, and it is easy to see why. The Ballydoyle colt would still be unbeaten, were it not for his misfortune of being foaled the same year as Sea the Stars. His only losses were his runner-up efforts in the Derby and Irish Champion, and in between, he was an impressive winner of the Irish Derby (Ire-G1), where his high-class stamina was fully revealed. The Arc should play to his ample strengths, and if his archrival has an Achilles' heel at Longchamp, Fame and Glory should be well suited to expose it.
Should Fame and Glory find a way to turn the tables, he would elevate the historic profile of Montjeu, who would join the legendary *Ribot as the only Arc winner to sire two Arc winners. Ribot's pair were Molvedo (1961) and *Prince Royal II (1964), while Montjeu got off the mark with Hurricane Run (Ire) in 2005.
The four-year-old Conduit, who was well beaten into third in the Eclipse, is also hoping to reverse form with Sea the Stars in this 12-furlong championship. The Sir Michael Stoute charge will again concede significant weight to his younger opponents, spotting eight pounds to a superior horse in Sea the Stars. But as with Fame and Glory, the Arc will provide the stamina test that he relishes, and in that respect, it is a much more favorable venue for him than the Eclipse. Conduit has also been prepared with an autumn campaign in mind, so he was not near his peak for the Eclipse, but Stoute surely has him primed now.
On the other hand, Conduit must buck two important historical trends if he is to give Stoute his first Arc trophy. First, Conduit has not raced since his efficient score in the King George in late July, and that path has not been a successful one leading to the Arc. Indeed, in the last 40 years, only three horses who last raced in the King George went on to win the Arc -- Mill Reef, Rainbow Quest (promoted via disqualification in 1985) and Lammtarra (1995). The statistics overwhelmingly favor horses who have had a prep race nearer to the Arc.
Still more worrisome for Conduit, only one winner of the English St Leger has ever won the Arc -- *Ballymoss, the 1957 St Leger victor who captured the 1958 Arc. As the hero of the 2008 St Leger, Conduit will have to be at least as good as Ballymoss to turn the double. I would contend that he'd have to be better than Ballymoss to defeat this cast, which is exceptional, even by the Arc's lofty standards.
The six-year-old Youmzain is taking his third swing at the Arc, having finished runner-up to Dylan Thomas (Ire) and Zarkava for the past two years. The Mick Channon trainee also had strong form vis-a-vis Rail Link, the 2006 Arc winner, so he serves as a useful yardstick for the depth of this year's field. Youmzain is a wildcard in that he's capable of huge efforts on occasion, but he tends to find trouble. If anyone can conjure the best from him, it's Fallon, who is predicting a top performance. Youmzain will add blinkers, and he wouldn't be the first horse to turn things around with sharper focus.
Note that Youmzain is coming off a one-paced third to GETAWAY (Monsun) in the September 6 Grosser Preis von Baden (Ger-G1). Youmzain took the same route to the 2007 Arc, where he improved dramatically off a fourth at Baden-Baden to nearly upset Dylan Thomas.
Getaway is likewise trying the Arc for the third time. Fourth to Dylan Thomas and eighth behind Zarkava when trained by Andre Fabre, the German-bred has been in the form of his life since going back home and joining Jens Hirschberger. Whether Getaway just needed a change of scenery, or appreciated the relative class drop, he has scored his first two Group 1 victories this campaign. Getaway could not have been more authoritative in the Grosser Preis von Baden, drawing off by a comprehensive three lengths on soft ground. He's clearly headed in the right direction, but the six-year-old will need a career-best effort to threaten Sunday. The last Grosser Preis von Baden winner to take the Arc was Marienbard (2002); prior to that, the last Arc winner to exit the Baden event was *Star Appeal (1975), who was fourth at Baden-Baden before garnering a roughly-run Arc.
Modern Arc winners have most often emerged from the respective course-and-distance trials at Longchamp, which were held on September 13 this year. In the Prix Foy (Fr-G2), Juddmonte Farms' homebred SPANISH MOON (El Prado [Ire]) held on by three-quarters of a length from VISION D'ETAT (Chichicastenango) in a final time of 2:28 3/5, best of the day's three Arc trials. For that reason, Vision d'Etat deserves great credit for quickening well, and closing fastest of all, just when the serious running started. Trainer Eric Libaud has been thrilled with his Arc preparations, and Vision d'Etat merits respect as a winner of eight of 11 lifetime, including last year's Prix du Jockey-Club (French Derby) (Fr-G1) and this year's Prix Ganay (Fr-G1) and Prince of Wales's S. (Eng-G1) at Royal Ascot. His lone unplaced finish came in the 2008 Arc, when he was in the hunt with Zarkava before winding up fifth.
Unfortunately, Spanish Moon was withdrawn from Arc consideration, a bewildering decision. The Stoute trainee turned in an excellent front-running performance in the Foy, his first start in more than two months, and he was entitled to move forward off the effort. Yet Spanish Moon's connections wanted to duck Sea the Stars and preferred to look ahead to targets abroad, such as the Breeders' Cup, Japan or Hong Kong. Fame and Glory and Conduit also have Breeders' Cup ambitions (as might Sea the Stars), but they're not skipping the Arc! It's folly to swerve an otherwise logical target because of one horse. Spanish Moon was well qualified for the Arc, boasting stronger credentials than a number of others who are lining up.
The Prix Vermeille (Fr-G1) for distaffers was marred by the intrusion of the stewards, who disqualified the outright winner DAR RE MI (Singspiel [Ire]) for an imaginary infraction and promoted STACELITA (Monsun) to the victory. The officials' notion that Dar Re Mi interfered with fifth-place finisher SOBERANIA (Monsun) is farcical, for neither Soberania nor her rider ever lost momentum, and they were plainly outkicked by the top four finishers.
Dar Re Mi will now head to the Arc on a wave of righteous anger, and worldwide sympathy, and it would be a fine turn of justice if she were to win. The John Gosden filly has burst the bubbles of Europe's most hyped sophomore fillies this season, having beaten SARISKA (Pivotal) in the Yorkshire Oaks (Eng-G1) prior to nailing Stacelita approaching the wire in the Vermeille. Dar Re Mi, who was runner-up to Zarkava in last year's Vermeille, would pay her old conqueror a handsome compliment if she goes close here.
On the other hand, I don't think that we saw the real Stacelita in the Vermeille, and I wouldn't be surprised if she were an entirely different specimen in the Arc, for which she has been supplemented. Unraced since spread-eagling the field in the Prix de Diane (French Oaks) (Fr-G1) in June, Stacelita was stepping up to 1 1/2 miles for the first time in the Vermeille, and the Jean-Claude Rouget filly didn't show her customary power. This is clear from third-placer (subsequently elevated to second) PLUMANIA (Anabaa), who was crushed by Stacelita twice earlier in the year, yet was only 1 1/2 lengths behind her in the Vermeille. Stacelita adopted her usual, forwardly-placed tactics, took over from her pacemaker in the stretch, never really kicked away from the field, and just yielded late to a tough, high-class, race-fit, older rival in Dar Re Mi.
The Prix Niel (Fr-G2) for sophomores has usually proven to be informative for the Arc, but perhaps not this time, and not only because it was the slowest of the three trials. The improving CAVALRYMAN (Halling [GB]), who had defeated Age of Aquarius and eventual St Leger winner Mastery in the Grand Prix de Paris (Fr-G1), posted a workmanlike, half-length victory over Beheshtam in the Niel. It was just the sort of trial that horsemen love, in that the top two returned from their summer holiday with a fine tune-up that didn't take a lot out of them.
This is a world apart from the kind of races that Sea the Stars and Fame and Glory have contested, however, and both colts would have to show colossal improvement in the Arc. On the other hand, both are in the hands of masters who are capable of extracting just that kind of improvement. Godolphin's Cavalryman is trained by a record seven-time Arc winner in Fabre, who was not averse to supplementing him to the Arc. The Aga Khan's homebred Beheshtam is trained by Alain de Royer-Dupre, who conditioned Zarkava and Dalakhani. I suspect that Beheshtam has a bit more progress up his sleeve than Cavalryman. The late-developing colt has shown more at home than on the racecourse so far, but he was given a very sympathetic ride in the Niel, and he was finishing well. Beheshtam is eligible to get the better of Cavalryman in the Arc, especially in view of Cavalryman's dreadful 19 post position.
While the Arc is the most compelling race of the weekend, other events will yield a harvest of Breeders' Cup clues. Sunday's Prix de l'Opera (Fr-G1) figures to produce at least one candidate for the Filly & Mare Turf (G1). Juddmonte's Oaks (Eng-G1) runner-up MIDDAY (Oasis Dream [GB]), a convincing winner of the Nassau S. (Eng-G1) last out, will likely head to Oak Tree if she performs up to expectations at Longchamp. The Henry Cecil filly will face a few serious older customers, including Prix Jean Romanet (Fr-G1) queen ALPINE ROSE (Linamix), who was runner-up to Spanish Moon two back and almost went to the Arc herself; Godolphin's LADY MARIAN (Nayef), the defending Opera champion who missed narrowly to Alpine Rose in the Romanet; the Dermot Weld-trained CHINESE WHITE (Dalakhani), who extended her winning streak to three in the September 12 Blandford S. (Ire-G2); and Stoute's CRYSTAL CAPELLA (Cape Cross [Ire]), last seen outdueling Dar Re Mi in the Middleton S. (Eng-G3) in May.
Also on Sunday, the Prix de l'Abbaye de Longchamp (Fr-G1) will likely serve as a launching pad to the Breeders' Cup Turf Sprint for FLEETING SPIRIT (Ire) (Invincible Spirit). The Jeremy Noseda filly is using a tried-and-true path, having finished fifth in last year's Abbaye and fourth in the Turf Sprint. Fleeting Spirit is even stronger this season at four, with a victory in the July Cup (Eng-G1) over males to her credit.
On Saturday at Longchamp, all eyes will be on the superstar GOLDIKOVA (Ire) (Anabaa) as she looks for her fourth straight score in the Prix de la Foret (Fr-G1). The Freddie Head filly is cutting back in trip to about seven furlongs for the first time in her career, but given the loads of pace she has shown in the Prix Rothschild (Fr-G1) and Prix Jacques le Marois (Fr-G1) this season, it should not be a problem. Goldikova is sure to book her passage to a title defense in the Breeders' Cup Mile (G1).
A few notables are lining up in Saturday's Prix Dollar (Fr-G2) at nearly 1 1/4 miles, including Weld's FAMOUS NAME (Dansili [GB]), who was a trifle unlucky to lose to Vision d'Etat in the 2008 French Derby, and who comes off a solid second to AQLAAM (Oasis Dream [GB]) in the Prix du Moulin (Fr-G1); Godolphin's well-traveled, multiple Group1-placed BALIUS (Mujahid), most recently successful in the Anatolian S. on the Polytrack at Veliefendi Racecourse in Istanbul; Group 2 victors PIPEDREAMER (Selkirk), who returns from a four-month layoff for Gosden, and CITY LEADER (Fasliyev), who will be making just his second start of the year for Brian Meehan; and Arlington Million (G1) third STOTSFOLD (GB) (Barathea [Ire]), who exits a runner-up effort in the Select S. (Eng-G3) at Goodwood.
Saturday's Sun Chariot S. (Eng-G1) at Newmarket could have Breeders' Cup implications, whether for the Mile or Filly & Mare Turf. One Thousand Guineas (Eng-G1) and Coronation S. (Eng-G1) star GHANAATI (Giant's Causeway) reverts to distaff company here after a dull third in the Sussex S. (Eng-G1), and the Barry Hills filly rates as the one to beat in the mile affair. Among her opponents are Beverly D. S. (G1) runner-up ALNADANA (Ire) (Danehill Dancer); HEAVEN SENT (Pivotal), most recently runner-up to RAINBOW VIEW (Dynaformer) in the Matron S. (Ire-G1); SPACIOUS (Nayef), who along with Heaven Sent had chased Goldikova earlier in the summer; and the upwardly mobile STRAWBERRYDAIQUIRI (Dansili [GB]).
Ghanaati's conqueror in the Sussex, RIP VAN WINKLE (Galileo [Ire]), recovered from a hoof problem in time to contest the September 26 Queen Elizabeth II S. (Eng-G1) at Ascot, and the O'Brien colt firmly put his three rivals in their place. After powering to the front at the top of the stretch, "Rip" was accosted by the outsider ZACINTO (Dansili [GB]), who drew up to his girth and briefly threatened to spring an upset. Rip smoothly pulled away again and crossed the wire a decisive 1 1/4-length winner, with something in reserve.
Zacinto, highly regarded last year as a juvenile, was racing for only the third time this season, and the Juddmonte Farms homebred is on the upswing for Stoute. By drawing 3 1/4 lengths clear of QEII third DELEGATOR (Dansili [GB]), Zacinto avenged his loss at the hands of Delegator in the Celebration Mile (Eng-G2) in their prior start. Delegator ran a bit below his best in the QEII, as did Moulin winner Aqlaam, who faded to finish a distant last of the quartet. Sadly, the oft-injured Aqlaam exited the race with an injury, and the Sheikh Hamdan colt will likely be retired.
If Sheikh Hamdan had it to do over again, would he have run Ghanaati instead of Aqlaam in the QEII? Should Ghanaati win the Sun Chariot handily, it might fuel further second-guessing about the QEII. She was proven at the QEII course and distance, after all, and may have performed much better than she did in the Sussex at Goodwood.
Rip is on course for the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1), where he will attempt to emulate Raven's Pass, who turned the QEII/Classic double last year. O'Brien could be double-handed in the Classic, for Mastercraftsman pummeled a bunch of overmatched rivals in Friday's Diamond S. (Ire-G3) at Dundalk. Making his Polytrack debut, the gray sophomore rated in a distant third, well adrift of the two speedy front runners who sprinted to a double-digit lead. Mastercraftsman asserted his class, closed in on the leaders in the stretch and coasted home unextended by five lengths. The effortless win must have done wonders for his psyche, considering that he had been beaten twice recently by Sea the Stars.
Europe's last top-level race with Breeders' Cup potential will probably be the October 17 Champion S. (Eng-G1) at Newmarket. Dual Oaks heroine Sariska, who passed on Longchamp this weekend because of the lack of rain, is expected to contest the 1 1/4-mile event. Juddmonte has a few in the mix, including Zacinto; TWICE OVER (Observatory), who was runner-up to New Approach in the 2008 edition; and DOCTOR FREMANTLE (Sadler's Wells), who just caught last year's Oaks queen, LOOK HERE (Hernando [Fr]), on the line in the September 18 Arc Trial (Eng-G3) at Newbury.
An up-and-comer who could be supplemented to the Champion is Ghanaati's older half-brother, MAWATHEEQ (Danzig), who rolled to a 2 1/4-length victory over the consistent CAMPANOLOGIST (Kingmambo) in the September 27 Cumberland Lodge S. (Eng-G3) at Ascot. Finishing a sneakily good fourth in his much-awaited comeback was RED ROCKS (Ire) (Galileo [Ire]). Now back in the care of Meehan, the 2006 Turf (G1) hero may enter Breeders' Cup calculations once again.
Our next edition will recap all of the Arc weekend action, as well as the Champion.
COMMENTARY
SEPTEMBER 27, 2009
The Good Sheppard
by John Mucciolo
When asked to reel off the top trainer or trainers in the United States, the common answers include the likes of Bob Baffert, Todd Pletcher, John Sadler, Steve Asmussen, Richard Mandella et al, and deservedly so, but one name that tends to get overlooked is the genius known as Jonathan Sheppard. Born just outside of Newmarket in England, the 68-year-old conditioner is the son of a British racing official and got the racing bug himself, coming to the United States in his 20s to learn his craft. And learn it he did!
He saddled his first winner in 1966 and hasn't stopped since. In 1973, the Brit led the nation in money won by a steeplechase trainer, and he did so for a startling 18 years in succession, leading his division for every year through 1990. A truly remarkable feat! His mounts have banked more than $11 million in steeplechase events, more than twice the number of his nearest foe. It was in 1990 that Sheppard was deservedly enshrined into Thoroughbred racing's Hall of Fame.
After dominating the steeplechase ranks, Sheppard figured to try his hand at flat racing, and the quick study picked up right where he left off. In 1985, he conditioned the legendary Storm Cat to a top freshman campaign that included a Grade 1 win and a runner-up finish in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile (G1) at Aqueduct. A subsequent injury the following year forced the retirement of the promising, well-bred juvenile, and it was Sheppard's unquestionable genius that helped pave the way for Overbrook Farm owner W.T. Young to make the greatest move in his storied racing career -- standing Storm Cat at stud at his Lexington, Kentucky, farm rather than selling him.
"Back then, Mr. Young sold his horses rather than breed them," Sheppard said. "No one could have envisioned how great a sire Storm Cat would turn out to be, but my wife and I thought he had great potential at stud and we urged Mr. Young to keep him."
Another example of how the expert horseman has gotten the best out of one of his animals is the rapid ascension of champion Forever Together (Belong to Me). As many know, the classy gray was not always the easiest of fillies to work with, but Sheppard worked his magic once again. The quirky filly had issues with not sweating, so Sheppard started feeding her Guinness Beer because he said it helps to promote perspiration -- an added bonus is that she likes the taste and therefore never leaves an oat of her feed. Brilliant! The high-maintenance miss was also a handful in her training -- it was reported that she actually would stop in her tracks while galloping -- so Sheppard made an adjustment and transferred her to the green. The turf star has arguably been the top performer in her division for the past two seasons.
After Sheppard took over the training of Canadian Grade 1 victor Cloudy's Knight (Lord Avie) and brought him back from a one-year layoff to easily win the Kentucky Cup Turf S. (G3) on September 19, jockey Rosemary Homeister explained how the nine-year-old gelding accomplished the task: "(Sheppard) is the king of the turf."
One of only two conditioners to train a champion over jumps and on the flat, Sheppard has been on a huge roll over the past two years and holds a strong hand heading toward the 26th edition of the Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships at Santa Anita in early November. Multiple Grade 1 queen Informed Decision (Monarchos) is the best one-turn synthetic female in training not named Ventura (Chester House) and will be among the favorites in the Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Sprint (G1). Forever Together has come up short on a few occasions in 2009, but she's a model of consistency and excellence and her presence will almost definitely be felt as she looks to repeat in the Filly & Mare Turf (G1).
Just As Well (A.P. Indy) was vaulted from second to first in the Northern Dancer S. (Can-G1) on Sunday and is peaking at age five. Runner-up in the Arlington Million (G1) two starts back, Just As Well might be a cut below some of the best turf stayers from abroad, but he rates as one of the best in the United States and could still make a bid at the Breeders' Cup Turf (G1) following the 1 1/2-mile Canadian International (Can-G1) on October 17. Sheppard could have three top threats leading into the Breeders' Cup, quite a feat.
The Good Sheppard is a living legend who has reinvented himself, and he should be given the respect he deserves. There is simply no one better!
PEDIGREE HANDICAPPING
SEPTEMBER 26, 2009
Budding turf sire Eurosilver
by Tim Holland
Bred and raced by Buckram Oak Farm, Eurosilver began his career on the racetrack with Nick Zito and won the Breeders' Futurity (G2) at Keeneland. After capturing his first start as a three-year-old at Gulfstream, Eurosilver narrowly missed winning the Swale S. (G3), but his Triple Crown aspirations were thwarted by physical problems and the dark bay colt did not reappear until the fall of that year with new trainer Carl Nafzger.
Eurosilver's finest performance came in the Stephen Foster H. (G1) when he finished second to that year's Horse of the Year, Saint Liam, with the consistent Grade 1 performer Perfect Drift back in third. However, Eurosilver made just one subsequent start, an unplaced effort in the Whitney H. (G1), before being retired to Dromoland Farm in Kentucky.
Although he did not get the opportunity to race on grass, Eurosilver had the potential to succeed as a turf runner. Indeed, sire Unbridled's Song gets turf influences from being out of a mare by Caro (Ire), who has sired major grass winners such as With Approval, Cozzene and Golden Pheasant, and Unbridled's Song is responsible for Grade 1 turf winners Thorn Song and Magnificent Song. However, Eurosilver gets more turf influence from his dam, Russian Tango (Nijinsky II). The Unbridled's Song/ Nijinsky match has produced only four other foals, of which two were minor winners, but the Unbridled/Nijinsky nick has produced the stakes-winning Tap Your Heels and Broken Vow, who counts the 2001 Philip Iselin H. (G2) among his five stakes victories. Like Eurosilver, Broken Vow did not race on grass but, while best known as a sire of dirt runners, he has done well with his performers on the grass, winning at a 12 percent rate, including recent With Anticipation S. (G3) victor Interactif.
From his first crop of 123 two-year-olds, Eurosilver has been represented by 37 starters, with seven winners. His first winner was the Herbert Miller-trained Judas, who broke his maiden in his fifth attempt at Calder over 4 1/2 furlongs on July 24. A week later, Sterling Outlook garnered a maiden special weight event at Del Mar. A $270,000 yearling purchase trained by Peter Miller, Sterling Outlook followed this wire-to-wire win with a solid fourth in the Del Mar Futurity (G1).
Huasteco and Unclerichpeanuts were Eurosilver's next two scorers, and then came the sire's first turf winner, Shimmering Forest at Ellis Park. After showing promise in his first two starts, including a close third over 5 1/2 grassy furlongs, Shimmering Forest showed speed from the start and went on to win by a length when stretching out to a mile.
While Eurosilver's first four winners all needed a few starts to find the winner's circle, Crossfirehurricane bucked this trend when she proved ready to win first time out over 5 1/2 furlongs on the grass at Saratoga on September 3. Despite being trained by Ronny Werner, who is known for his success with first-time starters, the bay filly was sent off at 42-1.
Eurosilver's third consecutive winner on the grass came on September 20 when Avy Baby stalked the pace before drawing away to 4 3/4-length decision in a 1 1/16-mile affair at Arlington. Having shown very little in three starts while sprinting on the Polytrack, Avy Baby's form improved significantly when switching to the turf and stretching out in distance.
To-date, Eurosilver's runners have three wins from just eight turf starts, and several others, including Grand Strategy and Green Bananas, have shown promise in their debuts on the dirt. Paying attention to his offspring when trying the grass looks like an angle worth following.
WINNING AND LOSING STREAKS
AUGUST 26, 2009
by the Wizard
In Thoroughbred racing, every level of handicapper has encountered winning and losing streaks from time to time. Absolutely no one is immune to this phenomenon, and we are forced to deal with them on a consistent basis. These streaks come and go without the slightest bit of warning; making them even more difficult to recognize. Having said that, it is how we handle these highs and lows which greatly impact our bottom line that needs to be addressed.
For example, my Pick of the Day sheet has been absolutely on fire recently. The Pick of the Day has won an incredible 70 percent of late, winning seven of its last 10 races. While I would like to flatter myself and rationalize that it is my superior expertise as a handicapper, I know that at this time, things are just neatly falling into place. How am I able to identify this? Well, past experience tells me that this is a game of cycles. At this time, I seem to be spiraling onward and upward, and I plan to enjoy the ride for however long it lasts. During this streak, I was fortunate enough to select D' Funnybone (D'Wildcat) in Race 9 last Thursday at Saratoga, the Sanford S. (G2) for two-year-olds. My write-up for D' Funnybone on the Pick of the Day sheet for last Thursday appeared as follows:
(6) D' FUNNYBONE -- Makes that all important move into the care of trainer Richard Dutrow who has been a wizard over the years with new acquisitions, scoring with over 30 percent in their first start and, amazingly, many times at good prices. This 2yo colt doesn't have to improve much, if at all, off two solid starts in Florida which prompted a private purchase by Paul Pompa Jr. of Big Brown fame after his July 11 race. Son of D'Wildcat hadn't run in nearly 2 months in latest start but ran a colt by the name of Jackson Bend (Hear No Evil) right down to the wire. That rival returned to win another stakes at Calder in his next outing and further flattered this game performance. Talented colt has shown he can rate and will utilize that ability in this spot under Dutrow's main man, Edgar Prado. Should offer a square price in a competitive field.
Not only did D' Funnybone win, but he paid $10.20! Also "keyed" a $44 exacta given out on the sheet. There have been times in the past when I have selected a similar type of runner as the Pick of the Day, or as a Crystal Ball selection (BEST BET) for that matter, and I was happy to get 2-1 odds. These types of occurrences are part of the winning streak as well, getting more than you hoped for. Can there be a downside to such a winning streak? Absolutely. During my run of Pick of the Day winners, I have selected TOP winners of 20 of the last 40 races at Saratoga, some of which were Crystal Ball selections that had the added bonus of being of Pick of the Day selection as well. When handicappers enjoy such great success for a sustained period of time, they have a tendency to wager more than they normally would, experiencing an invincibility of sorts during this timeframe.
Increasing your wagers by a substantial margin, leaving your "comfort zone" so to speak, can be disastrous. After a couple of losing bets, you might want to bet even more, looking for wagers that aren’t there. Before you know it, you have blown your profits, and you are now attempting to recoup that lost money. When riding high, you should remain even keel, increasing your wagers marginally, if at all. Also, when you are winning, handicappers have a tendency to get a bit lazy, take shortcuts in their handicapping and/or bet races where they lack a firm opinion as "ego" comes into play. It happens to us all. This type of behavior is just as bad as betting slow horses, both will evaporate your bankroll in a hurry.
Thus far, we have only talked about a winning streak. If you are ill-equipped to handle a losing streak; no matter how long or pronounced; you are in trouble. Period. We all have a tendency to press after a series of losing bets. This is not the time to increase your bet as this will certainly lead you down the path to going broke. During this time, you must continue to work hard and probably be more disciplined than ever as you struggle. If the streak persists, perhaps you may want to cut back a little and pass more races. Also, you might want to revisit some races where you picked the winner, or you feel you handicapped the race well but did not win. There is nothing like positive reinforcement to help you out of this hole you are in. This pertains to everyday life as well.
I have been "on a roll" at my home track of late, Saratoga. My experience in this game, which spans decades, tells me it will not last forever. Why? Who knows? Maybe when the racing shifts to Belmont I will cool off a bit. Or, it could be that it is just the natural order of things that my high-level of success will begin to wane at some juncture. Whatever the culprit is, I know that I continue to do things in the same manner, perhaps working even more diligently every day to handicap winners. I will go on with what has worked for me in the past, and/or look to see what adjustments might be necessary to move forward.
Let's face it, nobody can avoid these "streaks." Maybe that is not the proper term to use, as it could be inferred that luck is present in some way, shape, or form during this time. One thing I am quite sure about is this, a structured handicapping routine, prudent bankroll management and extreme patience will help thru the lean times. Don't get too high when you're winning or too low when you're losing. I know it's easier said than done. But, the winners do the things the losers won't!
Horses to Watch
Ok. So you have a Horses to Watch list. Now what? These types of lists can get you into trouble if you are not careful. Just because you happen to have a Horse to Watch that is running, it is not an automatic play. So, how do we avoid the pitfalls that come with such a list?
First of all, make sure that you are extremely selective about placing any horse on the list. If a horse gets into trouble, and it was there for the entire world to see, he will probably be overbet the next time he runs. Subtle trouble and or an observation work best and will be the most beneficial for you.
I have developed a little checklist for you for things to look for with runners on a Horse to Watch list.
Recency -- I like to see a horse run back within 45 days. You can use your own guideline here.
Surface -- Is the horse returning on the same surface? If not, has he/she handled today's track/surface in the past?
Distance -- Has the horse won at today's distance in the past, or at least within an eighth of mile of it, especially if returning off a short layoff.
Form -- How does the horse stack up against today's competition? Is our runner in over his head? If the horse needs the lead, can he/she get it? Is there is other speed in the race and how much will our runner be compromised?
Finally, and this maybe the most significant aspect of all, make sure that you are getting "fair odds." If you handicapped the race the day before like I usually do, set a fair odds-line, and make sure you get it. For instance; if I think the horse should be 5-2 or more and he/she is sitting on the board at even-money, it's a passeroo! Following the lemmings is not the way go. Handicappers who take the road less traveled eventually yield the benefit. If not immediately, than later on.
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AQUEDUCT NOTEBOOK
FEBRUARY 5, 2010
by Albie Johnson
Time for a bit of a recap of action around here beginning on January 20 and ending on Sunday, with several days of the annual winter break sandwiched in-between.
The Paumonock S., which for many years was the opening day feature in the spring following the end of racing in December, was contested on Saturday, January 23. The six-panel sprint attracted a half-dozen runners, headed by Driven By Success (Precise End) and WALL STREET WONDER (City Place). As with many of the races over the past two weeks, this one was over at the start when Wall Street Wonder out-broke his main rival, quickly established the rail, and after putting away a mild bid halfway through the turn was able to coast home by 8 1/2 lengths over Mt. Glittermore (Orientate), who had a length on Shoptate (Orientate) while "Success" checked home fifth while not under much pressure in the last furlong.
Winning colt was stakes-placed on the West Coast synthetic tracks while in the Bob Baffert barn and was winning his second in a row since coming east and joining up with trainer J.P. Terranova.
Fast forwarding to last Saturday, five older fillies and mares went to the post in the Correction S. And, as with the Paumonock, there was little drama involved as the heavy favorite and lone speed HOLD THAT PROSPECT (Hold That Tiger) broke running and was allowed to set pedestrian fractions :23.58 and :46.73. After that, it was only a question of how much she would win by. The answer was 7 1/2 lengths with a three-horse-photo for the place going to Heaven's Voice (Lion Hearted), who had a nose on Fascinatin' Rhythm (More Than Ready) with What Time It Is (Partner's Hero) another head back in fourth.
Trainer Gary Gullo, who had a solid year on this circuit in '09, saddled the winning mare and Jorge Chavez, who only had to make sure she had a clean break, was the winning rider.
As a note concerning this card, racing was cancelled right after the running of the Correction due to intense cold.
The following day, the last one in January, the Coyote Lakes S., a 13-furlong marathon run exactly a month after the Gallant Fox S., was held. The distance was the same as the Gallant Fox and so was the result, with a pair of Todd Pletcher-trained runners , TIGER'S ROCK (Giant's Causeway) and Nite Light (Thunder Gulch), reporting home 1-2 as they did a month earlier. As in the previous race, Nite Light turned into the stretch with the lead but was unable to hold off his younger rival.
Winning colt is very lightly raced and is now two for two on conventional dirt. Believe that they'll send him elsewhere (Gulfstream?) just to see how he'll fare against some better quality stock.
Track Conditions
Fast on all eight days of racing with a pronounced inside bias on Friday the 29th through Sunday the 31st, with that day's inside advantage the strongest of the whole meet.
HORSES TO WATCH
Wednesday(1/20)
4TH -- RAZZLEMEDAZZLEME (French Envoy) sprinted to the lead from her outside post but was unable to hold off a filly from the Kiaran McLaughlin barn that was dropping down from a maiden special. Next time at this $35-$25K tag.
8TH -- The lightly raced REREADTHEFOOTNOTES (Read the Footnotes) proved one again that when "right" he's capable of a very big effort. Gelding has his share of woes by witness of his many layoff lines, but he sprinted clear early from his inside post and increased his margin at every pole to report home by six lengths in this first-level allowance. May try a stakes sometime soon.
9TH -- Making only his second start since July 2008, HEAVENLY PURSUIT (Read the Footnotes) had a very wide trip and did well to finish a close-up third with a strong late rally. Would seem on the verge of winning soon.
Thursday (1/21)
6TH -- Making his first start vs. winners, THOUSAND EXCUSES (Millennium Wind) had no choice but to swing five or six paths wide late through the final turn before flattening out in the last eighth. An inside post, like he had in his maiden win in his previous start, may be all he needs
Friday (1/22)
2ND -- Making a belated debut, WICKED DIVA (Jump Start) trailed early and put in a strong late rally to finish secod. Heavily bet in this spot, the $125,000 sales yearling shouldn't be long in breaking her maiden.
8TH -- Racing first off a Tim Hills claim and first start outside of Florida, CRUZIN WITH CASH (Langfuhr) put in a strong late rally in this starter-allowance to finish second, beaten just under a length. Nice initial effort on this surface.
Saturday (1/23)
2ND -- Making his career debut, DUKE OF NAPLES (Empire Maker) bid while three-wide before finishing a distant third to a much-the-best top pair who were involved in a virtual "match race." State-bred colt was a $210,000 Keeneland sales yearling and was debuting for a trainer (Bruce Levine) who likes to "give them one." Look for major improvement next out.
Sunday (1/24)
7TH -- Favored in this first-level allowance for state-bred fillies and mares, PRETTY COZY (Broken Vow) was bumped and forced to check at the break and did well to finish fourth. Large filly may enjoy going two turns in her future.
Sunday (1/31)
4TH -- AWESOME BULL (Holy Bull) impressed in her maiden win in this spot. She quickly sprinted clear despite a stumbling break and was never asked to do much other than keep a straight course as she reported home by seven lengths. State-bred may go right into a stakes off of this effort.
Upcoming stakes
No graded events are scheduled until March, but we'll continue to report on any and all races that we deem of interest.
Have a nice week!
FAIR GROUNDS NOTEBOOK
FEBRUARY 5, 2010
by Frank Cotolo
Another 40 races are in the books for 2010 at Fair Grounds, with resounding public success wagering on the main course. Only one day was interrupted by foul weather when on Friday the track had to be sealed from Race 4 to the end of the nine-race card. But it was the beginning of a week where favorites were identified at the highest rate of any recorded week in our notebooks this meet.
The mostly fast surface produced 45-percent winners for the public. Involved in many of those finishes were close second choices. In other words, chalk ruled the week and choked a lot of bettors swinging for the fences.
On the first day of the racing week, when six races coped with the sealed track, five on the program still went to public choices. By Saturday, all was "fast" again, as well as the public was smart, adding six choices to the week. There were four on Sunday and the week ended on Monday with three.
On the surface
Though the "best" horses were winning an impressive clip all week, 51 percent of the overall winners came from off the pace to get their victories. Not all of them showed up late from out of the clouds, but they were far enough back at one point of call to not be stalkers.
Winners close to the pace won at a 30-percent race and wire-to-wire winners only grabbed 19 percent of the wins. Some might attribute the "sloppy" intervention early in the week to demoting speed as an important element ,but a lack of firm surprise winners is a better indication that the playing field was quite level.
There were only three turf races during the week, all of Monday, and they showed no sign of bias.
Trainers
The top names dominated the four-day race week. Steve Asmussen continued his barrage of winners, adding another five to his ledger. Bret Calhoun came close with four winners and Tom Amoss had three.
Doubling were Wesley Hawley, Edward Johnston and Michelle Lovell. We saw another winner from ex-jock Ray Sibille last week.
HORSES TO WATCH
Friday (1/29)
5TH -- STRIKE HAPPY (Service Strike) showed speed and led to the half at 21-1, which is a good sign for improving, especially holding well against a closer's track.
8TH -- HANDS ON (Friendly Lover) got into a duel to the three-eighths in the afternoon's early slop.
Saturday (1/30)
1ST -- BAKUBAH (Cactus Ridge) won a heavy duel midway while on the outside, took the lead and wound up fourth at 12-1.
4TH -- WHEELING WINI (Johanesburg), a first-time starter for David Carroll, closed well with promising strides.
10TH -- LIL RICK'S GAL (Macabe) had a messy trip with altered paths.
Sunday (1/31)
3RD -- INCALZANDO (Giant's Causeway) is a bet back from this win, taking it while wide to start getting command and drawing off against claimers.
7TH -- HEY MY BABY (Malibu Wesley) dueled with a 14-1 shot, put that one away, and had speed into the stretch at 18-1.
Monday (2/1)
1ST -- JAVA HONEY (Deputy Diamond) shot from a slow start to the lead, won a duel near the drive to lead and was beaten late to hold second.
4TH -- CERTIFIEDNBONEFIED (Twilight Agenda) challenged three wide three times during the event, impressive mini-battles for a 32-1 shot.
SANTA ANITA NOTEBOOK
FEBRUARY 4, 2010
By John Mucciolo
A trio of Sunshine Millions events were held on Saturday, while a Grade 1 affair closed out the week at Santa Anita on Sunday.
Santa Monica H. (G1): Arnold Zetcher's homebred GABBY'S GOLDEN GAL (Medaglia d'Oro) took command in midstretch and held off a pair of fine runners to post a convincing 1 1/4-legnth tally in this affair. Martin Garcia guided the Bob Baffert-trained four-year-old home in a swift 1:21 1/5 for seven-eighths.
Sunshine Millions Wrap: Congrats to Filly & Mare Sprint heroine QUISISANA (Decarchy), Filly & Mare Turf queen TIGHT PRECISION (Pure Precision) and Classic star BOLD CHIEFTAIN (Chief Seattle) in the events held at Santa Anita.
Track Stats
From a total of 44 races held over the Arcadia, California, racetrack during the week, favorites won at a 30 percent clip and the top two betting choices combined for 57 percent of the wins. From 30 frays contested on the Pro-Ride oval, three animals won in wire-to-wire fashion (10 percent), while two of the 14 grassy tussles went all the way on the lead (14 percent).
Just one of the 24 races held on the Pro-Ride from Thursday through Sunday resulted in a wire-to-wire winner. The main track played fairly quickly over the weekend, while outside posts were a strong presence during the course of the five-day racing week.
Both of the turf wire jobs were accomplished in down-the-hill sprints.
Meet Totals
| RACES: | 217 | |
| PRO-RIDE: | 157 | |
| TURF: | 60 | |
| FAVORITES: | 70 (32 percent) | |
| 2ND CHOICES: | 54 (25 percent) | |
| TURF WIRE: | 12 (20 percent) | |
| PRO-RIDE WIRE: | 20 (13 percent) |
Post Positions (wins):
| RAIL: | 24 | |
| 1-3: | 85 | |
| 4-6: | 77 | |
| 7-out: | 55 |
HORSES TO WATCH
Thursday (1/28)
2ND -- WARREN'S MOON (Broadway Moon) just missed in a fine debut showing for trainer Jorge Gutierrez, and we expect the sophomore filly to graduate in the very near future if she faces similar.
3RD -- DANI REESE (High Demand) rebounded from a poor showing in the La Brea S. (G1) to run third in this turf sprint for Dan Hendricks, and we'll tab the miss for a victory on her return to the main oval.
Friday (1/29)
4TH -- LIFE BY R R (Domestic Dispute) came back on short rest to soundly defeat this field for Doug O'Neill, proving further that the filly is a solid threat every time out with similar competition as to what she faced on this day. The co-highweight drilled six panels in a quality 1:08 2/5.
6TH -- Florida import FOLK DANCER (Forest Camp) ran down a clear leader to win this in a smart West Coast debut for trainer Vladimir Cerin. The filly did benefit from carrying a feathery 114 pounds in this dash, but still, she might be a player with a class rise next out.
7TH -- We feel that ANDINA (Ire) (Singspiel [Ire]) will be a big player in the three-year-old filly ranks this campaign following another fine closing performance for conditioner Ben Cecil. We would not be afraid to back this miss on the synthetic oval.
Saturday (1/30)
4TH -- We're not certain how we missed GATO GO WIN (City Place) at a healthy 7-1 in this compact field, and we won't overlook the colt in his subsequent outing. Racing for the initial time as a four-year-old, the colt screamed three-quarters in a sizzling 1:07 3/5 for Robert Troeger.
7TH -- Tight Precision was a fairly easy winner of this one for trainer Tom Proctor, defeating a solid group beneath Joel Rosario. The mare has a lot of potential and has never been better.
Sunday (1/31)
7TH -- The Mike Mitchell-trained MANHATTAN BEACH (Ire) (Captain Rio) made a successful return to the races following her layoff since Del Mar, putting a useful field away late under Garrett Gomez. The five-year-old could improve in her next affair.
8TH -- PROVISO (GB) (Dansili [GB]) should improve with a little more ground, and the Juddmonte homebred should be a major force in the graded ranks throughout the spring after a smart runner-up effort in this one.
DIAMONDRELLA (GB) (Rock of Gibraltar [Ire]) needs to get out of Southern California after another poor showing. The classy mare has gone south and needs a return to cozier confines to bring back her best form.
A Look Ahead
A huge weekend of racing is upon us at Santa Anita, led by a trio of graded stakes on Saturday. The $250,000 Las Virgenes S. (G1), $200,000 Strub S. (G2) and the $150,000 Robert B. Lewis S. (G2) kick off the weekend, while the $150,000 San Antonio H. (G2) is the Sunday headliner.