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NYRA releases list of banned, permitted items at Belmont Stakes

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) has revised its security policies and procedures for the 145th running of the Belmont Stakes on June 8.

The changes, a result of heightened public security concerns in recent weeks, were developed in concert with federal, state and local law enforcement officials, as well as racing and security officials in Kentucky and Maryland.

"The security of our fans, employees and athletes is paramount," said Sidney Anthony, NYRA's vice president of security. "Some of these policies are new for 2013, while others will be familiar from previous years.

"We encourage everyone to read the information carefully to minimize inconvenience and help us ensure a fun and safe Belmont Stakes Day experience for all."

All who enter Belmont Park on June 8 will be subject to an electronic wand search at admission gates as well as at employee, vendor and media entrances. All items carried into the track are subject to search by NYRA security and law enforcement partners. Searches could occur outside or inside the track's admission gates. Prohibited items confiscated during the screening process will not be held for retrieval. Tailgating is prohibited on Belmont Park grounds. Ice will be sold on the premises at minimal cost.

Below are detailed lists of banned and permitted items for Belmont Stakes Day. Changes from existing policy are denoted by bold type.

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NYRA releases list of banned, permitted items at Belmont Stakes

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) has revised its security policies and procedures for the 145th running of the Belmont Stakes on June 8.

The changes, a result of heightened public security concerns in recent weeks, were developed in concert with federal, state and local law enforcement officials, as well as racing and security officials in Kentucky and Maryland.

"The security of our fans, employees and athletes is paramount," said Sidney Anthony, NYRA's vice president of security. "Some of these policies are new for 2013, while others will be familiar from previous years.

"We encourage everyone to read the information carefully to minimize inconvenience and help us ensure a fun and safe Belmont Stakes Day experience for all."

All who enter Belmont Park on June 8 will be subject to an electronic wand search at admission gates as well as at employee, vendor and media entrances. All items carried into the track are subject to search by NYRA security and law enforcement partners. Searches could occur outside or inside the track's admission gates. Prohibited items confiscated during the screening process will not be held for retrieval. Tailgating is prohibited on Belmont Park grounds. Ice will be sold on the premises at minimal cost.

Below are detailed lists of banned and permitted items for Belmont Stakes Day. Changes from existing policy are denoted by bold type.

Bet Horseracing Free Online at TwinSpires.com

Enhanced security measures announced for Belmont Stakes

The New York State Gaming Commission and The New York Racing Association (NYRA) on Tuesday announced enhanced security measures for horses competing in the June 8 Belmont Stakes.

Horses competing in the $1 million purse race will be subject to out-of-competition blood testing for banned substances, be required to be on Belmont Park's grounds by June 5 and be subject to 24-hour monitoring at their trainers' own barns and stalls on the grounds. The Gaming Commission is also requiring the submission of veterinary records for three days leading up to the race, which will be published on the Commission's Web site starting June 5.

"With these measures, the public will once again be reassured that New York's horse racing is run with the utmost integrity and consciousness of safety for the horse and the rider," said Robert Williams, Acting Executive Director of the New York State Gaming Commission. "These actions will enhance an already even playing field, give bettors peace of mind and underscore New York's commitment to the best horse racing in the country."

"I applaud the Gaming Commission's efforts to ensure the integrity of New York's biggest horse race," said David J. Skorton, Chairman of the New York Racing Association Reorganization Board. "We are dedicated to providing a safe environment for all our horses, and these additional measures are sensible and effective steps that will lead to a better race for all."

"These steps will ensure that Belmont Park's signature race is conducted in the fairest, most transparent manner possible, while allowing horsemen to keep their Belmont Stakes horses within their customary surroundings," said Glen Kozak, Vice President of Facilities and Racing Surfaces at NYRA and a member of the NYRA interim management team. "We thank the New York State Gaming Commission for its assistance in establishing these important protocols."

The Gaming Commission has mandated the following protocols and steps for the horses participating in the June 8 Belmont Stakes:

The Commission and NYRA will provide educational materials on the protocols to horsepersons, connections, veterinarians, security and all appropriate parties prior to and on June 5 at Belmont Park.

Bet Horseracing Free Online at TwinSpires.com

Enhanced security measures announced for Belmont Stakes

The New York State Gaming Commission and The New York Racing Association (NYRA) on Tuesday announced enhanced security measures for horses competing in the June 8 Belmont Stakes.

Horses competing in the $1 million purse race will be subject to out-of-competition blood testing for banned substances, be required to be on Belmont Park's grounds by June 5 and be subject to 24-hour monitoring at their trainers' own barns and stalls on the grounds. The Gaming Commission is also requiring the submission of veterinary records for three days leading up to the race, which will be published on the Commission's Web site starting June 5.

"With these measures, the public will once again be reassured that New York's horse racing is run with the utmost integrity and consciousness of safety for the horse and the rider," said Robert Williams, Acting Executive Director of the New York State Gaming Commission. "These actions will enhance an already even playing field, give bettors peace of mind and underscore New York's commitment to the best horse racing in the country."

"I applaud the Gaming Commission's efforts to ensure the integrity of New York's biggest horse race," said David J. Skorton, Chairman of the New York Racing Association Reorganization Board. "We are dedicated to providing a safe environment for all our horses, and these additional measures are sensible and effective steps that will lead to a better race for all."

"These steps will ensure that Belmont Park's signature race is conducted in the fairest, most transparent manner possible, while allowing horsemen to keep their Belmont Stakes horses within their customary surroundings," said Glen Kozak, Vice President of Facilities and Racing Surfaces at NYRA and a member of the NYRA interim management team. "We thank the New York State Gaming Commission for its assistance in establishing these important protocols."

The Gaming Commission has mandated the following protocols and steps for the horses participating in the June 8 Belmont Stakes:

The Commission and NYRA will provide educational materials on the protocols to horsepersons, connections, veterinarians, security and all appropriate parties prior to and on June 5 at Belmont Park.

Bet Horseracing Free Online at TwinSpires.com

Palace Malice will keep Smith, shed blinkers for Belmont

Palace Malice will try to win the Belmont trophy that eluded his sire, Curlin (Jessie Holmes/EquiSport Photos) Dogwood Stable President Cot Campbell confirmed Monday afternoon that Mike Smith will retain the mount aboard Palace Malice in the June 8 Belmont Stakes. The Hall of Famer first rode the colt in the May 4 Kentucky Derby, where the Todd Pletcher trainee overreacted to first-time blinkers, set a frenetic pace, and faded to 12th on the sloppy track. Palace Malice will keep his rider, but lose the headgear, for the 1 1/2-mile Belmont. "The decision is based on the outcome of the Preakness," Campbell said in a statement, "and the fact that on Sunday at Belmont Park our horse worked a very snappy half in :47.2, indicating good energy and enthusiasm. "The blinkers that jazzed him up in the Kentucky Derby come off and we anticipate no problem with pace or distance. He always rated kindly in previous races, and he will be in good hands with Mike Smith. "We are keen to give him another chance -- his trainer Todd Pletcher included," Campbell noted.

"Who knows which horse will relish a mile and a half; but his pedigree and his disposition -- sans blinkers -- would give Palace Malice as good a shot as any of them."

Palace Malice had just missed in the Grade 1 Blue Grass Stakes prior to the Derby. Earlier this season, he was a close third in the Grade 2 Risen Star at Fair Grounds, edging eventual Preakness upsetter Oxbow.

Palace Malice is from the first crop of two-time Horse of the Year Curlin, who was outdueled by the filly Rags to Riches in the 2007 Belmont.

Pletcher will field several other Belmont runners, including Louisiana Derby hero and Kentucky Derby third-placer Revolutionary and Arkansas Derby winner Overanalyze, who was 11th in the Run for the Roses.

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Palace Malice will keep Smith, shed blinkers for Belmont

Palace Malice will try to win the Belmont trophy that eluded his sire, Curlin (Jessie Holmes/EquiSport Photos) Dogwood Stable President Cot Campbell confirmed Monday afternoon that Mike Smith will retain the mount aboard Palace Malice in the June 8 Belmont Stakes. The Hall of Famer first rode the colt in the May 4 Kentucky Derby, where the Todd Pletcher trainee overreacted to first-time blinkers, set a frenetic pace, and faded to 12th on the sloppy track. Palace Malice will keep his rider, but lose the headgear, for the 1 1/2-mile Belmont. "The decision is based on the outcome of the Preakness," Campbell said in a statement, "and the fact that on Sunday at Belmont Park our horse worked a very snappy half in :47.2, indicating good energy and enthusiasm. "The blinkers that jazzed him up in the Kentucky Derby come off and we anticipate no problem with pace or distance. He always rated kindly in previous races, and he will be in good hands with Mike Smith. "We are keen to give him another chance -- his trainer Todd Pletcher included," Campbell noted.

"Who knows which horse will relish a mile and a half; but his pedigree and his disposition -- sans blinkers -- would give Palace Malice as good a shot as any of them."

Palace Malice had just missed in the Grade 1 Blue Grass Stakes prior to the Derby. Earlier this season, he was a close third in the Grade 2 Risen Star at Fair Grounds, edging eventual Preakness upsetter Oxbow.

Palace Malice is from the first crop of two-time Horse of the Year Curlin, who was outdueled by the filly Rags to Riches in the 2007 Belmont.

Pletcher will field several other Belmont runners, including Louisiana Derby hero and Kentucky Derby third-placer Revolutionary and Arkansas Derby winner Overanalyze, who was 11th in the Run for the Roses.

Bet Horseracing Free Online at TwinSpires.com

Encke among latest positive tests for al Zarooni; bin Suroor trainees all clear

Encke, led by Mahmood al Zarooni (right), tested negative both before and after his St Leger victory (Courtesy of Doncaster Racecourse via Facebook) Following the April 25 Disciplinary Panel inquiry into the administration of anabolic steroids by Mahmood al Zarooni, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) confirmed that it would be conducting tests on all Godolphin-owned horses in training in Newmarket, including those at Moulton Paddocks (the yard formerly licensed to al Zarooni) as well as horses trained by Saeed bin Suroor.  Between April 29 and May 2, blood samples were taken from 391 horses and sent for analysis at HFL Sport Science. The BHA has now received written confirmation from the laboratory that analysis of the samples from horses based at Moulton Paddocks identified seven further positive tests for stanozolol, an anabolic steroid and therefore a prohibited substance under the Rules of Racing. All of the horses under the care and control of Saeed bin Suroor tested negative. The names of the seven horses based at Moulton Paddocks are: Encke, who famously thwarted Camelot's quest for the English Triple Crown in the St Leger last September. The BHA revealed that he was subjected to post-race tests after his third in the August 22 Great Voltigeur at York and again at Doncaster after the St Leger, and both came up negative. Energizer, winner of the Tercentenary at Royal Ascot when trained by Jens Hirschberger in Germany. He was sixth in the Great Voltigeur in his only outing for al Zarooni. Genius Beast, a full brother to Encke, who has not raced since finishing eighth in the 2011 St Leger. Improvisation, who just broke his maiden at Newmarket on April 17 but was not selected for post-race testing at that time. Stamford, a twice-raced maiden who has been off since September. Steeler, who has yet to race since joining al Zarooni. For his original trainer Mark Johnston, he captured the September 29 Royal Lodge and finished third in the October 27 Racing Post Trophy. Zip Top, unraced since his runner-up effort to Camelot in the 2011 Racing Post Trophy, his finale for Jim Bolger.

Godolphin and, via his solicitors, al Zarooni have been informed of the test results. Both Godolphin and al Zarooni have also been notified that they have the option within the Rules to ask that the relevant samples be subjected to B sample analysis. Both parties have until May 23 to confirm if they wish to take up this option.

In line with the restrictions imposed on the 15 horses identified as having been administered anabolic steroids in the initial investigation, and subject to confirmation should the B samples be sent for counter-analysis, the seven horses will be suspended from running in Britain for a period of six months from the date the samples were taken. As such the above horses would not be permitted to resume racing until October 29, 2013. Any of these horses may be subjected to further sampling, as directed by the BHA, prior to them resuming racing.

The BHA has also notified Godolphin that the application for bin Suroor to take charge of Moulton Paddocks will now be processed. Under the Rules of Racing, horses must be in the care of a licensed trainer for 14 days before they are permitted to run. 

Following the eight-year disqualification awarded by the Disciplinary Panel, al Zarooni lodged an appeal against the severity of the penalty. No date has been set for the Appeal Board hearing as yet but the BHA can confirm that it will not take place until the final week in June, at the earliest.

"We will not be taking any separate action in respect of these additional positive results whilst Mr. al Zarooni's appeal process is ongoing," said Adam Brickell, director of Integrity, Legal and Risk for the BHA.

"In the meantime, the latest findings from HFL Sport Science will form the subject of further interviews as part of the BHA's continuing investigation. From the outset, one of the aims of the investigation, in addition to trying to understand the environment within which such serious breaches came to be committed, has been to identify what measures are needed to ensure the yard operates in accordance with the Rules in future. The findings will be shared with Godolphin and will also assist the BHA with regard to the future licensing of the yard."

BHA Chief Executive Paul Bittar also commented on the developments.

"These test results endorse the swift action and measures taken by the BHA in this matter," Bittar said. "Whatever the outcome of his appeal before the independent Appeal Board, the gravity and scale of the infringements warranted Mahmood al Zarooni being removed from control of the yard as quickly as possible.

"We welcome the news that Saeed bin Suroor's horses tested negative and this clears the way for him to now take charge of Moulton Paddocks."

Godolphin issued a statement from racing manager Simon Crisford on the stable's website.

"It is obviously very disappointing that seven further horses have tested positive for stanozolol," Crisford said.

"These results highlight why H.H. Sheikh Mohammed took the decision to lock down the stables at Moulton Paddocks until every Godolphin horse in training at Newmarket had been tested.

"All of Saeed bin Suroor's horses have tested clear and we are working with the BHA to put everything back in order at Moulton Paddocks."

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Encke among latest positive tests for al Zarooni; bin Suroor trainees all clear

Encke, led by Mahmood al Zarooni (right), tested negative both before and after his St Leger victory (Courtesy of Doncaster Racecourse via Facebook) Following the April 25 Disciplinary Panel inquiry into the administration of anabolic steroids by Mahmood al Zarooni, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) confirmed that it would be conducting tests on all Godolphin-owned horses in training in Newmarket, including those at Moulton Paddocks (the yard formerly licensed to al Zarooni) as well as horses trained by Saeed bin Suroor.  Between April 29 and May 2, blood samples were taken from 391 horses and sent for analysis at HFL Sport Science. The BHA has now received written confirmation from the laboratory that analysis of the samples from horses based at Moulton Paddocks identified seven further positive tests for stanozolol, an anabolic steroid and therefore a prohibited substance under the Rules of Racing. All of the horses under the care and control of Saeed bin Suroor tested negative. The names of the seven horses based at Moulton Paddocks are: Encke, who famously thwarted Camelot's quest for the English Triple Crown in the St Leger last September. The BHA revealed that he was subjected to post-race tests after his third in the August 22 Great Voltigeur at York and again at Doncaster after the St Leger, and both came up negative. Energizer, winner of the Tercentenary at Royal Ascot when trained by Jens Hirschberger in Germany. He was sixth in the Great Voltigeur in his only outing for al Zarooni. Genius Beast, a full brother to Encke, who has not raced since finishing eighth in the 2011 St Leger. Improvisation, who just broke his maiden at Newmarket on April 17 but was not selected for post-race testing at that time. Stamford, a twice-raced maiden who has been off since September. Steeler, who has yet to race since joining al Zarooni. For his original trainer Mark Johnston, he captured the September 29 Royal Lodge and finished third in the October 27 Racing Post Trophy. Zip Top, unraced since his runner-up effort to Camelot in the 2011 Racing Post Trophy, his finale for Jim Bolger.

Godolphin and, via his solicitors, al Zarooni have been informed of the test results. Both Godolphin and al Zarooni have also been notified that they have the option within the Rules to ask that the relevant samples be subjected to B sample analysis. Both parties have until May 23 to confirm if they wish to take up this option.

In line with the restrictions imposed on the 15 horses identified as having been administered anabolic steroids in the initial investigation, and subject to confirmation should the B samples be sent for counter-analysis, the seven horses will be suspended from running in Britain for a period of six months from the date the samples were taken. As such the above horses would not be permitted to resume racing until October 29, 2013. Any of these horses may be subjected to further sampling, as directed by the BHA, prior to them resuming racing.

The BHA has also notified Godolphin that the application for bin Suroor to take charge of Moulton Paddocks will now be processed. Under the Rules of Racing, horses must be in the care of a licensed trainer for 14 days before they are permitted to run. 

Following the eight-year disqualification awarded by the Disciplinary Panel, al Zarooni lodged an appeal against the severity of the penalty. No date has been set for the Appeal Board hearing as yet but the BHA can confirm that it will not take place until the final week in June, at the earliest.

"We will not be taking any separate action in respect of these additional positive results whilst Mr. al Zarooni's appeal process is ongoing," said Adam Brickell, director of Integrity, Legal and Risk for the BHA.

"In the meantime, the latest findings from HFL Sport Science will form the subject of further interviews as part of the BHA's continuing investigation. From the outset, one of the aims of the investigation, in addition to trying to understand the environment within which such serious breaches came to be committed, has been to identify what measures are needed to ensure the yard operates in accordance with the Rules in future. The findings will be shared with Godolphin and will also assist the BHA with regard to the future licensing of the yard."

BHA Chief Executive Paul Bittar also commented on the developments.

"These test results endorse the swift action and measures taken by the BHA in this matter," Bittar said. "Whatever the outcome of his appeal before the independent Appeal Board, the gravity and scale of the infringements warranted Mahmood al Zarooni being removed from control of the yard as quickly as possible.

"We welcome the news that Saeed bin Suroor's horses tested negative and this clears the way for him to now take charge of Moulton Paddocks."

Godolphin issued a statement from racing manager Simon Crisford on the stable's website.

"It is obviously very disappointing that seven further horses have tested positive for stanozolol," Crisford said.

"These results highlight why H.H. Sheikh Mohammed took the decision to lock down the stables at Moulton Paddocks until every Godolphin horse in training at Newmarket had been tested.

"All of Saeed bin Suroor's horses have tested clear and we are working with the BHA to put everything back in order at Moulton Paddocks."

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In brief

Saturday's Preakness Stakes on NBC had 9.7 million viewers, up 13 percent from 2012. According to data from The Nielsen Company, the telecast from 5:50 to 6:39 p.m. (EDT) drew a 5.9 rating and a 14 share, compared to 5.2 and 13 last year. The share measures the percentage of televisions in use at the time that were tuned to the broadcast. The 5.9 rating was the fourth highest since 1990 and the best since Rachel Alexandra captured the 2009 Preakness. NBC's Kentucky Derby coverage also increased 8 percent this year with 16.2 million viewers...

A visitation and service will be held Thursday for Kenny Noe Jr. at Fred Hunter's Hollywood Memorial Garden Home in Hollywood, Florida. Mr. Noe, former president and general manager at Calder and president, CEO and chairman of The New York Racing Association (NYRA), passed away Sunday at the age of 84. Thursday's visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. (EDT) at Fred Hunter's Hollywood Memorial Garden Home, 6301 Taft Street in Hollywood. A funeral service will also be Thursday at 7 p.m. Tom LaPointe will officiate. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be sent to Thoroughbred After-Care Program at Gulfstream Park. For further instructions pertaining to donations please contact david.joseph@gulfstreampark.com or (954) 658-7156. Known as "The Chief," Kenny Noe was known throughout the Thoroughbred industry and held various job positions for over 50 years. He served as racing secretary and steward in New York during the 1970s and held that position at a number of major venues in the East and Midwest, including Hialeah Park, Arlington Park and Washington Park. A past director of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, Mr. Noe was also a director of the Thoroughbred Racing Association, the Thoroughbred Racing Protective Bureau, and the Miami Heart Institute. Mr. Noe's son, Jeffrey, is racing secretary at Gulfstream Park...

Olympic Glory (Choisir) will miss Saturday's Irish Two Thousand Guineas (Ire-G1) at The Curragh after connections felt the classic would come too soon. Unplaced in the Poule d'Essai des Poulains (Fr-G1) at Longchamp May 12, last year's Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere (Fr-G1) winner will be given a break. "There are only 12 days between the two classics and we have decided that Olympic Glory needs a bit more time," trainer Richard Hannon said. "He could never get into a rhythm from that draw at Longchamp and (jockey Richard Hughes) looked after him, but he still had to travel to France and back and it takes a lot out of a horse." Hannon did confirm that Havana Gold (Teofilo), who was fifth at Longchamp, will take his place in the line-up on Saturday. "Havana Gold, who was also drawn wide, ran a stormer to finish fifth in France, beaten less than a length, but he has recovered much quicker so he will definitely travel to Ireland," he added. "It's a shame Olympic Glory can't go, but he'll be back sooner rather than later and we are still strong in Ireland with two solid chances. Van Der Neer (Dutch Art) will relish the stiff finish at the Curragh and he has come out of Newmarket great."...

Trainer Dermot Weld is hoping for rain for Big Break (Dansili) ahead of Sunday's Irish One Thousand Guineas (Ire-G1) at The Curragh. Not seen since registering a first pattern-race success in Leopardstown's Killavullan Stakes (Ire-G3) over seven furlongs in October, Khalid Abdullah's homebred was one of 18 fillies left in the classic at Tuesday's six-day stage. "She's a lovely filly and very talented," Weld commented. "She's very like her brother, Famous Name, who won 21 races for me, in that she likes give in the ground. If we get a little bit of rain later in the week she'll be very hard to beat in the Irish Guineas and if we don't, I'd be worried." Dubaya (Dubawi), who finished sixth in the Killavullan, was the only supplementary for the race Tuesday and she was a latest sixth in the May 6 Athasi Stakes (Ire-G3) over seven furlongs at the track on her sophomore bow. Chief among the protagonists is One Thousand Guineas (Eng-G1) runner-up Just the Judge (Lawman) and Moth (Galileo), who was 1 1/2 lengths farther back at Newmarket and who was one of four Aidan O'Brien-trained entries remaining Tuesday alongside Guineas fifth Snow Queen (Danehill Dancer)...

Frankie Dettori will have to wait longer to return to the saddle after the Racing Post revealed that France Galop are requesting a B sample following the finding of irregularities in a recent test. The Italian's expected comeback from his six-month ban at Leicester on Monday had already been shelved and the French authorities will await the outcome of the latest finding before granting the all-clear...

The 2nd Annual Old Friends at the Oheka Castle fundraising event will take place June 5 at the famed hotel in Huntington, New York. The evening is a benefit for Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Center with locations in Georgetown, Kentucky, and Greenfield Center, New York. The gala will take place from 6-10 p.m. (EDT) at the historic Gold Coast mansion located at 135 West Gate Drive in Huntington. Tickets are $250 and tables of 10 are available for $2,000. Reservations can be made by calling Old Friends at (502) 863-1775. Guests will enjoy an open bar, a small-plate buffet, and lavish dessert tables from Oheka's Executive Chef Christopher Cappello and Executive Pastry Chef Daniel Andreotti. In addition, Frank Sinatra tribute artist Patrick Tobin will provide live entertainment. There will also be live and silent auctions of select racing memorabilia and fine artwork, including an exclusive painting of 2009 Horse of the Year Rachel Alexandra done by famed equestrian artist Leland Neff. Expected guests include jockeys Rosie Napravnik, Julien Leparoux, and Edgar Prado, who piloted Old Friends retiree Sarava to victory in the 2002 Belmont Stakes. Sarava's owners Gary and Kitty Drake are also on the guest list as is hockey star Sean Avery, whose namesake Thoroughbred is one of Old Friends's newest residents, and trainer John Shirreffs and Dottie Ingordo-Shirreffs, who is the racing manager for Thoroughbred owners Jerry and Ann Moss. The highlight of the benefit will be the presentation of the "Frankel Award," named in honor of late New York-based Thoroughbred trainer Bobby Frankel and given to an individual or organization in the racing industry that best exemplifies the mission of Old Friends. This year's recipient will be the industry trade Daily Racing Form, which supported the retirement farm this year by producing a special-edition collectible magazine featuring profiles of many of the farms most famous retirees. Old Friends founder and president Michael Blowen will make the presentation. "We're extremely grateful to Daily Racing Form for their support of all the retirees at Old Friends," Blowen said. "The magazine they published in 2013 is a great testimony to our athletes, and it's done more to showcase the great sport of horse racing than anything else." For additional information about Old Friends or to make reservations for the event call the farm at (502) 863-1775 or visit the website at www.oldfriendsequine.org...

Declan's Warrior (Majestic Warrior), the once-beaten colt who narrowly prevailed in last month's Bay Shore (G3), will break outside four rivals in Wednesday's $85,000 Gygistar for three-year-olds at Belmont Park, a potential seven-furlong prep for the Woody Stephens (G2) on June 8. The late-closing Declan's Warrior was aided by a fast pace in the Bay Shore, which he won by a head, but might find himself at a disadvantage here given the lack of early speed on paper. Happy My Way (Wilko), up the track in the April 27 Big Drama at Calder after failing to make the lead, had shown more early foot in his prior two starts and could be the one to catch. Second choice on the morning line is Battier (Tale of the Cat), first or second in all six starts and recent winner of the restricted Fit to Fight at Aqueduct. Stepping back up in class is the multiple stakes-placed Tenango (Lion Heart), who comes off a 12 3/4-length romp versus starter allowance/optional claiming foes...

Csaba (Kitten's Joy) tops a field of 10 entered in Saturday's $75,000 Memorial at Calder. The four-year-old colt reeled off consecutive wins this winter in the Tropical Park Derby, Fred Hooper (G3), Harlan's Holiday and Hal's Hope (G3) before finishing fifth in the Donn Handicap (G1) and has been freshened 105 days in advance of this assignment by trainer Phil Gleaves. Manoel Cruz picks up the mount. Rule Number Six (Repent) and Megamove (High Cotton), the two respective finishers from the May 5 Sumter at Calder, will both return in this spot and Grade 2 winner Eldaafer (A.P. Indy) figures to appreciate the class relief following a fifth in the Grade 3 Skip Away last out. Other contestants include Isutalkintome (Flashy Bull), Ducduc (Langfuhr) and Flatter This (Flatter)...

Winning Image (Southern Image), last seen posting a comfortable score in the Willa on the Move at Laurel Park in mid-December, will make a title defense in Saturday's $75,000 My Juliet at Parx Racing. A four-time stakes heroine, the Michael Aro-trained mare will make her 2013 debut against five rivals and has been listed as the 8-5 favorite on the morning line for the six-furlong test. Regular rider Jose Caraballo will be up. Ruffian (G2) winner Withgreatpleasure (Hold That Tiger) is scheduled to wheel back a week later after finishing third in the Vagrancy (G2) and Villette (Petionville) will step up to face graded rivals following an easy triumph in the April 13 Foxy JG at Parx over state-bred foes. Stakes winners Appealing Stella (Closing Argument) and Ms. Cruisen' (Candy Ride) are also entered..

The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) would like to remind eligible aftercare facilities that applications for accreditation must be submitted by June 1 to be eligible for consideration for grants in 2013 and 2014. To be considered for accreditation, organizations must complete a detailed application process and careful onsite examinations by TAA inspectors and independent veterinarians. Facilities eligible to apply for TAA accreditation include those conforming to the following four broad standards: 1) Possess 501 (c)(3) tax exempt status; 2) Have been operational for at least three years; 3) Care for a resident population of at least five horses, with at least half the horses being Thoroughbreds; and 4) Follow a euthanasia policy consistent with that of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP). The complete TAA Code of Standards for aftercare facilities and the accreditation application are available at http://www.thoroughbredaftercare.org/. The TAA announced on May 1 that it had accredited its first three Thoroughbred aftercare facilities: Florida Thoroughbred Retirement and Adoptive Care in Palm City, Florida.; New Vocations in Marysville, Ohio; and Southern California Thoroughbred Rescue in Norco, California. The three facilities are now eligible to receive financial support from the TAA for the ongoing care of retired Thoroughbreds.

In brief

Saturday's Preakness Stakes on NBC had 9.7 million viewers, up 13 percent from 2012. According to data from The Nielsen Company, the telecast from 5:50 to 6:39 p.m. (EDT) drew a 5.9 rating and a 14 share, compared to 5.2 and 13 last year. The share measures the percentage of televisions in use at the time that were tuned to the broadcast. The 5.9 rating was the fourth highest since 1990 and the best since Rachel Alexandra captured the 2009 Preakness. NBC's Kentucky Derby coverage also increased 8 percent this year with 16.2 million viewers...

A visitation and service will be held Thursday for Kenny Noe Jr. at Fred Hunter's Hollywood Memorial Garden Home in Hollywood, Florida. Mr. Noe, former president and general manager at Calder and president, CEO and chairman of The New York Racing Association (NYRA), passed away Sunday at the age of 84. Thursday's visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. (EDT) at Fred Hunter's Hollywood Memorial Garden Home, 6301 Taft Street in Hollywood. A funeral service will also be Thursday at 7 p.m. Tom LaPointe will officiate. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be sent to Thoroughbred After-Care Program at Gulfstream Park. For further instructions pertaining to donations please contact david.joseph@gulfstreampark.com or (954) 658-7156. Known as "The Chief," Kenny Noe was known throughout the Thoroughbred industry and held various job positions for over 50 years. He served as racing secretary and steward in New York during the 1970s and held that position at a number of major venues in the East and Midwest, including Hialeah Park, Arlington Park and Washington Park. A past director of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, Mr. Noe was also a director of the Thoroughbred Racing Association, the Thoroughbred Racing Protective Bureau, and the Miami Heart Institute. Mr. Noe's son, Jeffrey, is racing secretary at Gulfstream Park...

Olympic Glory (Choisir) will miss Saturday's Irish Two Thousand Guineas (Ire-G1) at The Curragh after connections felt the classic would come too soon. Unplaced in the Poule d'Essai des Poulains (Fr-G1) at Longchamp May 12, last year's Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere (Fr-G1) winner will be given a break. "There are only 12 days between the two classics and we have decided that Olympic Glory needs a bit more time," trainer Richard Hannon said. "He could never get into a rhythm from that draw at Longchamp and (jockey Richard Hughes) looked after him, but he still had to travel to France and back and it takes a lot out of a horse." Hannon did confirm that Havana Gold (Teofilo), who was fifth at Longchamp, will take his place in the line-up on Saturday. "Havana Gold, who was also drawn wide, ran a stormer to finish fifth in France, beaten less than a length, but he has recovered much quicker so he will definitely travel to Ireland," he added. "It's a shame Olympic Glory can't go, but he'll be back sooner rather than later and we are still strong in Ireland with two solid chances. Van Der Neer (Dutch Art) will relish the stiff finish at the Curragh and he has come out of Newmarket great."...

Trainer Dermot Weld is hoping for rain for Big Break (Dansili) ahead of Sunday's Irish One Thousand Guineas (Ire-G1) at The Curragh. Not seen since registering a first pattern-race success in Leopardstown's Killavullan Stakes (Ire-G3) over seven furlongs in October, Khalid Abdullah's homebred was one of 18 fillies left in the classic at Tuesday's six-day stage. "She's a lovely filly and very talented," Weld commented. "She's very like her brother, Famous Name, who won 21 races for me, in that she likes give in the ground. If we get a little bit of rain later in the week she'll be very hard to beat in the Irish Guineas and if we don't, I'd be worried." Dubaya (Dubawi), who finished sixth in the Killavullan, was the only supplementary for the race Tuesday and she was a latest sixth in the May 6 Athasi Stakes (Ire-G3) over seven furlongs at the track on her sophomore bow. Chief among the protagonists is One Thousand Guineas (Eng-G1) runner-up Just the Judge (Lawman) and Moth (Galileo), who was 1 1/2 lengths farther back at Newmarket and who was one of four Aidan O'Brien-trained entries remaining Tuesday alongside Guineas fifth Snow Queen (Danehill Dancer)...

Frankie Dettori will have to wait longer to return to the saddle after the Racing Post revealed that France Galop are requesting a B sample following the finding of irregularities in a recent test. The Italian's expected comeback from his six-month ban at Leicester on Monday had already been shelved and the French authorities will await the outcome of the latest finding before granting the all-clear...

The 2nd Annual Old Friends at the Oheka Castle fundraising event will take place June 5 at the famed hotel in Huntington, New York. The evening is a benefit for Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Center with locations in Georgetown, Kentucky, and Greenfield Center, New York. The gala will take place from 6-10 p.m. (EDT) at the historic Gold Coast mansion located at 135 West Gate Drive in Huntington. Tickets are $250 and tables of 10 are available for $2,000. Reservations can be made by calling Old Friends at (502) 863-1775. Guests will enjoy an open bar, a small-plate buffet, and lavish dessert tables from Oheka's Executive Chef Christopher Cappello and Executive Pastry Chef Daniel Andreotti. In addition, Frank Sinatra tribute artist Patrick Tobin will provide live entertainment. There will also be live and silent auctions of select racing memorabilia and fine artwork, including an exclusive painting of 2009 Horse of the Year Rachel Alexandra done by famed equestrian artist Leland Neff. Expected guests include jockeys Rosie Napravnik, Julien Leparoux, and Edgar Prado, who piloted Old Friends retiree Sarava to victory in the 2002 Belmont Stakes. Sarava's owners Gary and Kitty Drake are also on the guest list as is hockey star Sean Avery, whose namesake Thoroughbred is one of Old Friends's newest residents, and trainer John Shirreffs and Dottie Ingordo-Shirreffs, who is the racing manager for Thoroughbred owners Jerry and Ann Moss. The highlight of the benefit will be the presentation of the "Frankel Award," named in honor of late New York-based Thoroughbred trainer Bobby Frankel and given to an individual or organization in the racing industry that best exemplifies the mission of Old Friends. This year's recipient will be the industry trade Daily Racing Form, which supported the retirement farm this year by producing a special-edition collectible magazine featuring profiles of many of the farms most famous retirees. Old Friends founder and president Michael Blowen will make the presentation. "We're extremely grateful to Daily Racing Form for their support of all the retirees at Old Friends," Blowen said. "The magazine they published in 2013 is a great testimony to our athletes, and it's done more to showcase the great sport of horse racing than anything else." For additional information about Old Friends or to make reservations for the event call the farm at (502) 863-1775 or visit the website at www.oldfriendsequine.org...

Declan's Warrior (Majestic Warrior), the once-beaten colt who narrowly prevailed in last month's Bay Shore (G3), will break outside four rivals in Wednesday's $85,000 Gygistar for three-year-olds at Belmont Park, a potential seven-furlong prep for the Woody Stephens (G2) on June 8. The late-closing Declan's Warrior was aided by a fast pace in the Bay Shore, which he won by a head, but might find himself at a disadvantage here given the lack of early speed on paper. Happy My Way (Wilko), up the track in the April 27 Big Drama at Calder after failing to make the lead, had shown more early foot in his prior two starts and could be the one to catch. Second choice on the morning line is Battier (Tale of the Cat), first or second in all six starts and recent winner of the restricted Fit to Fight at Aqueduct. Stepping back up in class is the multiple stakes-placed Tenango (Lion Heart), who comes off a 12 3/4-length romp versus starter allowance/optional claiming foes...

Csaba (Kitten's Joy) tops a field of 10 entered in Saturday's $75,000 Memorial at Calder. The four-year-old colt reeled off consecutive wins this winter in the Tropical Park Derby, Fred Hooper (G3), Harlan's Holiday and Hal's Hope (G3) before finishing fifth in the Donn Handicap (G1) and has been freshened 105 days in advance of this assignment by trainer Phil Gleaves. Manoel Cruz picks up the mount. Rule Number Six (Repent) and Megamove (High Cotton), the two respective finishers from the May 5 Sumter at Calder, will both return in this spot and Grade 2 winner Eldaafer (A.P. Indy) figures to appreciate the class relief following a fifth in the Grade 3 Skip Away last out. Other contestants include Isutalkintome (Flashy Bull), Ducduc (Langfuhr) and Flatter This (Flatter)...

Winning Image (Southern Image), last seen posting a comfortable score in the Willa on the Move at Laurel Park in mid-December, will make a title defense in Saturday's $75,000 My Juliet at Parx Racing. A four-time stakes heroine, the Michael Aro-trained mare will make her 2013 debut against five rivals and has been listed as the 8-5 favorite on the morning line for the six-furlong test. Regular rider Jose Caraballo will be up. Ruffian (G2) winner Withgreatpleasure (Hold That Tiger) is scheduled to wheel back a week later after finishing third in the Vagrancy (G2) and Villette (Petionville) will step up to face graded rivals following an easy triumph in the April 13 Foxy JG at Parx over state-bred foes. Stakes winners Appealing Stella (Closing Argument) and Ms. Cruisen' (Candy Ride) are also entered..

The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) would like to remind eligible aftercare facilities that applications for accreditation must be submitted by June 1 to be eligible for consideration for grants in 2013 and 2014. To be considered for accreditation, organizations must complete a detailed application process and careful onsite examinations by TAA inspectors and independent veterinarians. Facilities eligible to apply for TAA accreditation include those conforming to the following four broad standards: 1) Possess 501 (c)(3) tax exempt status; 2) Have been operational for at least three years; 3) Care for a resident population of at least five horses, with at least half the horses being Thoroughbreds; and 4) Follow a euthanasia policy consistent with that of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP). The complete TAA Code of Standards for aftercare facilities and the accreditation application are available at http://www.thoroughbredaftercare.org/. The TAA announced on May 1 that it had accredited its first three Thoroughbred aftercare facilities: Florida Thoroughbred Retirement and Adoptive Care in Palm City, Florida.; New Vocations in Marysville, Ohio; and Southern California Thoroughbred Rescue in Norco, California. The three facilities are now eligible to receive financial support from the TAA for the ongoing care of retired Thoroughbreds.

On the New York worktab

Multiple Grade 1 star Flat Out (Flatter), who maintained his undefeated record at Belmont Park with a narrow win in the Westchester (G3) last time, sped a half-mile in a bullet :48 1/5 Tuesday at Saratoga's Oklahoma training track.

Bourbonette Oaks (G3) winner Silsita (Macho Uno), the trailer in the Kentucky Oaks (G1), went in :49.

Multiple Grade 2 winner Kauai Katie (Malibu Moon), winner of the Road Princess, Forward Gal (G2) and Old Hat (G3) this term, went five furlongs in 1:01 1/5 over the fast training track at Belmont Park. The Acorn (G1) on Memorial Day is likely next.

Gulfstream Park Handicap (G2) winner Discreet Dancer (Discreet Cat), third in the Carter Handicap (G1) last time, completed a half-mile in :48 4/5. The Metropolitan Handicap (G1) on Memorial Day might be next.

Cross Traffic (Unbridled's Song), a head second in the Westchester after winning his first two starts, worked in the same time. He's another Metropolitan candidate.

Grade 2 winner Disposablepleasure (Giacomo), winner of the Sixty Sails Handicap (G3) last month, toured in the same time.

Multiple Grade 2 winner Mr. Commons (Artie Schiller), third in the Maker's 46 Mile (G1) most recently, strolled five furlongs in 1:02.

Hutcheson (G2) winner Honorable Dillon (Tapit), an allowance scorer earlier this month, completed a half-mile in :48 2/5.

Grade 3-placed multiple stakes winner Dealbata (Dubawi), ninth in Endeavour (G3) in her seasonal bow in early February, exercised in :48 1/5.

Grade 1-placed stakes victor Rattlesnake Bridge (Tapit), a distant third in the Westchester, finished in :48 2/5.

Grade 3-placed stakes winner West Hills Giant (Giant Frost), up the track in the Blue Grass (G1), completed five furlongs in 1:00 2/5.

Grade 1 veteran Hymn Book (Arch), elevated to second in the Alysheba (G2) last time, traveled a half-mile in :49 3/5 on the fast main track.

Multiple Grade 2 winner Twilight Eclipse (Purim), hero of the Pan American (G2) last time, was clocked in 1:01 4/5 for five furlongs.

Multiple Grade 2 winner Air Support (Smart Strike), fourth against allowance foes last time, breezed four panels in :49 2/5.

Grade 2 winner Handsome Mike (Scat Daddy), fourth in the Churchill Downs (G2), zipped in :47 4/5 in advance of the Met Mile.

Suncoast winner Manuka Honey (Borrego) ripped four furlongs in :48. The Acorn probable exits a second in the Fantasy (G3).

Stakes winner Discreet Marq (Discreet Cat), a neck second in the Sweetest Chant when last seen in January, was clocked in 1:02 3/5.

King's Bishop (G1) hero Willy Beamin (Suave), last seen finishing fifth in the Fall Highweight Handicap (G3) last November, breezed five furlongs in 1:01 4/5 on the fast main track at Aqueduct.

On the New York worktab

Multiple Grade 1 star Flat Out (Flatter), who maintained his undefeated record at Belmont Park with a narrow win in the Westchester (G3) last time, sped a half-mile in a bullet :48 1/5 Tuesday at Saratoga's Oklahoma training track.

Bourbonette Oaks (G3) winner Silsita (Macho Uno), the trailer in the Kentucky Oaks (G1), went in :49.

Multiple Grade 2 winner Kauai Katie (Malibu Moon), winner of the Road Princess, Forward Gal (G2) and Old Hat (G3) this term, went five furlongs in 1:01 1/5 over the fast training track at Belmont Park. The Acorn (G1) on Memorial Day is likely next.

Gulfstream Park Handicap (G2) winner Discreet Dancer (Discreet Cat), third in the Carter Handicap (G1) last time, completed a half-mile in :48 4/5. The Metropolitan Handicap (G1) on Memorial Day might be next.

Cross Traffic (Unbridled's Song), a head second in the Westchester after winning his first two starts, worked in the same time. He's another Metropolitan candidate.

Grade 2 winner Disposablepleasure (Giacomo), winner of the Sixty Sails Handicap (G3) last month, toured in the same time.

Multiple Grade 2 winner Mr. Commons (Artie Schiller), third in the Maker's 46 Mile (G1) most recently, strolled five furlongs in 1:02.

Hutcheson (G2) winner Honorable Dillon (Tapit), an allowance scorer earlier this month, completed a half-mile in :48 2/5.

Grade 3-placed multiple stakes winner Dealbata (Dubawi), ninth in Endeavour (G3) in her seasonal bow in early February, exercised in :48 1/5.

Grade 1-placed stakes victor Rattlesnake Bridge (Tapit), a distant third in the Westchester, finished in :48 2/5.

Grade 3-placed stakes winner West Hills Giant (Giant Frost), up the track in the Blue Grass (G1), completed five furlongs in 1:00 2/5.

Grade 1 veteran Hymn Book (Arch), elevated to second in the Alysheba (G2) last time, traveled a half-mile in :49 3/5 on the fast main track.

Multiple Grade 2 winner Twilight Eclipse (Purim), hero of the Pan American (G2) last time, was clocked in 1:01 4/5 for five furlongs.

Multiple Grade 2 winner Air Support (Smart Strike), fourth against allowance foes last time, breezed four panels in :49 2/5.

Grade 2 winner Handsome Mike (Scat Daddy), fourth in the Churchill Downs (G2), zipped in :47 4/5 in advance of the Met Mile.

Suncoast winner Manuka Honey (Borrego) ripped four furlongs in :48. The Acorn probable exits a second in the Fantasy (G3).

Stakes winner Discreet Marq (Discreet Cat), a neck second in the Sweetest Chant when last seen in January, was clocked in 1:02 3/5.

King's Bishop (G1) hero Willy Beamin (Suave), last seen finishing fifth in the Fall Highweight Handicap (G3) last November, breezed five furlongs in 1:01 4/5 on the fast main track at Aqueduct.

On the Kentucky worktab

Grade 1 winner So Many Ways (Sightseeing), heroine of the Eight Belles (G3) most recently, breezed four furlongs in :49 1/5 over the fast main track at Churchill Downs on Tuesday.

Grade 3 winner Unbridled's Note (Unbridled's Song), up the track in the Churchill Downs (G2) earlier this month, went five-eighths in 1:02 2/5.

Grade 3 victor Corporate Jungle (Giant's Causeway), unplaced in his final two starts of 2012, worked in 1:01 1/5.

Multiple Grade 3 winner Daddy Nose Best (Scat Daddy), up the track in his allowance comeback April 14, strolled in 1:02.

Grade 3 veteran Sabercat (Bluegrass Cat), a distant third in the Oaklawn Handicap last out (G2), completed four furlongs in :49 4/5.

Grade 3 vixen She's All In (Include), unplaced in her last two, toured in :48.

Jessamine (G3) winner Moonwalk (Malibu Moon), seventh in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf (G1) when last seen in November, breezed five panels in 1:02.

Arkansas Derby (G1) third-placer Carve (First Samurai) covered the same ground in 1:01 2/5.

Grade 1 vixen Karlovy Vary (Dynaformer), fifth in the Churchill Distaff Turf Mile (G2), logged four furlongs in :54 2/5 over the good turf.

Grade 1 victor Power Broker (Pulpit), an allowance winner May 10, traveled in :51 4/5. He is no longer under consideration for the Belmont Stakes.

Grade 2-placed Joinem (Johar), sidelined the past 10 months, strode five furlongs in 1:04 2/5.

Grade 3 winner Middie (Officer), third in the Woodford Reserve Turf Classic (G1) last time, breezed four furlongs in :51 2/5 on the Keeneland Polytrack.

Multiple stakes winner King Henny (Henny Hughes), a nose second in the Golden Circle last time, completed his five-furlong move in 1:04 1/5.

Multiple stakes-winning Louisiana-bred Sunbean (Brahms), unplaced in the Lexington (G3) and Louisiana Derby (G2) in his last two, went in 1:01 3/5 over the fast dirt at Churchill Trackside.

On the Kentucky worktab

Grade 1 winner So Many Ways (Sightseeing), heroine of the Eight Belles (G3) most recently, breezed four furlongs in :49 1/5 over the fast main track at Churchill Downs on Tuesday.

Grade 3 winner Unbridled's Note (Unbridled's Song), up the track in the Churchill Downs (G2) earlier this month, went five-eighths in 1:02 2/5.

Grade 3 victor Corporate Jungle (Giant's Causeway), unplaced in his final two starts of 2012, worked in 1:01 1/5.

Multiple Grade 3 winner Daddy Nose Best (Scat Daddy), up the track in his allowance comeback April 14, strolled in 1:02.

Grade 3 veteran Sabercat (Bluegrass Cat), a distant third in the Oaklawn Handicap last out (G2), completed four furlongs in :49 4/5.

Grade 3 vixen She's All In (Include), unplaced in her last two, toured in :48.

Jessamine (G3) winner Moonwalk (Malibu Moon), seventh in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf (G1) when last seen in November, breezed five panels in 1:02.

Arkansas Derby (G1) third-placer Carve (First Samurai) covered the same ground in 1:01 2/5.

Grade 1 vixen Karlovy Vary (Dynaformer), fifth in the Churchill Distaff Turf Mile (G2), logged four furlongs in :54 2/5 over the good turf.

Grade 1 victor Power Broker (Pulpit), an allowance winner May 10, traveled in :51 4/5. He is no longer under consideration for the Belmont Stakes.

Grade 2-placed Joinem (Johar), sidelined the past 10 months, strode five furlongs in 1:04 2/5.

Grade 3 winner Middie (Officer), third in the Woodford Reserve Turf Classic (G1) last time, breezed four furlongs in :51 2/5 on the Keeneland Polytrack.

Multiple stakes winner King Henny (Henny Hughes), a nose second in the Golden Circle last time, completed his five-furlong move in 1:04 1/5.

Multiple stakes-winning Louisiana-bred Sunbean (Brahms), unplaced in the Lexington (G3) and Louisiana Derby (G2) in his last two, went in 1:01 3/5 over the fast dirt at Churchill Trackside.

On the California worktab

Grade 1 scorer Liaison (Indian Charlie), winner of the Mervyn LeRoy (G2) and Santana Mile in two starts this year, completed six furlongs in 1:13 4/5 over the fast track at Santa Anita on Tuesday.

Breeders' Cup Marathon winner Calidoscopio (Luhuk), fifth as the favorite when making his lone appearance this season in the Tokyo City (G3), toured seven furlongs in 1:30 4/5.

Group 1 winner Kinsale King (Yankee Victor), unraced since September 2011, worked five furlongs in a bullet :59 on the Hollywood Cushion Track.

On the California worktab

Grade 1 scorer Liaison (Indian Charlie), winner of the Mervyn LeRoy (G2) and Santana Mile in two starts this year, completed six furlongs in 1:13 4/5 over the fast track at Santa Anita on Tuesday.

Breeders' Cup Marathon winner Calidoscopio (Luhuk), fifth as the favorite when making his lone appearance this season in the Tokyo City (G3), toured seven furlongs in 1:30 4/5.

Group 1 winner Kinsale King (Yankee Victor), unraced since September 2011, worked five furlongs in a bullet :59 on the Hollywood Cushion Track.

For Wednesday or Next Raceday

NORTH AMERICAN NON-GRADED STAKES RESULTS

NORTH AMERICAN ALLOWANCE RESULTS

BELMONT NOTEBOOK

MAY 23, 2013

by John Mucciolo

A Grade 2 event for fillies and mares sprinting headlined the weekend of racing at Belmont Park.

Vagrancy H. (G2): Laue Ranch's homebred GLORIOUS VIEW (Pleasant Tap) led soon after the start and never looked back in posting her first graded win for trainer Bill Mott. The four-year-old lass, who finished a half-length clear under the line, sped 6 1/2 panels on the fast main oval in 1:15 4/5 beneath Junior Alvarado.

Track Stats

A total of 48 races were held at the Elmont, New York, venue, with favorites winning at a 35 percent rate and the top two betting choices combining for 54 percent of the wins during the week. From 22 races on the main oval, seven animals won in wire-to-wire fashion (32 percent), while two of the 26 races on the lawn were taken all the way on the front (8 percent).

It was surely tough to lead at every call on the lawn this week, with just a pair of wire-to-wire winners. Of those, one came in a sprint on the inner, the other in a sprint on the outer lawn. We did see a lot of grassy winners prompting the pace, as well as a slew of first placers closing from well back.

Though the numbers might not fully back it up, we thought Wednesday and Thursday were good days for speed. Four of the eight dirt races were won in wire-to-wire fashion, while three other winners tracked in second early on.

Meet Totals

HORSES TO WATCH

Wednesday (5/15)

4TH -- The Bill Mott-trained ASSURED (Empire Maker) had no chance with the sharp winner on this occasion, but the first timer offered a nice late run to be a clear second and we surely consider her one to watch going forward. The sophomore hails from a dynamic female family and could be a nice one if this was any indication.

6TH -- STAR CHANNEL (English Channel) was full of run in this 10-furlong race, driving clear to an emphatic score for conditioner Todd Pletcher. The four-year-old colt got away with running for a tag in here, but following this run, we'd imagine he won't be offered anytime soon. His final half-mile was clocked in a solid :47 3/5.

Thursday (5/16)

2ND -- ZIP UP (Ghostzapper) made a mostly sustained run to gamely get second in this debut run for conditioner Shug McGaughey, who is better with horses having a start or two under their belt. We consider the three-year-old filly an obvious one to watch coming back, likely at a trip a bit longer, as well.

7TH -- YES IT'S PINK (Yes It's True) has now bagged two in a row in impressive fashion and could be stakes bound soon for conditioner Christophe Clement. The four-year-old filly was last early but flew home to dust this field in the lane, getting her final quarter-mile in a rapid :22 4/5!

8TH -- The Bruce Brown-trained NIGHT OFFICER (Officer) rallied in a big way in the lane to win this stakes event and beat a very nice field in the process. The five-year-old showed nice early foot and a big late kick, clocking six grassy panels in a wicked 1:07 4/5 in the process.

Friday (5/17)

8TH -- NOTMYFIRSTTIME (Scat Daddy) put in a superb run in his first start since July in winning for conditioner Steve Asmussen. The four-year-old colt dueled on the lead, took a slight lead in early stretch and kept his main foe at bay late in fine allowance tally, reaching the wire in a swift 1:08 2/5. If this one improves throughout the summer, he can be a very useful one-turn runner.

Saturday (5/18)

3RD -- The nine-year-old TEMECULA CREEK (Gulch) showed he has plenty of run left in him with a dominating 8 1/4-length tally for trainer David Jacobson. The old timer was visually impressive in easily going by the early leaders in here and should be tough right back with anything close to this performance. A class rise is likely in his subsequent outing.

Sunday (5/19)

8TH -- COUSIN MICHAEL (Greeley's Galaxy) had no chance to win in here in trying to rally from last on this sloppy, sealed oval, but the Charlton Baker pupil did make a little run and we'll back him on a dry oval at a price next time.

A Look Ahead

Memorial Day is one of the bigger days on the calendar in the Empire State and this Monday will host a fantastic slew of stakes events. The Grade 1, $750,000 Metropolitan Handicap leads the way and will be joined by the Grade 1, $400,000 Ogden Phipps Stakes; the Grade 1, $300,000 Acorn Stakes; and the Grade 2, $200,000 Sands Point Stakes.

Saturday will be headlined by the Grade 2, $200,000 Sheepshead Bay Stakes.

NATIONAL

TOP BRIS CLASS RATINGS

BELMONT NOTEBOOK

MAY 23, 2013

by John Mucciolo

A Grade 2 event for fillies and mares sprinting headlined the weekend of racing at Belmont Park.

Vagrancy H. (G2): Laue Ranch's homebred GLORIOUS VIEW (Pleasant Tap) led soon after the start and never looked back in posting her first graded win for trainer Bill Mott. The four-year-old lass, who finished a half-length clear under the line, sped 6 1/2 panels on the fast main oval in 1:15 4/5 beneath Junior Alvarado.

Track Stats

A total of 48 races were held at the Elmont, New York, venue, with favorites winning at a 35 percent rate and the top two betting choices combining for 54 percent of the wins during the week. From 22 races on the main oval, seven animals won in wire-to-wire fashion (32 percent), while two of the 26 races on the lawn were taken all the way on the front (8 percent).

It was surely tough to lead at every call on the lawn this week, with just a pair of wire-to-wire winners. Of those, one came in a sprint on the inner, the other in a sprint on the outer lawn. We did see a lot of grassy winners prompting the pace, as well as a slew of first placers closing from well back.

Though the numbers might not fully back it up, we thought Wednesday and Thursday were good days for speed. Four of the eight dirt races were won in wire-to-wire fashion, while three other winners tracked in second early on.

Meet Totals

HORSES TO WATCH

Wednesday (5/15)

4TH -- The Bill Mott-trained ASSURED (Empire Maker) had no chance with the sharp winner on this occasion, but the first timer offered a nice late run to be a clear second and we surely consider her one to watch going forward. The sophomore hails from a dynamic female family and could be a nice one if this was any indication.

6TH -- STAR CHANNEL (English Channel) was full of run in this 10-furlong race, driving clear to an emphatic score for conditioner Todd Pletcher. The four-year-old colt got away with running for a tag in here, but following this run, we'd imagine he won't be offered anytime soon. His final half-mile was clocked in a solid :47 3/5.

Thursday (5/16)

2ND -- ZIP UP (Ghostzapper) made a mostly sustained run to gamely get second in this debut run for conditioner Shug McGaughey, who is better with horses having a start or two under their belt. We consider the three-year-old filly an obvious one to watch coming back, likely at a trip a bit longer, as well.

7TH -- YES IT'S PINK (Yes It's True) has now bagged two in a row in impressive fashion and could be stakes bound soon for conditioner Christophe Clement. The four-year-old filly was last early but flew home to dust this field in the lane, getting her final quarter-mile in a rapid :22 4/5!

8TH -- The Bruce Brown-trained NIGHT OFFICER (Officer) rallied in a big way in the lane to win this stakes event and beat a very nice field in the process. The five-year-old showed nice early foot and a big late kick, clocking six grassy panels in a wicked 1:07 4/5 in the process.

Friday (5/17)

8TH -- NOTMYFIRSTTIME (Scat Daddy) put in a superb run in his first start since July in winning for conditioner Steve Asmussen. The four-year-old colt dueled on the lead, took a slight lead in early stretch and kept his main foe at bay late in fine allowance tally, reaching the wire in a swift 1:08 2/5. If this one improves throughout the summer, he can be a very useful one-turn runner.

Saturday (5/18)

3RD -- The nine-year-old TEMECULA CREEK (Gulch) showed he has plenty of run left in him with a dominating 8 1/4-length tally for trainer David Jacobson. The old timer was visually impressive in easily going by the early leaders in here and should be tough right back with anything close to this performance. A class rise is likely in his subsequent outing.

Sunday (5/19)

8TH -- COUSIN MICHAEL (Greeley's Galaxy) had no chance to win in here in trying to rally from last on this sloppy, sealed oval, but the Charlton Baker pupil did make a little run and we'll back him on a dry oval at a price next time.

A Look Ahead

Memorial Day is one of the bigger days on the calendar in the Empire State and this Monday will host a fantastic slew of stakes events. The Grade 1, $750,000 Metropolitan Handicap leads the way and will be joined by the Grade 1, $400,000 Ogden Phipps Stakes; the Grade 1, $300,000 Acorn Stakes; and the Grade 2, $200,000 Sands Point Stakes.

Saturday will be headlined by the Grade 2, $200,000 Sheepshead Bay Stakes.

RACING LEADERS

(through May 20, 2013)

Note: Figures are for North American-based racing

RACING LEADERS

(through May 20, 2013)

Note: Figures are for North American-based racing

NATIONAL

TOP BRIS CLASS RATINGS

AT A GLANCE SCHEDULE

For Wednesday

  *all times Eastern

HANDICAPPER'S EDGE is compiled by Bloodstock Research Information Services. This newsletter may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner. Copyright 2011, Bloodstock Research Information Services. Information as to the races, race results and earnings was obtained from Equibase Company LLC and is utilized herein with the permission of the copyright owner, Equibase Company LLC.

SPOT PLAYS

For Wednesday

HIGHLIGHTS

For Wednesday

*all times Eastern

HANDICAPPER'S EDGE is compiled by Bloodstock Research Information Services. This newsletter may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner. Copyright 2011, Bloodstock Research Information Services. Information as to the races, race results and earnings was obtained from Equibase Company LLC and is utilized herein with the permission of the copyright owner, Equibase Company LLC.

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