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WEDNESDAY, MAY 22, 2013

Racing Headlines

Starformer the one to catch in Sheepshead Bay

Starformer has the advantageous early foot to steal the Sheepshead Bay (Kenny Martin/Adam Coglianese Photography)

Starformer, who stole a pair of graded stakes on the front end last season, might be in a position to do so again when she breaks from post 1 in Saturday's Grade 2, $200,000 Sheepshead Bay at Belmont Park. The 1 3/8-mile test over the Widener turf has attracted a highly competitive field of eight older fillies and mares.

A homebred campaigned by Juddmonte Farms, Starformer won or placed in five of seven outings last season, including wire-to-wire victories in a pair of Grade 3s: the Robert G. Dick Memorial over 1 3/8 miles at Delaware Park, and the Long Island Handicap over 1 1/2 miles at Aqueduct. Although she showed versatility taking the February 16 The Very One at Gulfstream from slightly off the pace, the five-year-old mare should be well positioned to take an early lead here at the hedge in what looks on paper like a paceless affair.

Edgar Prado, who has four wins and a second the last five times he's ridden the Bill Mott trainee, will be reunited with her for the Sheepshead Bay.

Mystical Star, controversially disqualified from third to eighth in last year's Sheepshead Bay after breaking through the gate before the start, seeks to snap a five-race losing skid. The 2012 New York heroine fell a neck short of catching Starformer in the Long Island last November, and fell victim to a slow pace in both the Hillsborough at Tampa Bay Downs and the Doubledogdare at Keeneland in her two outings this year.

Strathnaver has transformed from a low-level handicap performer in Britain to a graded stakes winner since her importation over the winter. Now residing in the barn of Graham Motion, the Oasis Dream filly won at first asking for her new trainer in a Gulfstream allowance, and then overcame a 13-length deficit to win the 1 1/2-mile Bewitch at Keeneland going away by a length as an 18-1 longshot.

Hessonite, the New York-bred mare who turned in an explosive sixteenth-mile burst to claim the Beaugay earlier this month, will attempt to win for the first time beyond nine furlongs. The David Donk-trained daughter of Freud has won five of nine over the Belmont lawn, though the Beaugay was her first ever success against open stakes company.

Three of the top four finishers from the May 1 Owsley, a 1 1/4-mile overnight stakes, return for the Sheepshead Bay. Julie's Love endured a pocket trip before getting out and up by a half-length to post the 6-1 upset of that race, with 29-1 longshot Minakshi second in her U.S. debut. Fourth was Group 3 winner Tannery, who has not placed in this country since a third in the Garden City for three-year-olds last September.

The field is rounded out by Anjaz, a handicap performer in England who was fourth in the Orchid at Gulfstream in her American bow.

Bet Horseracing Free Online at TwinSpires.com

Starformer the one to catch in Sheepshead Bay

Starformer has the advantageous early foot to steal the Sheepshead Bay (Kenny Martin/Adam Coglianese Photography)

Starformer, who stole a pair of graded stakes on the front end last season, might be in a position to do so again when she breaks from post 1 in Saturday's Grade 2, $200,000 Sheepshead Bay at Belmont Park. The 1 3/8-mile test over the Widener turf has attracted a highly competitive field of eight older fillies and mares.

A homebred campaigned by Juddmonte Farms, Starformer won or placed in five of seven outings last season, including wire-to-wire victories in a pair of Grade 3s: the Robert G. Dick Memorial over 1 3/8 miles at Delaware Park, and the Long Island Handicap over 1 1/2 miles at Aqueduct. Although she showed versatility taking the February 16 The Very One at Gulfstream from slightly off the pace, the five-year-old mare should be well positioned to take an early lead here at the hedge in what looks on paper like a paceless affair.

Edgar Prado, who has four wins and a second the last five times he's ridden the Bill Mott trainee, will be reunited with her for the Sheepshead Bay.

Mystical Star, controversially disqualified from third to eighth in last year's Sheepshead Bay after breaking through the gate before the start, seeks to snap a five-race losing skid. The 2012 New York heroine fell a neck short of catching Starformer in the Long Island last November, and fell victim to a slow pace in both the Hillsborough at Tampa Bay Downs and the Doubledogdare at Keeneland in her two outings this year.

Strathnaver has transformed from a low-level handicap performer in Britain to a graded stakes winner since her importation over the winter. Now residing in the barn of Graham Motion, the Oasis Dream filly won at first asking for her new trainer in a Gulfstream allowance, and then overcame a 13-length deficit to win the 1 1/2-mile Bewitch at Keeneland going away by a length as an 18-1 longshot.

Hessonite, the New York-bred mare who turned in an explosive sixteenth-mile burst to claim the Beaugay earlier this month, will attempt to win for the first time beyond nine furlongs. The David Donk-trained daughter of Freud has won five of nine over the Belmont lawn, though the Beaugay was her first ever success against open stakes company.

Three of the top four finishers from the May 1 Owsley, a 1 1/4-mile overnight stakes, return for the Sheepshead Bay. Julie's Love endured a pocket trip before getting out and up by a half-length to post the 6-1 upset of that race, with 29-1 longshot Minakshi second in her U.S. debut. Fourth was Group 3 winner Tannery, who has not placed in this country since a third in the Garden City for three-year-olds last September.

The field is rounded out by Anjaz, a handicap performer in England who was fourth in the Orchid at Gulfstream in her American bow.

Bet Horseracing Free Online at TwinSpires.com

Arlington kicks off 2013 stakes season with a Grade 3 smorgasbord

General Election will take on 11 fellow sophomores while trying turf for the first time in the Arlington Classic (Pat Lang Photography)

A trio of Grade 3 races on Saturday will not only kick off the Memorial Day holiday weekend at Arlington Park, but will also serve as the curtain raisers on the track's 25-event, $5.5 million stakes slate. Two of Saturday's main events will be run on the Polytrack while the third will be contested over Arlington's grass course.

The lone turf race in the stakes troika is the $150,000 Arlington Classic for three-year-olds at 1 1/16 miles. The race, which serves as the first leg of Arlington's Mid-America Triple, drew a full field of 12, including Admiral Kitten, second in the Grade 2 American Turf at Churchill Downs on Kentucky Oaks Day. The Mike Maker-trained Kitten's Joy colt has never finished worse than second in three turf starts and will have Mike Smith aboard.

Among those slated to face Admiral Kitten in the Arlington Classic is Fordubai, runner-up in the Grade 3 Illinois Derby last month. The Greg Geier-trained son of E Dubai broke his maiden last fall in his only try on turf, and gets a jockey switch to Kent Desormeaux for Saturday's return to the green.

Stakes winners Brown Almighty, General Election and Procurement have also been entered in the Arlington Classic. The former, a Big Brown colt trained by Tim Ice, broke his maiden over this course last summer before shipping south to annex the Sunny's Halo at Louisiana Downs. Eddie Castro will be in the irons for the first time Saturday.

General Election will be making his turf debut for trainer Kellyn Gorder in the Arlington Classic. The Harlan's Holiday bay captured the John Battaglia Memorial on Turfway Park's Polytrack in early March and keeps the services of jockey Joe Rocco Jr., who guided General Election to a runner-up placing in the Grade 3 Lexington over Keeneland's Polytrack last out in April.

Procurement invades from Santa Anita Park for trainer Tom Proctor. The bay son of Milwaukee Brew won the La Puente over that track's turf course on April 21 beneath Garrett Gomez, who has been aboard Procurement in his last four starts and gets the return call.

Trainer Danny Peitz could have a live longshot in the Arlington Classic in Yorkshire Icon, an English-bred recent acquisition who is exiting an impressive May 4 allowance win on the Arlington turf.

"We were pleasantly surprised. He settled out the back and ran right by them like a horse who could be useful," Peitz said of the small bay son of Sixties Icon. "We don't know what's going to be in (the Arlington Classic), but we are taking a shot here."

Yorkshire Icon comes from a European female family flush with endurance influences and intense closing speed. This often also means that he may appreciate a little bit of cut in the ground -- which proved true when he won his allowance on yielding ground and his maiden in England over soft going.

"It wouldn't bother us if we get a little bit rain. He proved the other day that he likes it. And, he seems like he's come out well and is moving forward -- he seems very happy," Peitz said.

Coming from 16 lengths behind a dawdling pace of 1:15.17 for the first six furlongs, Yorkshire Icon, despite being on the petite side, made massive strides down the stretch to easily best the field by a little over a length -- making up six lengths in the last quarter and rewarding his backers at a nice 28-1.

"I'm hoping he runs well enough to keep running in the (Mid-America Triple)," Peitz added. "He will probably get better as the races get longer."

Nates Mineshaft returns to action following an 11-month layoff (Amanda Hodges Weir/Hodges Photography)

One race prior to the Arlington Classic, the $150,000 Hanshin Cup at a mile over Polytrack attracted 10 older horses topped by Nates Mineshaft. The six-year-old ridgling son of Mineshaft has not raced since finishing third in the Grade 1 Stephen Foster Handicap at Churchill Downs last June, but prior to that had won the Grade 2 New Orleans Handicap, Grade 3 Lone Star Park Handicap and Grade 3 Mineshaft Handicap.

Relatively lightly raced, Nates Mineshaft was a respectable third to Grade 1 Santa Anita Handicap winner Ron the Greek and eventual Horse of the Year Wise Dan in the Foster to become Grade 1-placed. Since then, he was entered in last fall's Hawthorne Gold Cup (G2), but was withdrawn and given additional rest until now.

"We have been waiting a long time to run him. He was never injured, he just had time off, and he's fit and happy right now," explained trainer Anne Smith from her Arlington barn. "The timing of the race is perfect. We want to see if, at age six, he still wants to be competitive. We'll know more about where he is after the race.

"He's training like we're doing the right thing by entering. He doesn't seem to train super fast, but he definitely is fast in his race. He's had some easy works and I like how relaxed he is."

A good performance in the Hanshin could lead to bigger and better things at Arlington for the handicapper.

"In a perfect world, we'd like to keep him here and see if he takes to the grass," Smith stated. "The owners are local and want to see him race here in Illinois at Arlington."

E.T. Baird has the call on Nates Mineshaft, who will be making his first start on a synthetic course since his lone try in December 2011 at Turfway Park.

"Right now he's telling me that he handles this track just fine," Smith commented.

Among those lining up against Nates Mineshaft is Mister Marti Gras, who ran second in the Grade 3 Washington Park Handicap last fall in his last appearance at Arlington. The Belong to Me six-year-old gelding has been competitive in several starts since, including two wins at Hawthorne last fall.

Ice Cream Silence faces a rematch with Sisterhood in the Arlington Matron (Keeneland/Coady Photography)

Completing the trifecta of stakes races on Saturday will be the $150,000 Arlington Matron for fillies and mares at 1 1/8 miles on the Polytrack. Lotta Lovin is a proven stakes winner on Polytrack and invades the race for trainer Mike Maker.

The daughter of Repent has taken six of her seven victories over all-weather surfaces, including a 10 1/4-length romp in the January 19 Likely Exchange on Turfway Park's Polytrack. Mike Smith has been named to ride the four-year-old miss, who was last seen finishing fifth in the Grade 3 Doubledogdare on Keeneland's version of that synthetic track.

Ice Cream Silence triumphed in the Doubledogdare in her last trip to post, and the four-year-old Street Sense filly could prove tough in here for trainer Rusty Arnold. Also exiting that race is runner-up Sisterhood, who just missed by a neck and will be looking to turn the tables on Ice Cream Silence.

Ausus didn't compete in the Doubledogdare, but is also exiting a start at Keeneland for Peitz. The four-year-old Invasor filly finished fifth in the Grade 1 Jenny Wiley going 8 1/2 furlongs on that Kentucky track's turf, and her trainer is looking forward to trying Ausus at a longer distance in the Arlington Matron.

"She ran behind four Grade 1 winners. She didn't disgrace herself. I wish we would have had more pace to run at, but that's how it goes. We knew we were taking a shot and she's a good filly," Peitz explained, before adding that he believes the chestnut lass will appreciate the conditions of the race.

"She broke her maiden here and likes the Polytrack. She will really appreciate the two turns here, too. She seems to run well on everything. I'm looking to run her in the (Grade 3) Modesty (on July 13) after this, and I thought this was a good spot to hopefully get us there.

"She has gone from a two-year-old who didn't look like much to competitive in a Grade 1. I'm glad to keep her in training. She's an Invasor and I think she will get better. I don't think she's going to embarrass us. We're going to see something and find out how much she's improved. We would definitely like to get to the (Grade 1) Beverly D. (on August 17)," the horseman concluded.

Bet Horseracing Free Online at TwinSpires.com

Arlington kicks off 2013 stakes season with a Grade 3 smorgasbord

General Election will take on 11 fellow sophomores while trying turf for the first time in the Arlington Classic (Pat Lang Photography)

A trio of Grade 3 races on Saturday will not only kick off the Memorial Day holiday weekend at Arlington Park, but will also serve as the curtain raisers on the track's 25-event, $5.5 million stakes slate. Two of Saturday's main events will be run on the Polytrack while the third will be contested over Arlington's grass course.

The lone turf race in the stakes troika is the $150,000 Arlington Classic for three-year-olds at 1 1/16 miles. The race, which serves as the first leg of Arlington's Mid-America Triple, drew a full field of 12, including Admiral Kitten, second in the Grade 2 American Turf at Churchill Downs on Kentucky Oaks Day. The Mike Maker-trained Kitten's Joy colt has never finished worse than second in three turf starts and will have Mike Smith aboard.

Among those slated to face Admiral Kitten in the Arlington Classic is Fordubai, runner-up in the Grade 3 Illinois Derby last month. The Greg Geier-trained son of E Dubai broke his maiden last fall in his only try on turf, and gets a jockey switch to Kent Desormeaux for Saturday's return to the green.

Stakes winners Brown Almighty, General Election and Procurement have also been entered in the Arlington Classic. The former, a Big Brown colt trained by Tim Ice, broke his maiden over this course last summer before shipping south to annex the Sunny's Halo at Louisiana Downs. Eddie Castro will be in the irons for the first time Saturday.

General Election will be making his turf debut for trainer Kellyn Gorder in the Arlington Classic. The Harlan's Holiday bay captured the John Battaglia Memorial on Turfway Park's Polytrack in early March and keeps the services of jockey Joe Rocco Jr., who guided General Election to a runner-up placing in the Grade 3 Lexington over Keeneland's Polytrack last out in April.

Procurement invades from Santa Anita Park for trainer Tom Proctor. The bay son of Milwaukee Brew won the La Puente over that track's turf course on April 21 beneath Garrett Gomez, who has been aboard Procurement in his last four starts and gets the return call.

Trainer Danny Peitz could have a live longshot in the Arlington Classic in Yorkshire Icon, an English-bred recent acquisition who is exiting an impressive May 4 allowance win on the Arlington turf.

"We were pleasantly surprised. He settled out the back and ran right by them like a horse who could be useful," Peitz said of the small bay son of Sixties Icon. "We don't know what's going to be in (the Arlington Classic), but we are taking a shot here."

Yorkshire Icon comes from a European female family flush with endurance influences and intense closing speed. This often also means that he may appreciate a little bit of cut in the ground -- which proved true when he won his allowance on yielding ground and his maiden in England over soft going.

"It wouldn't bother us if we get a little bit rain. He proved the other day that he likes it. And, he seems like he's come out well and is moving forward -- he seems very happy," Peitz said.

Coming from 16 lengths behind a dawdling pace of 1:15.17 for the first six furlongs, Yorkshire Icon, despite being on the petite side, made massive strides down the stretch to easily best the field by a little over a length -- making up six lengths in the last quarter and rewarding his backers at a nice 28-1.

"I'm hoping he runs well enough to keep running in the (Mid-America Triple)," Peitz added. "He will probably get better as the races get longer."

Nates Mineshaft returns to action following an 11-month layoff (Amanda Hodges Weir/Hodges Photography)

One race prior to the Arlington Classic, the $150,000 Hanshin Cup at a mile over Polytrack attracted 10 older horses topped by Nates Mineshaft. The six-year-old ridgling son of Mineshaft has not raced since finishing third in the Grade 1 Stephen Foster Handicap at Churchill Downs last June, but prior to that had won the Grade 2 New Orleans Handicap, Grade 3 Lone Star Park Handicap and Grade 3 Mineshaft Handicap.

Relatively lightly raced, Nates Mineshaft was a respectable third to Grade 1 Santa Anita Handicap winner Ron the Greek and eventual Horse of the Year Wise Dan in the Foster to become Grade 1-placed. Since then, he was entered in last fall's Hawthorne Gold Cup (G2), but was withdrawn and given additional rest until now.

"We have been waiting a long time to run him. He was never injured, he just had time off, and he's fit and happy right now," explained trainer Anne Smith from her Arlington barn. "The timing of the race is perfect. We want to see if, at age six, he still wants to be competitive. We'll know more about where he is after the race.

"He's training like we're doing the right thing by entering. He doesn't seem to train super fast, but he definitely is fast in his race. He's had some easy works and I like how relaxed he is."

A good performance in the Hanshin could lead to bigger and better things at Arlington for the handicapper.

"In a perfect world, we'd like to keep him here and see if he takes to the grass," Smith stated. "The owners are local and want to see him race here in Illinois at Arlington."

E.T. Baird has the call on Nates Mineshaft, who will be making his first start on a synthetic course since his lone try in December 2011 at Turfway Park.

"Right now he's telling me that he handles this track just fine," Smith commented.

Among those lining up against Nates Mineshaft is Mister Marti Gras, who ran second in the Grade 3 Washington Park Handicap last fall in his last appearance at Arlington. The Belong to Me six-year-old gelding has been competitive in several starts since, including two wins at Hawthorne last fall.

Ice Cream Silence faces a rematch with Sisterhood in the Arlington Matron (Keeneland/Coady Photography)

Completing the trifecta of stakes races on Saturday will be the $150,000 Arlington Matron for fillies and mares at 1 1/8 miles on the Polytrack. Lotta Lovin is a proven stakes winner on Polytrack and invades the race for trainer Mike Maker.

The daughter of Repent has taken six of her seven victories over all-weather surfaces, including a 10 1/4-length romp in the January 19 Likely Exchange on Turfway Park's Polytrack. Mike Smith has been named to ride the four-year-old miss, who was last seen finishing fifth in the Grade 3 Doubledogdare on Keeneland's version of that synthetic track.

Ice Cream Silence triumphed in the Doubledogdare in her last trip to post, and the four-year-old Street Sense filly could prove tough in here for trainer Rusty Arnold. Also exiting that race is runner-up Sisterhood, who just missed by a neck and will be looking to turn the tables on Ice Cream Silence.

Ausus didn't compete in the Doubledogdare, but is also exiting a start at Keeneland for Peitz. The four-year-old Invasor filly finished fifth in the Grade 1 Jenny Wiley going 8 1/2 furlongs on that Kentucky track's turf, and her trainer is looking forward to trying Ausus at a longer distance in the Arlington Matron.

"She ran behind four Grade 1 winners. She didn't disgrace herself. I wish we would have had more pace to run at, but that's how it goes. We knew we were taking a shot and she's a good filly," Peitz explained, before adding that he believes the chestnut lass will appreciate the conditions of the race.

"She broke her maiden here and likes the Polytrack. She will really appreciate the two turns here, too. She seems to run well on everything. I'm looking to run her in the (Grade 3) Modesty (on July 13) after this, and I thought this was a good spot to hopefully get us there.

"She has gone from a two-year-old who didn't look like much to competitive in a Grade 1. I'm glad to keep her in training. She's an Invasor and I think she will get better. I don't think she's going to embarrass us. We're going to see something and find out how much she's improved. We would definitely like to get to the (Grade 1) Beverly D. (on August 17)," the horseman concluded.

Bet Horseracing Free Online at TwinSpires.com

Husbands sidelined three-to-four months with tibia fracture

Patrick Husbands, a seven-time Sovereign Award winner as Canada's top jockey, was injured in Monday's 5TH race at Woodbine when his mount, A Tough Buck, collapsed just after the finish line.

A Tough Buck, a lightly raced four-year-old by Philanthropist, was able to get up and walk off the track under his own power. Husbands, however, was caught briefly underneath the dark bay gelding and suffered a fractured right tibia.

After consulting with doctors following a successful surgery on the injured right leg, Husbands' agent, Gary Kemplen, reported that the rider will be sidelined for three to four months.

"Patrick is in good spirits and resting comfortably," Kemplen said. "Patrick wants to extend his gratitude to everyone for their concern and continued support."

Husbands, a native of Barbados now living in Brampton who will celebrate his 40th birthday on May 22, has won 18 races at Woodbine in 2013, including a smart stakes score in Saturday's Ballade Stakes with Bear's Gem​.

Husbands sidelined three-to-four months with tibia fracture

Patrick Husbands, a seven-time Sovereign Award winner as Canada's top jockey, was injured in Monday's 5TH race at Woodbine when his mount, A Tough Buck, collapsed just after the finish line.

A Tough Buck, a lightly raced four-year-old by Philanthropist, was able to get up and walk off the track under his own power. Husbands, however, was caught briefly underneath the dark bay gelding and suffered a fractured right tibia.

After consulting with doctors following a successful surgery on the injured right leg, Husbands' agent, Gary Kemplen, reported that the rider will be sidelined for three to four months.

"Patrick is in good spirits and resting comfortably," Kemplen said. "Patrick wants to extend his gratitude to everyone for their concern and continued support."

Husbands, a native of Barbados now living in Brampton who will celebrate his 40th birthday on May 22, has won 18 races at Woodbine in 2013, including a smart stakes score in Saturday's Ballade Stakes with Bear's Gem​.

Triple Crown News & Notes

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.

BANNED ITEMS

BUILDING AND APRON

 

BACKYARD

No Air Horns/Noise Makers   No Air Horns/Noise Makers
No Alcoholic Beverages   No Alcoholic Beverages
No Back Packs   No Back Packs
No Briefcases/Luggage   No Briefcases/Luggage
No Cameras with detachable lenses, or lenses more than 6" in length   No Cameras with detachable lenses, or lenses more than 6" in length
No Camcorders   No Camcorders
No Coolers   No Coolers
No Duffle Bags   No Duffle Bags
No Fireworks   No Fireworks
No Glass   No Glass
No Grills   No Grills
No Laser Lights/Pointers   No Laser Lights/Pointers
No Mace/Pepper Spray   No Mace/Pepper Spray
No Purses larger than 12" in diameter   No Purses larger than 12" in diameter
No Tents/Canopies   No Tents/Canopies
No Thermoses   No Thermoses
No Tripods   No Tripods
No Umbrellas   No Umbrellas
No Wagons/Shopping Carts/Hand Trucks   No Wagons/Shopping Carts/Hand Trucks
No Weapons   No Weapons
No Non-Folding or Folding Furniture    

PERMITTED ITEMS

BUILDING AND APRON

 

BACKYARD

Baby/Diaper Bags (Must contain child care items and accompany a child)   Baby/Diaper Bags (Must contain child care items and accompany a child)
Beach Tote Bag (without interior pockets/compartments)   Beach Tote Bag (without interior pockets/compartments)
Binoculars   Binoculars
Cell/Smart Phones & Tablets (Subject to Screening)   Cell/Smart Phones & Tablets (Subject to Screening)
Food Items in clear see through plastic container or bag no larger that 18"x18", including "Box Lunches" (Limit two containers per adult, no trash bags)   Food Items/Non-Alcoholic Beverages in a clear see through plastic container no larger that 28"Lx15"Wx 17"H (Backyard area ONLY. Limit one container per adult. Non Alcoholic beverages in clear plastic containers or regular sized cans only. Patrons with these containers MUST enter through the Grandstand Paddock, Grandstand Backyard or Grandstand West Gates.)
Non Alcoholic Beverages individually carried in a plastic container or regular sized can.   Beach Blankets
Purses not larger than 12" in diameter   Purses not larger than 12" in diameter
Seat Cushion (Backless)   Seat Cushion (Backless)
Small Cameras (No detachable lenses or lens larger than 6")   Small Cameras (No detachable lenses or lens larger than 6")
Strollers (Must be carrying a child)   Strollers (Must be carrying a child)
Sunscreen (No Glass Containers)   Sunscreen (No Glass Containers)
    Lightweight Aluminum or Plastic Folding Chairs

Bet Horseracing Free Online at TwinSpires.com

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.

BANNED ITEMS

BUILDING AND APRON

 

BACKYARD

No Air Horns/Noise Makers   No Air Horns/Noise Makers
No Alcoholic Beverages   No Alcoholic Beverages
No Back Packs   No Back Packs
No Briefcases/Luggage   No Briefcases/Luggage
No Cameras with detachable lenses, or lenses more than 6" in length   No Cameras with detachable lenses, or lenses more than 6" in length
No Camcorders   No Camcorders
No Coolers   No Coolers
No Duffle Bags   No Duffle Bags
No Fireworks   No Fireworks
No Glass   No Glass
No Grills   No Grills
No Laser Lights/Pointers   No Laser Lights/Pointers
No Mace/Pepper Spray   No Mace/Pepper Spray
No Purses larger than 12" in diameter   No Purses larger than 12" in diameter
No Tents/Canopies   No Tents/Canopies
No Thermoses   No Thermoses
No Tripods   No Tripods
No Umbrellas   No Umbrellas
No Wagons/Shopping Carts/Hand Trucks   No Wagons/Shopping Carts/Hand Trucks
No Weapons   No Weapons
No Non-Folding or Folding Furniture    

PERMITTED ITEMS

BUILDING AND APRON

 

BACKYARD

Baby/Diaper Bags (Must contain child care items and accompany a child)   Baby/Diaper Bags (Must contain child care items and accompany a child)
Beach Tote Bag (without interior pockets/compartments)   Beach Tote Bag (without interior pockets/compartments)
Binoculars   Binoculars
Cell/Smart Phones & Tablets (Subject to Screening)   Cell/Smart Phones & Tablets (Subject to Screening)
Food Items in clear see through plastic container or bag no larger that 18"x18", including "Box Lunches" (Limit two containers per adult, no trash bags)   Food Items/Non-Alcoholic Beverages in a clear see through plastic container no larger that 28"Lx15"Wx 17"H (Backyard area ONLY. Limit one container per adult. Non Alcoholic beverages in clear plastic containers or regular sized cans only. Patrons with these containers MUST enter through the Grandstand Paddock, Grandstand Backyard or Grandstand West Gates.)
Non Alcoholic Beverages individually carried in a plastic container or regular sized can.   Beach Blankets
Purses not larger than 12" in diameter   Purses not larger than 12" in diameter
Seat Cushion (Backless)   Seat Cushion (Backless)
Small Cameras (No detachable lenses or lens larger than 6")   Small Cameras (No detachable lenses or lens larger than 6")
Strollers (Must be carrying a child)   Strollers (Must be carrying a child)
Sunscreen (No Glass Containers)   Sunscreen (No Glass Containers)
    Lightweight Aluminum or Plastic Folding Chairs

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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 will take out-of-competition blood samples of horses competing in the Belmont Stakes on June 5 and send them to the New York State's Equine Drug Testing Program at Morrisville State College for immediate testing.
  • Horses participating in the Belmont Stakes must be on the Belmont Park grounds by noon on June 5. Any exceptions will be at the discretion of the Stewards.
  • Horses will stay in their trainers' current barns and stalls at Belmont, which will be monitored at all times by additional security personnel.
  • Security personnel will monitor all treatments performed by veterinarians and examine all paraphernalia. All containers for medications administered will be retained by the Commission for possible testing.
  • A full daily veterinarian's record of all medications and treatments given to horses from noon June 5 until the race is run will be provided to the Commission. Any changes to treatment must be disclosed to the Commission. If medications and treatment records are not provided to the Commission in a timely manner and prior to treatment, veterinarians will not be permitted to treat the horse until the issue is resolved. The Commission will post these records on its Web site each day leading up to the race.
  • Entry-exit logs will be maintained by additional security from NYRA and the Commission. All persons -- including veterinarians, trainers, assistant trainers, farriers, owners or other connections -- on entering the stall, or engaging in contact with the horse or performing any service for the horse must have a valid Commission license on their person. Such persons will be logged in by security personnel with the reason for their visit. Routine stall and horse maintenance by identified grooms and staff will be monitored but will be exempt from logging.
  • As is current policy, Lasix administration will take place in the horses' own stalls by a NYRA veterinarian. Syringes will be preserved by the Commission for possible testing.
  • On June 7, no veterinarians will treat horses without first making an appointment with Commission investigators.
  •  The Commission, in conjunction with NYRA, will appoint a single 24-hour point person each day for trainers and connections to contact in case of an emergency.
  • On June 8, no treatment will be permitted (beyond Lasix for specifically designated horses) unless it is for an emergency or as approved by the Stewards.
  • On June 8, horses participating in the Belmont Stakes will be required to be in the Assembly barn between 45 minutes to one hour before post time for TC02 testing. They will then be escorted with security to the paddock.
  • Belmont Stakes participants will receive priority for paddock schooling with security present.
  • 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 will take out-of-competition blood samples of horses competing in the Belmont Stakes on June 5 and send them to the New York State's Equine Drug Testing Program at Morrisville State College for immediate testing.
  • Horses participating in the Belmont Stakes must be on the Belmont Park grounds by noon on June 5. Any exceptions will be at the discretion of the Stewards.
  • Horses will stay in their trainers' current barns and stalls at Belmont, which will be monitored at all times by additional security personnel.
  • Security personnel will monitor all treatments performed by veterinarians and examine all paraphernalia. All containers for medications administered will be retained by the Commission for possible testing.
  • A full daily veterinarian's record of all medications and treatments given to horses from noon June 5 until the race is run will be provided to the Commission. Any changes to treatment must be disclosed to the Commission. If medications and treatment records are not provided to the Commission in a timely manner and prior to treatment, veterinarians will not be permitted to treat the horse until the issue is resolved. The Commission will post these records on its Web site each day leading up to the race.
  • Entry-exit logs will be maintained by additional security from NYRA and the Commission. All persons -- including veterinarians, trainers, assistant trainers, farriers, owners or other connections -- on entering the stall, or engaging in contact with the horse or performing any service for the horse must have a valid Commission license on their person. Such persons will be logged in by security personnel with the reason for their visit. Routine stall and horse maintenance by identified grooms and staff will be monitored but will be exempt from logging.
  • As is current policy, Lasix administration will take place in the horses' own stalls by a NYRA veterinarian. Syringes will be preserved by the Commission for possible testing.
  • On June 7, no veterinarians will treat horses without first making an appointment with Commission investigators.
  •  The Commission, in conjunction with NYRA, will appoint a single 24-hour point person each day for trainers and connections to contact in case of an emergency.
  • On June 8, no treatment will be permitted (beyond Lasix for specifically designated horses) unless it is for an emergency or as approved by the Stewards.
  • On June 8, horses participating in the Belmont Stakes will be required to be in the Assembly barn between 45 minutes to one hour before post time for TC02 testing. They will then be escorted with security to the paddock.
  • Belmont Stakes participants will receive priority for paddock schooling with security present.
  • 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.

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    Racing Headlines

    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.

    Workout Patrol

    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.

    Results

    NORTH AMERICAN NON-GRADED STAKES RESULTS

    STRAWBERRY MORN H., HST, $48,630, 3YO/UP, F/M, 6 1/2F, 5-20.
    5—EVELYN'S DANCER, f, 4, Songandaprayer--Seraphic Too, by Southern Halo. ($4,700 '09 KEENOV; $4,500 '10 KEESEP). O-Mark DeDomenico LLC and North American Thoroughbred Horse Company, B-Bryan Lyster, Gray Lyster et al (KY), T-Troy Taylor, J-Aaron T. Gryder, $29,178.
    6—Overvalued, m, 5, Forest Grove--Undervalued, by Cox's Ridge. O-Canmor Farms, B-Brereton C Jones (KY), $9,726.
    3—Castinette Dancer, m, 5, Ministers Wild Cat--Premo Copy, by Supremo. O-North American Thoroughbred Horse Company, B-John Roche (WA), $5,349.
    Also Ran: Heidi Maria, Terlani, Madeira Park.
    Winning Time: 1:16 1/5 (ft)
    Margins: HF, HF, 1.
    Odds: 0.45, 3.50, 16.95.
     
    JOHN LONGDEN 6000 S., HST, $48,630, 3YO/UP, 6 1/2F, 5-20.
    5—HERBIE D, g, 5, Orchid's Devil--Chilli Chines, by Katowice. O-George Robbins, B-George Robbins (BC), T-Robert Gilker, J-Amadeo Perez, $29,178.
    2—Shrug, h, 5, Medaglia d'Oro--Babeinthewoods, by Woodman. ($300,000 '09 KEESEP). O-Swift Thoroughbreds, Inc, B-Liberation Farm & Stonewall Farm (KY), $9,726.
    3—Senor Rojo, g, 7, Out of Place--Detect, by Devil's Bag. ($32,000 '07 KEESEP). O-Tres Hombres, B-Needham-Betz Thoroughbreds, Inc/Kidder/Blackburn/Lamantia/Halecky (KY), $5,349.
    Also Ran: Commander, Devil in Disguise.
    Winning Time: 1:15 1/5 (ft)
    Margins: 1 3/4, 1 1/4, NK.
    Odds: 1.55, 2.70, 12.40.

    Carryover Watch

    For Wednesday or Next Raceday

    ARLINGTON:   High 5 -- $88,005
        Pick 9 -- $13,117
    BELMONT:   Pick 6 -- $30,514
    MONMOUTH:   Pick 6 -- $16,389
    CHURCHILL:   High 5 -- $14,060

    Results

    NORTH AMERICAN ALLOWANCE RESULTS

    PID, 6TH, ALW, $35,100, 3YO/UP, F/M, 1M 70Y, 5-20.
    3—NASHINDY, f, 4, A.P. Indy--Nashinda, by Silver Deputy. O-Augustin Stable, B-George Strawbridge Jr (ON), T-Jonathan E. Sheppard, J-Mario G. Pino, $21,600.
    1—I'm So Vain, f, 3, Purim--Vain Vixen, by Good and Tough. ($2,500 '11 KEESEP). O-Blazing Meadows Farm LLC, McCann, R, Mahan, B and Fighting Scot Stable LLC, B-Richland Hills Stallions, LLC & Robert McCann (KY), $7,200.
    4—Hennyville, f, 3, Henny Hughes--Carsonality, by Carson City. ($2,500 '11 KEESEP). O-Corrigan, James P and Drlicka, Beatrice, B-Gaines-Gentry Thoroughbreds & Larry (KY), $3,600.
    Winning Time: 1:42 2/5 (ft)
     
    HST, 4TH, ALW, $18,649, 3YO/UP, 6 1/2F, 5-20.
    6—STRATIFY, g, 4, A.P. Indy--Burmilla, by Storm Cat. O-Swift Thoroughbreds, Inc, B-Darley (KY), T-Dino K. Condilenios, J-Richard Harvey Hamel, $9,147.
    2—El Capone, g, 4, El Corredor--Ultra Prevention, by Forestry. O-Bolivar, Rod and Ursula, B-Rodney M Bolivar, Ursula Bolivar &Chad Purdy (BC), $4,012.
    8—Major Dundee, g, 3, Finality--Windy Breeze, by Ore Grade. (C$14,000 '11 BRCSEP). O-North American Thoroughbred Horse Company, B-Glen Todd (BC), $2,207.
    Winning Time: 1:16 3/5 (ft)

    Features

    BELMONT REPORT

    MAY 23, 2013

    by James Scully

    Oxbow pulled a classic theft in Saturday's Preakness. Credit Gary Stevens for seizing the initiative.

    The 50-year-old Hall of Fame jockey took expectations of a contested pace scenario and turned them upside down, guiding Oxbow to a clear lead passing the stands for the first time. The dark bay colt traveled comfortably into the first turn on about a two-length advantage and never felt the brunt of pressure.

    I had Oxbow pegged as the Kentucky Derby pacesetter and expected him to be on or close to the lead in the Preakness. But I couldn't envision how easily it came, not with Goldencents, Govenor Charlie, Titletown Five and Itsmyluckyday all bringing potential speed to the equation. What looked like a contested pace scenario on paper quickly dissipated as the riders of the other speed horses allowed Stevens to outsmart them.

    Oxbow strolled through reasonable fractions of :23.94, :48.60 and 1:13.26 before offering his patented move into the stretch, drawing away with authority. He accelerated off the far turn in every previous start this year except the Arkansas Derby, when the rider mistakenly took a hold of him early.

    Oxbow turned a short advantage into a landslide victory in January's Lecomte Stakes and offered the same move in upper stretch of the Risen Star and Rebel. He couldn't sustain a clear lead in the latter two, which called his overall quality into question, but I was impressed by his sixth-place effort in the Kentucky Derby.

    After chasing a wicked pace on Derby Day, Oxbow found his best stride leaving the far turn, drawing even with Normandy Invasion with approximately a quarter-mile remaining.

    "Coming into the stretch, I had a big smile on my face. I'm going to win my fourth (Derby)," Stevens said of Oxbow's move in the Kentucky Derby. "But five strides later, I was attacked from the outside for a couple strides, and they went on."

    Oxbow saved plenty for the finish after an ideal trip in the Preakness and will look to do the same in the 1 1/2-mile Belmont Stakes three weeks later. Of course, this time the competition will be well aware of the consequences of allowing him an easy lead. And the presence of speedball Freedom Child, a runaway winner of the May 11 Peter Pan, should guarantee him company on the front end.

    At least that's the way it looks on paper.

    It would have one thing if Orb had offered a run that came up short, but his no-show Preakness performance proved difficult to watch. He essentially threw in the towel when shuffled back to eighth entering the far turn and clunked up late for fourth after Departing and Goldencents slowed to a crawl in deep stretch.

    The negative backlash came as no surprise -- Orb was being hailed as Triple Crown worthy by a large segment of the audience and couldn't hit the board at Pimlico. But I'm willing to cut him a little slack considering that he won five straight beforehand, including three graded stakes. I don't expect any other three-year-olds from this crop to match that accomplishment.

    Itsmyluckyday, who got first run in the Florida Derby before being overhauled by Orb in a convincing victory, also flattered his counterpart by finishing second in the Preakness.

    The fact remains that it's difficult to get an accurate gauge on Orb at this point in his career. My take is simple: Orb was overrated following the Derby win and is being underrated following the Preakness setback. Let's see what he can do in the future.

    The Belmont will offer the opportunity for a measure of redemption and Saturday's defeat might be the best thing for fans hoping to see Orb next year. That's something Shug McGaughey spoke repeatedly of earlier this season when stating that they would allow Orb to take them to the Derby not the other way around. He believed Orb would be better at age four and that prospect is an exciting one.

    Alysheba, the champion three-year-old of 1987, shows the difference an added year of maturity can make. The Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner posted three consecutive first-place finishes in 1987 before dropping four of his final five starts that season. Alysheba didn't run poorly in all those losses, but there's no debating that he developed into a much more formidable horse at age four, winning seven of nine attempts and Horse of the Year honors.

    A Belmont victory would go a long way toward Orb securing champion three-year-old honors and he would have the same potential for improvement as an older horse.

    I'll take a closer look at the Belmont field next week.

    North American Maiden Winners
    E Dubai--Legion of Merit by Danzig; PRINCESS DUBAI, f, 3, FP, Msw, 5-21, 5 1/2f, 1:06 2/5. B-Liberation Farm & Brandywine Farm (KY.). $8,500 '11 FTKOCT.
    El Campo--My Lucky Song by Lucky So N' So; CAMPO'S SONG, g, 3, PRX, Mcl 10000, 5-21, 5 1/2f, 1:07 3/5. B-Dr William C Day (TX.). ***FIRST WINNER FOR SIRE
    Empire Maker--Icy Tea by Storm Cat; WELLINGTON WIZARD, c, 3, PRX, Mcl 40000, 5-21, 1m, 1:38 4/5. B-Robert Raphaelson (KY.). $200,000 '11 KEESEP.
    Hard Spun--Nortena by Mr. Prospector; SHOOTING JACKET, g, 3, HST, Msw, 5-20, 6 1/2f, 1:17 2/5. B-Hargus Sexton & Sandra Sexton & Silver Fern Farm, LLC (KY.). $145,000 '11 KEESEP.
    Istan--Try to Remember by Include; BONAMASSA, g, 3, MNR, Mcl 5000, 5-20, 1m 70y, 1:48 . B-Brereton C. Jones (KY.). $4,000 '11 KEESEP; $85,000 2012 OBSAPR. *1/2 to Holiday Soiree (MSP$307,167).
    Nobiz Like Shobiz--Bratsy Girl by A. P Jet; THIS HERE GUITAR, g, 3, FP, Mcl 3200, 5-21, 6f, 1:15 4/5. B-Kenneth Gray (IL.).
    Perfect Soul (IRE)--Halo's Gleam by Halo; SOUL GLEAM, c, 3, MNR, Msw, 5-20, 5 1/2f, 1:06 1/5. B-Charles Fipke (KY.).
    Street Sense--Compete by El Prado (IRE); SENSE TO COMPETE, f, 3, PID, Msw, 5-20, 1m 70y, 1:41 3/5. B-Earle I. Mack (KY.). *1/2 to Lady Digby (G3$323,386).
    Hard Spun--Robyns Tune by Robyn Dancer; HARDLY SPOKEN, g, 4, PRX, Mcl 25000, 5-21, 6f, 1:12 1/5. B-Daniel M. Ryan (PA.).
    Purim--Magical Magdalene by Yankee Victor; PATIENCEISAVIRTUE, f, 4, PID, Mcl 7500, 5-20, 5 1/2f, 1:05 1/5. B-Midnight Cry Stables (KY.). $1,500 '09 KEENOV; $8,000 '10 OBSAUG.
    Flatter--Native Talk by Timeless Native; FLATTER TALK, m, 5, PID, Mcl 7500, 5-20, 5 1/2f, 1:06 1/5. B-Domenico Zannino (LA.). $1,700 '09 FTKOCT.
    Point Given--Rokeby Rosie by Prized; GIVEN A ROSE, m, 6, BEU, Msw, 5-21, 6f, 1:16 3/5. B-Lynn Schiff (KY.).

    Notebooks

    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

    RACES:   173
    DIRT:   110
    TURF:   63
    FAVORITES:   54 (31 percent)
    2ND CHOICES:   40 (23 percent)
    TURF WIRE:   10 (16 percent)
    DIRT WIRE:   33 (30 percent)

    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.

    Features

    BELMONT REPORT

    MAY 23, 2013

    by James Scully

    Oxbow pulled a classic theft in Saturday's Preakness. Credit Gary Stevens for seizing the initiative.

    The 50-year-old Hall of Fame jockey took expectations of a contested pace scenario and turned them upside down, guiding Oxbow to a clear lead passing the stands for the first time. The dark bay colt traveled comfortably into the first turn on about a two-length advantage and never felt the brunt of pressure.

    I had Oxbow pegged as the Kentucky Derby pacesetter and expected him to be on or close to the lead in the Preakness. But I couldn't envision how easily it came, not with Goldencents, Govenor Charlie, Titletown Five and Itsmyluckyday all bringing potential speed to the equation. What looked like a contested pace scenario on paper quickly dissipated as the riders of the other speed horses allowed Stevens to outsmart them.

    Oxbow strolled through reasonable fractions of :23.94, :48.60 and 1:13.26 before offering his patented move into the stretch, drawing away with authority. He accelerated off the far turn in every previous start this year except the Arkansas Derby, when the rider mistakenly took a hold of him early.

    Oxbow turned a short advantage into a landslide victory in January's Lecomte Stakes and offered the same move in upper stretch of the Risen Star and Rebel. He couldn't sustain a clear lead in the latter two, which called his overall quality into question, but I was impressed by his sixth-place effort in the Kentucky Derby.

    After chasing a wicked pace on Derby Day, Oxbow found his best stride leaving the far turn, drawing even with Normandy Invasion with approximately a quarter-mile remaining.

    "Coming into the stretch, I had a big smile on my face. I'm going to win my fourth (Derby)," Stevens said of Oxbow's move in the Kentucky Derby. "But five strides later, I was attacked from the outside for a couple strides, and they went on."

    Oxbow saved plenty for the finish after an ideal trip in the Preakness and will look to do the same in the 1 1/2-mile Belmont Stakes three weeks later. Of course, this time the competition will be well aware of the consequences of allowing him an easy lead. And the presence of speedball Freedom Child, a runaway winner of the May 11 Peter Pan, should guarantee him company on the front end.

    At least that's the way it looks on paper.

    It would have one thing if Orb had offered a run that came up short, but his no-show Preakness performance proved difficult to watch. He essentially threw in the towel when shuffled back to eighth entering the far turn and clunked up late for fourth after Departing and Goldencents slowed to a crawl in deep stretch.

    The negative backlash came as no surprise -- Orb was being hailed as Triple Crown worthy by a large segment of the audience and couldn't hit the board at Pimlico. But I'm willing to cut him a little slack considering that he won five straight beforehand, including three graded stakes. I don't expect any other three-year-olds from this crop to match that accomplishment.

    Itsmyluckyday, who got first run in the Florida Derby before being overhauled by Orb in a convincing victory, also flattered his counterpart by finishing second in the Preakness.

    The fact remains that it's difficult to get an accurate gauge on Orb at this point in his career. My take is simple: Orb was overrated following the Derby win and is being underrated following the Preakness setback. Let's see what he can do in the future.

    The Belmont will offer the opportunity for a measure of redemption and Saturday's defeat might be the best thing for fans hoping to see Orb next year. That's something Shug McGaughey spoke repeatedly of earlier this season when stating that they would allow Orb to take them to the Derby not the other way around. He believed Orb would be better at age four and that prospect is an exciting one.

    Alysheba, the champion three-year-old of 1987, shows the difference an added year of maturity can make. The Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner posted three consecutive first-place finishes in 1987 before dropping four of his final five starts that season. Alysheba didn't run poorly in all those losses, but there's no debating that he developed into a much more formidable horse at age four, winning seven of nine attempts and Horse of the Year honors.

    A Belmont victory would go a long way toward Orb securing champion three-year-old honors and he would have the same potential for improvement as an older horse.

    I'll take a closer look at the Belmont field next week.

    Top Speed/Class ratings

    NATIONAL

    Top Winning Stakes Speed Ratings (5/13-5/19) - 3&up Dirt Routes
    Horse A/S Dist Trk Date Race Bris Speed
    Last Gunfighter 4C 1 3/16m (ft) PIM 5/17 Pimlico Special S. 108
    Open Water 4F 1 1/16m (ft) BHP 5/18 Marjorie L. Everett H. 99
    Summer Applause 4F 1 1/16m (ft) PIM 5/18 Allaire DuPont Distaff S. 95
    Polka Joke 4G 1m 70y (ft) WRD 5/18 Cherokee Nation Classic Cup S. 91
    Foreign Sultress 4F 1m 70y (ft) WRD 5/18 RPDC Classic Distaff S. 88
    Top Winning Stakes Speed Ratings (5/13-5/19) - 3&up Dirt Sprints
    Horse A/S Dist Trk Date Race Bris Speed
    Sage Valley 4C 6f (ft) PIM 5/18 Maryland Sprint H. 107
    Close It Out 5G 6f (ft) CRC 5/18 Champali S. 101
    Dance to Bristol 4F 6f (ft) PIM 5/17 Skipat S. 99
    Glorious View 4F 6 1/2f (ft) BEL 5/18 Vagrancy H. 98
    Heliskier 4G 6f (ft) CBY 5/18 10,000 Lakes S. 97
    Hoist 4G 6 1/2f (ft) EMD 5/19 Governor's H. 94
    Polar Plunge 5M 6f (sy) CBY 5/17 Lady Slipper S. 94
    Bear's Gem 4F 6f (ft) WO 5/18 Ballade S. 89
    Raise the Reward 7G 6f (ft) TDN 5/18 Michael F. Rowland Memorial H. 83
    Paris in April 5M 6 1/2f (ft) BOI 5/15 Lady's Secret S. 80
    Top Winning Stakes Speed Ratings (5/13-5/19) - 3&up Turf
    Horse A/S Dist Trk Date Race Bris Speed
    Skyring 4C 1 1/8m (fm) PIM 5/18 Dixie S. 106
    Treasured Up 4F 1 3/8m (fm) CD 5/18 Keertana S. 102
    Teaks North 6G 1 1/4m (fm) BEL 5/15 Good Reward S. 97
    Cho Cho Cat 5M a5f (fm) EVD 5/18 Tellike S. 96
    Unusual Hottie 4F 1m (fm) BHP 5/18 Fran's Valentine S. 96
    Za Approval 5G 1m (fm) MTH 5/18 Red Bank S. 96
    Ben's Cat 7G 5f (fm) PIM 5/17 Jim McKay Turf Sprint S. 94
    Pianist 4F 1 1/16m (fm) PIM 5/18 Gallorette H. 94
    Sensible Lady 4F 5f (fm) PIM 5/17 Very One S. 91
    Night Officer 5H 6f (fm) BEL 5/16 Around The Cape S. 89
    Unitas 5G a5f (fm) EVD 5/17 Need For Speed S. 88
    Top Winning Stakes Speed Ratings (5/13-5/19) - 2 year olds (Dirt)
    Horse A/S Dist Trk Date Race Bris Speed
    Debt Ceiling 2C 5f (ft) PIM 5/18 Rollicking S. 76
    Top Winning Stakes Speed Ratings (5/13-5/19) - 3 year olds (Dirt & Turf)
    Horse A/S Dist Trk Date Race Bris Speed
    Oxbow 3C 1 3/16m (ft) PIM 5/18 Preakness S. 112
    Zee Bros 3C 6f (ft) PIM 5/18 Chick Lang S. 105
    Ile St. Molly 3F 1m (ft) DEL 5/18 Our Mims S. 96
    Redwood Kitten 3G 1m (fm) PIM 5/18 James W. Murphy S. 95
    Coffee Clique 3F 1 1/16m (ft) WO 5/19 Selene S. 94
    I'm Mom's Favorite 3F 6f (ft) PIM 5/17 Miss Preakness S. 94
    Fiftyshadesofhay 3F 1 1/8m (ft) PIM 5/17 Black-Eyed Susan S. 93
    Emotional Kitten 3F 1 1/16m (fm) PIM 5/17 Hilltop S. 92
    Wolf Pack Jack 3G 6f (ft) PRM 5/18 Gray's Lake S. 92
    Dan the Tin Man 3G 6f (ft) PID 5/13 Tom Ridge S. 91
    Iotapa 3F 7f (ft) BHP 5/19 Railbird S. 91
    Fearless Jacq (IRE) 3F 6f (yl) BEL 5/19 Miss Otis S. 89
    Jumped the Harbor 3F 6f (ft) PRM 5/18 Bob Bryant S. 86
    Missy Rules 3F 1m (ft) DEL 5/18 Our Mims S. 86
    Deniro's Saint 3F 1m (ft) BEU 5/19 Tomboy S. 83

    TOP BRIS CLASS RATINGS

    Horse   Track   Dist(Cond)   Date   BRIS Class
    Oxbow   PIM   1 3/16m (ft)   5/18   124.7
    Last Gunfighter   PIM   1 3/16m (ft)   5/17   124.5
    Summer Applause   PIM   1 1/16m (ft)   5/18   123.1
    Sage Valley   PIM   6f (ft)   5/18   122.9
    Gentlemen's Bet   CD   6f (ft)   5/17   121.9
    Ann's Smart Dancer   PRX   6 1/2f (ft)   5/13   121.9
    Dance to Bristol   PIM   6f (ft)   5/17   121.8
    Pianist   PIM   1 1/16m (fm)   5/18   121.7
    Livi Makenzie   CD   6f (wf)   5/16   121.7
    Glorious View   BEL   6 1/2f (ft)   5/18   121.5
    Open Water   BHP   1 1/16m (ft)   5/18   121.1
    Fiftyshadesofhay   PIM   1 1/8m (ft)   5/17   120.9
    Smoldering Beauty   MTH   6f (sy)   5/19   120.8
    Za Approval   MTH   1m (fm)   5/18   120.7
    Close It Out   CRC   6f (ft)   5/18   120.7

    Notebooks

    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

    RACES:   173
    DIRT:   110
    TURF:   63
    FAVORITES:   54 (31 percent)
    2ND CHOICES:   40 (23 percent)
    TURF WIRE:   10 (16 percent)
    DIRT WIRE:   33 (30 percent)

    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.

    Features

    RACING LEADERS

    (through May 20, 2013)

                         

    HORSES

                         
    Name   Starts   1st   2nd   3rd  

    Purses

    1. Orb   5   4   0   0   $2,340,900
    2. Game On Dude   3   3   0   0   1,570,000
    3. Revolutionary   3   2   0   1   920,000
    4. Oxbow   6   2   1   0   886,000
    5. Verrazano   5   4   0   0   861,300
    6. Princess of Sylmar   4   3   1   0   759,000
    7. Itsmyluckyday   5   2   2   0   700,000
    8. Overanalyze   3   1   0   0   612,000
    9. Departing   5   3   0   1   604,600
    10. Goldencents   5   2   0   0   558,000
                         

    TRAINERS

                         
    Name   Starts   1st   2nd   3rd  

    Purses

    1. Todd Pletcher   318   85   60   44   $9,682,493
    2. Bob Baffert   222   54   37   22   6,327,324
    3. Steve Asmussen   607   141   102   88   4,688,834
    4. Jerry Hollendorfer   439   106   80   61   3,979,959
    5. Shug McGaughey   92   20   22   8   3,643,737
    6. Bill Mott   209   50   29   25   3,428,224
    7. Chad Brown   197   53   38   29   3,424,613
    8. Rudy Rodriguez   262   54   50   40   2,823,259
    9. Mike Maker   336   90   59   46   2,677,705
    10. John Sadler   266   46   53   41   2,506,159
                         

    JOCKEYS

                         
    Name   Mounts   1st   2nd   3rd  

    Purses

    1. Joel Rosario   593   146   94   93   $8,710,119
    2. Javier Castellano   575   127   110   71   7,959,829
    3. John Velazquez   352   82   66   43   6,608,836
    4. Rafael Bejarano   420   116   78   53   6,407,528
    5. Rosie Napravnik   521   127   101   73   5,459,601
    6. Junior Alvarado   391   80   70   56   4,491,399
    7. Cornelio Velasquez   470   92   91   77   4,387,619
    8. Irad Ortiz Jr.   487   92   66   82   4,335,674
    9. Jose Lezcano   364   73   46   47   4,136,621
    10. Jose Ortiz   530   94   108   69   4,109,850
                         

    Note: Figures are for North American-based racing

    RACING LEADERS

    (through May 20, 2013)

                         

    HORSES

                         
    Name   Starts   1st   2nd   3rd  

    Purses

    1. Orb   5   4   0   0   $2,340,900
    2. Game On Dude   3   3   0   0   1,570,000
    3. Revolutionary   3   2   0   1   920,000
    4. Oxbow   6   2   1   0   886,000
    5. Verrazano   5   4   0   0   861,300
    6. Princess of Sylmar   4   3   1   0   759,000
    7. Itsmyluckyday   5   2   2   0   700,000
    8. Overanalyze   3   1   0   0   612,000
    9. Departing   5   3   0   1   604,600
    10. Goldencents   5   2   0   0   558,000
                         

    TRAINERS

                         
    Name   Starts   1st   2nd   3rd  

    Purses

    1. Todd Pletcher   318   85   60   44   $9,682,493
    2. Bob Baffert   222   54   37   22   6,327,324
    3. Steve Asmussen   607   141   102   88   4,688,834
    4. Jerry Hollendorfer   439   106   80   61   3,979,959
    5. Shug McGaughey   92   20   22   8   3,643,737
    6. Bill Mott   209   50   29   25   3,428,224
    7. Chad Brown   197   53   38   29   3,424,613
    8. Rudy Rodriguez   262   54   50   40   2,823,259
    9. Mike Maker   336   90   59   46   2,677,705
    10. John Sadler   266   46   53   41   2,506,159
                         

    JOCKEYS

                         
    Name   Mounts   1st   2nd   3rd  

    Purses

    1. Joel Rosario   593   146   94   93   $8,710,119
    2. Javier Castellano   575   127   110   71   7,959,829
    3. John Velazquez   352   82   66   43   6,608,836
    4. Rafael Bejarano   420   116   78   53   6,407,528
    5. Rosie Napravnik   521   127   101   73   5,459,601
    6. Junior Alvarado   391   80   70   56   4,491,399
    7. Cornelio Velasquez   470   92   91   77   4,387,619
    8. Irad Ortiz Jr.   487   92   66   82   4,335,674
    9. Jose Lezcano   364   73   46   47   4,136,621
    10. Jose Ortiz   530   94   108   69   4,109,850
                         

    Note: Figures are for North American-based racing

    At a Glance
    EVANGELINE DOWNS AT A GLANCE
     
    Avg. Winning Odds: 5.88 - 1
    Favorite Win%: 36%, Favorite Itm%: 64%
     
    EXOTICS PAYOFF
    Quinella56.39
    Exacta103.74
    Daily Double89.48
    Trifecta770.62
    Pick 3723.22
    Superfecta8,256.88
    Pick 44,541.02
    TRACK BIAS MEET(04/17 - 05/18)
    Distance #
    Race
    %
    Wire
    Best
    Style
    Best
    Posts
    5.0fDirt 28 54% E Rail/Ins
    7.0fDirt 16 31% E Rail/Ins
    1 MileDirt 33 24% E/P Inside
    Turf Sprint 12 42% E Outside
    Turf Routes 13 0% P Middle
    TRACK BIAS WEEK(05/12 - 05/18)
    Distance #
    Race
    %
    Wire
    Best
    Style
    Best
    Posts
    5.0fDirt 9 44% E Middle
    7.0fDirt 7 43% E Inside
    1 MileDirt 2 0% E/P Mid/Out
    Turf Sprint 6 33% E/P Outside
    Turf Routes 5 0% E/P Middle
    Who's HOT, Who's NOT
     
    HOT TRAINERS Starts WinsPlace ShowAvg.
    Odds
    Winning
    Favorites
    '12-' 13
    Win%
    Broberg Karl 23 9 4 0 2.97 7 24%
    Calhoun W. Bret 6 4 1 0 1.92 3 23%
    Landry Allen 12 4 2 1 6.48 2 17%
    Marechal Merlin 4 3 0 0 10.03 0 8%
    Klanfer Alan 4 2 1 0 2.93 0 19%
    Bourque Ricky 5 2 0 0 18.64 0 15%
    Robinson Hershel 5 2 0 1 7.18 0 10%
    Courville Ricky 6 2 1 0 7.30 2 16%
     
    HOT JOCKEYS Starts WinsPlace ShowAvg.
    Odds
    Winning
    Favorites
    '12-' 13
    Win%
    Riquelme Jose 12 3 2 2 23.88 0 10%
     
    COLD TRAINERS Starts WinsPlace ShowAvg.
    Odds
    Beaten
    Favorites
    '12-' 13
    Win%
    Bernis Kenward 10 0 1 0 30.90 1 12%
    Segura Kearney 10 0 0 2 30.85 0 5%
     
    COLD JOCKEYS Starts WinsPlace ShowAvg.
    Odds
    Beaten
    Favorites
    '12-' 13
    Win%
    Negron Luis 14 0 1 1 57.26 1 8%
    Bourque Coby J. 13 0 1 2 19.91 0 8%
                   

    Top Speed/Class ratings

    NATIONAL

    Top Winning Stakes Speed Ratings (5/13-5/19) - 3&up Dirt Routes
    Horse A/S Dist Trk Date Race Bris Speed
    Last Gunfighter 4C 1 3/16m (ft) PIM 5/17 Pimlico Special S. 108
    Open Water 4F 1 1/16m (ft) BHP 5/18 Marjorie L. Everett H. 99
    Summer Applause 4F 1 1/16m (ft) PIM 5/18 Allaire DuPont Distaff S. 95
    Polka Joke 4G 1m 70y (ft) WRD 5/18 Cherokee Nation Classic Cup S. 91
    Foreign Sultress 4F 1m 70y (ft) WRD 5/18 RPDC Classic Distaff S. 88
    Top Winning Stakes Speed Ratings (5/13-5/19) - 3&up Dirt Sprints
    Horse A/S Dist Trk Date Race Bris Speed
    Sage Valley 4C 6f (ft) PIM 5/18 Maryland Sprint H. 107
    Close It Out 5G 6f (ft) CRC 5/18 Champali S. 101
    Dance to Bristol 4F 6f (ft) PIM 5/17 Skipat S. 99
    Glorious View 4F 6 1/2f (ft) BEL 5/18 Vagrancy H. 98
    Heliskier 4G 6f (ft) CBY 5/18 10,000 Lakes S. 97
    Hoist 4G 6 1/2f (ft) EMD 5/19 Governor's H. 94
    Polar Plunge 5M 6f (sy) CBY 5/17 Lady Slipper S. 94
    Bear's Gem 4F 6f (ft) WO 5/18 Ballade S. 89
    Raise the Reward 7G 6f (ft) TDN 5/18 Michael F. Rowland Memorial H. 83
    Paris in April 5M 6 1/2f (ft) BOI 5/15 Lady's Secret S. 80
    Top Winning Stakes Speed Ratings (5/13-5/19) - 3&up Turf
    Horse A/S Dist Trk Date Race Bris Speed
    Skyring 4C 1 1/8m (fm) PIM 5/18 Dixie S. 106
    Treasured Up 4F 1 3/8m (fm) CD 5/18 Keertana S. 102
    Teaks North 6G 1 1/4m (fm) BEL 5/15 Good Reward S. 97
    Cho Cho Cat 5M a5f (fm) EVD 5/18 Tellike S. 96
    Unusual Hottie 4F 1m (fm) BHP 5/18 Fran's Valentine S. 96
    Za Approval 5G 1m (fm) MTH 5/18 Red Bank S. 96
    Ben's Cat 7G 5f (fm) PIM 5/17 Jim McKay Turf Sprint S. 94
    Pianist 4F 1 1/16m (fm) PIM 5/18 Gallorette H. 94
    Sensible Lady 4F 5f (fm) PIM 5/17 Very One S. 91
    Night Officer 5H 6f (fm) BEL 5/16 Around The Cape S. 89
    Unitas 5G a5f (fm) EVD 5/17 Need For Speed S. 88
    Top Winning Stakes Speed Ratings (5/13-5/19) - 2 year olds (Dirt)
    Horse A/S Dist Trk Date Race Bris Speed
    Debt Ceiling 2C 5f (ft) PIM 5/18 Rollicking S. 76
    Top Winning Stakes Speed Ratings (5/13-5/19) - 3 year olds (Dirt & Turf)
    Horse A/S Dist Trk Date Race Bris Speed
    Oxbow 3C 1 3/16m (ft) PIM 5/18 Preakness S. 112
    Zee Bros 3C 6f (ft) PIM 5/18 Chick Lang S. 105
    Ile St. Molly 3F 1m (ft) DEL 5/18 Our Mims S. 96
    Redwood Kitten 3G 1m (fm) PIM 5/18 James W. Murphy S. 95
    Coffee Clique 3F 1 1/16m (ft) WO 5/19 Selene S. 94
    I'm Mom's Favorite 3F 6f (ft) PIM 5/17 Miss Preakness S. 94
    Fiftyshadesofhay 3F 1 1/8m (ft) PIM 5/17 Black-Eyed Susan S. 93
    Emotional Kitten 3F 1 1/16m (fm) PIM 5/17 Hilltop S. 92
    Wolf Pack Jack 3G 6f (ft) PRM 5/18 Gray's Lake S. 92
    Dan the Tin Man 3G 6f (ft) PID 5/13 Tom Ridge S. 91
    Iotapa 3F 7f (ft) BHP 5/19 Railbird S. 91
    Fearless Jacq (IRE) 3F 6f (yl) BEL 5/19 Miss Otis S. 89
    Jumped the Harbor 3F 6f (ft) PRM 5/18 Bob Bryant S. 86
    Missy Rules 3F 1m (ft) DEL 5/18 Our Mims S. 86
    Deniro's Saint 3F 1m (ft) BEU 5/19 Tomboy S. 83

    TOP BRIS CLASS RATINGS

    Horse   Track   Dist(Cond)   Date   BRIS Class
    Oxbow   PIM   1 3/16m (ft)   5/18   124.7
    Last Gunfighter   PIM   1 3/16m (ft)   5/17   124.5
    Summer Applause   PIM   1 1/16m (ft)   5/18   123.1
    Sage Valley   PIM   6f (ft)   5/18   122.9
    Gentlemen's Bet   CD   6f (ft)   5/17   121.9
    Ann's Smart Dancer   PRX   6 1/2f (ft)   5/13   121.9
    Dance to Bristol   PIM   6f (ft)   5/17   121.8
    Pianist   PIM   1 1/16m (fm)   5/18   121.7
    Livi Makenzie   CD   6f (wf)   5/16   121.7
    Glorious View   BEL   6 1/2f (ft)   5/18   121.5
    Open Water   BHP   1 1/16m (ft)   5/18   121.1
    Fiftyshadesofhay   PIM   1 1/8m (ft)   5/17   120.9
    Smoldering Beauty   MTH   6f (sy)   5/19   120.8
    Za Approval   MTH   1m (fm)   5/18   120.7
    Close It Out   CRC   6f (ft)   5/18   120.7

    At a Glance
    GOLDEN GATE FIELDS AT A GLANCE
     
    Avg. Winning Odds: 4.31 - 1
    Favorite Win%: 39%, Favorite Itm%: 74%
     
    EXOTICS PAYOFF
    Quinella34.53
    Exacta61.47
    Daily Double63.82
    Trifecta409.39
    Pick 3506.75
    Superfecta2,770.50
    Pick 68,497.48
    Pick 43,150.13
    Pick 513,262.26
    Place Pick All1,693.32
    Super High Five5,922.58
    TRACK BIAS MEET(10/18 - 05/19)
    Distance #
    Race
    %
    Wire
    Best
    Style
    Best
    Posts
    5.5fDirt 216 28% P Mid/Out
    6.0fDirt 295 25% E/P Outside
    1 MileDirt 240 20% S Outside
    Turf Sprint 1 0% P Inside
    Turf Routes 130 25% E/P Rail/Ins
    TRACK BIAS WEEK(05/13 - 05/19)
    Distance #
    Race
    %
    Wire
    Best
    Style
    Best
    Posts
    5.5fDirt 6 33% E Outside
    6.0fDirt 8 13% E/P Outside
    1 MileDirt 5 80% E Middle
    Turf Sprint 0 0% - na
    Turf Routes 11 18% E/P Outside
    Who's HOT, Who's NOT
     
    HOT TRAINERS Starts WinsPlace ShowAvg.
    Odds
    Winning
    Favorites
    '12-' 13
    Win%
    Sherman Steve M. 18 6 8 2 3.42 3 26%
    Miyadi Steven 11 4 2 1 7.95 2 22%
    Gonzalez Reina E. 2 2 0 0 1.85 1 13%
    Bellasis Tim 3 2 1 0 6.80 0 10%
    Specht Steven 5 2 0 0 10.74 1 23%
    Jackson Ellen L. 6 2 0 0 7.93 1 12%
    Nations Keith 6 2 1 0 7.93 1 23%
    Weaver Jerry 6 2 0 0 24.57 0 10%
     
    HOT JOCKEYS Starts WinsPlace ShowAvg.
    Odds
    Winning
    Favorites
    '12-' 13
    Win%
    Baze Russell A. 24 11 4 2 2.00 8 32%
     
    COLD TRAINERS Starts WinsPlace ShowAvg.
    Odds
    Beaten
    Favorites
    '12-' 13
    Win%
    Ledezma Sergio 11 0 0 3 12.09 0 14%
    McCanna Tim 10 0 2 1 13.05 3 16%
     
    COLD JOCKEYS Starts WinsPlace ShowAvg.
    Odds
    Beaten
    Favorites
    '12-' 13
    Win%
    Duran Francisco 12 0 0 3 11.19 1 13%

    Racing Highlights

    For Wednesday

    ARLINGTON PARK (2:00): $41,000 alw, 3&up, 5 1/2f (4TH).
    BELMONT PARK (1:05): $85,000 Gygistar S., 3yo, 7f (2ND).
    BEULAH PARK (1:30): $7,000 alw, 3&up, 5 1/2f (6TH).
    CHARLES TOWN (7:15): $26,000 alw, 3&up, 6 1/2f (8TH).
    DELAWARE PARK (1:15): $50,000 Winter Melody S., 3&up, f/m, 1 1/16m (8TH).
    EVANGELINE DOWNS (6:40): $33,000 ocl, 3&up, 5 1/2f (9TH).
    PENN NATIONAL (6:00): $35,000 alw, 4&up, 6f (3RD).
    PRESQUE ISLE DOWNS (5:25): $37,000 alw, 3&up, f/m, 1m 70yds (1ST).
    THISTLEDOWN (12:55): $18,500 alw, 3&up, 6f (7TH).

      *all times Eastern

    At a Glance

    AT A GLANCE SCHEDULE

    MONDAY:   Pimlico and Woodbine
    TUESDAY:   Hollywood Park and Monmouth Park
    WEDNESDAY:   Arlington Park and Calder
    THURSDAY:   Evangeline Downs and Golden Gate Fields
    FRIDAY:   Belmont Park and Churchill Downs

    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.

    Announcements

    Help Wanted

    A horse racing website is currently hiring for part-time positions as a Customer Service Representative in Lexington, Kentucky. Must be available nights and weekends. Some weekdays may also be available. Computer literacy required, horse racing knowledge and customer service experience a plus. To schedule an interview, email or send your résumé to the following: Nancy.Kanaval@brisnet.com, P.O. Box 4097, Lexington, KY 40544.

    Spot Plays/Highlights/Weather

    SPOT PLAYS

    For Wednesday

    TRACK   (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE
    Arlington Park   (3rd) Ten Little Pins, 6-1
        (7th) Jost Van Dyke, 6-1
    Belmont Park   (3rd) Celesta, 7-2
        (5th) Rodinia, 4-1
    Beulah Park   (4th) Weagle, 5-1
        (5th) Chloe's a Charmer, 5-1
    Charles Town   (6th) Evening Concerto, 7-2
        (9th) Her Royal Honor, 7-2
    Delaware Park   (3rd) Fragancia, 8-1
        (6th) Iron Post, 3-1
    Evangeline Downs   (7th) Folsom Fire, 5-1
        (10th) Shave and Pave, 9-2
    Indiana Downs   (4th) Marquet Cat, 6-1
        (6th) Lady Charlie, 7-2
    Penn National   (1st) Galloping Thunder, 6-1
        (4th) Incisive Strike, 7-2
    Presque Isle Downs   (2nd) Hadarra, 5-1
        (6th) Cozy Top, 3-1
    Thistledown   (2nd) Keep the Money, 7-2
        (8th) Thisheartsforyou, 3-1

    HIGHLIGHTS

    For Wednesday

    ARLINGTON PARK (2:00): $41,000 alw, 3&up, 5 1/2f (4TH).
    BELMONT PARK (1:05): $85,000 Gygistar S., 3yo, 7f (2ND).
    BEULAH PARK (1:30): $7,000 alw, 3&up, 5 1/2f (6TH).
    CHARLES TOWN (7:15): $26,000 alw, 3&up, 6 1/2f (8TH).
    DELAWARE PARK (1:15): $50,000 Winter Melody S., 3&up, f/m, 1 1/16m (8TH).
    EVANGELINE DOWNS (6:40): $33,000 ocl, 3&up, 5 1/2f (9TH).
    PENN NATIONAL (6:00): $35,000 alw, 4&up, 6f (3RD).
    PRESQUE ISLE DOWNS (5:25): $37,000 alw, 3&up, f/m, 1m 70yds (1ST).
    THISTLEDOWN (12:55): $18,500 alw, 3&up, 6f (7TH).

    *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.

    Announcements

    Help Wanted

    A horse racing website is currently hiring for part-time positions as a Customer Service Representative in Lexington, Kentucky. Must be available nights and weekends. Some weekdays may also be available. Computer literacy required, horse racing knowledge and customer service experience a plus. To schedule an interview, email or send your résumé to the following: Nancy.Kanaval@brisnet.com, P.O. Box 4097, Lexington, KY 40544.