More double talk coming from team Rachel, consisting of owner Jess Jackson and trainer Steve Asmussen. Yesterday evening Asmussen made the following comment, "Out of respect for the level of competition and the importance of this race, I have told Mr. Jackson it was not in the best interest of the horse to race on April 3... the earliest we could have a prep race would be the middle of March. It is then not fair to Rachel to ask her to race again three weeks later." That's funny, becasue that's exactly what Zenyatta is planning to do by running in the Santa Margarita (Grade 1) in California and then ship to Oaklawn for a return in the Apple Blossom just three weeks later.
What made matters worse is Jackson's attempt to create a side story rather than just coming out and saying they would take on Zenyatta down the road. "We have been in discussions with Alex Waldrop, president of (the NTRA), with the hope of coordinate training schedules, racing schedules, purses and all ancillary factors, so that we can all agree upon three dates and three venues for what will be a racing series to rival the Triple Crown." The problem is that this statement is either a flat out lie or he's trying to lobby the NTRA for tracks and distances that suit Rachel the best before bringing Moss to the negotiating table. Moss told the AP, "I have no idea what he's even talking about. Which three races? And where? And when?"
So let me get this straight... a three month notice at a neutral dirt track where both horses have previously raced and won and the legendary track owner Charels Cella ponying up $5 million with a guaranteed payout for each horse isn't enough for you, Mr. Jackson? Somehow now you think you can come to terms on a 3 race series with all kind of factors at play when you won't accept the red carpet from Oaklawn Park? Seems to me this "deal" in fact will never get done and you'll try to blame Jerry Moss, who obviously doesn't want anything to do with you.
The best quote of all came from Moss, "It's a shame they are not going to show up for that race." That's what this really boils down to and frankly, I appreciate the direct talk from Jerry on this one. But as I've said before in previous blogs, you can only duck the Big Z for so long now that you are the hunted. Moss will be looking at every possible entry you make. And if you stick with the New York tracks all summer in shorter distance races, that's a clear statement you want no part of Zenyatta. I would expect Arlington Park in Chicago to try to lure these two for a summer date, perhaps co-featuring Arlington Million day. This is a neutral dirt track with a solid reputation and history of making a splash -- created the "Citation Challenge" for Cigar's 16th consecutive victory in 1996.
Or, I could be wrong (has happened on one other occasion) and a three race series will come to fruition. But in this format I would think at least one race would have to occur in California over synthetics, which I can't see Jess agreeing to. Wouldn't it be fun to watch these two (and other supporting cast) race at Belmont over dirt, at Del Mar over synthetics with perhaps even a turf race thrown in to see what would actually happen rather than continuing to debate? But none of this dreaming can take place while Jess Jackson is running scared.
February 8, 2010
2010 Derby Trail
In just under three months a new Derby champ will be crowned. And there's a strong probability that horse has yet to race this calendar year. So there is a lot that can - and will - happen on this Derby trail, just as there is every year. But I wanted to get the chatter started before this weekend's first series of major regional prep races go postward (Robert Lewis @ Santa Anita and Sam Davis Stakes @ Tampa Bay on Saturday followed by the Southwest Mile @ Oaklawn and San Vicente @ SA on Monday).
In addition to posting wrap-ups each Monday following the major 3YO racing weekends leading up to Derby 136, I will also launch my top 10 Derby colts. Since I had a friend in Vegas for the Super Bowl, I studied up over the weekend to place a few futures bets (thanks J-Bern!). So without further delay, let's get Derby season 136 crancked up...
1) Lookin At Lucky - I got on Pioneerof The Nile early last year and rode him to a solid 2nd place Derby finish. Baffert is looking good again with this versatile colt and looks to follow his proven formula of 2 Derby preps while getting a peak effort on the first Saturday in May.
2) Super Saver - My favorite bloodlines for this year's bunch includes a proven sire in Maria's Mon (Monarchos in 2001) from an A.P. Indy mare. As my family in Arkansas would say, "It just don't get no better than that."
3) Buddy's Saint - Seems to be the "it" horse but perhaps a little early in the game. I'm waiting to see if he can duplicate those Big A performances (the quirky Aqueduct track historically leads to huge margins of victory) at Gulfstream. But after yesterday's game, who dat talkin bout beatin dem Saints?!
4) Jackson Bend - Backed up his Calder domination with a nice place in the Holy Bull. We'll see if his obscure breeding can hold up through the Derby grind.
5) American Lion - One of many live runners for the WinStar Farms group from Dallas. His presidential name is certainly worthy of being engraved on The Derby trophy.
6) Drosselmeyer - Speaking of names, this guy gets my vote - sounds like an old fraternity nickname of mine. Has a solid race foundation and a proven sire in Distorted Humor (Funny Cide in 2003).
7) Eskendereya - Yikes, don't make me say this name! Been running against the best and from the potent Storm Cat - Seattle Slew lines. Familiar silks of owner Zayat, who had Pioneerof The Nile last year.
8) Rule - Front running type, so who knows if he can learn to harness his speed. But Pletcher places an emphasis on speed and may have a plan for this one.
9) Noble's Promise - Well traveled McPeek charge never has run a bad one, including a 3rd in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile last year.
10) Connemara - A lovely western Ireland region where Atlantic salmon, Guinness and craic are as common as railbirds at a New York racetrack. The horse is a fairly talented runner in California. I visited this place on my honeymoon and if he were to win The Derby, I've the funds for a return trip. Erin Go Bragh!
In addition to posting wrap-ups each Monday following the major 3YO racing weekends leading up to Derby 136, I will also launch my top 10 Derby colts. Since I had a friend in Vegas for the Super Bowl, I studied up over the weekend to place a few futures bets (thanks J-Bern!). So without further delay, let's get Derby season 136 crancked up...
1) Lookin At Lucky - I got on Pioneerof The Nile early last year and rode him to a solid 2nd place Derby finish. Baffert is looking good again with this versatile colt and looks to follow his proven formula of 2 Derby preps while getting a peak effort on the first Saturday in May.
2) Super Saver - My favorite bloodlines for this year's bunch includes a proven sire in Maria's Mon (Monarchos in 2001) from an A.P. Indy mare. As my family in Arkansas would say, "It just don't get no better than that."
3) Buddy's Saint - Seems to be the "it" horse but perhaps a little early in the game. I'm waiting to see if he can duplicate those Big A performances (the quirky Aqueduct track historically leads to huge margins of victory) at Gulfstream. But after yesterday's game, who dat talkin bout beatin dem Saints?!
4) Jackson Bend - Backed up his Calder domination with a nice place in the Holy Bull. We'll see if his obscure breeding can hold up through the Derby grind.
5) American Lion - One of many live runners for the WinStar Farms group from Dallas. His presidential name is certainly worthy of being engraved on The Derby trophy.
6) Drosselmeyer - Speaking of names, this guy gets my vote - sounds like an old fraternity nickname of mine. Has a solid race foundation and a proven sire in Distorted Humor (Funny Cide in 2003).
7) Eskendereya - Yikes, don't make me say this name! Been running against the best and from the potent Storm Cat - Seattle Slew lines. Familiar silks of owner Zayat, who had Pioneerof The Nile last year.
8) Rule - Front running type, so who knows if he can learn to harness his speed. But Pletcher places an emphasis on speed and may have a plan for this one.
9) Noble's Promise - Well traveled McPeek charge never has run a bad one, including a 3rd in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile last year.
10) Connemara - A lovely western Ireland region where Atlantic salmon, Guinness and craic are as common as railbirds at a New York racetrack. The horse is a fairly talented runner in California. I visited this place on my honeymoon and if he were to win The Derby, I've the funds for a return trip. Erin Go Bragh!
January 21, 2010
Rachel reigns supreme, but for how long?
In the most anticipated Eclipse Award Horse of the Year vote in decades, Rachel Alexandra went to the front in the vote tally and never looked back, holding off Zenyatta's late season surge by a tally of 130-99. Rachel won in each of the three entities that comprise the Eclipse votes (turf writers of America, DRF, and NTRA racing secretaries/Equibase charters), which went contrary to many fan polls and NTRA rankings leading up to Monday's ceremonies.
Perhaps the biggest racing news of the week, however, was Zenyatta's owners declaring she will return to racing in 2010 after all. What a brilliant PR move as this totally flips their previous position of "ducking" Rachel and other talent outside of California. Now the hunter (Rachel) becomes the hunted and this puts tremendous pressure on Jess Jackson to take on Zenyatta in 2010. Take a look at Jerry Moss' comments below...
“They have a great horse,” Moss told TVG afterward. “Some day we'll meet, and we'll decide at that time who's best. I'm looking forward to the encounter. … We'll see what they're entering in, and we'll be alongside them in the gate. When she's ready, we'll look for a race that's right for her. Hopefully Rachel will show up. If she doesn't, we'll look at what Rachel is doing and see if it's about time we met.”
And as if that wasn't clear enough, he went on... "She's perfect," Moss said of Zenyatta. "Nobody beat her on the racetrack. They beat her by proxy." Moss said he "wouldn't trade places with anybody" and that he was "looking forward" to having Zenyatta meet Rachel Alexandra on the track.
Wow, talk about a racing salvo!! And guess what, it's working. Moss announced that Zenyatta would be pointed to the Apple Blossom Handicap at Oaklawn Park (her previous lone start outside of California) in early April, knowing that Asmussen uses Oaklawn as a spring base where Rachel ran twice in 2009. When Jess Jackson was later asked to respond to Moss' comments, here's the best he could muster; “We’re hoping that each horse, taking its course, may win their way to an ultimate match, and maybe we can work toward that.”
This quote doesn't quite elicit the same confidence he showed last year in dragging Rachel all over the east coast, while picking up stakes victory after victory against any foe who dared to enter against his "Iron Maiden." When pressed on a potential head to head race at Oaklawn park, he (not the actual trainer, Asmussen, mind you) suggested that Rachel had lost training days at The Fair Grounds in New Orleans due to rain and may not be able to make that start. That's interesting considering that race is still three months away and Rachel has routinely been jogging on the track, although she hasn't yet resumed any timed training workouts. Steve Asmussen had previously commented how he would like to get an easy prep race at the Fair Grounds prior to the Oaklawn race. So who knows when Rachel will get back to the track from her long winter's nap (she last raced September 5). But one thing appears certain, whenever and wherever Rachel does return Zenyatta and Jerry Moss will be there! Ahhh, what a year 2010 could turn out to be.
Welcome back, Oaklawn Park, I hope to see you soon my dear friend!
Eric
Perhaps the biggest racing news of the week, however, was Zenyatta's owners declaring she will return to racing in 2010 after all. What a brilliant PR move as this totally flips their previous position of "ducking" Rachel and other talent outside of California. Now the hunter (Rachel) becomes the hunted and this puts tremendous pressure on Jess Jackson to take on Zenyatta in 2010. Take a look at Jerry Moss' comments below...
“They have a great horse,” Moss told TVG afterward. “Some day we'll meet, and we'll decide at that time who's best. I'm looking forward to the encounter. … We'll see what they're entering in, and we'll be alongside them in the gate. When she's ready, we'll look for a race that's right for her. Hopefully Rachel will show up. If she doesn't, we'll look at what Rachel is doing and see if it's about time we met.”
And as if that wasn't clear enough, he went on... "She's perfect," Moss said of Zenyatta. "Nobody beat her on the racetrack. They beat her by proxy." Moss said he "wouldn't trade places with anybody" and that he was "looking forward" to having Zenyatta meet Rachel Alexandra on the track.
Wow, talk about a racing salvo!! And guess what, it's working. Moss announced that Zenyatta would be pointed to the Apple Blossom Handicap at Oaklawn Park (her previous lone start outside of California) in early April, knowing that Asmussen uses Oaklawn as a spring base where Rachel ran twice in 2009. When Jess Jackson was later asked to respond to Moss' comments, here's the best he could muster; “We’re hoping that each horse, taking its course, may win their way to an ultimate match, and maybe we can work toward that.”
This quote doesn't quite elicit the same confidence he showed last year in dragging Rachel all over the east coast, while picking up stakes victory after victory against any foe who dared to enter against his "Iron Maiden." When pressed on a potential head to head race at Oaklawn park, he (not the actual trainer, Asmussen, mind you) suggested that Rachel had lost training days at The Fair Grounds in New Orleans due to rain and may not be able to make that start. That's interesting considering that race is still three months away and Rachel has routinely been jogging on the track, although she hasn't yet resumed any timed training workouts. Steve Asmussen had previously commented how he would like to get an easy prep race at the Fair Grounds prior to the Oaklawn race. So who knows when Rachel will get back to the track from her long winter's nap (she last raced September 5). But one thing appears certain, whenever and wherever Rachel does return Zenyatta and Jerry Moss will be there! Ahhh, what a year 2010 could turn out to be.
Welcome back, Oaklawn Park, I hope to see you soon my dear friend!
Eric
November 7, 2009
Zenyatta thrills the Breeders' Cup
What a moment in Breeders' Cup history this afternoon as Zenyatta ran down the entire Classic field, weaving through the stretch as if Calvin Borel were piloting her rather than the also-ran Derby winner Mine That Bird (9th), while passing Summer Bird (4th) and the turf specialist Gio Ponti (2nd) on the extreme outside. Rather, it was Mike Smith in the irons, showing none of the enormous pressure of keeping her perfect streak intact in her last race prior to retirement. Now much like Personal Ensign, Zenyatta will always be remembered for her unprecedented competititveness by retiring undefeated on racing's greatest stage, the Breeders' Cup!
And full credit goes to Zenyatta and her owner Jerry Moss and trainer John "I shot the" Shirreffs on this day. No second guessing this time around about taking the easy route as they opted to take on the boys rather than continuing to thrash the same mares in California. Sidebar: Life is Sweet - winner of the Ladies Classic on Friday with ease, had been bested by Zenyatta twice this season. But now her record improved to 4 out of 5 wins without having to face Zen, a sign Zenyatta would have surely won that race had they entered her there.
Even though the field gathered for this year's Classic was a notch or two below historical standards (most of Europe's elite horses failed to cross the pond unlike last year), Zenyatta was clearly the best race horse (male or female) at this distance and track. And not even the presence of Rachel Alexandra would have changed this result. Zenyatta was navigated all year (and criticized because of it) to get to this day in top form and that's exactly where she was. So she deserves all the credit and positive buzz surrounding this race (other than the unfortunate behavior and late scratch of Quality Road... shame on you!). Throughout the next week we should keep the focus on these races and Zenyatta's remarkable career. After that, we can start debating the overall Horse of the Year honors, which will come down to a filly vs. mare in an unprecedented vote. Let's get ready to rumble!!!
And full credit goes to Zenyatta and her owner Jerry Moss and trainer John "I shot the" Shirreffs on this day. No second guessing this time around about taking the easy route as they opted to take on the boys rather than continuing to thrash the same mares in California. Sidebar: Life is Sweet - winner of the Ladies Classic on Friday with ease, had been bested by Zenyatta twice this season. But now her record improved to 4 out of 5 wins without having to face Zen, a sign Zenyatta would have surely won that race had they entered her there.
Even though the field gathered for this year's Classic was a notch or two below historical standards (most of Europe's elite horses failed to cross the pond unlike last year), Zenyatta was clearly the best race horse (male or female) at this distance and track. And not even the presence of Rachel Alexandra would have changed this result. Zenyatta was navigated all year (and criticized because of it) to get to this day in top form and that's exactly where she was. So she deserves all the credit and positive buzz surrounding this race (other than the unfortunate behavior and late scratch of Quality Road... shame on you!). Throughout the next week we should keep the focus on these races and Zenyatta's remarkable career. After that, we can start debating the overall Horse of the Year honors, which will come down to a filly vs. mare in an unprecedented vote. Let's get ready to rumble!!!
September 25, 2009
Summer Squall and Cryptoclearance - Legends from the late '80s
There is a folk legend that bad things come in threes. This was certainly the case yet again in the equine world, as Margaux Farm’s Cryptoclearance joined El Prado and Summer Squall as major sires who all met their maker this week. The rare pure-breed bay stallion died yesterday from a heart attack after complications following colic surgery. For some reason, I always thought of Oaklawn Park when hearing the name Cryptoclearance, even though it turns out he only ran at the “Southern Spa” once – a solid second place finish to Lost Code in the 1988 Oaklawn Handicap (finishing ahead of Gulch). However, his name comes up often in the Daily Racing Form as a major influence as a sire, with colts winning consecutive runnings of the Arkansas Derby in 1997 – 1998 with Crypto Star and Victory Gallop, respectively. His other standout offspring include Breeders’ Cup Classic winning Volponi, Bluegrass Stakes winner Millennium Wind and multiple Grade I stakes winning filly Strategic Maneuver.
Cryptoclearance may not be as heralded as his famous Derby winning brother, Unbridled, both coming from the legendary Mr. Prospector sire line via Fappiano, but only time will tell how his true legacy unfolds as he seems to have more breeding momentum going with grandson Candy Ride (remember Chocolate Candy from this year’s Derby and Evita Argentina who has beaten males sprinting?). Regardless, his bloodlines will continue to provide a boost to stamina for generations to come, particularly on the bottom half of the breeding equation.
Now a word on fellow departed Summer Squall, who is the “it” horse in breeding circles after his grandson Summer Bird dominated the summer three year-old male series. The hard luck Summer Squall was known for two things; being THE breakout runner for Cot Campbell’s Dogwood Stables racing partnership (one of my models used for Saturday Racing Syndicate - coming soon to a town near you!) and his “forgotten” rivalry with aforementioned Unbridled. I say forgotten in that horses seldom meet these days more than a couple of races during a particular meet and then go their separate ways. Summer Squall faced Unbridled head to head six times and won an impressive four of them! Problem is that Unbridled won the big ones -- Kentucky Derby and Breeders’ Cup Classic (Squall was sick and did not run in Classic) and was voted Champion 3YO colt over Summer Squall.
Summer Squall was produced from the Secretariat mare, Weekend Surprise, making him a half-brother to uber-stallion, A.P. Indy, again being overshadowed! Squall’s best runners included 1999 Kentucky Derby hero and Horse of the Year Charismatic and Champion 2YO filly Storm Song. Due to declining fertility from his status as a ridgling (check dictionary.com if you need a translation), he retired from stud duty at Lane’s End Farm in 2004.
I referred to Squall earlier as hard luck in that he was slighted in the voting for Champion 2YO colt to Rhythm (who happened to be owned by blue blood, Ogden Phipps) in spite of going five for five, including three historically significant races. Furthermore, due to New York’s anti-medication rules, he wasn’t able to participate in the 1990 Belmont Stakes where he likely would have finished ahead of 4th placed Unbridled yet again. He also came down with a severe viral infection that sidelined the second half of his 3YO campaign, likely costing him another crack at an Eclipse Award. But he did get the better of Unbridled in the end, outliving him for 8 years!
September 22, 2009
Irish Eyes are Crying - El Prado dies
El Prado (IRE), the 20 year-old son of Great Britain and Ireland's sire of sires - Saddler's Wells, was found dead yesterday morning in his stall from apparent heart failure at Frank Stronach's Adena Springs. And while it is not uncommon for me to eulogize some of racing's greatest equine athletes on this blog, many of you may have thought that "El Prado" was Spanish for Mr. Edgar Prado, jockey of Barbaro. Since he raced exclusively in Ireland in 1991, most Americans were not familiar with his talent but would certainly recognize his successful sons who raced in the States, led by major purse earner of nearly $6 million including Oaklawn Handicap, Medaglia d'Oro, and turf champion Kitten's Joy. But make no mistake, after this racing season El Prado is best known for the title "Grandpa of Greatness" as the paternal grandsire of Rachel Alexandra.
The legendary Irish spirit of El Prado was best known to me through his alabaster offspring - Chindi. One of El Prado's first born, the Steve Hobby conditioned hard-knocking gelding captivated Oaklawn audiences throughout his 11 year-old season with his patented stretch rally, once winning Oaklawn's only graded sprint stakes - the Count Fleet Stakes - en route to $1 million in career earnings. Chindi has got to be one of the top favorites of Oaklawn's iconic track announcer, Terry Wallace.
I can't end this post without giving condolences to someone desperately in need of cheer, the embattled owner of bankrupt Magna Entertainment and founder of Adena Springs Stud Farm - Frank Stronach. In fact, El Prado was a risk when Mr. Stronach chose a relatively obscure Irish bred horse to be the foundation of what would become a five-time consecutive Eclipse dynasty for breeding operation.
September 9, 2009
Rachel Alexandra is "Great" in Historic Woodward
It's hard to believe that a savvy racing "railbird" could be more impressed by a diminishing head victory than a 20 length romp, but Rachel's triumph in Saturday's Grade I Woodward Stakes was the most thrilling finish I have ever witnessed. I have seen some doozies in my day, most notably the Pine Bluff - Lil E. Tee and Azeri - Take Charge Lady duels down "Dogwood Lane" at Oaklawn Park. But this one was different in that even though I was there, the last 40 yards prior to the finish line was blinded from my vantage point behind the winner's circle area, where I had staked out a second row spot to greet the decorated champion. Thus, track announcer Tom Durkin was my eyes and ears until I saw Rachel's head hit the wire just before the grey blob of Macho Again. And what a classic call by Durkin.
We (my fellow railbird friends) were alarmed from the get-go after Durkin began his race-call, "Rachel Alexandra will duel with Da'Tara... making her work today through a punishing quarter mile." Then the stage was set at the top of the stretch as Durkin pronounced, "A dramatic stretch drive awaits." After Rachel turned away both Da' Tara and Past the Point (last year's Woodward runner-up to Curlin after setting the pace) the toughest challenges were yet to come. First, Whitney Handicap winner Bullsbay couldn't quite get to the winner's flank straightening for home with his best effort, but Robby Albarado on stone-cold closer Macho Again split horses perfectly on the turn to save ground while keeping all his momentum moving forward. He proved to push Rachel to her limits, while Calvin repeatedly wailed on her with the crop (no wonder Rachel tossed him in the post parade while warming up!), knowing he would be made to pay for his tactical error if she were nailed on the line. But alas, Rachel was too much woman for Macho Again and actually never let him pass - even in the gallop out. To which Tom Durkin jubilantly exclaimed, "Rachel won... she is indeed Rachel Alexandra the Great!"
To think that Macho's momentum wouldn't have buoyed him past the tiring filly at the wire is as improbable as Rachel holding off these multiple challenges from proven older horses after setting torrid opening fractions. There's a reason that no filly had ever won this particular race since it's inception in 1954 and fillies beating older male horses anywhere is as common as Halley's comet. But the unthinkable has been achieved time and time again with Rachel in 2009... from multiple 20 length victories to Calvin smiling and pointing to cameras whilst cantering to the finish line to charging right out of the gates and making the boys catch her. The only thing is that none ever did, which is why she will undoubtedly be voted champion three year-old filly as well as overall Horse of the Year.
There is an emerging music group called Shinedown that has a current hit, Second Chance, where the lyrics state, "I just saw Halley's comet, she waved - Said why you always running in place?" You get the feeling Rachel IS such a rare treasure and is taunting the competition during her races with "Why you always running in place?" Rachel Alexandra has shown the world that running like a girl is not a bad thing after all.
We (my fellow railbird friends) were alarmed from the get-go after Durkin began his race-call, "Rachel Alexandra will duel with Da'Tara... making her work today through a punishing quarter mile." Then the stage was set at the top of the stretch as Durkin pronounced, "A dramatic stretch drive awaits." After Rachel turned away both Da' Tara and Past the Point (last year's Woodward runner-up to Curlin after setting the pace) the toughest challenges were yet to come. First, Whitney Handicap winner Bullsbay couldn't quite get to the winner's flank straightening for home with his best effort, but Robby Albarado on stone-cold closer Macho Again split horses perfectly on the turn to save ground while keeping all his momentum moving forward. He proved to push Rachel to her limits, while Calvin repeatedly wailed on her with the crop (no wonder Rachel tossed him in the post parade while warming up!), knowing he would be made to pay for his tactical error if she were nailed on the line. But alas, Rachel was too much woman for Macho Again and actually never let him pass - even in the gallop out. To which Tom Durkin jubilantly exclaimed, "Rachel won... she is indeed Rachel Alexandra the Great!"
To think that Macho's momentum wouldn't have buoyed him past the tiring filly at the wire is as improbable as Rachel holding off these multiple challenges from proven older horses after setting torrid opening fractions. There's a reason that no filly had ever won this particular race since it's inception in 1954 and fillies beating older male horses anywhere is as common as Halley's comet. But the unthinkable has been achieved time and time again with Rachel in 2009... from multiple 20 length victories to Calvin smiling and pointing to cameras whilst cantering to the finish line to charging right out of the gates and making the boys catch her. The only thing is that none ever did, which is why she will undoubtedly be voted champion three year-old filly as well as overall Horse of the Year.
There is an emerging music group called Shinedown that has a current hit, Second Chance, where the lyrics state, "I just saw Halley's comet, she waved - Said why you always running in place?" You get the feeling Rachel IS such a rare treasure and is taunting the competition during her races with "Why you always running in place?" Rachel Alexandra has shown the world that running like a girl is not a bad thing after all.
September 5, 2009
Rachel being Rachel
Carly Simon once sang "Nobody does it better" and that was certainly true of today's performance of Rachel. On a stellar, blue Saratoga sky day, Rachel sent the packed house home in top spirits after her GUTSTY performance in the Grade I Woodward Stakes, holding off multiple grades stakes winner and stone-cold closer, Macho Again (after a scorching half-mile). Can you say nine for nine, baby!
That's it... Rachel is "Brooks & Dunn" for the season. After studying her resume - her 11 month tear across American racing - she deserves the balance of the year off. Since she has been declared out of the Breeders' Cup, what more could she prove in a meaningless October or November dance against overmatched foes? She is already a Champion, check that... THE Champion for 2009 - Horse of the Year!
That's all I want to say tonight... it's time to celebrate in the full moon glow of lovely Saratoga. Rachel Alexandra, I think I love you.
That's it... Rachel is "Brooks & Dunn" for the season. After studying her resume - her 11 month tear across American racing - she deserves the balance of the year off. Since she has been declared out of the Breeders' Cup, what more could she prove in a meaningless October or November dance against overmatched foes? She is already a Champion, check that... THE Champion for 2009 - Horse of the Year!
That's all I want to say tonight... it's time to celebrate in the full moon glow of lovely Saratoga. Rachel Alexandra, I think I love you.
August 30, 2009
Summer Bird canters home in Mid-Summer's Derby
Could this have been the event Summer Bird was named for? Like his sire, Birdstone, five short years ago, Summer Bird completed the most prestigious Belmont Stakes - Travers Stakes double. Another omen in the story of Summer Bird is that he was raised on Tiffany Farm near Ocala, FL by Drs. Jayaraman, who yesterday received the Tiffany trophy by the Governor of New York for capturing the Travers Stakes.
ESPN's coverage showed how statistically the Belmont Stakes winner has the advantage over Kentucky Derby winners competing in this race. Obviously, this year's Derby winner Mine That Bird, now known as "That Other Bird," was withdrawn earlier in the week from this race due to his recent throat surgery to correct an airflow blockage. But it is clear to me after Summer Bird defeated this solid group of colts, including Quality Road, that he is now at the head of the class for three year-olds; males that is.
How flattering for Rachel Alexandra that a horse she "left in the slop" in the Haskell comes back and does the same to this group? The ESPN crew of Randy Moss and Jerry Bailey were somewhat harsh in their criticism of Jess Jackson for selecting the upcoming Woodward Stakes for Rachel rather than this race. I was on record as saying how I'd love to see a Rachel - Quality Road showdown, but that wouldn't have materialized in this race. Rachel has only a couple more races in her after her demanding 2009 campaign that goes back to February, so spotting races is critical for her connections. How could you possibly fault them for committing to a Grade I race against OLDER MALES that former champions such as Curlin, Cigar, Affirmed, Seattle Slew, Forego and Kelso used to solidify their champion status? Plus, the 9 furlong distance rather than 10 furlongs will possibly keep a little fuel in the tank of Rachel if they decide to squeeze in a race against Zenyatta either before (highly doubtful) or following Zenyatta's Breeders' Cup appearance at Santa Anita.
Now more on Hot Springs, AR based owners Drs. KK and V Jayaraman, who have committed serious money to develop their breeding operation and have hit a grand slam with Summer Bird, who probably has not gotten the credit he deserves up to this point (at least from this blogger!). And how about the training job of 35 year young trainer, Tim Ice, who Kent Desormeaux gave major props to following yesterday's race? Ice developed this chestnut colt from unraced maiden at Oaklawn Park in March to multiple Grade I winner and likely colt of the year. Oaklawn Park also has to be tickled pink with yet additional success from their three year-old program, which has been more relevant than any other race track over the past decade, bar none. And feeding off that success they have upgraded their 2010 stakes program to be the richest in track history. Look for the Arkansas Derby and Rebel Stakes to be upgraded in 2010 by the American Graded Stakes Committee.
It appears that the Jockey Club Gold Cup at Belmont Park is next on the race schedule for Summer Bird. Who knows, after the Woodward Stakes this Saturday at Saratoga, Rachel may be back on a collision course with the next best horse in racing, only this time that name will be Summer Bird.
ESPN's coverage showed how statistically the Belmont Stakes winner has the advantage over Kentucky Derby winners competing in this race. Obviously, this year's Derby winner Mine That Bird, now known as "That Other Bird," was withdrawn earlier in the week from this race due to his recent throat surgery to correct an airflow blockage. But it is clear to me after Summer Bird defeated this solid group of colts, including Quality Road, that he is now at the head of the class for three year-olds; males that is.
How flattering for Rachel Alexandra that a horse she "left in the slop" in the Haskell comes back and does the same to this group? The ESPN crew of Randy Moss and Jerry Bailey were somewhat harsh in their criticism of Jess Jackson for selecting the upcoming Woodward Stakes for Rachel rather than this race. I was on record as saying how I'd love to see a Rachel - Quality Road showdown, but that wouldn't have materialized in this race. Rachel has only a couple more races in her after her demanding 2009 campaign that goes back to February, so spotting races is critical for her connections. How could you possibly fault them for committing to a Grade I race against OLDER MALES that former champions such as Curlin, Cigar, Affirmed, Seattle Slew, Forego and Kelso used to solidify their champion status? Plus, the 9 furlong distance rather than 10 furlongs will possibly keep a little fuel in the tank of Rachel if they decide to squeeze in a race against Zenyatta either before (highly doubtful) or following Zenyatta's Breeders' Cup appearance at Santa Anita.
Now more on Hot Springs, AR based owners Drs. KK and V Jayaraman, who have committed serious money to develop their breeding operation and have hit a grand slam with Summer Bird, who probably has not gotten the credit he deserves up to this point (at least from this blogger!). And how about the training job of 35 year young trainer, Tim Ice, who Kent Desormeaux gave major props to following yesterday's race? Ice developed this chestnut colt from unraced maiden at Oaklawn Park in March to multiple Grade I winner and likely colt of the year. Oaklawn Park also has to be tickled pink with yet additional success from their three year-old program, which has been more relevant than any other race track over the past decade, bar none. And feeding off that success they have upgraded their 2010 stakes program to be the richest in track history. Look for the Arkansas Derby and Rebel Stakes to be upgraded in 2010 by the American Graded Stakes Committee.
It appears that the Jockey Club Gold Cup at Belmont Park is next on the race schedule for Summer Bird. Who knows, after the Woodward Stakes this Saturday at Saratoga, Rachel may be back on a collision course with the next best horse in racing, only this time that name will be Summer Bird.
August 7, 2009
Rachel Alexandra or "Wo"Man o' War...
Ha ha ha... but seriously though, Rachel is rapidly approaching the status of the greatest filly/mare of all time after her utter domination of males in the Grade I Haskell Invitational. She could cement her spot at the top IF she holds her form throughout the fall and into her four year-old campaign -- something promised by Mr. Jackson. Those heroines already in this category include Ruffian, Personal Ensign, Azeri, Serena's Song (who also captured the Haskell and Mother Goose in 1995), Zenyatta and "classic" winning fillies Genuine Risk, Winning Colors and Rags to Riches. I would consider any female who defeats the undoubted male champion of his era (Curlin) to rank amongst the greats. More debating this topic in future blogs.
Consider these points:
Rachel has set three stakes records in her assault (Golden Rod, Martha Washington, Mother Goose) while stopping the clock one tick shy in the Grade I Haskell Invitational most recently (in the slop, no less!).
Rachel has re-written the record books on two additional occasions for widest margin of victory (Kentucky Oaks and Mother Goose - surpassing Ruffian's record) and was the only horse to win The Preakness from the far outside post (similar to Big Brown's conquest from the 20 post in the 2008 Kentucky Derby).
In addition to the records Rache DID set, she has come within fractions of establishing new time records in the Haskell and Kentucky Oaks. I find it interesting that racing blogs and pundits have consistently blamed Borel for not riding Rachel out rigorously in previous races, yet in the Haskell he was criticized for letting her feel the whip a few times at the top of the stretch. The fact is that one horse can not set stakes or track records alone. Rather, they need the proper pace scenario throughout the race. I mean, do you really believe Monarchos was the second best Kentucky Derby winner of ALL TIME?? (His final time would suggest so, but clearly his closing kick was set up by the suicidal fractions of the front-runners.)
Rachel's 7 for 7 2009 campaign (all but one start at Oaklawn being Grade I or II status) is shaping up like Cigar's 10 for 10 run in 1995 and Zenyatta's seven race perfection streak last year. Although, many handicappers believe Zenyatta has been carefully handled for non-threatening races. Her lone start outside of the California synthetic tracks was a powerful closing victory in Oaklawn's Apple Blossom Handicap in 2008, which makes Oaklawn the most logical track these two champions (presumed for Rachel) could meet.
You may have read lately about the various tracks trying to lure these two superstars for a head to head meeting in either a match race (Sam Houston Park in Houston, TX) or full field race (Donn Handicap at Gulfstream Park). The problem is that Zenyatta will be retired prior to the early spring breeding season and her connections are sticking with the Breeders' Cup prep schedule (can't blame them for that). Meanwhile, Rachel's camp wants to keep her on traditional dirt surfaces. That leaves a window of mid-December to early February for a potential head to head. In my mind, there would need to be multiple horses entered to ensure a moderate pace scenario or the speedier Rachel would have a huge advantage. Perhaps Oaklawn Park, Fair Grounds or Gulfstream Park can convince both parties to give the sport a dream matchup while enticing them with the big bucks.
In the meantime, another marquee matchup could be Rachel going up against fellow stakes record setting Quality Road in the Traves Stakes (aka, Midsummer's Derby). Stay tuned for Mr. Jackson and Steve Asmussen's decision in the weeks to come.
Happy Racing!
Consider these points:
Rachel has set three stakes records in her assault (Golden Rod, Martha Washington, Mother Goose) while stopping the clock one tick shy in the Grade I Haskell Invitational most recently (in the slop, no less!).
Rachel has re-written the record books on two additional occasions for widest margin of victory (Kentucky Oaks and Mother Goose - surpassing Ruffian's record) and was the only horse to win The Preakness from the far outside post (similar to Big Brown's conquest from the 20 post in the 2008 Kentucky Derby).
In addition to the records Rache DID set, she has come within fractions of establishing new time records in the Haskell and Kentucky Oaks. I find it interesting that racing blogs and pundits have consistently blamed Borel for not riding Rachel out rigorously in previous races, yet in the Haskell he was criticized for letting her feel the whip a few times at the top of the stretch. The fact is that one horse can not set stakes or track records alone. Rather, they need the proper pace scenario throughout the race. I mean, do you really believe Monarchos was the second best Kentucky Derby winner of ALL TIME?? (His final time would suggest so, but clearly his closing kick was set up by the suicidal fractions of the front-runners.)
Rachel's 7 for 7 2009 campaign (all but one start at Oaklawn being Grade I or II status) is shaping up like Cigar's 10 for 10 run in 1995 and Zenyatta's seven race perfection streak last year. Although, many handicappers believe Zenyatta has been carefully handled for non-threatening races. Her lone start outside of the California synthetic tracks was a powerful closing victory in Oaklawn's Apple Blossom Handicap in 2008, which makes Oaklawn the most logical track these two champions (presumed for Rachel) could meet.
You may have read lately about the various tracks trying to lure these two superstars for a head to head meeting in either a match race (Sam Houston Park in Houston, TX) or full field race (Donn Handicap at Gulfstream Park). The problem is that Zenyatta will be retired prior to the early spring breeding season and her connections are sticking with the Breeders' Cup prep schedule (can't blame them for that). Meanwhile, Rachel's camp wants to keep her on traditional dirt surfaces. That leaves a window of mid-December to early February for a potential head to head. In my mind, there would need to be multiple horses entered to ensure a moderate pace scenario or the speedier Rachel would have a huge advantage. Perhaps Oaklawn Park, Fair Grounds or Gulfstream Park can convince both parties to give the sport a dream matchup while enticing them with the big bucks.
In the meantime, another marquee matchup could be Rachel going up against fellow stakes record setting Quality Road in the Traves Stakes (aka, Midsummer's Derby). Stay tuned for Mr. Jackson and Steve Asmussen's decision in the weeks to come.
Happy Racing!
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