DelCap Recap and Photos (Part 1)

Today and Tomorrow will be my recap of this year's Delaware Handicap. Even though there was a short field, the crowd may have been the largest that I've seen at Delaware Park. Royal Delta was the horse to beat even though she was coming off a poor result in the La T. We had been having some pretty hot weather and Saturday was no exception. However, where I was sitting and standing thorough out the day there was a bit of a breeze, but not much. By the time post time had arrived for the race, the fence area by the rail where I usually stand, it was basically packed. 

As for the race itself, well Royal Delta didn't disapoint as Mike Smith slowed her down just enough where she just cruised for her fifth Grade 1 in her career. While she won't ever be mentioned in the same breath as say Rachel Alexandra and Mike's main girls Azeri and Zenyatta, she did make some history by becoming the first back to back winner of the race since Nastique did it in 1988 and 1989. Oh and she did it by taking off a second from her winning time from last year.

The following pictures where taken by me (Rachel Levine). I didn't get around to putting my copyright on some of these photos, but the next time I will be doing that. Keep in mind more photos are coming tomorrow!

Royal Delta in the post parade.

Centering who finished fourth in the race. I was honestly disapointed with how she ran.

The champ heading to the paddock

Runner up She's All In (1) and Summer Applause (2). 

And Why Not who ran okay in third.

Stay tuned for tomorrow for more pictures!!!