This is it! The preview that everyone has been waiting for. Can American Pharoah become the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed? Or will it be another year of heartache. Lets take a look at this year's Belmont field.
11th Race - Belmont Park - Saturday, June 6th, 2015
STAKES. 1 1/2 Mile Dirt. Purse $1,500,000. Belmont S. presented by DraftKings (Grade 1). FOR THREE YEAR OLDS. By subscription of $600 each, to accompany the nomination, if made on or before January 17, 2015, or $6,000, if made on or before March 23, 2015. At any time prior to the closing time of entries, horses may be nominated to The Belmont Stakes upon payment of a supplementary fee of $75,000 to the New York Racing Association, Inc. $15,000 to pass the entry box and $15,000 additional to start. All entrants will be required to pay entry and starting fees; but no fees, supplemental or otherwise shall be added to the purse. The purse to be divided $800,000 to the winner, $280,000 to second, $150,000 to third, $100,000 to fourth, $60,000 to fifth, $45,000 to sixth, $35,000 to seventh and $30,000 to eighth. Colts and Geldings, 126 lbs.; Fillies, 121 lbs. The winning owner will be presented with the August Belmont Memorial Cup to be retained for one year as well as a trophy for permanent possession and trophies to the winning trainer and jockey. (06:50 PM) (8)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Mubtaahij (IRE) 3 C 126 Ortiz, Jr. Irad de Kock Michael F.
2 Tale Of Verve 3 C L 126 Stevens Gary L. Stewart Dallas
3 Madefromlucky 3 C L 126 Castellano Javier Pletcher Todd A.
4 Frammento 3 C L o 126 Smith Mike E. Zito Nicholas P.
5 American Pharoah 3 C L 126 Espinoza Victor Baffert Bob
6 Frosted 3 C L 126 Rosario Joel McLaughlin Kiaran P.
7 Keen Ice 3 C L 126 Desormeaux Kent J. Romans Dale L.
8 Materiality 3 C L 126 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
Mubtaahij has the pedigree to go a mile and a half, however that's on turf. Tale of Verve may have gotten lucky with the sloppy track, however his broodmare sire is Unbridled. Madefromlucky's dad won the Preakness and hails from the same female family as Tapit. Fragment's trainer has spoiled 2 TC's in the past. Frosted is the buzz horse. Keen Ice I think is a serious threat and despite it being the 10 year anniversary of his sire's Belmont win... I'm not entirely sold on Materiality. As for American Pharoah, the pressure is going to be great on him.
My heart says AP can do it. My head says that the three horses who have a big chance to beat him are Keen Ice, Frosted and Madefromlucky with Tale Of Verve and Mubtaahij have good chances. End the end I think AP gets it done... by a length. Keen Ice for second and Frosted for third.
Good luck to all and safe travels!
Showing posts with label Belmont Stakes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Belmont Stakes. Show all posts
June 4, 2015
June 11, 2011
Jersey Boy
Last year I fell in love with a George and Lori Hall colt named Sweet Ducky. Partically was estatic when he won a stakes race. Okay what does this have to do with this year's Belmont. The Hall's won this year's race... except not with Ducky. The won with Ruler on Ice who was third at Sunland in his prep and got shut out of the Derby. Instead he prepped in the Tesio at Pimlico finishing second. It looked like he was going to come up short to Stay Thirsty (who has a very intersting connection to the winning grandsire Fusaichi Pegasus), but his heart gave the Hall's, trainer Kelly Breen and jockey Jose Valdivia Jr. their first Triple Crown race win. What is up with the Jersey Boy? Well Kelly is based at Monmouth Park who will be having a new owner in a few weeks. Ironcily the new owner Morris Bailey's horse defeated Ruler on Ice in the Tesio.
Now for the interesting fact about Stay Thirsty and Fusaichi Pegasus. If you remember earlier I said that Stay Thirsty's brother Andromeda's Hero finished second in Afleet Alex's win in 2005. Well Fu-Peg is Andromeda's father. Ruler on Ice is by Roman Ruler, another son of 2000 Derby winner, and a half brother of El Corrador who was the sire of the late Delaware Oaks winner Adieu.
Now for the notables.
Now for the interesting fact about Stay Thirsty and Fusaichi Pegasus. If you remember earlier I said that Stay Thirsty's brother Andromeda's Hero finished second in Afleet Alex's win in 2005. Well Fu-Peg is Andromeda's father. Ruler on Ice is by Roman Ruler, another son of 2000 Derby winner, and a half brother of El Corrador who was the sire of the late Delaware Oaks winner Adieu.
Now for the notables.
- I've been saying all year Stay Thirsty is better then Uncle Mo. There is absolutley no way that he would have hit the board in any of those races. Sorry to his fans, but I find him overrated.
- What heart Shackleford has, the race was just too long for him. 5th while certinally outrunning his pedigree is great.
- Animal Kingdom was freaking amazing, sure he finished 6th, but had he almost not lost his jockey at the begining we could have been saying that he's the first Derby-Belmont double since Thunder Gulch. Instead Ruler on Ice makes history by being the first gelding to win in a while.
- I was right about Brilliant Speed moving up in the slop. Master of Hounds said yuck though.
- Absolutly no excuse for Nehro, once again Zayat is cursed. The same goes for Mucho Macho Man whose jockey should be fired from Gio Ponti as well.
- We didn't see the Top 3yo of either sex today... at least on the East Coast. I think a filly by the name of Sarah's Secret could be a little superstar. Won the Honeymoon today at Hollywood.
- It's about freaking time that Medaglia d' Oro gets a US grass G1 winner. C.S. Silk who was his first "top" horse (Rachel was only G2 placed when Arlington-Washington Lassie was won by C.S.) won the Just a Game.
- We also didn't see the Top Horse of either sex today... at least at Belmont. She was a Delaware winning the Obeah. With her win, Havre de Grace is clearly the top horse in the land at this moment. Sadly I missed going today :( ah well.
- While I'm happy for the Hall's I rather seen Ducky in the race, but alas he was sold to the Chechen President and is probley somewhere in Russia now.
- NBC's coverage- I was really not that impressed. They did great on the Woodford race coverage, didn't even show the Dixie and came just in time to see the Manhattahn. For that I give them a C-. People may agree disagree, but that's just how I feel.
- This is not a good crop for either sex IMO.
- Gio needs a new jockey, come on Christophe it could be your fellow Frenchmen in Julian I don't care, Ramon is just riding him poorly now.
- Delaware Park once again showed why from 2004 till 2008 it's a great place to have two year olds start. (ROI won his maiden in his second start at my home track, 3rd place finisher was this year's Wood winner Toby's Corner)
- For the second year in a row, Champagne Glow has a foal winning on Belmont day. That's right ROI's big sister is none other then Champagne d' Oro last year's Acorn winner.
So that ends another Triple Crown. Next week the older horses return to the spotlight in the Stephen Foster. I hopefully will be at Delaware for the Dick Memorial prep.
June 10, 2011
The Final Leg
This is it! The final leg of this year's Triple Crown takes place tomorrow at Belmont Park. Who will win the mile and half race? Lets take a look at the field.
1. Master of Hounds
2. Stay Thirsty
3. Ruler on Ice
4. Santiva
5. Brillant Speed
6. Nehro
7. Monzon
8. Prime Cut
9. Animal Kingdom
10. Mucho Macho Man
11. Isn't He Perfect
12. Shackleford
Post postion doesn't really matter in this race, but Shackleford with his running style got a little bit screwed. I want to like Master of Hounds, if he had stayed in the US for the 5 weeks inbetween races, but he went home to Ireland. Ruler on Ice's half sister won the Acorn last year, but that was a mile. Monzon's owner won the BC F/M Turf and has a Belmont winning sire, but he's not a Motion trainee like his ownershipmate is. Prime Cut and Stay Thirsty might challenge Shackleford for the lead, and Belmont tends to be speed bias on the big day. Mucho Macho Man does get a key jockey change, but I think he deserves a rest. Keep in mind, while all Thoroughbreds turn a year older on January 1st, his real birthday is not until this upcoming Weds. If he does win, he will break the tie that Northern Dancer and Lookin at Lucky have for the youngest TC race winner (both of those two champions share a birthday May 27th). Why is Isn't He Perfect in this race? Brillant Speed does not have a good dirt record, but having Dynaformer on top and being from the same female family as Belmont winner helps. Santiva seems to be a bit of an enigma for me personally.
So who is my pick? I think it's between four horses, Shackleford, Animal Kingdom, Stay Thirsty and Nehro. In the end I think that Ahmed Zayat will have something to be very happy about. I'm going with Nehro as my Belmont pick. Shackleford for second and Stay Thirsty for third. Now go watch Mucho Macho Man win (and I'll be happy if he does, since well this Triple Crown has been a stink on ice for me).
If it rains, then Brilliant Speed and Master of Hounds move up big time. Turf horses love muddy tracks.
Good luck to all the horses, and stay safe!
Also in action tomorrow is Havre de Grace in the Obeah, as long as the weather is corporating, I will be in attendence. It's not going to be a easy race for her, but she should get the win to setup a showdown with possibly Awesome Maria, Blind Luck, Unriveled Belle and others in the DelCap.
Gio Ponti makes his US seasonal debut tomorrow as well in the Manhattahn while Get Stormy is in New Jersey this weekend for a UN prep.
1. Master of Hounds
2. Stay Thirsty
3. Ruler on Ice
4. Santiva
5. Brillant Speed
6. Nehro
7. Monzon
8. Prime Cut
9. Animal Kingdom
10. Mucho Macho Man
11. Isn't He Perfect
12. Shackleford
Post postion doesn't really matter in this race, but Shackleford with his running style got a little bit screwed. I want to like Master of Hounds, if he had stayed in the US for the 5 weeks inbetween races, but he went home to Ireland. Ruler on Ice's half sister won the Acorn last year, but that was a mile. Monzon's owner won the BC F/M Turf and has a Belmont winning sire, but he's not a Motion trainee like his ownershipmate is. Prime Cut and Stay Thirsty might challenge Shackleford for the lead, and Belmont tends to be speed bias on the big day. Mucho Macho Man does get a key jockey change, but I think he deserves a rest. Keep in mind, while all Thoroughbreds turn a year older on January 1st, his real birthday is not until this upcoming Weds. If he does win, he will break the tie that Northern Dancer and Lookin at Lucky have for the youngest TC race winner (both of those two champions share a birthday May 27th). Why is Isn't He Perfect in this race? Brillant Speed does not have a good dirt record, but having Dynaformer on top and being from the same female family as Belmont winner helps. Santiva seems to be a bit of an enigma for me personally.
So who is my pick? I think it's between four horses, Shackleford, Animal Kingdom, Stay Thirsty and Nehro. In the end I think that Ahmed Zayat will have something to be very happy about. I'm going with Nehro as my Belmont pick. Shackleford for second and Stay Thirsty for third. Now go watch Mucho Macho Man win (and I'll be happy if he does, since well this Triple Crown has been a stink on ice for me).
If it rains, then Brilliant Speed and Master of Hounds move up big time. Turf horses love muddy tracks.
Good luck to all the horses, and stay safe!
Also in action tomorrow is Havre de Grace in the Obeah, as long as the weather is corporating, I will be in attendence. It's not going to be a easy race for her, but she should get the win to setup a showdown with possibly Awesome Maria, Blind Luck, Unriveled Belle and others in the DelCap.
Gio Ponti makes his US seasonal debut tomorrow as well in the Manhattahn while Get Stormy is in New Jersey this weekend for a UN prep.
June 9, 2011
38 Years Ago Today
Where were you when Secretariat won the Belmont? Sadly for me, I was a little more then 15 years from being born (my birthday is June 22). My mom apperently was with her brother (who has passed away since) at Belmont to see Secretariat run. I didn't know this until after the movie which I did a review of last year. For now, lets enjoy his complete and other dominance of these horses which included Sham who finished second to him in all three races.
My Belmont predictions will be coming tomorrow.
My Belmont predictions will be coming tomorrow.
June 7, 2011
My Belmont Choices
The more I think about it, the more I have narrowed down who my pick will be for the Belmont. While I won't announce until Friday, I thought I would post some of the horses that I think have a good chance.
Nehro- The Derby runner-up was closing better then Animal Kingdom IMO. In reality I think if he had won the Derby, we might have seen a Triple Crown winner this year. His past three races where all 2nd place finishes and he was closing like a train in each race. This son of Mineshaft could give Steve Asmussen his first Belmont winner, and Ahmed Zayat who had been close with Pioneerof the Nile in the 09 Derby, his first TC race winner.
Stay Thirsty- Everyone knows that Afleet Alex won the 2005 Belmont, but what people forget is that Andromeda's Hero finished in second. This Bernardini colt is his little brother. Wouldn't it be something if Mike Repole wins after his big horse Uncle Mo well... was struck by the Juvenile curse.
Master of Hounds- Kingmambo like his great mother was a miler, however he does have stamina on his dams side. He showed that dirt will not be a problem for him. Kingmambo has already sired a Belmont winner in Lemon Drop Kid.
Brilliant Speed- Wanna talk about a horse bred for the distance. Dynaformer colt who is from the same family as Touch Gold who of course is a Belmont winner himself and With Approval who won the CAN Triple Crown. This horse could run to Antartica and back if you asked him.
Animal Kingdom- You have to wonder how much did his grinding second place finish took out of him. While his sire was a miler, he does have loads of stamina on his dam side. The Belmont track should suit the Leroidesermex (BRZ) colt well with it being a large track. My only question is does he have enough in the tank?
Shackleford- A couple of good things about him and bad things about him. Belmont tends to be a speed favoring track, and the pace for the Belmont tends to be slower then the other two races. However, he did set a slow pace in the Derby and faltered at the end. The other thing is, he is by Forestry so you have to wonder how far he really wants to go. The other good news is that his broodmare sire does have a Belmont winner, and one of his sisters finished second on this track as a 3yo. Although Lady Joanne's race was a one turn race. Much like Animal Kingdom, he's run in both TC races, the others listed have not. Will he have enough in the tank?
Prime Cut- Probley the lone horse who will have not started in either the Derby or Preakness. This Bernstein colt defeated Bind who had won his maiden impressively down at the Fair Grounds. He does have some stakes experience, but has yet to win one. He does get help on his dam's side through her sire of Stravinsky, in turn Stravinsky is a brother to Moscow Ballet the defending broodmare sire and the sire of one of my favorite fillies, Moscow Burning.
Others considered: Ruler on Ice and Santiva.
Nehro- The Derby runner-up was closing better then Animal Kingdom IMO. In reality I think if he had won the Derby, we might have seen a Triple Crown winner this year. His past three races where all 2nd place finishes and he was closing like a train in each race. This son of Mineshaft could give Steve Asmussen his first Belmont winner, and Ahmed Zayat who had been close with Pioneerof the Nile in the 09 Derby, his first TC race winner.
Stay Thirsty- Everyone knows that Afleet Alex won the 2005 Belmont, but what people forget is that Andromeda's Hero finished in second. This Bernardini colt is his little brother. Wouldn't it be something if Mike Repole wins after his big horse Uncle Mo well... was struck by the Juvenile curse.
Master of Hounds- Kingmambo like his great mother was a miler, however he does have stamina on his dams side. He showed that dirt will not be a problem for him. Kingmambo has already sired a Belmont winner in Lemon Drop Kid.
Brilliant Speed- Wanna talk about a horse bred for the distance. Dynaformer colt who is from the same family as Touch Gold who of course is a Belmont winner himself and With Approval who won the CAN Triple Crown. This horse could run to Antartica and back if you asked him.
Animal Kingdom- You have to wonder how much did his grinding second place finish took out of him. While his sire was a miler, he does have loads of stamina on his dam side. The Belmont track should suit the Leroidesermex (BRZ) colt well with it being a large track. My only question is does he have enough in the tank?
Shackleford- A couple of good things about him and bad things about him. Belmont tends to be a speed favoring track, and the pace for the Belmont tends to be slower then the other two races. However, he did set a slow pace in the Derby and faltered at the end. The other thing is, he is by Forestry so you have to wonder how far he really wants to go. The other good news is that his broodmare sire does have a Belmont winner, and one of his sisters finished second on this track as a 3yo. Although Lady Joanne's race was a one turn race. Much like Animal Kingdom, he's run in both TC races, the others listed have not. Will he have enough in the tank?
Prime Cut- Probley the lone horse who will have not started in either the Derby or Preakness. This Bernstein colt defeated Bind who had won his maiden impressively down at the Fair Grounds. He does have some stakes experience, but has yet to win one. He does get help on his dam's side through her sire of Stravinsky, in turn Stravinsky is a brother to Moscow Ballet the defending broodmare sire and the sire of one of my favorite fillies, Moscow Burning.
Others considered: Ruler on Ice and Santiva.
June 5, 2011
Belmont Week
So here we are, the final race of the Triple Crown season. On Saturday around 6:30ish (I think) the winner of the Belmont Stakes should be in the winners circle and drapped with the carnations. With that another Triple Crown season will be over, and the focus for the next couple weeks will be on older horses.
Before we look to this year's Belmont, I thought that it would be a good time to look at one of my favorite Belmont's. This race took place in 1978. Of course I'm talking about Affirmed and Alydar's duel at Big Sandy.
http://youtube.com/apBIGFWMFr0
I'll have a few more Belmont reflections later this week, but for now after a week off just trying to get back into the swing of things.
Before we look to this year's Belmont, I thought that it would be a good time to look at one of my favorite Belmont's. This race took place in 1978. Of course I'm talking about Affirmed and Alydar's duel at Big Sandy.
http://youtube.com/apBIGFWMFr0
I'll have a few more Belmont reflections later this week, but for now after a week off just trying to get back into the swing of things.
June 4, 2010
Heart over Head
So this is it, the final Triple Crown race of the year. I'm a bit sad that it's ending, because we won't be seeing a Triple Crown winner this year. It's been an interesting one to say the least, from Super Saver's Derby win, to Lookin at Lucky's Preakness to now. Unfortanlly both SS and Lucky are skipping this race, but they'll be back down the road. Here is this year's field for the Belmont:
Post Horse Jockey Trainer Odds
1. Dave In Dixie Calvin Borel John Sadler 20-1
2. Spangled Star Garrett Gomez Richard Dutrow, Jr. 30-1
3. Uptowncharlybrown Rajiv Maragh Kiaran McLaughlin 10-1
4. Make Music for Me Joel Rosario Alexis Barba 10-1
5. Fly Down John Velazquez Nick Zito 9-2
6. Ice Box Jose Lezcano Nick Zito 3-1
7. Drosselmeyer Mike Smith Bill Mott 12-1
8. Game On Dude Martin Garcia Bob Baffert 10-1
9. Stately Victor Alan Garcia Mike Maker 15-1
10. Stay Put Jamie Theriot Steve Margolis 20-1
11. First Dude Ramon Dominguez Dale Romans 7-2
12. Interactif Javier Castellano Todd Pletcher 12-1
Right away, I'm throwing out Dave in Dixie, Spangled Star, Drosselmeyer and Stay Put. That leaves me with eight, I think First Dude could be a fluke so I'm tossing him, Stately Victor seems to be hit or miss and I'm going to say miss in this race. Game On Dude did not run well against Ice Box in the FL Derby and is coming out of a prep that hasn't had that much sucess, so I have to toss him even though he has one of the hottest jockeys around. I want to like Ice Box, but I just think Fly Down is the better of the Zito trainees. This leaves me with three, Uptowncharlybrown, Make Music for Me and Interactif. I know on paper these three are longshots, but this is a race where I'm going with my heart instead of my head.
My pick to win the Belmont is Uptowncharlybrown, this would be the first win for his owners Fantasy Lane Stable, the second for his new trainer Kiaran McLaughlin and the first for his new jockey Rajiv Maragh. All of this after Charly's orginal trainer Alan Seewald lost his life to a heart attack. However, I would be estatic if Alexis Barba becomes the first woman to win a TC race with Make Music for Me who I loved since he was a 2yo. A Belmont win by Interactif would sure make the Super Saver loss sting less for his trainer Todd Pletcher. I fully expect either Fly Down or Ice Box to win the race however giving Nick Zito his third Belmont win and Jose Lezcano his first or Johnny V his second.
Head Choices (What I think will happen):
Fly Down
Game On Dude
Ice Box
Heart Choices (What I want to happen):
Uptowncharlybrown
Make Music for Me
Interactif
Here are a few other races going on Saturday at Belmont.
6th (2:34)
Woody Stephens S. (G2)
7 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $250,000
Post # Horse Jockey Weight Claim Price Equip. Med.
1 Eightyfiveinafifty Dominguez R A 123 L
2 Remand Velazquez J R 117 Blk-Off L
3 Discreetly Mine Castellano J J 123 L
4 Thank U Philippe Gomez G K 119 L
5 D' Funnybone Prado E S 123 L
A small, but talented field. I think Eightyfive should win this with D' Funnybone in second (as I still think this is a little bit too long for him), I wouldn't be suprised if Discreetly Mine takes it though.
9th (4:46)
Betfair TVG Acorn S. (G1)
1 Mile | Fillies | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $300,000
Post # Horse Jockey Weight Claim Price Equip. Med.
1 Hot Trip Coa E M 121 L
2 Tanda Solis A 121 L
3 Dances With Ashley Velazquez J R 121 L
4 Seeking the Title Desormeaux K J 121 L
5 Streaker Castellano J J 121 L
6 Amen Hallelujah Dominguez R A 121 L
7 Quiet Temper Gomez G K 121 L
8 Much Rejoicing Garcia Alan 121 L
9 Buckleupbuttercup Lezcano J 121 L
10 Tidal Pool Maragh R 121 L
11 Indian Burn Velasquez C 121 Blk-On L
12 Champagne d'Oro Garcia M 121 L
13 Crisp Borel C H 121 L
Nice size field. Seeking the Title got knocked out of her last race due to a spill, but she's back for more. Quiet Temper, Tidal Pool, Champagne d' Oro, Crisp and Amen Hallelujah all ran in the Oaks. Buckleupbuttercup upset Hot Dixie Chick in the Eight Belles, but I'm going with a horse whose sister probley should have been the 06 3yo Champion filly and with any luck, she will be at Churchill in November where her sister sadly broke down the same year. Streaker is undefeated in three starts, her half sister is the late Pine Island. Quiet Temper for second and Champagne d' Oro for third.
10th (5:36)
Woodford Reserve Manhattan H. (G1)
1 1/4 Miles (Inner turf) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $400,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Gio Ponti Dominguez R A Clement Christophe 122 L 2-1
2 2 Strike a Deal Gomez G K Goldberg Alan E 118 L 12-1
3 3 Pinckney Hill Maragh R Penna Angel Jr 114 L 8-1
4 4 Winchester Velasquez C Clement Christophe 115 L 15-1
5 5 Take the Points Prado E S Pletcher Todd A 121 L 9-2
6 6 Court Vision Albarado R J Dutrow, Jr. R E 120 L 4-1
7 7 Jet Propulsion Garcia M Wolfson Martin D 115 L 20-1
8 8 Grand Couturier (GB) Garcia Alan Ribaudo Robert J 117 L 12-1
9 9 Just as Well Desormeaux K J Sheppard Jonathan E 117 L 10-1
10 10 Interpatation Lezcano J Barbara Robert 116 L 30-1
11 11 Expansion Castellano J J Brown Chad C 116 L 20- 1
This is the race of the day outside of the Belmont. I really would love to see either Take the Points, Just as Well, Winchester, Gio Ponti or Court Vision win this. I wouldn't mind if Strike a Deal or Grand Couturier wins, but anyone else would be a disapointment.
That's it for the weekend preview for this week. I'll have a Triple Crown recap on Monday and start looking foward to the rest of the year.
Post Horse Jockey Trainer Odds
1. Dave In Dixie Calvin Borel John Sadler 20-1
2. Spangled Star Garrett Gomez Richard Dutrow, Jr. 30-1
3. Uptowncharlybrown Rajiv Maragh Kiaran McLaughlin 10-1
4. Make Music for Me Joel Rosario Alexis Barba 10-1
5. Fly Down John Velazquez Nick Zito 9-2
6. Ice Box Jose Lezcano Nick Zito 3-1
7. Drosselmeyer Mike Smith Bill Mott 12-1
8. Game On Dude Martin Garcia Bob Baffert 10-1
9. Stately Victor Alan Garcia Mike Maker 15-1
10. Stay Put Jamie Theriot Steve Margolis 20-1
11. First Dude Ramon Dominguez Dale Romans 7-2
12. Interactif Javier Castellano Todd Pletcher 12-1
Right away, I'm throwing out Dave in Dixie, Spangled Star, Drosselmeyer and Stay Put. That leaves me with eight, I think First Dude could be a fluke so I'm tossing him, Stately Victor seems to be hit or miss and I'm going to say miss in this race. Game On Dude did not run well against Ice Box in the FL Derby and is coming out of a prep that hasn't had that much sucess, so I have to toss him even though he has one of the hottest jockeys around. I want to like Ice Box, but I just think Fly Down is the better of the Zito trainees. This leaves me with three, Uptowncharlybrown, Make Music for Me and Interactif. I know on paper these three are longshots, but this is a race where I'm going with my heart instead of my head.
My pick to win the Belmont is Uptowncharlybrown, this would be the first win for his owners Fantasy Lane Stable, the second for his new trainer Kiaran McLaughlin and the first for his new jockey Rajiv Maragh. All of this after Charly's orginal trainer Alan Seewald lost his life to a heart attack. However, I would be estatic if Alexis Barba becomes the first woman to win a TC race with Make Music for Me who I loved since he was a 2yo. A Belmont win by Interactif would sure make the Super Saver loss sting less for his trainer Todd Pletcher. I fully expect either Fly Down or Ice Box to win the race however giving Nick Zito his third Belmont win and Jose Lezcano his first or Johnny V his second.
Head Choices (What I think will happen):
Fly Down
Game On Dude
Ice Box
Heart Choices (What I want to happen):
Uptowncharlybrown
Make Music for Me
Interactif
Here are a few other races going on Saturday at Belmont.
6th (2:34)
Woody Stephens S. (G2)
7 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $250,000
Post # Horse Jockey Weight Claim Price Equip. Med.
1 Eightyfiveinafifty Dominguez R A 123 L
2 Remand Velazquez J R 117 Blk-Off L
3 Discreetly Mine Castellano J J 123 L
4 Thank U Philippe Gomez G K 119 L
5 D' Funnybone Prado E S 123 L
A small, but talented field. I think Eightyfive should win this with D' Funnybone in second (as I still think this is a little bit too long for him), I wouldn't be suprised if Discreetly Mine takes it though.
9th (4:46)
Betfair TVG Acorn S. (G1)
1 Mile | Fillies | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $300,000
Post # Horse Jockey Weight Claim Price Equip. Med.
1 Hot Trip Coa E M 121 L
2 Tanda Solis A 121 L
3 Dances With Ashley Velazquez J R 121 L
4 Seeking the Title Desormeaux K J 121 L
5 Streaker Castellano J J 121 L
6 Amen Hallelujah Dominguez R A 121 L
7 Quiet Temper Gomez G K 121 L
8 Much Rejoicing Garcia Alan 121 L
9 Buckleupbuttercup Lezcano J 121 L
10 Tidal Pool Maragh R 121 L
11 Indian Burn Velasquez C 121 Blk-On L
12 Champagne d'Oro Garcia M 121 L
13 Crisp Borel C H 121 L
Nice size field. Seeking the Title got knocked out of her last race due to a spill, but she's back for more. Quiet Temper, Tidal Pool, Champagne d' Oro, Crisp and Amen Hallelujah all ran in the Oaks. Buckleupbuttercup upset Hot Dixie Chick in the Eight Belles, but I'm going with a horse whose sister probley should have been the 06 3yo Champion filly and with any luck, she will be at Churchill in November where her sister sadly broke down the same year. Streaker is undefeated in three starts, her half sister is the late Pine Island. Quiet Temper for second and Champagne d' Oro for third.
10th (5:36)
Woodford Reserve Manhattan H. (G1)
1 1/4 Miles (Inner turf) | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up Stakes | Purse: $400,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Gio Ponti Dominguez R A Clement Christophe 122 L 2-1
2 2 Strike a Deal Gomez G K Goldberg Alan E 118 L 12-1
3 3 Pinckney Hill Maragh R Penna Angel Jr 114 L 8-1
4 4 Winchester Velasquez C Clement Christophe 115 L 15-1
5 5 Take the Points Prado E S Pletcher Todd A 121 L 9-2
6 6 Court Vision Albarado R J Dutrow, Jr. R E 120 L 4-1
7 7 Jet Propulsion Garcia M Wolfson Martin D 115 L 20-1
8 8 Grand Couturier (GB) Garcia Alan Ribaudo Robert J 117 L 12-1
9 9 Just as Well Desormeaux K J Sheppard Jonathan E 117 L 10-1
10 10 Interpatation Lezcano J Barbara Robert 116 L 30-1
11 11 Expansion Castellano J J Brown Chad C 116 L 20- 1
This is the race of the day outside of the Belmont. I really would love to see either Take the Points, Just as Well, Winchester, Gio Ponti or Court Vision win this. I wouldn't mind if Strike a Deal or Grand Couturier wins, but anyone else would be a disapointment.
That's it for the weekend preview for this week. I'll have a Triple Crown recap on Monday and start looking foward to the rest of the year.
June 3, 2009
It's Bird's World (Saturday preview)
Where going west to east this week in the weekend preview. Equibase has the Belmont card here
First up at Hollywood
Charles Whittingham Memorial H. (Grade I): Mike Smith gave up a mount in the Belmont to ride Madeo. Why? Jerry and Ann Moss are his owners, and of course they own Zenyatta. However I'm going with Globetrotter, he won the Grey S. as a 2yo (a race that Mine That Bird won last year), and he may like the West Coast. Liquidity for second and Artiste Royal for third.
Now for Belmont
True North H. (Grade II): This is the return for last year's Eclipse winning sprinter Benny the Bull. I think he might need a race, so I'll toss him for this race. Two Step Salsa is shortening up after winning the Godolphin Mile, I'm looking for him to bounce in this race and add in the the Dubai factor, another toss. I'm going with Fabulous Strike, he finished second in the Carter last time out and can improve in this race.
Just a Game S. (Grade I): Six words: Forever Together and My Princess Jess. Those two horses are my picks. Forever showed her form last year has held and Jess IMO, is an up and comer.
Woody Stephens S. (Grade II): Two unbeaten horses (Hull and Everyday Heros) and a Derby runner (Regal Ransom) highlight this race. However, I'm going with Hello Broadway, the shorter distance may suit him and he's coming in under the radar.
Acorn S. (Grade I): Had Rachel Alexandra had stayed with Hal Wiggins, this would have been her next race. However we now know, she is a boy beater. But it's still a nice field with 2 Oaks runners, one of my favorite NYB's in training, one of Rach's new stablemates and scratched second choice in the Oaks. I like Justwhistledixie in this race, however I would love if Doramifasolatido wins (Just to hear Tom Durkin sing, which what he does with her). Either Be Fair, Gabby's Golden Gal or Four Gifts for third.
Manhattan H. (Grade I): Outside of the Belmont, this is the race of the weekend. Better Talk Now is going against his regular pilot Ramon Domingez (who is riding Court Vision). I like a few horses in this race including BTN, Court, Cowboy Cal and Champs Elysees. Any order.
Belmont S. (Grade I): The big race! A few horses I'm tossing right away: Brave Victory, Flying Private and Mr. Hot Stuff. I think that a mile and half is a little bit beyond their scope. There really isn't that much speed in the race, which is good news for Charitable Man who could go gate to wire and his trainer and jockey their second Belmont wins respectivly. However, the last time I looked there is a little Birdstone gelding who has a jockey who loves the rail riding him. I like Mine That Bird, he'll be a little bit closer to the pace then he is used, but if Chartiable is pressed, he could fly from the back and win it. It would give Calvin Borel the jockey Triple Crown. I think Chartiable Man will finish second and I would love if Chocolate Candy was third.
But anything can happen in horse racing, so good luck to all and I hope all the horses return safe!
First up at Hollywood
Charles Whittingham Memorial H. (Grade I): Mike Smith gave up a mount in the Belmont to ride Madeo. Why? Jerry and Ann Moss are his owners, and of course they own Zenyatta. However I'm going with Globetrotter, he won the Grey S. as a 2yo (a race that Mine That Bird won last year), and he may like the West Coast. Liquidity for second and Artiste Royal for third.
Now for Belmont
True North H. (Grade II): This is the return for last year's Eclipse winning sprinter Benny the Bull. I think he might need a race, so I'll toss him for this race. Two Step Salsa is shortening up after winning the Godolphin Mile, I'm looking for him to bounce in this race and add in the the Dubai factor, another toss. I'm going with Fabulous Strike, he finished second in the Carter last time out and can improve in this race.
Just a Game S. (Grade I): Six words: Forever Together and My Princess Jess. Those two horses are my picks. Forever showed her form last year has held and Jess IMO, is an up and comer.
Woody Stephens S. (Grade II): Two unbeaten horses (Hull and Everyday Heros) and a Derby runner (Regal Ransom) highlight this race. However, I'm going with Hello Broadway, the shorter distance may suit him and he's coming in under the radar.
Acorn S. (Grade I): Had Rachel Alexandra had stayed with Hal Wiggins, this would have been her next race. However we now know, she is a boy beater. But it's still a nice field with 2 Oaks runners, one of my favorite NYB's in training, one of Rach's new stablemates and scratched second choice in the Oaks. I like Justwhistledixie in this race, however I would love if Doramifasolatido wins (Just to hear Tom Durkin sing, which what he does with her). Either Be Fair, Gabby's Golden Gal or Four Gifts for third.
Manhattan H. (Grade I): Outside of the Belmont, this is the race of the weekend. Better Talk Now is going against his regular pilot Ramon Domingez (who is riding Court Vision). I like a few horses in this race including BTN, Court, Cowboy Cal and Champs Elysees. Any order.
Belmont S. (Grade I): The big race! A few horses I'm tossing right away: Brave Victory, Flying Private and Mr. Hot Stuff. I think that a mile and half is a little bit beyond their scope. There really isn't that much speed in the race, which is good news for Charitable Man who could go gate to wire and his trainer and jockey their second Belmont wins respectivly. However, the last time I looked there is a little Birdstone gelding who has a jockey who loves the rail riding him. I like Mine That Bird, he'll be a little bit closer to the pace then he is used, but if Chartiable is pressed, he could fly from the back and win it. It would give Calvin Borel the jockey Triple Crown. I think Chartiable Man will finish second and I would love if Chocolate Candy was third.
But anything can happen in horse racing, so good luck to all and I hope all the horses return safe!
June 2, 2009
Reliving the 2007 Belmont
The Belmont has been a place of happiness and heartbreak for me personally. There was when Funny Cide finished 3rd behind Empire Maker and Ten Most Wanted in the 03 edition and when Birdstone passed Smarty Jones to deny him the Triple Crown in 04. Afleet Alex turned my frown upside down when he won the Belmont in 05 after his amazing recovery in the Preakness. Jazil, while impressive, really didn’t grab my attention except for his young jockey Fernando Jara when he won in the heartbroken 2006 edition (What I liked about ABC’s coverage was that they had Jeremy Schap at New Bolton with Barbaro and he was basically “watching” the race). However my favorite Belmont to date is the 2007 edition. Or as I like to call it: Curlin (and the rest of the field of course), get beat by a girl.
The Kentucky Derby and Preakness that year where amazing races. Street Sense became the first Breeder’s Cup Juvy winner to win the Kentucky Derby winner with a rail skimming ride by Calvin Borel (And as we now know, that wasn’t the last time we would see “Bo-Rail” win the Derby). The Preakness was the end of the chance at a Triple Crown when future 2 time Horse of the Year, Curlin nailed Street Sense at the wire. This set up the chance of Curlin’s coronation at the Belmont. However, that was not meant to be.
Enter Rags to Riches, Jazil’s little half sister. By 1992 Belmont winner AP Indy out of the Deputy Minister mare Better Than Honour (Jazil is by Seeking the Gold), Rags won the Kentucky Oaks the day before Street Sense in the Derby. Many thought that she could have won the Derby, but trainer Todd Pletcher and owners Coolmore had Circler Quay in the Derby. Well Circler ended not doing not only in the Derby, but the Preakness as well. As plans where made for Rags to skip the Belmont, her jockey Garrett Gomez agreed to ride Hard Spun replacing Mario Pino.
Regular Pletcher rider John Velazquez was able to get off his mount when it was decided that Rags was going to run. Garrett Gomez wanted to ride her, but Larry Jones didn’t let him out of his commitment. I think you know what happens next, Rags and Curlin hook up at the stretch and Tom Durkin announces those now famous words: “A Filly in the Belmont!” Here is a video of that magical day.
Here are what the first four finishers are doing 2 years later.
Rags to Riches (1st): The Belmont turned out to be her final win in her career. While she finished second in the Gazelle behind Lear’s Princess, she suffered an injury that ended her career. She had a Giant’s Causeway filly this year (And if you see photos of her she’s is her mother’s daughter), Rags is currently in foal to Henrythenavagator.
Curlin (2nd): The Belmont would be a turning point in his career. He came back to finish 3rd in the Haskell, win the Jockey Club Gold Cup and Breeder’s Cup Classic to get Horse of the Year for 2007. In 2008, his owner Jess Jackson, brought him back and made his first two starts in Dubai. These two races where the Jaguar Trophy and the Dubai World Cup. He came back to win the Stephen Foster, finish second in the Man O War on grass, and win the JCGC for a second time and break Cigar’s all time NA earnings record (It should be noted that the actual NA record holder is Skip Away, both Cigar and Curlin’s earnings are inflated due to going to Dubai and winning the ultra rich World Cup). He would finish his career finishing 4th in the BC Classic behind Raven’s Pass, Henrythenavagator and Tiago. He now stands at Lane’s End in Kentucky, his first crop hit’s the ground next year.
Tiago (3rd): After finishing third in the Belmont, Tiago would become more successful then his older Derby winning half brother Giacomo, by beating older males in the Goodwood. His owners announced that he would be standing at Adena at the end of his racing career. He is currently in training, but has not run since February.
Hard Spun (4th): The Belmont was the only time in his career that anyone not named Mario Pino was on his back. He finished behind Any Given Saturday in the Haskell, afterwards a change in distance was made. While successful as a router, he had the speed to stay with the sprinters, and with a stallion deal with Darley set, it was his best chance to get that G1 win. The King’s Bishop up at Saratoga was the choice. Although several nice sprinters, including Tuefelsburg who handed Hard Spun his first defeat in the Southwest. Hard Spun sat right off the pacesetter Spin Master and took the lead as they where going into the final turn. It was down to him and First Defense, however the gutsy PA bred prevailed. After getting his revenge on Street Sense at Turfway (He had finished second in the Derby), he wrapped up his career in the Breeder’s Cup Classic with a solid second place finish behind Curlin. He now stands at Darley in Kentucky and many consider him to possibly be North America’s Danehill(ironically they share a sire in Danzig).
I hoped you enjoyed this reliving of the 2007 Belmont. I will have the Post Positions tomorrow (I think they get drawn tomorrow), of the G1’s on Saturday (including the Whittingham out at Hollywood).
The Kentucky Derby and Preakness that year where amazing races. Street Sense became the first Breeder’s Cup Juvy winner to win the Kentucky Derby winner with a rail skimming ride by Calvin Borel (And as we now know, that wasn’t the last time we would see “Bo-Rail” win the Derby). The Preakness was the end of the chance at a Triple Crown when future 2 time Horse of the Year, Curlin nailed Street Sense at the wire. This set up the chance of Curlin’s coronation at the Belmont. However, that was not meant to be.
Enter Rags to Riches, Jazil’s little half sister. By 1992 Belmont winner AP Indy out of the Deputy Minister mare Better Than Honour (Jazil is by Seeking the Gold), Rags won the Kentucky Oaks the day before Street Sense in the Derby. Many thought that she could have won the Derby, but trainer Todd Pletcher and owners Coolmore had Circler Quay in the Derby. Well Circler ended not doing not only in the Derby, but the Preakness as well. As plans where made for Rags to skip the Belmont, her jockey Garrett Gomez agreed to ride Hard Spun replacing Mario Pino.
Regular Pletcher rider John Velazquez was able to get off his mount when it was decided that Rags was going to run. Garrett Gomez wanted to ride her, but Larry Jones didn’t let him out of his commitment. I think you know what happens next, Rags and Curlin hook up at the stretch and Tom Durkin announces those now famous words: “A Filly in the Belmont!” Here is a video of that magical day.
Here are what the first four finishers are doing 2 years later.
Rags to Riches (1st): The Belmont turned out to be her final win in her career. While she finished second in the Gazelle behind Lear’s Princess, she suffered an injury that ended her career. She had a Giant’s Causeway filly this year (And if you see photos of her she’s is her mother’s daughter), Rags is currently in foal to Henrythenavagator.
Curlin (2nd): The Belmont would be a turning point in his career. He came back to finish 3rd in the Haskell, win the Jockey Club Gold Cup and Breeder’s Cup Classic to get Horse of the Year for 2007. In 2008, his owner Jess Jackson, brought him back and made his first two starts in Dubai. These two races where the Jaguar Trophy and the Dubai World Cup. He came back to win the Stephen Foster, finish second in the Man O War on grass, and win the JCGC for a second time and break Cigar’s all time NA earnings record (It should be noted that the actual NA record holder is Skip Away, both Cigar and Curlin’s earnings are inflated due to going to Dubai and winning the ultra rich World Cup). He would finish his career finishing 4th in the BC Classic behind Raven’s Pass, Henrythenavagator and Tiago. He now stands at Lane’s End in Kentucky, his first crop hit’s the ground next year.
Tiago (3rd): After finishing third in the Belmont, Tiago would become more successful then his older Derby winning half brother Giacomo, by beating older males in the Goodwood. His owners announced that he would be standing at Adena at the end of his racing career. He is currently in training, but has not run since February.
Hard Spun (4th): The Belmont was the only time in his career that anyone not named Mario Pino was on his back. He finished behind Any Given Saturday in the Haskell, afterwards a change in distance was made. While successful as a router, he had the speed to stay with the sprinters, and with a stallion deal with Darley set, it was his best chance to get that G1 win. The King’s Bishop up at Saratoga was the choice. Although several nice sprinters, including Tuefelsburg who handed Hard Spun his first defeat in the Southwest. Hard Spun sat right off the pacesetter Spin Master and took the lead as they where going into the final turn. It was down to him and First Defense, however the gutsy PA bred prevailed. After getting his revenge on Street Sense at Turfway (He had finished second in the Derby), he wrapped up his career in the Breeder’s Cup Classic with a solid second place finish behind Curlin. He now stands at Darley in Kentucky and many consider him to possibly be North America’s Danehill(ironically they share a sire in Danzig).
I hoped you enjoyed this reliving of the 2007 Belmont. I will have the Post Positions tomorrow (I think they get drawn tomorrow), of the G1’s on Saturday (including the Whittingham out at Hollywood).
June 1, 2009
Belmont Week is here!
It's Belmont week!
Mine That Bird had his final workout before the mile and half Belmont today, also returning to the track was Rachel Alexandra. I think both parties where very pleased with how they both ran. And Calvin Borel is confident in Mine, link. In other Belmont news, Summer Bird will be racing in blinkers for the first time. When the PP’s come out on Weds, I’ll have my picks then (I will say that I’m leaning towards a Mine That Bird/Charitable Man/Chocolate Candy trifecta). BTW Todd Pletcher is blogging again for NTRA, link.He did this in 2007 with Rags to Riches after she won the Belmont.
One of the 2yo’s who I’m watching worked out today up at Saratoga.
Rule
Your Comment: 2007 c Roman Ruler x Rockcide (Personal Flag)
Date: June 1, 2009
Track: Saratoga
Distance: Three Furlongs
Time: 37:62
Track Condition: Fast
Surface: Dirt training
Rank: 17/59
I should note that I did remove a part of my comment that I usually have because I’m going to explain why I’m following this horse. Roman Ruler is by Fusaichi Pegasus and was part of the 2005 3yo class. Although he did not run in the Triple Crown, he was a highly regarded and won the Haskell beating Sun King. Rockcide is a NY bred by Personal Flag. She didn’t win a race, and while it maybe surprising that she got into a G1 winner’s first book, let me explain a little bit of her female family. Rockcide hails from the same family as Belle of Cozzene (G3 winner), Zee Oh Six (Listed Stakes winner and ¾ brother to Belle of Cozzene) and Quakerbell (Listed stakes winner). However, her grand dam’s best foal in the shed, was a mare who won only 2 races in her life (Note: This is a clue of where I’m heading towards wink wink). Rockcide is out of this particular mare, Belle’s Good Cide by Slewacide. Her first foal, a colt named Coincide (By Cozzene), won three races and is now standing in Venezuela. Her second foal was also a colt, a chestnut by a rookie stallion by the name of Distorted Humor (Note: Clue #2!, and I’m sorry I have to mention him and his most famous foal. The story wouldn’t be complete without it). This colt however, would end up being a gelding before his racing career began. Trained by Barclay Tagg and owned by Sackatoga Stable, Rockcide’s half brother is the one and only Funny Cide! If you are wondering Rockcide was Belle’s 3rd foal and only female. The final foal, Homicide (by Mojave Moon), is now a timber racer. Sadly sometime after Homicide was born, Belle passed away from colic.
Anyway back to Rule, the fact that he is up at Saratoga tells me that Nick Zito trains him. Which is cool, since Nick trains another great DH gelding by the name of Commentator (Whose full sister Source of Humor makes her debut for Graham Motion on Friday at Monmouth). However, I could also be wrong and there is another trainer who is based up there. So, if anyone knows who trains Rule, please leave a comment on this post. I’m pretty interested in who does train him, and if he’s going to make his debut at Belmont, or wait until later in the year. Especially since he’s been working steadily.
Even though the US Triple Crown will end this upcoming Saturday in the Belmont, the Canadian Triple Crown will be getting started in a few weeks. The final major prep was yesterday in the Plate Trial, and the winner was Eye of the Leopard (AP Indy x Eye of the Sphynx by Smart Strike), link. Owned by the famous Sam-Son Farm, he should be the favorite for the Queen’s Plate at a mile and a quarter. Also for you Square Eddie fans, he’s still not recovered from his recent setback and will skip the Queen’s Plate. I feel bad for his owner Paul Reddam, who is from Canada. However, it’s for the best. We should see him later this year in the other Cali races.
Sadly, Susan Magnier who owns Ballydole (her husband John, Michael Tabor and Derek Smith make up Coolmore), lost her father the great trainer Vincent O'Brien (No relation to Ballydole’s current trainer Aidan O'Brien) this morning in Ireland. Mr. O’Brien was 92 and trained many great horses including El Gran Senor (the future broodmare sire of Chester House and Empire Maker) and Nijinsky II (British Triple Crown winner, and the sire of Ferdinand and Dancing Spree). Link
Mine That Bird had his final workout before the mile and half Belmont today, also returning to the track was Rachel Alexandra. I think both parties where very pleased with how they both ran. And Calvin Borel is confident in Mine, link. In other Belmont news, Summer Bird will be racing in blinkers for the first time. When the PP’s come out on Weds, I’ll have my picks then (I will say that I’m leaning towards a Mine That Bird/Charitable Man/Chocolate Candy trifecta). BTW Todd Pletcher is blogging again for NTRA, link.He did this in 2007 with Rags to Riches after she won the Belmont.
One of the 2yo’s who I’m watching worked out today up at Saratoga.
Rule
Your Comment: 2007 c Roman Ruler x Rockcide (Personal Flag)
Date: June 1, 2009
Track: Saratoga
Distance: Three Furlongs
Time: 37:62
Track Condition: Fast
Surface: Dirt training
Rank: 17/59
I should note that I did remove a part of my comment that I usually have because I’m going to explain why I’m following this horse. Roman Ruler is by Fusaichi Pegasus and was part of the 2005 3yo class. Although he did not run in the Triple Crown, he was a highly regarded and won the Haskell beating Sun King. Rockcide is a NY bred by Personal Flag. She didn’t win a race, and while it maybe surprising that she got into a G1 winner’s first book, let me explain a little bit of her female family. Rockcide hails from the same family as Belle of Cozzene (G3 winner), Zee Oh Six (Listed Stakes winner and ¾ brother to Belle of Cozzene) and Quakerbell (Listed stakes winner). However, her grand dam’s best foal in the shed, was a mare who won only 2 races in her life (Note: This is a clue of where I’m heading towards wink wink). Rockcide is out of this particular mare, Belle’s Good Cide by Slewacide. Her first foal, a colt named Coincide (By Cozzene), won three races and is now standing in Venezuela. Her second foal was also a colt, a chestnut by a rookie stallion by the name of Distorted Humor (Note: Clue #2!, and I’m sorry I have to mention him and his most famous foal. The story wouldn’t be complete without it). This colt however, would end up being a gelding before his racing career began. Trained by Barclay Tagg and owned by Sackatoga Stable, Rockcide’s half brother is the one and only Funny Cide! If you are wondering Rockcide was Belle’s 3rd foal and only female. The final foal, Homicide (by Mojave Moon), is now a timber racer. Sadly sometime after Homicide was born, Belle passed away from colic.
Anyway back to Rule, the fact that he is up at Saratoga tells me that Nick Zito trains him. Which is cool, since Nick trains another great DH gelding by the name of Commentator (Whose full sister Source of Humor makes her debut for Graham Motion on Friday at Monmouth). However, I could also be wrong and there is another trainer who is based up there. So, if anyone knows who trains Rule, please leave a comment on this post. I’m pretty interested in who does train him, and if he’s going to make his debut at Belmont, or wait until later in the year. Especially since he’s been working steadily.
Even though the US Triple Crown will end this upcoming Saturday in the Belmont, the Canadian Triple Crown will be getting started in a few weeks. The final major prep was yesterday in the Plate Trial, and the winner was Eye of the Leopard (AP Indy x Eye of the Sphynx by Smart Strike), link. Owned by the famous Sam-Son Farm, he should be the favorite for the Queen’s Plate at a mile and a quarter. Also for you Square Eddie fans, he’s still not recovered from his recent setback and will skip the Queen’s Plate. I feel bad for his owner Paul Reddam, who is from Canada. However, it’s for the best. We should see him later this year in the other Cali races.
Sadly, Susan Magnier who owns Ballydole (her husband John, Michael Tabor and Derek Smith make up Coolmore), lost her father the great trainer Vincent O'Brien (No relation to Ballydole’s current trainer Aidan O'Brien) this morning in Ireland. Mr. O’Brien was 92 and trained many great horses including El Gran Senor (the future broodmare sire of Chester House and Empire Maker) and Nijinsky II (British Triple Crown winner, and the sire of Ferdinand and Dancing Spree). Link
May 30, 2009
Sorry NYRA: Rachel to skip Belmont
As everyone knows by now, Rachel Alexandra will skip the Belmont Stakes. Will it effect the attendance, most likely. However, Mine That Bird will be in the race, and he has his new BFF back on his back after a one race hietus. With Rachel out, it helps Chartiable Man out, as he's the lone speed. But I wouldn't be surpised if Brave Victory went out with him, as his dad Lion Heart was pretty speedy himself.
Meanwhile, Rach will be in a non horse related magazine this upcoming August. It's a very well known magazine, that is more known for it's fashion sense. I'm talking about Vogue, and yesterday was her photo shoot. Some people like it (I'm one of those), others wished it happend before with horses like Rags to Riches and Zenyatta. I think the big reason why she is going to be in the magazine is that Anna Wintour, the editor of Vogue was at the Preakness. If she hadn't been, who knows if she would be in the magazine. Hopefully this opens the door to a world racing has never traveled. Next thing we know, Mine is getting offers from magazines himself.
Anyway, due to some miscommunitation I didn't get to the track today. But lets just say I had a horrible day picking winners. So hopefully I will get there on June 20th which is DelCap/Oaks preview day.
Meanwhile, Rach will be in a non horse related magazine this upcoming August. It's a very well known magazine, that is more known for it's fashion sense. I'm talking about Vogue, and yesterday was her photo shoot. Some people like it (I'm one of those), others wished it happend before with horses like Rags to Riches and Zenyatta. I think the big reason why she is going to be in the magazine is that Anna Wintour, the editor of Vogue was at the Preakness. If she hadn't been, who knows if she would be in the magazine. Hopefully this opens the door to a world racing has never traveled. Next thing we know, Mine is getting offers from magazines himself.
Anyway, due to some miscommunitation I didn't get to the track today. But lets just say I had a horrible day picking winners. So hopefully I will get there on June 20th which is DelCap/Oaks preview day.
May 19, 2009
Belmont journeys await
Well before the TC talk on ThoroughChat takes about a week and half break, there is some Belmont updates.
First off once again, Mine That Bird is looking for a new jockey. Link I understand that Mike Smith is trying to be loyal to the Moss', but what if he and Mine beat Rachel Alexandra and Calvin Borel? Would have he still taken off him? I don't know, but if Rach does not go (which I somewhat hope she doesn't as she deserves a rest and come back in the summer with full force), look for Calvin to ride him. If she does, I hope they decide on either putting a local on him or his former jockey/Mike's girlfriend, Chantal Sutherland.
Meanwhile it looks like that Mike's Derby mount, Chocolate Candy, could be ridden by Garrett Gomez (I don't think announcement has come yet on this though). I'm pretty disappointed by this choice. Either way hopefully he does well.
The following are the sires who could be represented in the Belmont, foals are in parenthesis.
Birdstone (Mine That Bird, 3rd jockey as in many races, unless Rach does not go. Winner of the KY Derby, 2nd in the Preakness the past two races, and Summer Bird, 3rd in the AR Derby, 6th in the KY Derby. Sire won the Belmont in 2004 denying Smarty Jones the Triple Crown.)
Candy Ride (Chocolate Candy, 2nd in SA Derby and 5th in the KY Derby. Sire was undefted as a racehorse.)
Fusaichi Pegasus (Flying Private, one of two horses who will be running in all three races, last in the KY Derby and 4th in the Preakness. Sire the 2000 KY Derby winner.)
Lemon Drop Kid (Charitable Man, newcomer to the TC who is owned by Mr. and Mrs. William Warren, better known as the owners of the late great Saint Liam. Ironicly Charitable and Liam where bred by the same breeder. The other difference other then sire and dam, is Chartiable was foaled if VA, while Liam was foaled in KY. However, Liam would have been foaled in VA as well, but Edward Evans, the breeder did not move his mares until I think a year after Liam was born. Won the Peter Pan last time. Sire denied Charismatic the Triple Crown in the 1999 Belmont.)
Medaglia d'Oro (Rachel Alexandra, she may not go, KY Oaks and Preakness winner. Sire finished 2nd in the 2002 Belmont and won the Travers that year)
Mineshaft (Miner's Escape, newcomer to the TC who is owned by Robert LaPenta, he is the defending owner in the Belmont with Da' Tara. Won the Tesio on Derby day. Sire was the 2003 Horse of the Year.)
Ten Most Wanted (Luv Gov, I love his name dispite who he is named after. Broke maiden and was 8th in the Preakness. Sire was 2nd in the 2003 Belmont and won the Travers that year. )
Tiznow (Mr. Hot Stuff, full brother to last year's Travers winner, was 3rd in the SA Derby and in 15th the KY Derby. Sire is the two time Breeder's Cup Classic winner, and the 2000 Horse of the Year.)
Unbridled's Song (Dunkirk, 2nd in the FL Derby and in 11th the KY Derby. Sire was the beaten favorite in the 1996 Derby won by Grindstone (who ironicly is the sire of Birdstone), winner of the 1995 BC Juvi.)
I end this post on a bit of a sad note, Broad Brush, winner of the PA Derby, Wood, BigCap among others, was euthanized on the 15th of this month. Among of the foals he sired, Concern, the 1994 Breeder's Cup Classic winner. He was 26 years old, link.
First off once again, Mine That Bird is looking for a new jockey. Link I understand that Mike Smith is trying to be loyal to the Moss', but what if he and Mine beat Rachel Alexandra and Calvin Borel? Would have he still taken off him? I don't know, but if Rach does not go (which I somewhat hope she doesn't as she deserves a rest and come back in the summer with full force), look for Calvin to ride him. If she does, I hope they decide on either putting a local on him or his former jockey/Mike's girlfriend, Chantal Sutherland.
Meanwhile it looks like that Mike's Derby mount, Chocolate Candy, could be ridden by Garrett Gomez (I don't think announcement has come yet on this though). I'm pretty disappointed by this choice. Either way hopefully he does well.
The following are the sires who could be represented in the Belmont, foals are in parenthesis.
Birdstone (Mine That Bird, 3rd jockey as in many races, unless Rach does not go. Winner of the KY Derby, 2nd in the Preakness the past two races, and Summer Bird, 3rd in the AR Derby, 6th in the KY Derby. Sire won the Belmont in 2004 denying Smarty Jones the Triple Crown.)
Candy Ride (Chocolate Candy, 2nd in SA Derby and 5th in the KY Derby. Sire was undefted as a racehorse.)
Fusaichi Pegasus (Flying Private, one of two horses who will be running in all three races, last in the KY Derby and 4th in the Preakness. Sire the 2000 KY Derby winner.)
Lemon Drop Kid (Charitable Man, newcomer to the TC who is owned by Mr. and Mrs. William Warren, better known as the owners of the late great Saint Liam. Ironicly Charitable and Liam where bred by the same breeder. The other difference other then sire and dam, is Chartiable was foaled if VA, while Liam was foaled in KY. However, Liam would have been foaled in VA as well, but Edward Evans, the breeder did not move his mares until I think a year after Liam was born. Won the Peter Pan last time. Sire denied Charismatic the Triple Crown in the 1999 Belmont.)
Medaglia d'Oro (Rachel Alexandra, she may not go, KY Oaks and Preakness winner. Sire finished 2nd in the 2002 Belmont and won the Travers that year)
Mineshaft (Miner's Escape, newcomer to the TC who is owned by Robert LaPenta, he is the defending owner in the Belmont with Da' Tara. Won the Tesio on Derby day. Sire was the 2003 Horse of the Year.)
Ten Most Wanted (Luv Gov, I love his name dispite who he is named after. Broke maiden and was 8th in the Preakness. Sire was 2nd in the 2003 Belmont and won the Travers that year. )
Tiznow (Mr. Hot Stuff, full brother to last year's Travers winner, was 3rd in the SA Derby and in 15th the KY Derby. Sire is the two time Breeder's Cup Classic winner, and the 2000 Horse of the Year.)
Unbridled's Song (Dunkirk, 2nd in the FL Derby and in 11th the KY Derby. Sire was the beaten favorite in the 1996 Derby won by Grindstone (who ironicly is the sire of Birdstone), winner of the 1995 BC Juvi.)
I end this post on a bit of a sad note, Broad Brush, winner of the PA Derby, Wood, BigCap among others, was euthanized on the 15th of this month. Among of the foals he sired, Concern, the 1994 Breeder's Cup Classic winner. He was 26 years old, link.
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