Rule is back! He recorded his first workout since his disaster pre-Derby workout that knocked him off the TC trail.
Rule
Your Comment: 2007 c Roman Ruler x Rockcide, nephew to Funny Cide
Date: October 10, 2010
Track: Churchill Downs
Distance: Three Furlongs
Time: 37:60
Track Condition: Fast
Surface: Dirt
Rank: 5/10
I'm not sure what Todd Pletcher and WinStar are pointing him towards. Unfortanlly the Florida Derby form basically fell apart. Ice Box has not been the same since his second place finish in the Kentucky Derby, Pleasant Prince has done well against easier company and First Dude can't seem to get his nose to the line first. Funny did okay off layoffs, so I hope his nephew does as well. Even if he was eligble, there would be no way he would be ready for the Empire Classic (thankfully as a KY bred he's not). Here's to hopeing that he can regain the form that he showed in the Sam F. Davis this year and the Delta Jackpot last year.
The Secretariat review will be coming tomorrow.
Showing posts with label Rule. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rule. Show all posts
October 10, 2010
April 26, 2010
Ransom Again
Last year, a Distorted Humor colt by the name of Regal Ransom came into the Kentucky Derby by defeating his highley regarded stablemate Desert Party in the UAE Derby. After pressing the pace, he ended up finishing 8th. Regal went on to win the Super Derby, before finishing 8th again this time in the Breeders' Cup Classic. Flash foward 12 months, G1 winner Devil May Care will become the first filly since the late great Eight Belles to run in the Kentucky Derby. May (I just can't call her Devil, as she looks like a sweetheart when not on the track), happens to be Regal Ransom's kid sister. The difference, May is by Malibu Moon. Both of them are out of the Red Ransom mare Kelli's Ransom.
As I posted yesterday, May is inconsistant, but has been faster then the colts in the morning. And with Eskendereya now out, John Velesquez will be in the irons. The good news is that his first TC race win was on a filly, that being Rags to Riches in the 07 Belmont. She is basically replacing Rule who just hasn't been training great this week. I gotta give WinStar a lot of credit for deciding to pull him out, while he's not by DH, he's from the family that put both DH and WinStar on the map back in 2003 (I have a post that will be up in a few weeks that talks about the horse that put the former two on the map). Plus a mile and quarter is just too long for him. Possibly the Preakness which might be more up his alley (and the site of the said horses most impressive win visually).
Last thing on today's post is Birthdays. Starting in 2000 the following winners where born in the following months.
2000: Fusaichi Pegasus- April
2001: Monarchos- February
2002: War Emblem- February
2003: Funny Cide- April
2004: Smarty Jones- February
2005: Giacomo- February
2006: Barbaro- April
2007: Street Sense- February
2008: Big Brown- April
2009: Mine That Bird- May
So with the exception of the Bird, everbody else was born in either Feb or Apr. Interesting.
If the Derby where today, these are the horses to keep an eye on if you are going on this pattern.
Feb. birthdays: Endorsement, Conveyance, American Lion, Dean's Kitten, Interactif (although most likely not going), Paddo O Prado, Homeboykris, Jackson Bend
Apr: birthdays: Noble's Promise, Dublin, Awesome Act
A few other neat facts, Stately Victor will be offically three on Saturday (will he give himself a nice birthday present by winning?), and Lookin at Lucky won't be 3 until a few weeks afterwards. Devil May Care will be 3 six days after the Derby and will actually be older then her brother when he ran in the Derby last year.
Another post coming tomorrow, Weds will be reviewing the fields, Thursday the chat and Friday handicapping select races on both undercards and of course the Oaks and Derbys themselves.
As I posted yesterday, May is inconsistant, but has been faster then the colts in the morning. And with Eskendereya now out, John Velesquez will be in the irons. The good news is that his first TC race win was on a filly, that being Rags to Riches in the 07 Belmont. She is basically replacing Rule who just hasn't been training great this week. I gotta give WinStar a lot of credit for deciding to pull him out, while he's not by DH, he's from the family that put both DH and WinStar on the map back in 2003 (I have a post that will be up in a few weeks that talks about the horse that put the former two on the map). Plus a mile and quarter is just too long for him. Possibly the Preakness which might be more up his alley (and the site of the said horses most impressive win visually).
Last thing on today's post is Birthdays. Starting in 2000 the following winners where born in the following months.
2000: Fusaichi Pegasus- April
2001: Monarchos- February
2002: War Emblem- February
2003: Funny Cide- April
2004: Smarty Jones- February
2005: Giacomo- February
2006: Barbaro- April
2007: Street Sense- February
2008: Big Brown- April
2009: Mine That Bird- May
So with the exception of the Bird, everbody else was born in either Feb or Apr. Interesting.
If the Derby where today, these are the horses to keep an eye on if you are going on this pattern.
Feb. birthdays: Endorsement, Conveyance, American Lion, Dean's Kitten, Interactif (although most likely not going), Paddo O Prado, Homeboykris, Jackson Bend
Apr: birthdays: Noble's Promise, Dublin, Awesome Act
A few other neat facts, Stately Victor will be offically three on Saturday (will he give himself a nice birthday present by winning?), and Lookin at Lucky won't be 3 until a few weeks afterwards. Devil May Care will be 3 six days after the Derby and will actually be older then her brother when he ran in the Derby last year.
Another post coming tomorrow, Weds will be reviewing the fields, Thursday the chat and Friday handicapping select races on both undercards and of course the Oaks and Derbys themselves.
March 17, 2010
The Good Ole Switcheroo
You may or may not have heard: Eskendereya, who is on the top of many people's Derby lists (mine is not one of them), will be skipping the Florida Derby and going to the Wood Memorial instead. His stablemate Rule will be replacing him in the G1 race at Gulfstream this upcoming Saturday. This means that the son of Roman Ruler will be going into the Run to the Roses on a six week layoff. It had been previously announced that Eskendereya would be going to the Florida Derby, and Rule would be going to the Wood. Then I read that he might be going to the LA Derby. That's when my head started to spin a little bit.
I'm not a huge fan of the Florida Derby, even though both Barbaro and Big Brown won the race before their wins in the KY Derby. Gulfstream is a speed favoring track which is to Rule's advantage, but there are concerns with distance limitations (he seems to get tired towards the end of his past 2 races, the Delta Jackpot and the Sam F. Davis, both of which he won). His dam Rockcide's side I don't see him having too much problem. Even though she never broke her maiden, Rockcide is the half sister to two winners Coincide (who now is standing somewhere in South America, I think Venuzuela), and of course Funny Cide. Her sire, Personal Flag won at a mile and quarter and is a full brother to great Personal Ensign. Roman Ruler's best races where at a mile and eighth or less, although he did finish third in the Travers.
That being said, Rule has already gone a mile and sixteenth, so a mile and a eighth shouldn't be a problem. And hopefully a mile and a quarter either, but only time will tell. Other horses heading to the FL Derby include: Ice Box, Soaring Empire, Radiohead, and Lententor. Yes THAT Lententor the full brother to Barbaro. This is the big race that I will be previewing on Friday.
In a few weeks, there will be a post on one of these three fillies. A few days before I post the post, I will announce who the filly who is going to be profiled, and the winner will have bragging rights.
Here are your three choices:
So it's either Megahertz, Riskaverse or My Typhoon who I'm profiling. Leave a comment on this post (please allow time for me to approve the post), and the one(s) who guess right will then be put into a drawing and the winner will be able to write a post about their favorite horse. Stay tuned for more details on this soon
I'm not a huge fan of the Florida Derby, even though both Barbaro and Big Brown won the race before their wins in the KY Derby. Gulfstream is a speed favoring track which is to Rule's advantage, but there are concerns with distance limitations (he seems to get tired towards the end of his past 2 races, the Delta Jackpot and the Sam F. Davis, both of which he won). His dam Rockcide's side I don't see him having too much problem. Even though she never broke her maiden, Rockcide is the half sister to two winners Coincide (who now is standing somewhere in South America, I think Venuzuela), and of course Funny Cide. Her sire, Personal Flag won at a mile and quarter and is a full brother to great Personal Ensign. Roman Ruler's best races where at a mile and eighth or less, although he did finish third in the Travers.
That being said, Rule has already gone a mile and sixteenth, so a mile and a eighth shouldn't be a problem. And hopefully a mile and a quarter either, but only time will tell. Other horses heading to the FL Derby include: Ice Box, Soaring Empire, Radiohead, and Lententor. Yes THAT Lententor the full brother to Barbaro. This is the big race that I will be previewing on Friday.
In a few weeks, there will be a post on one of these three fillies. A few days before I post the post, I will announce who the filly who is going to be profiled, and the winner will have bragging rights.
Here are your three choices:
So it's either Megahertz, Riskaverse or My Typhoon who I'm profiling. Leave a comment on this post (please allow time for me to approve the post), and the one(s) who guess right will then be put into a drawing and the winner will be able to write a post about their favorite horse. Stay tuned for more details on this soon
February 18, 2010
Derby Top 10 for Feb 18
Here it is! This weeks Derby Top 10 and the Top 5 for the Oaks.
10. Dave in Dixie (Dixie Union): The downside is that he's had only three starts, the upside is he finished second in the Lewis finishing in front of American Lion and Tiz Chrome. It will be interesting in what he does in the San Felipe and then the Santa Anita Derby. The winner of the race, Caracortado is undefeated, but I need to see another race from him before he goes on this list. I just have this feeling that Dave will be better in the long run.
9. Jackson Bend (Hear No Evil): Gets a good acid test this weekend against a very nice Fountain of Youth field which includes a few Pletcher trainees and Buddy's Saint. A win, and he moves up a few spots on the list. IMO this is the race where he needs to prove that he's the real deal.
8. Super Saver (Maria's Mon): Has yet to start as a three year old, but apperently will be making his start in the Gotham.
7. Uptowncharlybrown (Limehouse): This is a weird thing to say, but while moves up a place in the top 10, he actually doesn't move because Winslow Homer was my #7 the last time I did the list and he's now off the trail. Got beat in the Sam Davis last Saturday, but on the gallop out did pass Rule and Schoolyard Dreams. Rule is hightailing out of Tampa, not sure about Schoolyard Dreams. Could be the favorite for the Tampa Bay Derby.
6. Blind Luck (Pollard's Vision): Won a nose decision in her last race, the SA Oaks will tell weather she is going to be SA Derby bound. If not, we'll see her on the last day in April.
5. Pleasant Storm (Pleasent Tap): You are probley saying who? He almost upset Dryfly in the Smarty Jones, and will be facing Dublin, Dryfly and Convanynce in the delayed Southwest on Saturday. He might not be the best horse in the field, but he deserves a chance.
4. Ron the Greek (Full Mandate): Was his Lacomte a fluke or is he really the real deal? We will find out on Saturday in the Risen Star.
3. Rule (Roman Ruler): People say that Oaklawn is the way to go when it comes to Derby preps. Tampa may have something to say about that. Sun King, Bluegrass Cat, Any Given Saturday, Street Sense, Musket Man all made starts at Tampa. Rule will try to follow in their footsteps when he makes his first G1 start in either to Florida Derby or the Wood Memorial. Either way he has to learn to rate, otherwise he fold like a cheap suitcase.
2. Lookin at Lucky (Smart Strike): Drops down a spot for now, because he has yet to start. However, nothing on the West Coast has really impressed me that much. Now of course things can change any given day, that's why you run a race.
1. Buddy's Saint (Saint Liam): The first leaderchange of the season. Makes his debut on Saturday in the Fountain of Youth against Jackson Bend, among others. He dodged a bullet when Winslow Homer came out of the Holy Bull with an injury and was forced off the TC trail. He can cement his place as the best in the East with a win. This isn't a gimmee, he's going to have to work for it. We'll see what happens.
Dropped off: American Lion (Tiznow)
On the radar: American Lion, Dryfly (Jump Start), Dublin (Afleet Alex), Schoolyard Dreams (Stephen Got Even)
Need to see another race from: Caracortado (Cat Dreams)
I appologize for not having an Oaks top 5, I'm hoping to have that more then likely for next week after this weekend's Silverbulletday. However I can you who my Top Three are as of right now.
3. Bell's Shoes (Mineshaft): Remember her name, she was third in the Martha Washington her first stakes race. One of dam's half brothers Wildcat Shoes chased Smarty Jones in 04, while another one of the half brothers is G2 placed. Of course that other half brother is one of my favorites Prom Shoes. My guess is that the Honeybee will be next for her.
2. Sassy Image (Broken Vow): This year's Justwhistledixie? She won her first race of the year very impressively. Not sure what's next for her though.
1. Blind Luck (Pollard's Vision): Until someone beats her, she's on top.
On the radar: Christine Daae (Giant's Causeway), Quiet Temper (Quiet American), Bella Medaglia (Medaglia d'Oro), Jody Slew (Slew City Slew)
Weekend preview tomorrow!
10. Dave in Dixie (Dixie Union): The downside is that he's had only three starts, the upside is he finished second in the Lewis finishing in front of American Lion and Tiz Chrome. It will be interesting in what he does in the San Felipe and then the Santa Anita Derby. The winner of the race, Caracortado is undefeated, but I need to see another race from him before he goes on this list. I just have this feeling that Dave will be better in the long run.
9. Jackson Bend (Hear No Evil): Gets a good acid test this weekend against a very nice Fountain of Youth field which includes a few Pletcher trainees and Buddy's Saint. A win, and he moves up a few spots on the list. IMO this is the race where he needs to prove that he's the real deal.
8. Super Saver (Maria's Mon): Has yet to start as a three year old, but apperently will be making his start in the Gotham.
7. Uptowncharlybrown (Limehouse): This is a weird thing to say, but while moves up a place in the top 10, he actually doesn't move because Winslow Homer was my #7 the last time I did the list and he's now off the trail. Got beat in the Sam Davis last Saturday, but on the gallop out did pass Rule and Schoolyard Dreams. Rule is hightailing out of Tampa, not sure about Schoolyard Dreams. Could be the favorite for the Tampa Bay Derby.
6. Blind Luck (Pollard's Vision): Won a nose decision in her last race, the SA Oaks will tell weather she is going to be SA Derby bound. If not, we'll see her on the last day in April.
5. Pleasant Storm (Pleasent Tap): You are probley saying who? He almost upset Dryfly in the Smarty Jones, and will be facing Dublin, Dryfly and Convanynce in the delayed Southwest on Saturday. He might not be the best horse in the field, but he deserves a chance.
4. Ron the Greek (Full Mandate): Was his Lacomte a fluke or is he really the real deal? We will find out on Saturday in the Risen Star.
3. Rule (Roman Ruler): People say that Oaklawn is the way to go when it comes to Derby preps. Tampa may have something to say about that. Sun King, Bluegrass Cat, Any Given Saturday, Street Sense, Musket Man all made starts at Tampa. Rule will try to follow in their footsteps when he makes his first G1 start in either to Florida Derby or the Wood Memorial. Either way he has to learn to rate, otherwise he fold like a cheap suitcase.
2. Lookin at Lucky (Smart Strike): Drops down a spot for now, because he has yet to start. However, nothing on the West Coast has really impressed me that much. Now of course things can change any given day, that's why you run a race.
1. Buddy's Saint (Saint Liam): The first leaderchange of the season. Makes his debut on Saturday in the Fountain of Youth against Jackson Bend, among others. He dodged a bullet when Winslow Homer came out of the Holy Bull with an injury and was forced off the TC trail. He can cement his place as the best in the East with a win. This isn't a gimmee, he's going to have to work for it. We'll see what happens.
Dropped off: American Lion (Tiznow)
On the radar: American Lion, Dryfly (Jump Start), Dublin (Afleet Alex), Schoolyard Dreams (Stephen Got Even)
Need to see another race from: Caracortado (Cat Dreams)
I appologize for not having an Oaks top 5, I'm hoping to have that more then likely for next week after this weekend's Silverbulletday. However I can you who my Top Three are as of right now.
3. Bell's Shoes (Mineshaft): Remember her name, she was third in the Martha Washington her first stakes race. One of dam's half brothers Wildcat Shoes chased Smarty Jones in 04, while another one of the half brothers is G2 placed. Of course that other half brother is one of my favorites Prom Shoes. My guess is that the Honeybee will be next for her.
2. Sassy Image (Broken Vow): This year's Justwhistledixie? She won her first race of the year very impressively. Not sure what's next for her though.
1. Blind Luck (Pollard's Vision): Until someone beats her, she's on top.
On the radar: Christine Daae (Giant's Causeway), Quiet Temper (Quiet American), Bella Medaglia (Medaglia d'Oro), Jody Slew (Slew City Slew)
Weekend preview tomorrow!
February 15, 2010
The Wild Weekend
Wow! Stakes action ran coast to coast this weekend, and personally some very happy results. Since I didn't have the time to do a preview of this past weekends races (partically forgot, partically didn't have the time to do so), I'm not going to recap all of the races I had planned to preview. I can tell you is that the Southwest was postponed (my guess is to weather?), so that won't be a race I will recapping. However, for now, here are the recaps for this past weekend.
Sam F. Davis at Tampa: Rule took one more step foward in his quest for the Derby. By winning this race, he defeated the highely regarded Uptowncharlybrown and Schoolyard Dreams. The Florida Derby is next for him, and honestly if he can rate, he'll be fine. While may not be able to win the Derby, he could be there at the end.
La Canada: It's time for Stardom Bound to retire. The 08 2yo champ has not looked the same, she showed a little bit of promise in her last race, but it's time for her to go.
Martha Washington: Better known as the 3yo debut of Rachel Alexandra last year. Decelerator won the race this year, but keep an eye on the third place finisher Bell's Shoes. She's a Mineshaft out of a King of Kings mare, the dam also happens to be a half sister to the one and only Prom Shoes.
Santa Maria: If either Zenyatta or Rachel Alexandra where to lose this year, it could be to St Trinians. The Mike Mitchell trainee beat Z's stablemate and last year's Ladies Classic winner Life is Sweet. It would be nice to see Mitchell have a big horse again after losing the late Star Over the Bay due to breakdown in Singapore. Her next race is expected to be the Santa Anita Handicap, which is coming up on the weak side.
Las Virgenes: All I can say is wow! Blind Luck almost bit the bullet on Saturday, but was able to gut out a nose victory over Evening Jewel. Crisp who quite a people where high on never fired. I think the slow fractions and a bad trip may have almost hurt Blind Luck's chances. Hopefully a better trip in the SA Oaks, could lead to a SA Derby start. However, I think the connections are leaning towards the Oaks at this time.
Barbara Fitche: Weathered did okay, I don't really think 7 furlongs is her thing. Hopefully she can rebound in her next race, and it could set her up for the Obeah in June.
The Lewis had a huge upset as did the Strub. I'll have more posts this upcoming week, and I do promise to do a weekend preview.
Sam F. Davis at Tampa: Rule took one more step foward in his quest for the Derby. By winning this race, he defeated the highely regarded Uptowncharlybrown and Schoolyard Dreams. The Florida Derby is next for him, and honestly if he can rate, he'll be fine. While may not be able to win the Derby, he could be there at the end.
La Canada: It's time for Stardom Bound to retire. The 08 2yo champ has not looked the same, she showed a little bit of promise in her last race, but it's time for her to go.
Martha Washington: Better known as the 3yo debut of Rachel Alexandra last year. Decelerator won the race this year, but keep an eye on the third place finisher Bell's Shoes. She's a Mineshaft out of a King of Kings mare, the dam also happens to be a half sister to the one and only Prom Shoes.
Santa Maria: If either Zenyatta or Rachel Alexandra where to lose this year, it could be to St Trinians. The Mike Mitchell trainee beat Z's stablemate and last year's Ladies Classic winner Life is Sweet. It would be nice to see Mitchell have a big horse again after losing the late Star Over the Bay due to breakdown in Singapore. Her next race is expected to be the Santa Anita Handicap, which is coming up on the weak side.
Las Virgenes: All I can say is wow! Blind Luck almost bit the bullet on Saturday, but was able to gut out a nose victory over Evening Jewel. Crisp who quite a people where high on never fired. I think the slow fractions and a bad trip may have almost hurt Blind Luck's chances. Hopefully a better trip in the SA Oaks, could lead to a SA Derby start. However, I think the connections are leaning towards the Oaks at this time.
Barbara Fitche: Weathered did okay, I don't really think 7 furlongs is her thing. Hopefully she can rebound in her next race, and it could set her up for the Obeah in June.
The Lewis had a huge upset as did the Strub. I'll have more posts this upcoming week, and I do promise to do a weekend preview.
December 30, 2009
A Year to Remember
2009 will be a year that will be talked about for years to come. From the early Derby and Oaks favorites Old Fashioned and Stardom Bound, to the eventual Horse of Year candiates Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta, and don't forget Mine That Bird, Summer Bird and Gio Ponti. And that's only in America! In Europe Yeats won his fourth Ascot Gold Cup, while Sea the Stars became one of the best horses to ever run there with the history making season he had. Bambera and Vivian Record beat the boys one race after another in Latin America. 2009 will be a year to remember and one that I certinally will never forget. The following is my favorite moments (not in order) from this year.
Yeats wins his 4th Ascot Gold Cup
Yeats has been a horse I've been following for a quite a few years now, and was quite happy that he was able to get this win. He'll be standing for the first time in 2010 at Coolmore.
Rachel Alexandra's KY Oaks
I have a feeling that everyone knew she would win, but to win as much as she did? No way anyone could have predicted that. She is amazing and this was just the halfway through her magical season.
Rachel's Woodward
Everything that could go wrong, went wrong. But she showed why she is one of the favorites to win Horse of the Year.
Zenyatta's Breeders' Cup Classic
Any other year, this would earn her Horse of the Year honors, but this is the Year of the Girl after all. It's a shame that she and Rachel didn't meet up on the track, it would have ended all of the speculation of who was the better horse.
Man of Iron's Breeders' Cup Marathon
Jazil and Rags to Riches little brother does good in his final start for Coolmore, he has since been sold to Dubai owners and will be running at Mayden City when it opens up next month I believe. It was a heart breaker for Cloudy's Knight who came back to win 2 stakes races this month.
Swift Temper's Delaware Handicap
In all honesty, I the first thing that went through my mind after this race as a fluke win. Well she showed me I was wrong with a 2nd place finish in the Personal Ensign and then a win in the Ruffian. Sadly she won't be back to defend her title as she was injured and retired.
And last, but not least my boy Rule breaking his maiden
He may not be WinStar's best chance to win the Derby, but the nephew of Funny Cide hasn't disapointed since he broke his maiden on his third try. I'm not sure what his next start will be, but hopefully he's doing well in Florida.
Please keep in mind this is just a snipet of my favorite moments (I didn't include She Be Wild's BC win or Blind Luck's Starlet win, or Bon Jovi Girl's Susan's Girl win). I hope that 2010 brings more excitement and personally I'm really excited on how this years stars turn out next year.
I'll be back tomorrow with a preview of the first stakes of the new year. :)
Yeats wins his 4th Ascot Gold Cup
Yeats has been a horse I've been following for a quite a few years now, and was quite happy that he was able to get this win. He'll be standing for the first time in 2010 at Coolmore.
Rachel Alexandra's KY Oaks
I have a feeling that everyone knew she would win, but to win as much as she did? No way anyone could have predicted that. She is amazing and this was just the halfway through her magical season.
Rachel's Woodward
Everything that could go wrong, went wrong. But she showed why she is one of the favorites to win Horse of the Year.
Zenyatta's Breeders' Cup Classic
Any other year, this would earn her Horse of the Year honors, but this is the Year of the Girl after all. It's a shame that she and Rachel didn't meet up on the track, it would have ended all of the speculation of who was the better horse.
Man of Iron's Breeders' Cup Marathon
Jazil and Rags to Riches little brother does good in his final start for Coolmore, he has since been sold to Dubai owners and will be running at Mayden City when it opens up next month I believe. It was a heart breaker for Cloudy's Knight who came back to win 2 stakes races this month.
Swift Temper's Delaware Handicap
In all honesty, I the first thing that went through my mind after this race as a fluke win. Well she showed me I was wrong with a 2nd place finish in the Personal Ensign and then a win in the Ruffian. Sadly she won't be back to defend her title as she was injured and retired.
And last, but not least my boy Rule breaking his maiden
He may not be WinStar's best chance to win the Derby, but the nephew of Funny Cide hasn't disapointed since he broke his maiden on his third try. I'm not sure what his next start will be, but hopefully he's doing well in Florida.
Please keep in mind this is just a snipet of my favorite moments (I didn't include She Be Wild's BC win or Blind Luck's Starlet win, or Bon Jovi Girl's Susan's Girl win). I hope that 2010 brings more excitement and personally I'm really excited on how this years stars turn out next year.
I'll be back tomorrow with a preview of the first stakes of the new year. :)
December 4, 2009
Jackpot Night
Well this is it, really the final preview of 2009 for TB Chat. And it's a very good race that is often overlooked, the $750,000 Grade 3 Delta Jackpot. A win basically guarentees the winner a spot in the gate in 5 months. Here is the field,
Delta Downs - December 4, 2009
Race 9 - 9:34 PM Exacta / Trifecta (50 cent min.)/ Pick 3 (Races 9-10-11) Superfecta (10 Cent Min.) / Quinella
STAKES Boyd Gaming's Delta Jackpot S. (Grade III)
Purse $750,000. For Two Year Olds. One And One Sixteenth Miles.
P# PP Horse A/S Med Jockey Wgt Trainer M/L
1 1 Gallant Gent (KY) 2/G L* K J Desormeaux 119 C A Lewis 2/1
2 2 Uh Oh Bango (AZ) 2/R L* G W Corbett 119 R K Owens 4/1
3 3 Rule (KY) 2/C L J R Velazquez 119 T A Pletcher 5/2
4 4 Grand Slam Andre (KY) 2/C L S J Sellers 119 S M Asmussen 6/1
5 5 Litigation Risk (FL) 2/C L J Castellano 117 R A Violette, Jr. 12/1
6 6 Bench the Judge (KY) 2/C L G Melancon 119 G Smith 12/1
7 7 My Time to Star (IL) 2/C L R Albarado 119 D L Romans 8/1
8 8 Oak Motte (TX) 2/C L D Saenz 119 T M Amoss 12/1
On paper this is a three horse race between Gallant Gent, Uh Oh Bango and Rule. Gallant Gent who is the morning line favorite is coming off a seventh place finish to Pounced in the BC Juvenile Turf. He has a win over the dirt, but that was at Fairplex which is smaller then Delta. Uh Oh Bango is coming off a second place finished to Thiskyhasnolimit in the Irquouis, beating Dublin in the process. However, Thisskyhasnolimit came back to finish 6th to Super Saver in the Kentucky Jockey Club Cup. He of the three is also the most likely to bounce off a good effort. This leaves me to the horse who has beaten half of the field already, and that is Rule. As I've mentioned before this son of Roman Ruler is out of a Personal Flag mare who is in turn is a half sister to 2003 Kentucky Derby winner Funny Cide. He is the owner of the track record for one mile, and the added distance should not be problem. In matter of fact he is the third member of what I call WinStar's three headed monster (the other other two are California based American Lion, and the formentioned Super Saver).
Top three:
Rule
Gallant Gent
Uh Oh Bango
Of course in racing anything can happen, there will be a recap on Monday of this race.
Delta Downs - December 4, 2009
Race 9 - 9:34 PM Exacta / Trifecta (50 cent min.)/ Pick 3 (Races 9-10-11) Superfecta (10 Cent Min.) / Quinella
STAKES Boyd Gaming's Delta Jackpot S. (Grade III)
Purse $750,000. For Two Year Olds. One And One Sixteenth Miles.
P# PP Horse A/S Med Jockey Wgt Trainer M/L
1 1 Gallant Gent (KY) 2/G L* K J Desormeaux 119 C A Lewis 2/1
2 2 Uh Oh Bango (AZ) 2/R L* G W Corbett 119 R K Owens 4/1
3 3 Rule (KY) 2/C L J R Velazquez 119 T A Pletcher 5/2
4 4 Grand Slam Andre (KY) 2/C L S J Sellers 119 S M Asmussen 6/1
5 5 Litigation Risk (FL) 2/C L J Castellano 117 R A Violette, Jr. 12/1
6 6 Bench the Judge (KY) 2/C L G Melancon 119 G Smith 12/1
7 7 My Time to Star (IL) 2/C L R Albarado 119 D L Romans 8/1
8 8 Oak Motte (TX) 2/C L D Saenz 119 T M Amoss 12/1
On paper this is a three horse race between Gallant Gent, Uh Oh Bango and Rule. Gallant Gent who is the morning line favorite is coming off a seventh place finish to Pounced in the BC Juvenile Turf. He has a win over the dirt, but that was at Fairplex which is smaller then Delta. Uh Oh Bango is coming off a second place finished to Thiskyhasnolimit in the Irquouis, beating Dublin in the process. However, Thisskyhasnolimit came back to finish 6th to Super Saver in the Kentucky Jockey Club Cup. He of the three is also the most likely to bounce off a good effort. This leaves me to the horse who has beaten half of the field already, and that is Rule. As I've mentioned before this son of Roman Ruler is out of a Personal Flag mare who is in turn is a half sister to 2003 Kentucky Derby winner Funny Cide. He is the owner of the track record for one mile, and the added distance should not be problem. In matter of fact he is the third member of what I call WinStar's three headed monster (the other other two are California based American Lion, and the formentioned Super Saver).
Top three:
Rule
Gallant Gent
Uh Oh Bango
Of course in racing anything can happen, there will be a recap on Monday of this race.
December 2, 2009
How Time Flies
It just feels like yesterday that I started this blog, however next month (January 28 to be exact) is will be one year since I began my journey on this blog. And what a year it's been,
the up and down on the Triple Crown trail
Well Armed's Dubai World Cup win
Rachel Alexandra's amazing 20 length romp in the Oaks
Mine That Bird's 50-1 shocker in the Derby
The previously mentioned Rachel and MTB's heartstopping Preakness
Zenyatta's much anticpated 5yo debut
Summer Bird sweeping the "Big Three" NY G1's
Sea the Stars' Arc
Rachel's heartstopping Woodward
Rachel's Haskell
Zenyatta's amazing BC Classic win
Rule breaking his maiden and setting a track record
Ventura's very popular Matriach win
Unbridled Belle's Obeah and Turn Back the Alarm
Swift Temper's Delaware Handicap and Ruffian wins
Careless Jewel's amazing Alabama and Delaware Oaks wins
Icon Project's uber impressive Personal Ensign
There are many other races that I could put here, but that would take ages to compleate. One thing is for sure, this is a year that no one will forget.
So what to expect in 2010? I haven't decided yet, there maybe a road trip to an undisclosed location where there is a pretty well known track, but plans have not been written in stone yet. There might also be a trip to Pimlico to see the Preakness (TBD if I can convince a non horse racing friend of mine to come with me, then we are all set!). I'll have my favorite race of the year post up tomorrow, followed by on Friday with a preview of that night's Delta Jackpot which features my boy Rule.
the up and down on the Triple Crown trail
Well Armed's Dubai World Cup win
Rachel Alexandra's amazing 20 length romp in the Oaks
Mine That Bird's 50-1 shocker in the Derby
The previously mentioned Rachel and MTB's heartstopping Preakness
Zenyatta's much anticpated 5yo debut
Summer Bird sweeping the "Big Three" NY G1's
Sea the Stars' Arc
Rachel's heartstopping Woodward
Rachel's Haskell
Zenyatta's amazing BC Classic win
Rule breaking his maiden and setting a track record
Ventura's very popular Matriach win
Unbridled Belle's Obeah and Turn Back the Alarm
Swift Temper's Delaware Handicap and Ruffian wins
Careless Jewel's amazing Alabama and Delaware Oaks wins
Icon Project's uber impressive Personal Ensign
There are many other races that I could put here, but that would take ages to compleate. One thing is for sure, this is a year that no one will forget.
So what to expect in 2010? I haven't decided yet, there maybe a road trip to an undisclosed location where there is a pretty well known track, but plans have not been written in stone yet. There might also be a trip to Pimlico to see the Preakness (TBD if I can convince a non horse racing friend of mine to come with me, then we are all set!). I'll have my favorite race of the year post up tomorrow, followed by on Friday with a preview of that night's Delta Jackpot which features my boy Rule.
October 11, 2009
The Zengend
I appoligze for not having a post Thursday, unfortanlly the meeting I had for my vol. job ran longer then I expected (and I gotta do some stuff for that too ack!), so I did not get a chance to type up a preview for this weekend. However I do have time to do a recap of this past weekends races.
Starting off on Thursday when my favorite 2yo Rule, finally broke his maiden at Belmont. Huge congrats to WinStar Farm (his owner and breeder), and trainer Todd Pletcher. Friday with at opening day at Keenland. Sadly one of my favorite 2yo's this season, a Forest Danger colt named Gun Rock broke down after finishing 5th behind Liston (Country Star's half brother and who won the race that Brother Bird, Mine That Bird's half brother made his debut in), and was euthanized. He was trained by Barclay Tagg and owned by Fox Hill Farm. The stakes races at Keenland on Friday where ruled by defending Candian Horse of the Year Fatal Bullet, and former Canada based Negligee.
I spent yesterday at Delaware Park where it was Fan Apprication Day. Although my sister, who I will admit is not a horse racing fan, was not happy about going. However, she was a good sport and came anyway. It was supposed to be the Alex show, what I mean by that is former DP based Afleet Alex had two sons in the feature the Dover Stakes. They where Kratisto and Quick Ride, unfortanlly they ran 3rd (Quick Ride) and 6th (Kratisto) respectfully. Upsetting the field was Citrus Kid, and unfortanlly my pick Ennis was last. I have several photos to share, but that will wait until tomorrow when I do my DP season ending wrap up.
Then it was Santa Anita time, unfortanlly Mine That Bird was sixth as Gitmo Hernarando upset Colonal John and Richard's Kid, in the Goodwood. Meanwhile Zenyatta tied the great Personal Ensign with her 13 win in a row to remain undefeated in the Lady's Secret. Her next race will be either the Ladies Classic or the Classic. IMO if she goes in the Classic and wins, she is Horse of the Year. Which is a shame as I think it should be co-Horse of the Year with her and Rachel Alexandra as they would have both beaten the boys in the biggest races of the year. Both of them are future Hall of Famers and maybe, just maybe next year we will see these two face off at last.
Presious Passion, Mushka (via DQ) and Gayego all won their G1 races today. It will be a very interesting Breeder's Cup Turf, Ladies Classic (aka Distaff) and Sprint with those three in those respective races.
This week is going to be a bit of a crazy one as it's Homecoming week at my vol. job, so the posts maybe short and to the point, I do appogize for those type of posts in advance. Tomorrow I will have some of my best photos of the year from Delaware Park.
Starting off on Thursday when my favorite 2yo Rule, finally broke his maiden at Belmont. Huge congrats to WinStar Farm (his owner and breeder), and trainer Todd Pletcher. Friday with at opening day at Keenland. Sadly one of my favorite 2yo's this season, a Forest Danger colt named Gun Rock broke down after finishing 5th behind Liston (Country Star's half brother and who won the race that Brother Bird, Mine That Bird's half brother made his debut in), and was euthanized. He was trained by Barclay Tagg and owned by Fox Hill Farm. The stakes races at Keenland on Friday where ruled by defending Candian Horse of the Year Fatal Bullet, and former Canada based Negligee.
I spent yesterday at Delaware Park where it was Fan Apprication Day. Although my sister, who I will admit is not a horse racing fan, was not happy about going. However, she was a good sport and came anyway. It was supposed to be the Alex show, what I mean by that is former DP based Afleet Alex had two sons in the feature the Dover Stakes. They where Kratisto and Quick Ride, unfortanlly they ran 3rd (Quick Ride) and 6th (Kratisto) respectfully. Upsetting the field was Citrus Kid, and unfortanlly my pick Ennis was last. I have several photos to share, but that will wait until tomorrow when I do my DP season ending wrap up.
Then it was Santa Anita time, unfortanlly Mine That Bird was sixth as Gitmo Hernarando upset Colonal John and Richard's Kid, in the Goodwood. Meanwhile Zenyatta tied the great Personal Ensign with her 13 win in a row to remain undefeated in the Lady's Secret. Her next race will be either the Ladies Classic or the Classic. IMO if she goes in the Classic and wins, she is Horse of the Year. Which is a shame as I think it should be co-Horse of the Year with her and Rachel Alexandra as they would have both beaten the boys in the biggest races of the year. Both of them are future Hall of Famers and maybe, just maybe next year we will see these two face off at last.
Presious Passion, Mushka (via DQ) and Gayego all won their G1 races today. It will be a very interesting Breeder's Cup Turf, Ladies Classic (aka Distaff) and Sprint with those three in those respective races.
This week is going to be a bit of a crazy one as it's Homecoming week at my vol. job, so the posts maybe short and to the point, I do appogize for those type of posts in advance. Tomorrow I will have some of my best photos of the year from Delaware Park.
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
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