As you can see I haven't posted in awhile on here. Admittedly I've been busy with several other projects. Some of them horse racing related... some of them not. That has lead to a lack of posting here which has made me very sad.
For that reason, I have decided to close down Furlong Drive for the foreseeable future (if not forever). Don't worry, I am going to keep the blog up as an archive for now. If I decide in the future to come back with another blog, I will link to this one for past posts.
Thanks for hanging in with me for the past 6 years first on TB Chat and then here. Good luck to all!
Rachel
October 25, 2015
September 29, 2015
Welcome back Empire Maker
The year was 2003, I a girl who was just starting to follow horse racing was excited that a fellow NY bred Funny Cide was going for the Triple Crown. Of course he was spoiled by Empire Maker. While Funny Cide would win a race in every year he ran with the exception of his 5 year old season, Empire Maker was retired shortly after his 2nd place finish in the Jim Dandy.
The expectations at stud where high as he was a son of a Derby winner (Unbridled) out of a mare who already had success with 2 foals (Chester House and Honest Lady). He started off great with G1 winners Country Star, Bodemiester (like his dad runner up in the 2011 Derby, as well as Preakness) and a colt who won the 09 SA Derby and was runner up in the 09 KY Derby, Pioneerof the Nile. However he didn't have the superstar for his owners Juddmonte. Thus he was sold to Japan in order to continue his stud career. Meanwhile Juddmonte would have a superstar in a horse named after Empire Maker's trainer Frankel.
Fast forward to 2015. Just months after his grandson American Pharoah wins the Triple Crown, it is announced that Gainesway (which ironcally stands 2 grandsons of Unbridled in Tapit and fellow TC spoiler Birdstone) has acquired the now 15 year old. Obviously the success of American Pharoah fast tracked this, but this was likely in the works for awhile.
I didn't care for EM as a racer, but have loved him as a sire. I guess Bobby Frankel's trainees have that effect on me as I'm bit Medaglia d' Oro fan as a stud, but then I again there was part of me that thought he was going to be a failure. Of course wrong I was.
(Note: I actually heard about this on Twitter about a week and a half ago, but was waiting for an official article before posting anything about it. Now that it's official here is the post)
Edit: Here is a picture of his most famous foal 2 time Delaware Handicap winner Royal Delta. (she's in the white silks)
The expectations at stud where high as he was a son of a Derby winner (Unbridled) out of a mare who already had success with 2 foals (Chester House and Honest Lady). He started off great with G1 winners Country Star, Bodemiester (like his dad runner up in the 2011 Derby, as well as Preakness) and a colt who won the 09 SA Derby and was runner up in the 09 KY Derby, Pioneerof the Nile. However he didn't have the superstar for his owners Juddmonte. Thus he was sold to Japan in order to continue his stud career. Meanwhile Juddmonte would have a superstar in a horse named after Empire Maker's trainer Frankel.
Fast forward to 2015. Just months after his grandson American Pharoah wins the Triple Crown, it is announced that Gainesway (which ironcally stands 2 grandsons of Unbridled in Tapit and fellow TC spoiler Birdstone) has acquired the now 15 year old. Obviously the success of American Pharoah fast tracked this, but this was likely in the works for awhile.
I didn't care for EM as a racer, but have loved him as a sire. I guess Bobby Frankel's trainees have that effect on me as I'm bit Medaglia d' Oro fan as a stud, but then I again there was part of me that thought he was going to be a failure. Of course wrong I was.
(Note: I actually heard about this on Twitter about a week and a half ago, but was waiting for an official article before posting anything about it. Now that it's official here is the post)
Edit: Here is a picture of his most famous foal 2 time Delaware Handicap winner Royal Delta. (she's in the white silks)
September 28, 2015
If Horses where Pokemon
America's Best Racing has been comparing horses to humans, songs etc. So I thought that I would do the same thing... except instead of humans I would use Pokemon. Please note these Pokemon are from the first and/or second generation only as those are the two that I'm the most familiar with. Also many of these Pokemon where either given to or caught by Ash, the main character (Satoshi in the original Japanese anime).
American Pharoah- Pikachu
For those of us who grew up watching the anime and playing the game know that this electric superstar is the face of the series. Sweet, but also can be a little bit of aggressive when it needs to be. American Pharoah has been known for being very sweet in the barn, but shows that tenacity on the track. Pikachu is Ash's buddy and Pharoah is everyone's buddy.
Rachel Alexandra- Charmander/Charmelon/Charizard
Okay this may sound like a weird combo, but hear me out. Barbara Banke reported that as a broodmare, Rachel had turned sweet after being a bit of a meanie in the Steve Asmussen barn. Ash's Charmander was a sweetie, but once it became a Charmelon well turned into a jerk. It was worse as a Charizard. However, one thing both had was loyalty and heart. Rachel gave her all in her races and in battles this fire Pokemon did the same.
Zenyatta- Bulbasaur
Ash's grass starter was a bit of the lone wolf type (more so then Charmander/Charmelon/Charizard. While it may not fit Z exactly, but honestly I can't find really a Pokemon that fits her. Her dances are unique and in a way Bulbasaur is a bit unique as well.
Lava Man- Squirtle
Wait a minute! You are giving the horse with a fire like name, a comparison to the water starter? Yep I am. Ash's Squirtle was a troublemaker before joining the group. While I'm not calling Lava a troublemaker per say, I will say that he has the most awesome retirement job. Also like all of Ash's Pokemon (especially Pikachu) they all have heart... it possibly had the second most heart behind Pikachu. Lava Man in his racing days certainly had that.
Honor Code- Pidgeotto/Pidgeot
I find this flying type to be of an enigma. Obviously talented, but there's just something about it that I don't like (maybe that it's a bird). Honor Code is the same way for me. His Met Mile and Whitney wins where very impressive. However, there's just something about him that I don't care for.
Juba- Meowth
What! Meowth (talking one that is) is a Team Rocket member! Yes he is (I believe Jessie and James use male pronouns around him, so...). However, Juba is a riot on Twitter and if horses could really talk he (and Lava Man) would be huge hits.
Beholder- Cataprie/Metapod/Butterfree
This grass type has three stages like a butterfly. In a way, Beholder has developed the same way. Good at 2, better at 3, beyond excellent at 5 (after a so-so 4yo season where she won a G1). Although Ash released his Butterfree, but Beholder looks like she is far from ready to retire.
Megahertz- Mew
Small, but mighty! In the first movie, this Psychic type showed up to fight it's evil clone. Megahertz during her career was quite a bit smaller then the other fillies and mares she faced. However her quick turn of foot was an asset in what made her so popular on the So Cal turf scene.
Frosted/Keen Ice- Ekans/Arbok and Koffing/Weezing
Again two more Team Rocket members. However, it's clear that they where the two who where Pikachu's rivals. Of course Frosted and Keen Ice are American Pharaoh's rivals.
American Pharoah- Pikachu
For those of us who grew up watching the anime and playing the game know that this electric superstar is the face of the series. Sweet, but also can be a little bit of aggressive when it needs to be. American Pharoah has been known for being very sweet in the barn, but shows that tenacity on the track. Pikachu is Ash's buddy and Pharoah is everyone's buddy.
Rachel Alexandra- Charmander/Charmelon/Charizard
Okay this may sound like a weird combo, but hear me out. Barbara Banke reported that as a broodmare, Rachel had turned sweet after being a bit of a meanie in the Steve Asmussen barn. Ash's Charmander was a sweetie, but once it became a Charmelon well turned into a jerk. It was worse as a Charizard. However, one thing both had was loyalty and heart. Rachel gave her all in her races and in battles this fire Pokemon did the same.
Zenyatta- Bulbasaur
Ash's grass starter was a bit of the lone wolf type (more so then Charmander/Charmelon/Charizard. While it may not fit Z exactly, but honestly I can't find really a Pokemon that fits her. Her dances are unique and in a way Bulbasaur is a bit unique as well.
Lava Man- Squirtle
Wait a minute! You are giving the horse with a fire like name, a comparison to the water starter? Yep I am. Ash's Squirtle was a troublemaker before joining the group. While I'm not calling Lava a troublemaker per say, I will say that he has the most awesome retirement job. Also like all of Ash's Pokemon (especially Pikachu) they all have heart... it possibly had the second most heart behind Pikachu. Lava Man in his racing days certainly had that.
Honor Code- Pidgeotto/Pidgeot
I find this flying type to be of an enigma. Obviously talented, but there's just something about it that I don't like (maybe that it's a bird). Honor Code is the same way for me. His Met Mile and Whitney wins where very impressive. However, there's just something about him that I don't care for.
Juba- Meowth
What! Meowth (talking one that is) is a Team Rocket member! Yes he is (I believe Jessie and James use male pronouns around him, so...). However, Juba is a riot on Twitter and if horses could really talk he (and Lava Man) would be huge hits.
Beholder- Cataprie/Metapod/Butterfree
This grass type has three stages like a butterfly. In a way, Beholder has developed the same way. Good at 2, better at 3, beyond excellent at 5 (after a so-so 4yo season where she won a G1). Although Ash released his Butterfree, but Beholder looks like she is far from ready to retire.
Megahertz- Mew
Small, but mighty! In the first movie, this Psychic type showed up to fight it's evil clone. Megahertz during her career was quite a bit smaller then the other fillies and mares she faced. However her quick turn of foot was an asset in what made her so popular on the So Cal turf scene.
Frosted/Keen Ice- Ekans/Arbok and Koffing/Weezing
Again two more Team Rocket members. However, it's clear that they where the two who where Pikachu's rivals. Of course Frosted and Keen Ice are American Pharaoh's rivals.
August 29, 2015
Losing Nothing in Defeat
Okay so American Pharoah lost. That's okay though, it's not like he was the first heavy favorite to lose at Saratoga. Man O' War, Secretariat, Affirmed (although he was DQ'ed) and Rachel Alexandra, they all lost at the Spa and their legacys weren't tarnished at all. I'm very proud of how AP ran and honestly Keen Ice was due. He had a pretty good Derby, an excellent Belmont and honestly had AP been eased a little more in the Haskell, he was going to get there.
If this was indeed the last we saw of the Triple Crown winner, then what a rotten way to go out. However, I do think we'll see him at least one more time. So congrats to Javier Castellano, Donagal and Dale Romans.
In other news:
Runhappy's Kings Bishop win was very impressive, however I was more impressed by Sheer Drama's Personal Ensign win.
Untapable is just not the same horse this year, she was last year.
What the heck happened to Stopchargingmaria?
I'm shocked that I was right about Texas Red, and can Upstart PLEASE go to a G2 to show that he is a pretty good horse... or at least a race where theres no AP, Ice or Frosted?
Ice and Om are the only horses to defeat AP so far.
If Pharoah is done, Beholder will likely be your Classic favorite.
Overall a great Travers day, hopefully Woodward day next week with the Spinaway is just as good.
If this was indeed the last we saw of the Triple Crown winner, then what a rotten way to go out. However, I do think we'll see him at least one more time. So congrats to Javier Castellano, Donagal and Dale Romans.
In other news:
Runhappy's Kings Bishop win was very impressive, however I was more impressed by Sheer Drama's Personal Ensign win.
Untapable is just not the same horse this year, she was last year.
What the heck happened to Stopchargingmaria?
I'm shocked that I was right about Texas Red, and can Upstart PLEASE go to a G2 to show that he is a pretty good horse... or at least a race where theres no AP, Ice or Frosted?
Ice and Om are the only horses to defeat AP so far.
If Pharoah is done, Beholder will likely be your Classic favorite.
Overall a great Travers day, hopefully Woodward day next week with the Spinaway is just as good.
August 7, 2015
Hiatus
FD will be going on a week hiatus due to an upcoming trip. I will be back in time to cover several upcoming races. Until then!
July 28, 2015
Honorable Miss Preview
Throughout the Saratoga meet, I will be previewing stakes races from selected days. Today's preview is of the Honorable Miss, lets take a look at the field.
4th Race - Saratoga - Wednesday, July 29th, 2015
STAKES. 6 Furlongs Dirt. Purse $200,000. Honorable Miss H. (Grade 2). A HANDICAP FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. By subscription of $200 each which should accompany the nomination; $1,000 to pass the entry box and an additional $1,000 to start. For horses not originally nominated, a supplemental payment of $2,000 along with the entry and starting fees may be made at any time prior to the publication of weights. The purse to be divided 60% to the winner, 20% to second, 10% to third, 5% to fourth, 3% to fifth and 2% divided equally among the remaining finishers. A trophy will be presented to the winning owner. Closed Saturday, July 18, 2015 with 17 Nominations. (02:39 PM)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Enchantress 3 F L o 108 Cancel Eric Pletcher Todd A.
2 Ultimate Shopper 5 M L 113 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Nicks Ralph E.
3 La Verdad 5 M L 121 Ortiz Jose L. Rice Linda
4 Judy The Beauty 6 M L 124 Rosario Joel Ward Wesley A.
5 Street Story 4 F L 116 Castellano Javier Asmussen Steven M.
La Verdad is the horse to beat. However, Judy the Beauty is the defending F/M Sprint champ. I think these two will go in some order (preferably with La Verdad on top). Street Story for third.
4th Race - Saratoga - Wednesday, July 29th, 2015
STAKES. 6 Furlongs Dirt. Purse $200,000. Honorable Miss H. (Grade 2). A HANDICAP FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. By subscription of $200 each which should accompany the nomination; $1,000 to pass the entry box and an additional $1,000 to start. For horses not originally nominated, a supplemental payment of $2,000 along with the entry and starting fees may be made at any time prior to the publication of weights. The purse to be divided 60% to the winner, 20% to second, 10% to third, 5% to fourth, 3% to fifth and 2% divided equally among the remaining finishers. A trophy will be presented to the winning owner. Closed Saturday, July 18, 2015 with 17 Nominations. (02:39 PM)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Enchantress 3 F L o 108 Cancel Eric Pletcher Todd A.
2 Ultimate Shopper 5 M L 113 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Nicks Ralph E.
3 La Verdad 5 M L 121 Ortiz Jose L. Rice Linda
4 Judy The Beauty 6 M L 124 Rosario Joel Ward Wesley A.
5 Street Story 4 F L 116 Castellano Javier Asmussen Steven M.
La Verdad is the horse to beat. However, Judy the Beauty is the defending F/M Sprint champ. I think these two will go in some order (preferably with La Verdad on top). Street Story for third.
July 22, 2015
Sheer Drama proves me wrong and Saratoga
Okay so I was wrong Sheer Drama not handling a mile and a quarter. Her race on Saturday in the DelCap was amazing and Frivolous ran a great race as well. I didn't attend for second year in a row, but hopefully by next year I will be going again.
In other news:
Friday is opening day at Saratoga. Belmont had an amazing meet, so hopefully they can continue it at the Spa. Next weekend is the final preps for the Travers at the track, the Curlin and Jim Dandy.
Previews will be coming tomorrow for Saratoga opening day stakes races. Also recaps will be coming.
Saratoga Yearling preview will be coming within the next week.
More soon!
In other news:
Friday is opening day at Saratoga. Belmont had an amazing meet, so hopefully they can continue it at the Spa. Next weekend is the final preps for the Travers at the track, the Curlin and Jim Dandy.
Previews will be coming tomorrow for Saratoga opening day stakes races. Also recaps will be coming.
Saratoga Yearling preview will be coming within the next week.
More soon!
July 17, 2015
Delaware Handicap Preview
Tomorrow is the big day with Delaware Park's biggest race of the year. Here is the field for this year's DelCap.
10th Race - Delaware Park - Saturday, July 18th, 2015
STAKES. 1 1/4 Mile Dirt. Purse $750,000. Delaware H. (Grade 1). FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. By a subscription of $250 each, which shall accompany the nomination, $3,000 to enter and $5,000 to start. $750,000 Guaranteed, of which $450,000 to the winner, $150,000 to second, $82,500 to third, $45,000 to fourth and $22,500 to fifth. Weights: Saturday, July 11th, 2015. Horses that finished first, second, third or fourth in the Obeah Stakes earned a free nomination to The Delaware Handicap. A trophy to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. Closed Monday, July 6th, 2015 with 19 nominations.r fourth in the Obeah Stakes earned a free nomination to The Delaware Handicap. A trophy to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. (05:45 PM)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Frivolous 5 M L 118 Court Jon Kenton Oliver Victoria H.
2 America 4 F L 113 Alvarado Junior Mott William I.
3 Fortune Pearl 4 F L 114 McCarthy Trevor Motion H. Graham
4 Flashy American 6 M 117 Prado Edgar S. McPeek Kenneth G.
5 Sheer Drama 5 M L 118 Bravo Joe Fawkes David
6 Rosalind 4 F L 117 Rosario Joel Brown Chad C.
7 Joint Return 4 F L 116 Carmouche Kendrick Servis John C.
Frivoulous is the favorite. Not 100% sure Sheer Drama wants to go a mile and a quarter. Rosalind didn't do too badly on her dirt return. I really like Joint Return here with Fortune Pearl giving her fits. America has a chance as well and I adore Flashy American, but like Sheer Drama don't think this is the best distance for her.
Picks
Win- Joint Return
Place- Fortune Pearl
Show- America
10th Race - Delaware Park - Saturday, July 18th, 2015
STAKES. 1 1/4 Mile Dirt. Purse $750,000. Delaware H. (Grade 1). FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. By a subscription of $250 each, which shall accompany the nomination, $3,000 to enter and $5,000 to start. $750,000 Guaranteed, of which $450,000 to the winner, $150,000 to second, $82,500 to third, $45,000 to fourth and $22,500 to fifth. Weights: Saturday, July 11th, 2015. Horses that finished first, second, third or fourth in the Obeah Stakes earned a free nomination to The Delaware Handicap. A trophy to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. Closed Monday, July 6th, 2015 with 19 nominations.r fourth in the Obeah Stakes earned a free nomination to The Delaware Handicap. A trophy to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. (05:45 PM)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Frivolous 5 M L 118 Court Jon Kenton Oliver Victoria H.
2 America 4 F L 113 Alvarado Junior Mott William I.
3 Fortune Pearl 4 F L 114 McCarthy Trevor Motion H. Graham
4 Flashy American 6 M 117 Prado Edgar S. McPeek Kenneth G.
5 Sheer Drama 5 M L 118 Bravo Joe Fawkes David
6 Rosalind 4 F L 117 Rosario Joel Brown Chad C.
7 Joint Return 4 F L 116 Carmouche Kendrick Servis John C.
Frivoulous is the favorite. Not 100% sure Sheer Drama wants to go a mile and a quarter. Rosalind didn't do too badly on her dirt return. I really like Joint Return here with Fortune Pearl giving her fits. America has a chance as well and I adore Flashy American, but like Sheer Drama don't think this is the best distance for her.
Picks
Win- Joint Return
Place- Fortune Pearl
Show- America
July 13, 2015
It's DelCap week
Delaware's biggest race of the year runs on Saturday! After taking last year off there is a chance this year I will be attending the Delaware Handicap. If I do, the photos I take won't be the greatest as I don't have my camera set up correctly at the moment however I will possibly have it ready to go for the Fall if I go to Belmont for Super Saturday.
I will have preview for the race as well as a recap coming later this week.
July 3, 2015
Dwyer and Suburban Preview
New York racing has a big 4th of July Saturday with a WAYI in the Belmont Oaks, but there are two very interesting races this weekend to in the Dwyer and the Suburban.
7th Race - Belmont Park - Saturday, July 4th, 2015
STAKES. 1 Mile Dirt. Purse $500,000. Dwyer S. (Grade 3). FOR THREE YEAR OLDS. By subscription of $500 each which should accompany the nomination; $3,000 to pass the entry box and an additional $4,500 to start. For horses not originally nominated, a supplemental payment of $7,500 along with the entry and starting fees may be made at any time prior to the closing of entries.The guaranteed purse of $500,000 will be divided accordingly, $275,000 to the owner of the winner, $100,000 to second, $60,000 to third, $30,000 to fourth, $15,000 to fifth, $10,000 to sixthand remaining $10,000 to be divided equally amongst the remaining finishers. Weight 123 lbs. Non-winners of a Graded Sweepstake at a mile or over allowed 2 lbs.; of a Sweepstake at a mile or over, 4 lbs.; of two races other than maiden, claiming or starteer in 2015, 6 lbs.; of such a race in 2015, 8 lbs. A trophy will be presented to the winning owner. Closed Saturday, June 20, 2015 with 30 Nominations. (03:52 PM) (7)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Blofeld 3 C L 123 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
2 Bridget's Big Luvy 3 C L b 121 Maragh Rajiv Englehart Jeremiah C.
3 Tommy Macho 3 C L 117 Castellano Javier Pletcher Todd A.
4 Texas Red 3 C L 123 Desormeaux Kent J. Desormeaux J. Keith
5 Hollywood Angel 3 G L 117 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Farro Patricia
6 Speightster 3 C L 117 Lezcano Jose Mott William I.
7 Smart Transition 3 C L 115 Alvarado Junior Shirreffs John A.
Texas Red returns to the races after an injury knocked him off the TC trail. Blofeld could be his biggest challenge to get back into the WC. Keep an eye on Smart Transition to possibly upset this group.
9th Race - Belmont Park - Saturday, July 4th, 2015
STAKES. 1 1/4 Mile Dirt. Purse $500,000. Suburban H. (Grade 2). A HANDICAP FOR FOUR- YEAR- OLDS AND UPWARD. By subscription of $500 each which should accompany the nomination; $3,000 to pass the entry box and an additional $4,500 to start. For horses not originally nominated, a supplemental payment of $7,500 (along with the entry and starting fees) must be made before 11:00 AM Saturday June 27th. The guaranteed purse will be divided accordingly, $275,000 to the owner of the winner, $100,000 to second, $60,000 to third, $30,000 to fourth, $15,000 to fifth, $10,000 tosixth and the remaining $10,000 divided equally amongst the remaining finishers. Trophies will be presented to the winning owner. Closed Saturday, June 20, 2015 with 18 Nominations. (05:11 PM)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Street Babe 4 G L 114 Rosario Joel Dilger Michael
2 Coach Inge 4 G L 118 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Pletcher Todd A.
3 Mylute 5 H L 115 Castellano Javier Pletcher Todd A.
4 Neck 'n Neck 6 H L 114 Leparoux Julien R. Wilkes Ian R.
5 Effinex 4 C L 117 Alvarado Junior Jerkens James A.
6 Tonalist 4 C L o 123 Velazquez John R. Clement Christophe
Tonsils returns to his perfer mile and a quarter distance. Coach Inge held off V.E. Day in the Brooklyn, but Enffinex has already won at this distance this year. I think Tonalist holds off Mylute at the end.
7th Race - Belmont Park - Saturday, July 4th, 2015
STAKES. 1 Mile Dirt. Purse $500,000. Dwyer S. (Grade 3). FOR THREE YEAR OLDS. By subscription of $500 each which should accompany the nomination; $3,000 to pass the entry box and an additional $4,500 to start. For horses not originally nominated, a supplemental payment of $7,500 along with the entry and starting fees may be made at any time prior to the closing of entries.The guaranteed purse of $500,000 will be divided accordingly, $275,000 to the owner of the winner, $100,000 to second, $60,000 to third, $30,000 to fourth, $15,000 to fifth, $10,000 to sixthand remaining $10,000 to be divided equally amongst the remaining finishers. Weight 123 lbs. Non-winners of a Graded Sweepstake at a mile or over allowed 2 lbs.; of a Sweepstake at a mile or over, 4 lbs.; of two races other than maiden, claiming or starteer in 2015, 6 lbs.; of such a race in 2015, 8 lbs. A trophy will be presented to the winning owner. Closed Saturday, June 20, 2015 with 30 Nominations. (03:52 PM) (7)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Blofeld 3 C L 123 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
2 Bridget's Big Luvy 3 C L b 121 Maragh Rajiv Englehart Jeremiah C.
3 Tommy Macho 3 C L 117 Castellano Javier Pletcher Todd A.
4 Texas Red 3 C L 123 Desormeaux Kent J. Desormeaux J. Keith
5 Hollywood Angel 3 G L 117 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Farro Patricia
6 Speightster 3 C L 117 Lezcano Jose Mott William I.
7 Smart Transition 3 C L 115 Alvarado Junior Shirreffs John A.
Texas Red returns to the races after an injury knocked him off the TC trail. Blofeld could be his biggest challenge to get back into the WC. Keep an eye on Smart Transition to possibly upset this group.
9th Race - Belmont Park - Saturday, July 4th, 2015
STAKES. 1 1/4 Mile Dirt. Purse $500,000. Suburban H. (Grade 2). A HANDICAP FOR FOUR- YEAR- OLDS AND UPWARD. By subscription of $500 each which should accompany the nomination; $3,000 to pass the entry box and an additional $4,500 to start. For horses not originally nominated, a supplemental payment of $7,500 (along with the entry and starting fees) must be made before 11:00 AM Saturday June 27th. The guaranteed purse will be divided accordingly, $275,000 to the owner of the winner, $100,000 to second, $60,000 to third, $30,000 to fourth, $15,000 to fifth, $10,000 tosixth and the remaining $10,000 divided equally amongst the remaining finishers. Trophies will be presented to the winning owner. Closed Saturday, June 20, 2015 with 18 Nominations. (05:11 PM)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Street Babe 4 G L 114 Rosario Joel Dilger Michael
2 Coach Inge 4 G L 118 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Pletcher Todd A.
3 Mylute 5 H L 115 Castellano Javier Pletcher Todd A.
4 Neck 'n Neck 6 H L 114 Leparoux Julien R. Wilkes Ian R.
5 Effinex 4 C L 117 Alvarado Junior Jerkens James A.
6 Tonalist 4 C L o 123 Velazquez John R. Clement Christophe
Tonsils returns to his perfer mile and a quarter distance. Coach Inge held off V.E. Day in the Brooklyn, but Enffinex has already won at this distance this year. I think Tonalist holds off Mylute at the end.
June 26, 2015
Sales Previews and Other News
I will be having sales previews posts over the few weeks. The first one will be for the July Sale and then I will have the August Selected Yearlings. These are both Fasig-Tipton sales. As for Keeneland's big September Yearling Sale. I haven't decided how many books I will be previewing for that. More info will be coming soon.
The Gold Cup at SA is this weekend, the preview is up on RTTBC blog.
Arlington Million Preview day is a few weeks away as is the DelCap. Look for those previews in the coming weeks.
July and August are going to be fun months for racing. More coming soon.
The Gold Cup at SA is this weekend, the preview is up on RTTBC blog.
Arlington Million Preview day is a few weeks away as is the DelCap. Look for those previews in the coming weeks.
July and August are going to be fun months for racing. More coming soon.
June 7, 2015
A Crown to Remember
It's been a day since the amazing Belmont which American Pharoah showed why he was the one that could finish possibly the hardest sporting accomplishment, the Triple Crown. Today I thought I would put into words the thoughts that I have going thorough my head. First though here is that remarkable replay.
Affirmed's run in 1978 was ten years before I was born. Even though I was born in New York, my love of horse racing didn't start until I had moved to Delaware (although my love of horses did begin in the Empire State). American Pharoah came when I was at a bit of a crossroads in my love of horse racing. While part of me still cared for the sport, in a way I was ready to move on. He changed that perspective and now ready to move on with the rest of the year with me hopefully seeing him at least once (if he goes to the Haskell or Travers that is).
In the Derby I was all over Upstart and Carpe Diem. I had loved both of them at 2 and they had a great 3yo prep season. I didn't like Pharoah at all as I had wanted a horse from FL to do well after a somewhat meh previous TC trail. I was wrong as Pharoah barely won and both of my picks where uptrack finishers.
In the Preakness, Danzig Moon who had done extremely well in the Derby was my pick with Divining Rod a nephew to Kitten's Joy and owned by Barbaro's connections finishing second. Then the rain came and Pharoah was just licking his chops. Rod saved my day finishing third.
The Belmont was different. I wanted to pick Pharoah, but the pessimist in me knew that there where going to be fresh horses. In the end, I said screw it (sorry for the language!) and went with my heart. Keen Ice and Frosted where my picks to fill out the place and show spots because I liked their trainers and knew they had done well in the Belmont in the past. Even though I had the eventual 2nd and 3rd place finishers flipped, I was right on with Pharoah becoming the Pharaoh of the Belmont.
AP has cemented 3yo Champion Male and very likely HOY honors. It will interesting where he shows up next and wherever it is, he will attract a great crowd.
Affirmed's run in 1978 was ten years before I was born. Even though I was born in New York, my love of horse racing didn't start until I had moved to Delaware (although my love of horses did begin in the Empire State). American Pharoah came when I was at a bit of a crossroads in my love of horse racing. While part of me still cared for the sport, in a way I was ready to move on. He changed that perspective and now ready to move on with the rest of the year with me hopefully seeing him at least once (if he goes to the Haskell or Travers that is).
In the Derby I was all over Upstart and Carpe Diem. I had loved both of them at 2 and they had a great 3yo prep season. I didn't like Pharoah at all as I had wanted a horse from FL to do well after a somewhat meh previous TC trail. I was wrong as Pharoah barely won and both of my picks where uptrack finishers.
In the Preakness, Danzig Moon who had done extremely well in the Derby was my pick with Divining Rod a nephew to Kitten's Joy and owned by Barbaro's connections finishing second. Then the rain came and Pharoah was just licking his chops. Rod saved my day finishing third.
The Belmont was different. I wanted to pick Pharoah, but the pessimist in me knew that there where going to be fresh horses. In the end, I said screw it (sorry for the language!) and went with my heart. Keen Ice and Frosted where my picks to fill out the place and show spots because I liked their trainers and knew they had done well in the Belmont in the past. Even though I had the eventual 2nd and 3rd place finishers flipped, I was right on with Pharoah becoming the Pharaoh of the Belmont.
AP has cemented 3yo Champion Male and very likely HOY honors. It will interesting where he shows up next and wherever it is, he will attract a great crowd.
June 6, 2015
HE DOES IT!!!!
Sir Barton
Gallant Fox
Omaha
War Admiral
Whirlaway
Count Fleet
Assault
Citation
Secretariat
Seattle Slew
Affirmed
11 horses had won the Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont. 13 horses won the first two, but not the last. A son of a Derby runner up out of a mare who never won a race changed it all. American Pharoah became the first Triple Crown winner since 1978. I will have a full recap tomorrow once I gather my thoughts more. However it's going to be one to remember.
Gallant Fox
Omaha
War Admiral
Whirlaway
Count Fleet
Assault
Citation
Secretariat
Seattle Slew
Affirmed
11 horses had won the Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont. 13 horses won the first two, but not the last. A son of a Derby runner up out of a mare who never won a race changed it all. American Pharoah became the first Triple Crown winner since 1978. I will have a full recap tomorrow once I gather my thoughts more. However it's going to be one to remember.
June 4, 2015
Belmont Stakes Preview (Part 3)
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!
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!
June 3, 2015
Belmont Stakes Preview (Part 2)
This is part 2 of the stakes that will be held tomorrow, Friday and Saturday at Belmont Park. Notably missing are the Met Mile and the Phipps. Those previews can be found at Road to the Cup starting tomorrow.
8th Race - Belmont Park - Friday, June 5th, 2015
STAKES. 6 Furlongs Dirt. Purse $250,000. True North S. (Grade 2). FOR FOUR- YEAR- OLDS AND UPWARD. By subscription of $250 each which should accompany the nomination. $1,250 to pass the entry box and an additional $1,250 to start. A supplemental nomination fee of $3,750 in addition to the entry and starting fees can bemade at any time prior to the close of entries. The purse will be divided as follows $137,500 to the owner of the winner, $50,000 to second, $30,000 to third, $15,000 to fourth, $7,500 to fifth, $5,000 to sixth with the remaining $5,000 to be divided equally amongst the remaining finishers. Weight 124 lbs. Non-winners of $60,000 twice in 2014-15 allowed 2 lbs.; such a race in 2014-15, 4 lbs.; of two races other than maiden, claiming, starter or state bred in 2015, 6 lbs.; such a race in 2015, 8 lbs. A trophy will be presented to the winning owner. Closed Saturday, May 23, 2015 with 15 Original Nominations and 1 Supplement. (04:32 PM) (8)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Favorite Tale 4 G L 124 Rosario Joel Preciado Guadalupe
2 Stallwalkin' Dude 5 G L 122 Cruz Angel Jacobson David
3 Captain Serious 4 G L 124 Alvarado Junior Rice Linda
4 Tenango 5 G L 116 Velasquez Cornelio H. Jacobson David
5 Dads Caps 5 H L 124 Ortiz Jose L. Rodriguez Rudy R.
6 Eastwood 5 H L 118 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
7 Clearly Now 5 H L 122 Lezcano Jose Lynch Brian A.
8 Rock Fall 4 C L 120 Castellano Javier Pletcher Todd A.
This is a race between Captain Serious, Dads Caps, and Clearly Now. Don't underestimate Eastwood here either. I think Captain Serious gets the job done.
9th Race - Belmont Park - Friday, June 5th, 2015
STAKES. 1 1/4 Mile Turf. Purse $300,000. New York S. (Grade 2). INNER TURF FOR FILLIES AND MARES FOUR- YEAR- OLDS AND UPWARD. (05:05 PM) (9)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Selenite 4 F L 119 Carmouche Kendrick Donk David G.
2 White Rose 5 M L 119 Castellano Javier Mott William I.
3 Waltzing Matilda (IRE) 4 F L 115 Alvarado Junior Stack Tommy
4A Kitten's Queen 5 M L 117 Cancel Eric Brown Chad C.
5 Eastern Belle (GB) 4 F L 115 Lezcano Jose Motion H. Graham
6 Beauty Parlor 4 F L 119 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Clement Christophe
7 Riposte (GB) 5 M L b 119 Rosario Joel Mott William I.
8A Stephanie's Kitten 6 M L 119 Velazquez John R. Brown Chad C.
9 Maximova 5 M L 115 Velasquez Cornelio H. Clement Christophe
After being scratched against the boys Steph returns here. I think she wins, but keep an eye out for Riposte and the Clement horses.
3rd Race - Belmont Park - Saturday, June 6th, 2015
STAKES. 7 Furlongs Dirt. Purse $500,000. Woody Stephens S. (Grade 2). FOR THREE YEAR OLDS. By subscription of $500 each which should accompany the nomination. $3,000 to pass the entry box and an additional $4,500 to start. For horses not originally nominated, a supplemental payment of $7,500 along with the entry and starting fees may be made at any time prior to the closing of entries. The purse will be divided as follows $275,000 to the winner, $100,000 to second, $60,000 to third, $30,000 to fourth, $15,000 to fifth, $10,000 to sixth with the remaining $10,000 divided equally amongst remaining finishers. 123 lbs. Non-winners of a Graded Sweepstake in 2014-15 allowed 2 lbs.; of a sweepstake, 4 lbs.; of two races other than maiden,claiming or starter, 6 lbs.; such a race, 8 lbs. A Trophy will be presented to the winning owner. Closed Saturday, May 23, 2015 with 26 Nominations. (12:39 PM) (6)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Ready For Rye 3 G L 123 Saez Luis Albertrani Thomas
2 March 3 C L 123 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Brown Chad C.
3 Competitive Edge 3 C L 123 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
4 Two Weeks Off 3 C L 117 Castellano Javier Pletcher Todd A.
5 Cinco Charlie 3 C L 123 Santana, Jr. Ricardo Asmussen Steven M.
6 Classy Class 3 C L 117 Velasquez Cornelio H. McLaughlin Kiaran P.
This will be a good race to see how good Competitive Edge really is. Two Weeks Off, Cinco Charlie and March though have great chances to give him a loss here.
7th Race - Belmont Park - Saturday, June 6th, 2015
STAKES. 1 Mile Dirt. Purse $750,000. TVG Acorn S. (Grade 1). FOR FILLIES THREE YEARS OLD. By subscription of $750 which should accompany the nomination. $5,000 to pass the entry box and an additional $6,250 to start. For horses not originally nominated, a supplemental payment of $11,250 along with the entry and starting fees may be made at any time prior to the closing of entries.The purse to be divided as follows $400,000 to the winner, $140,000 to second, $75,000 to third, $50,000 to fourth, $30,000 to fifth and $22,500 to sixth, $17,500 to seventh and $15,000 to eighth. 123 lbs. Non-winners of $500,000 allowed 2 lbs.; of a Graded Sweepstake, 4 lbs.; of two races at a mile or over other than maiden, claiming or starter, 6 lbs.; such a race at a mile or over, 8 lbs. Trophies will be presented to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. Closed, Saturday, May 23, 2015 with 33 Nominations. (03:15 PM) (12)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Oceanwave 3 F L b 115 Espinoza Victor Catalano Wayne M.
2 Wonder Gal 3 F L 115 Stevens Gary L. Gyarmati Leah
3 By The Moon 3 F L 121 Ortiz Jose L. Nevin Michelle
4 Calamity Kate 3 F L 117 Lopez Paco Breen Kelly J.
5 Bar Of Gold 3 F L 115 Alvarado Junior Kimmel John C.
6 Curalina 3 F L 117 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
7 Condo Commando 3 F L 121 Rosario Joel Rodriguez Rudy R.
8 Shook Up 3 F L 115 Albarado Robby Asmussen Steven M.
9 Promise Me Silver 3 F L 121 Smith Mike E. Calhoun W. Bret
10 Light The City 3 F L 115 Ortiz, Jr. Irad McLaughlin Kiaran P.
11 Miss Ella 3 F L 121 Maragh Rajiv Motion H. Graham
12 Danzatrice 3 F L 117 McCarthy Trevor Lynch Cathal A
Promise Me Silver has a lot to prove. Shook Up is coming off runner up finish in the KY Oaks. A lot of people thought Wonder Gal was going to be a serious horse this year... we'll see how she does in her second start of the year. I would love Condo Commando and By the Moon's chances if it where a sloppy track (rain is no longer in the forecast). I think Promise Me Silver wins, but not by much. By the Moon for second.
8th Race - Belmont Park - Saturday, June 6th, 2015
STAKES. 1 Mile Turf. Purse $700,000. Longines Just a Game S. (Grade 1). FOR FILLIES AND MARES FOUR- YEAR- OLDS AND UPWARD. (04:00 PM) (10)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Lady Lara (IRE) 4 F L 121 Alvarado Junior Mott William I.
2 Sandiva (IRE) 4 F L 115 Smith Mike E. Pletcher Todd A.
3 Discreet Marq 5 M L 117 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Clement Christophe
4 Coffee Clique 5 M L 123 Velazquez John R. Lynch Brian A.
5 Baffle Me 6 M L 113 Lopez Paco Hennig Mark A.
6 Filimbi 5 M L 117 Rosario Joel Mott William I.
7 J Wonder 4 F L 113 Lezcano Jose McGaughey III Claude R.
8 Ball Dancing 4 F L 123 Castellano Javier Brown Chad C.
9 Tepin 4 F L 121 Leparoux Julien R. Casse Mark E.
10 Photo Call (IRE) 4 F L 113 Maragh Rajiv Motion H. Graham
There's Discreet Marq... and then there's everyone else. Coffee Clique though is the defending champ. Look out for Ball Dancing and Filimbi as well.
10th Race - Belmont Park - Saturday, June 6th, 2015
STAKES. 1 1/4 Mile Turf. Purse $1,000,000. Knob Creek Manhattan S. (Grade 1). INNER TURF FOR FOUR- YEAR- OLDS AND UPWARD. (05:46 PM) (11)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Hyper 8 H L 114 Leparoux Julien R. Brown Chad C.
2 Twilight Eclipse 6 G L 122 Castellano Javier Albertrani Thomas
3 Finnegans Wake 6 H L 122 Espinoza Victor Miller Peter
4 War Dancer 5 H L 116 Lezcano Jose Mott William I.
5 Big Blue Kitten 7 H L 118 Bravo Joe Brown Chad C.
6 Legendary (GB) 6 G L 118 Prado Edgar S. Saville Niall
7 Slumber (GB) 7 H L b 114 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Brown Chad C.
8 Biz The Nurse (IRE) 5 H L 114 Rosario Joel Albertrani Thomas
9 Magic Artist (IRE) 4 C 116 Demuro Cristian Figge Wolfgang
10 General A Rod 4 C L o 114 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
11 Jack Milton 5 H L 124 Nakatani Corey S. Pletcher Todd A.
Twilight Eclipse finally got his G1 win here. I don't think Jack Milton was a mile and a quarter. Finnegan's Wake could finally coming into his own. Twilight and Finnegan to go 1-2 in some order.
8th Race - Belmont Park - Friday, June 5th, 2015
STAKES. 6 Furlongs Dirt. Purse $250,000. True North S. (Grade 2). FOR FOUR- YEAR- OLDS AND UPWARD. By subscription of $250 each which should accompany the nomination. $1,250 to pass the entry box and an additional $1,250 to start. A supplemental nomination fee of $3,750 in addition to the entry and starting fees can bemade at any time prior to the close of entries. The purse will be divided as follows $137,500 to the owner of the winner, $50,000 to second, $30,000 to third, $15,000 to fourth, $7,500 to fifth, $5,000 to sixth with the remaining $5,000 to be divided equally amongst the remaining finishers. Weight 124 lbs. Non-winners of $60,000 twice in 2014-15 allowed 2 lbs.; such a race in 2014-15, 4 lbs.; of two races other than maiden, claiming, starter or state bred in 2015, 6 lbs.; such a race in 2015, 8 lbs. A trophy will be presented to the winning owner. Closed Saturday, May 23, 2015 with 15 Original Nominations and 1 Supplement. (04:32 PM) (8)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Favorite Tale 4 G L 124 Rosario Joel Preciado Guadalupe
2 Stallwalkin' Dude 5 G L 122 Cruz Angel Jacobson David
3 Captain Serious 4 G L 124 Alvarado Junior Rice Linda
4 Tenango 5 G L 116 Velasquez Cornelio H. Jacobson David
5 Dads Caps 5 H L 124 Ortiz Jose L. Rodriguez Rudy R.
6 Eastwood 5 H L 118 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
7 Clearly Now 5 H L 122 Lezcano Jose Lynch Brian A.
8 Rock Fall 4 C L 120 Castellano Javier Pletcher Todd A.
This is a race between Captain Serious, Dads Caps, and Clearly Now. Don't underestimate Eastwood here either. I think Captain Serious gets the job done.
9th Race - Belmont Park - Friday, June 5th, 2015
STAKES. 1 1/4 Mile Turf. Purse $300,000. New York S. (Grade 2). INNER TURF FOR FILLIES AND MARES FOUR- YEAR- OLDS AND UPWARD. (05:05 PM) (9)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Selenite 4 F L 119 Carmouche Kendrick Donk David G.
2 White Rose 5 M L 119 Castellano Javier Mott William I.
3 Waltzing Matilda (IRE) 4 F L 115 Alvarado Junior Stack Tommy
4A Kitten's Queen 5 M L 117 Cancel Eric Brown Chad C.
5 Eastern Belle (GB) 4 F L 115 Lezcano Jose Motion H. Graham
6 Beauty Parlor 4 F L 119 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Clement Christophe
7 Riposte (GB) 5 M L b 119 Rosario Joel Mott William I.
8A Stephanie's Kitten 6 M L 119 Velazquez John R. Brown Chad C.
9 Maximova 5 M L 115 Velasquez Cornelio H. Clement Christophe
After being scratched against the boys Steph returns here. I think she wins, but keep an eye out for Riposte and the Clement horses.
3rd Race - Belmont Park - Saturday, June 6th, 2015
STAKES. 7 Furlongs Dirt. Purse $500,000. Woody Stephens S. (Grade 2). FOR THREE YEAR OLDS. By subscription of $500 each which should accompany the nomination. $3,000 to pass the entry box and an additional $4,500 to start. For horses not originally nominated, a supplemental payment of $7,500 along with the entry and starting fees may be made at any time prior to the closing of entries. The purse will be divided as follows $275,000 to the winner, $100,000 to second, $60,000 to third, $30,000 to fourth, $15,000 to fifth, $10,000 to sixth with the remaining $10,000 divided equally amongst remaining finishers. 123 lbs. Non-winners of a Graded Sweepstake in 2014-15 allowed 2 lbs.; of a sweepstake, 4 lbs.; of two races other than maiden,claiming or starter, 6 lbs.; such a race, 8 lbs. A Trophy will be presented to the winning owner. Closed Saturday, May 23, 2015 with 26 Nominations. (12:39 PM) (6)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Ready For Rye 3 G L 123 Saez Luis Albertrani Thomas
2 March 3 C L 123 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Brown Chad C.
3 Competitive Edge 3 C L 123 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
4 Two Weeks Off 3 C L 117 Castellano Javier Pletcher Todd A.
5 Cinco Charlie 3 C L 123 Santana, Jr. Ricardo Asmussen Steven M.
6 Classy Class 3 C L 117 Velasquez Cornelio H. McLaughlin Kiaran P.
This will be a good race to see how good Competitive Edge really is. Two Weeks Off, Cinco Charlie and March though have great chances to give him a loss here.
7th Race - Belmont Park - Saturday, June 6th, 2015
STAKES. 1 Mile Dirt. Purse $750,000. TVG Acorn S. (Grade 1). FOR FILLIES THREE YEARS OLD. By subscription of $750 which should accompany the nomination. $5,000 to pass the entry box and an additional $6,250 to start. For horses not originally nominated, a supplemental payment of $11,250 along with the entry and starting fees may be made at any time prior to the closing of entries.The purse to be divided as follows $400,000 to the winner, $140,000 to second, $75,000 to third, $50,000 to fourth, $30,000 to fifth and $22,500 to sixth, $17,500 to seventh and $15,000 to eighth. 123 lbs. Non-winners of $500,000 allowed 2 lbs.; of a Graded Sweepstake, 4 lbs.; of two races at a mile or over other than maiden, claiming or starter, 6 lbs.; such a race at a mile or over, 8 lbs. Trophies will be presented to the winning owner, trainer and jockey. Closed, Saturday, May 23, 2015 with 33 Nominations. (03:15 PM) (12)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Oceanwave 3 F L b 115 Espinoza Victor Catalano Wayne M.
2 Wonder Gal 3 F L 115 Stevens Gary L. Gyarmati Leah
3 By The Moon 3 F L 121 Ortiz Jose L. Nevin Michelle
4 Calamity Kate 3 F L 117 Lopez Paco Breen Kelly J.
5 Bar Of Gold 3 F L 115 Alvarado Junior Kimmel John C.
6 Curalina 3 F L 117 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
7 Condo Commando 3 F L 121 Rosario Joel Rodriguez Rudy R.
8 Shook Up 3 F L 115 Albarado Robby Asmussen Steven M.
9 Promise Me Silver 3 F L 121 Smith Mike E. Calhoun W. Bret
10 Light The City 3 F L 115 Ortiz, Jr. Irad McLaughlin Kiaran P.
11 Miss Ella 3 F L 121 Maragh Rajiv Motion H. Graham
12 Danzatrice 3 F L 117 McCarthy Trevor Lynch Cathal A
Promise Me Silver has a lot to prove. Shook Up is coming off runner up finish in the KY Oaks. A lot of people thought Wonder Gal was going to be a serious horse this year... we'll see how she does in her second start of the year. I would love Condo Commando and By the Moon's chances if it where a sloppy track (rain is no longer in the forecast). I think Promise Me Silver wins, but not by much. By the Moon for second.
8th Race - Belmont Park - Saturday, June 6th, 2015
STAKES. 1 Mile Turf. Purse $700,000. Longines Just a Game S. (Grade 1). FOR FILLIES AND MARES FOUR- YEAR- OLDS AND UPWARD. (04:00 PM) (10)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Lady Lara (IRE) 4 F L 121 Alvarado Junior Mott William I.
2 Sandiva (IRE) 4 F L 115 Smith Mike E. Pletcher Todd A.
3 Discreet Marq 5 M L 117 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Clement Christophe
4 Coffee Clique 5 M L 123 Velazquez John R. Lynch Brian A.
5 Baffle Me 6 M L 113 Lopez Paco Hennig Mark A.
6 Filimbi 5 M L 117 Rosario Joel Mott William I.
7 J Wonder 4 F L 113 Lezcano Jose McGaughey III Claude R.
8 Ball Dancing 4 F L 123 Castellano Javier Brown Chad C.
9 Tepin 4 F L 121 Leparoux Julien R. Casse Mark E.
10 Photo Call (IRE) 4 F L 113 Maragh Rajiv Motion H. Graham
There's Discreet Marq... and then there's everyone else. Coffee Clique though is the defending champ. Look out for Ball Dancing and Filimbi as well.
10th Race - Belmont Park - Saturday, June 6th, 2015
STAKES. 1 1/4 Mile Turf. Purse $1,000,000. Knob Creek Manhattan S. (Grade 1). INNER TURF FOR FOUR- YEAR- OLDS AND UPWARD. (05:46 PM) (11)
PP Horse A/S M/E Wgt Jockey Trainer
1 Hyper 8 H L 114 Leparoux Julien R. Brown Chad C.
2 Twilight Eclipse 6 G L 122 Castellano Javier Albertrani Thomas
3 Finnegans Wake 6 H L 122 Espinoza Victor Miller Peter
4 War Dancer 5 H L 116 Lezcano Jose Mott William I.
5 Big Blue Kitten 7 H L 118 Bravo Joe Brown Chad C.
6 Legendary (GB) 6 G L 118 Prado Edgar S. Saville Niall
7 Slumber (GB) 7 H L b 114 Ortiz, Jr. Irad Brown Chad C.
8 Biz The Nurse (IRE) 5 H L 114 Rosario Joel Albertrani Thomas
9 Magic Artist (IRE) 4 C 116 Demuro Cristian Figge Wolfgang
10 General A Rod 4 C L o 114 Velazquez John R. Pletcher Todd A.
11 Jack Milton 5 H L 124 Nakatani Corey S. Pletcher Todd A.
Twilight Eclipse finally got his G1 win here. I don't think Jack Milton was a mile and a quarter. Finnegan's Wake could finally coming into his own. Twilight and Finnegan to go 1-2 in some order.
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