The road to the 2010 Horse of the Year honors will go down as one of the most heated battles ever. On one side, you have the blueblood bred Blame who won 3 G1's including the BC Classic. On the other side, you have the bluecollar bred Zenyatta who won 5 G1's was runner up in the Classic. Most people assumed that the 3 time Older Female Champ would come just a bit short for the third year in a row for the highest accolade of the night. However, it turned out that they where wrong.
Zenyatta becomes the third Female this century to win Horse of the Year honors behind Azeri and Rachel Alexandra. She also becomes the third HOY to win the award the year after winning the Classic (Cigar who lost in his defence of the Classic, but had won HOY the year before as well and Skip Away who lost HOY in 97 to Favorite Trick, but won HOY in 98 after losing the Classic to Awesome Again). Blame was a very close second, while Goldikova got more votes then people expected she would finishing in third.
While people are dispointed and upset with Blame not winning HOY, in a way it maybe a good thing he did not win. Since 1990 only 8 horses who won the Classic, have gone onto win Horse of the Year honors. Those that are left:
1990- Criminal Type (did not participate)
1993- Kotashaan (won the Turf)
1994- Holy Bull (did not participate)
1996- Cigar (3rd in the Classic)
1997- Favorite Trick (won the Juvenile)
1998- Skip Away (6th in the Classic)
1999- Charismatic (did not participate)
2001- Point Given (did not participate)
2002- Azeri (f) (Won the Distaff)
2008- Curlin (4th Classic)
2009- Rachel Alexandra (f) (did not participate)
2010- Zenyatta (f) (2nd in the Classic)
Now in Charismatic and Point Given's defence, both suffered career ending injuries. Still they did not take part in the BC their respective years. That doesn't mean Blame didn't deserve HOY, he absolutly did. But it's just a title, the horse's themselves don't care about it. In a way, too much pressure is put on the horse. Should Blame's fans be dispointed? Tt really depends on who you talk to. Him not getting Horse of the Year is not going to deminish the fact that he defeated Z on the track where it counts. His trainer Al Stall was gracious in defeat which is different from last year when Jerry & Ann Moss post awards show basically threw Rachel under the bus.
Valerie of Foolish Pleasure and Fillies First put together a nice list of Champion Females from around the world from this past year.
As for the other awards of the night:
2yo Champions: No suprise that Awesome Feather and Uncle Mo took them. Both deserved them off their wins in the BC.
3yo Champions: Again no suprise that Blind Luck (one vote away from being unanimous which I found suprising) and Lookin at Lucky won. Shame Lucky has been retired, and "Clover's" 4yo didn't start out as expected.
Older Champions: Suprised that Blame was unanimous, you would think Zenyatta would be? Nope. At least this year it was Goldikova and not some random horse like Icon Project that got the vote.
Sprinters: Not suprised by Dubai Majesty, but Big Drama was a little bit of suprise at least for me it was.
Turf: Gio Ponti was a bit of a suprise, I felt that Winchester should have won since he did defeat him. However, that was seemed to be the tone of the night. Goldi won for the Females which was no suprise at all.
Steeplechase: Slip Away which is also no suprise.
In all it was basically chalky last night. Personally I'm glad that it's finally over, Z has ridden into the sunset the ultimate champion and we can now focus on horses that will be running this year.
At least until November comes around.
Showing posts with label Lookin at Lucky. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lookin at Lucky. Show all posts
January 18, 2011
July 28, 2010
Can 2009's Haskell be topped?
We are only a few days away from the 2010 Haskell. Last year, Rachel Alexandra won for fun in the mud defeating Summer Bird, Munnings and Papa Clem. Of course Summer Bird would go onto win Champion 3yo Male, and Rachel Champion 3yo Female along with Horse of the Year. 2 Champion from 1 race, how can that be topped? Here's how:
Super Saver- Derby winner
Lookin at Lucky- Preakness winner
Trappe Shot- possibly the horse to beat
First Dude- runner up in the Preakness, 3rd in the Belmont
Uptowncharlybrown- Trappe Shot's stablemate, the local hope and running in his former trainers memory
Ice Box- Derby runner up
Afleet Again- dark horse
This could set up for the Travers which would feature as well Fly Down the Belmont runner up and Lententor. Keep an eye on Concord Point for the Travers as well, track record at Iowa and could very well be Bob Baffert's best 3yo and this is with him having Lucky.
Because there's alot of stakes action this weekend (the Jim Dandy and Diana up at Saratoga, the San Diego at Del Mar, plus the Haskell undercard which features the Jersey Derby and the Matchmaker), this weekend's preview will begin tomorrow and end on Friday. If you where at the live chat on Monday, you will know I announced a very special live chat on Sunday. The time is yet to be determined but will be no later then 8pm EDT. So stay tuned on Friday for that time.
Super Saver- Derby winner
Lookin at Lucky- Preakness winner
Trappe Shot- possibly the horse to beat
First Dude- runner up in the Preakness, 3rd in the Belmont
Uptowncharlybrown- Trappe Shot's stablemate, the local hope and running in his former trainers memory
Ice Box- Derby runner up
Afleet Again- dark horse
This could set up for the Travers which would feature as well Fly Down the Belmont runner up and Lententor. Keep an eye on Concord Point for the Travers as well, track record at Iowa and could very well be Bob Baffert's best 3yo and this is with him having Lucky.
Because there's alot of stakes action this weekend (the Jim Dandy and Diana up at Saratoga, the San Diego at Del Mar, plus the Haskell undercard which features the Jersey Derby and the Matchmaker), this weekend's preview will begin tomorrow and end on Friday. If you where at the live chat on Monday, you will know I announced a very special live chat on Sunday. The time is yet to be determined but will be no later then 8pm EDT. So stay tuned on Friday for that time.
May 15, 2010
Lucky gets finally Lucky
Back in 2000, Bob Baffert had a Thunder Gulch colt named Point Given who lost the BC Juvy by a nose to Macho Uno. He went back to California and won the Hollywood Futurity and was made one of the favorites for the Derby in 2001. Dispite running both of his preps, Point Given could only manage 5th losing to a Maria's Mon colt named Monachos. However the Preakness was where the tables where turned as Point Given won with Monarchos only able to get 6th in a 11 horse field.
Flash foward to 2009, Bob Baffert had a Smart Strike colt named Lookin at Lucky who lost the BC Juvy by a nose to Vale of York. He goes back and wins the Cash Call (formally Hollywood) Futurity and was made one of the favorites for the Derby in 2010. Unlike Point Given, he does not win both of his preps (he only wins one). Still he went into the Derby as the favorite after the defection (subquent retirement) of Eskendereya. He got a horrible trip, but managed ot get sixth behind a Maria's Mon colt (sounds fermiler?) named Super Saver. Like Point Given, he was able to show that the Preakness was a fluke and won the Preakness. Super Saver could only finish 7th in a 11 horse field (how ironic!).
So here we are no Triple Crown for another year. 2006 obviously nobody was going to control what happend that day. 2007, I really didn't care because my pick didn't win the Derby, but felt bad for Street Sense, I called Big Brown losing in the Belmont, last year I wanted Rachel Alexandra to win the Preakness and she did, but this year was different. I thought Super Saver was going to be different, but it seemed like he just gave up. I hope he's okay, and will now get some time off and return great! At first he reminded me of Funny Cide with his running style, but now I think he's more of an Any Given Saturday type of horse.
As for the winner, sadly I'm not a huge fan of his. He has a big brother who is a G2 winner named Kensei, who like Lucky bombed on the Derby Day on the undercard. But I will give credit where credit is due. First off Bob Baffert is a freaking genius. It takes guts to remove a big time rider like Garrett Gomez and replace him with an up and comer like Martin Garcia. I think that was the big key. Obviously Martin Garcia his first Preakness, he goes from a longshot (Convaynce) to one of the favorites (Lucky), that was an awesome ride. But in all honestly, he was supposed to win this race. That's really how bad this crop is.
Suprises
Northern Giant- That I was right, he finished last. He and Dublin need a new trainer.
Dublin- What a horrible horrible break. He needs a new trainer, jockey and fast. Fifth after that break? He is defently his father's son.
First Dude- I wanna go hug this son of Stephen Got Evan, I almost was going to throw him into third, but decided against it. What a race by him. Even though he is named after Todd Palin.
Jackson Bend- FL breds go 2-3! And the winners sire is from Canada how awesome is that. This little guy has a bright future ahead of him at a mile. Hopefully Robert LaPenta listens to Nick.
Caracotardo- I feel bad for his connections, but I was expecting a much better race out of him.
Martin Garcia- Had you asked me a few months ago that a 25 year old from Mexico who used to work in a deli would win the Preakness, I would have laughed. Def. a star now, a HUGE congrats to him and now there is pressure on him.
NBC- I loved the Super Saver piece.
Disapointments
Super Saver- Obviously I'm disapointed, and hope he's okay. He just seemed to give up when Lucky started to make his move. My guess is he'll be going on a rest. I'm not going to blame Calvin for his ride as it was perfect, until the top of the stretch. He ran out of gas. I don't think he's a fluke and nor will I be giving up for him.
Rule- I would have run him here, yes you run risk of him beating Super Saver, but I think he would have done fine in here. I doubt he's Belmont bound, but Belmont tends to be kind to front runners on Belmont Stakes day. With no Triple Crown on the line, he could do something his popular uncle could not and that's win the Belmont.
Paddy O' Prado- Two weeks not long enough.
Northern Giant- Why was he in this race?
Dublin- He needs a new trainer and jockey, oh wait I said that before.
Garrett Gomez- for his horrible rides on Lucky, Dublin, Hard Spun and any other horse I liked.
NBC- Why didn't you show the Dixie?! One of the most beloved Derby winner's little brother was running in the race. Okay so Nicanor didn't win, but he was still running.
So we go to the Belmont with no Triple Crown. Ice Box will be the favorite unless Lucky and/or Saver shows up, both are doubtful as of right now. Others possibly heading there include Setsuko, Make Music for Me, Fly Down and First Dude. Of course things can change over the next 3 weeks.
To that end Congrats to Bob Baffert, Martin Garcia, Smart Strike for his second Preakness winner (Curlin being his first), Smart Strike again for being the broodmare sire for First Dude. And Lucky's owners especially Mike Pegram who owned Real Quiet.
Other winners on the day: Rainbow View! I hope she goes to the Dick Memorial, but it maybe a little bit too long for her. And hopefully her brother Just As Well goes to the Sussex, but it maybe too short for him. And that was really it, other then Blame. Some what of a ho hum day.
The Summer Chat Series dates will be announced in a few days and don't forget that HRBA nominations open on Monday at 2pm.
Flash foward to 2009, Bob Baffert had a Smart Strike colt named Lookin at Lucky who lost the BC Juvy by a nose to Vale of York. He goes back and wins the Cash Call (formally Hollywood) Futurity and was made one of the favorites for the Derby in 2010. Unlike Point Given, he does not win both of his preps (he only wins one). Still he went into the Derby as the favorite after the defection (subquent retirement) of Eskendereya. He got a horrible trip, but managed ot get sixth behind a Maria's Mon colt (sounds fermiler?) named Super Saver. Like Point Given, he was able to show that the Preakness was a fluke and won the Preakness. Super Saver could only finish 7th in a 11 horse field (how ironic!).
So here we are no Triple Crown for another year. 2006 obviously nobody was going to control what happend that day. 2007, I really didn't care because my pick didn't win the Derby, but felt bad for Street Sense, I called Big Brown losing in the Belmont, last year I wanted Rachel Alexandra to win the Preakness and she did, but this year was different. I thought Super Saver was going to be different, but it seemed like he just gave up. I hope he's okay, and will now get some time off and return great! At first he reminded me of Funny Cide with his running style, but now I think he's more of an Any Given Saturday type of horse.
As for the winner, sadly I'm not a huge fan of his. He has a big brother who is a G2 winner named Kensei, who like Lucky bombed on the Derby Day on the undercard. But I will give credit where credit is due. First off Bob Baffert is a freaking genius. It takes guts to remove a big time rider like Garrett Gomez and replace him with an up and comer like Martin Garcia. I think that was the big key. Obviously Martin Garcia his first Preakness, he goes from a longshot (Convaynce) to one of the favorites (Lucky), that was an awesome ride. But in all honestly, he was supposed to win this race. That's really how bad this crop is.
Suprises
Northern Giant- That I was right, he finished last. He and Dublin need a new trainer.
Dublin- What a horrible horrible break. He needs a new trainer, jockey and fast. Fifth after that break? He is defently his father's son.
First Dude- I wanna go hug this son of Stephen Got Evan, I almost was going to throw him into third, but decided against it. What a race by him. Even though he is named after Todd Palin.
Jackson Bend- FL breds go 2-3! And the winners sire is from Canada how awesome is that. This little guy has a bright future ahead of him at a mile. Hopefully Robert LaPenta listens to Nick.
Caracotardo- I feel bad for his connections, but I was expecting a much better race out of him.
Martin Garcia- Had you asked me a few months ago that a 25 year old from Mexico who used to work in a deli would win the Preakness, I would have laughed. Def. a star now, a HUGE congrats to him and now there is pressure on him.
NBC- I loved the Super Saver piece.
Disapointments
Super Saver- Obviously I'm disapointed, and hope he's okay. He just seemed to give up when Lucky started to make his move. My guess is he'll be going on a rest. I'm not going to blame Calvin for his ride as it was perfect, until the top of the stretch. He ran out of gas. I don't think he's a fluke and nor will I be giving up for him.
Rule- I would have run him here, yes you run risk of him beating Super Saver, but I think he would have done fine in here. I doubt he's Belmont bound, but Belmont tends to be kind to front runners on Belmont Stakes day. With no Triple Crown on the line, he could do something his popular uncle could not and that's win the Belmont.
Paddy O' Prado- Two weeks not long enough.
Northern Giant- Why was he in this race?
Dublin- He needs a new trainer and jockey, oh wait I said that before.
Garrett Gomez- for his horrible rides on Lucky, Dublin, Hard Spun and any other horse I liked.
NBC- Why didn't you show the Dixie?! One of the most beloved Derby winner's little brother was running in the race. Okay so Nicanor didn't win, but he was still running.
So we go to the Belmont with no Triple Crown. Ice Box will be the favorite unless Lucky and/or Saver shows up, both are doubtful as of right now. Others possibly heading there include Setsuko, Make Music for Me, Fly Down and First Dude. Of course things can change over the next 3 weeks.
To that end Congrats to Bob Baffert, Martin Garcia, Smart Strike for his second Preakness winner (Curlin being his first), Smart Strike again for being the broodmare sire for First Dude. And Lucky's owners especially Mike Pegram who owned Real Quiet.
Other winners on the day: Rainbow View! I hope she goes to the Dick Memorial, but it maybe a little bit too long for her. And hopefully her brother Just As Well goes to the Sussex, but it maybe too short for him. And that was really it, other then Blame. Some what of a ho hum day.
The Summer Chat Series dates will be announced in a few days and don't forget that HRBA nominations open on Monday at 2pm.
May 14, 2010
It's Preak Time!
Two weeks ago, Super Saver and Calvin Borel ruled Churchill Downs, giving Todd Pletcher his first Derby win. Now it's time for Pimlico and the second leg of the Triple Crown. The Preakness (named after Preakness, the first winner of the Dinner Party Stakes which is now the Dixie Stakes, a race that will also be run tomorrow), is often where championships are made (as I posted on Monday).
Here is this year's field for the 136th Preakness.
12th (6:12)
Preakness S. (G1)
1 3/16 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $1,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Aikenite Castellano J J Pletcher Todd A 126 LA 20-1
2 2 Schoolyard Dreams Coa E M Ryan Derek S 126 LA 15-1
3 3 Pleasant Prince Leparoux J R Ward Wesley A 126 LA 20-1
4 4 Northern Giant Thompson T J Lukas D Wayne 126 LA 30-1
5 5 Yawanna Twist Prado E S Dutrow, Jr. R E 126 L 30-1
6 6 Jackson Bend Smith M E Zito Nicholas P 126 LA 12-1
7 7 Lookin At Lucky Garcia M Baffert Bob 126 LA 3-1
8 8 Super Saver Borel C H Pletcher Todd A 126 LA 5-2
9 9 Caracortado Atkinson P Machowsky Michael 126 LA 10-1
10 10 Paddy O'Prado Desormeaux K J Romans Dale 126 LA 9-2
11 11 First Dude Dominguez R A Romans Dale 126 LA 20-1
12 12 Dublin Gomez G K Lukas D Wayne 126 LA 10-1
Aikenite is the stablemate of Super Saver, and is coming off a second place finish in the Derby Trial, Schoolyard Dreams finished second just in front of the Derby champ in the Tampa Bay Derby. Pleasant Prince is coming into the race off a third in the Derby Trial, Northern Giant finished second in the Lane's End, and ... Yawanna Twist will have to channel his inner Funny Cide (he's a NY Bred) to have a chance, he's also the closes to a local as his trainer is from Maryland and his jockey started his US career here. Jackson Bend, I still think is a bit overhyped, but he could suprise people. A much better post for Lookin at Lucky, and gets a key jockey change. The champ is here! No jockey has won back to back Preakness' since Pat Day did it three times in a row, and Calvin's record outside of Churchill isn't great, but Super Saver well he's the champ afterall. Caracortado (Scarface is Spanish), is considered to be the best of the new shooters. Paddy O' Prado and his stablemate First Dude have jockeys who know Pimlico very well and Dublin will try to win from the same post that his dad did.
There is not much pace in this race which means if Super Saver gets a loose lead he could wire them. The downside the last time a Maria's Mon colt was going against a Baffert trainee who was very good was Monarchos who ran in the 01 Preakness against Point Given, after defeating the son of Thunder Gulch in the Derby. However Point Given showed that he was a very good horse by turning the tables on Monarchos. That's the one thing that concerns me about this race is that Lucky will turn the tables on Super Saver. Then there is Caracoratdo who ran pretty well in California. I think Paddy sadly is going to bounce in this race. In all this is really not a great race sadly.
My top three are going to be Super Saver, Lookin at Lucky and either Caracorado, Aikenite, Dublin or Yawanna Twist for third. It would be the second Preakness win for Calvin Borel, and first for both Todd Pletcher and WinStar as an owner (they of course bred Funny Cide). Now lets just hope that it ends up this way.
The undercard somewhat leaves alot to be desiered. Rainbow View is in action as is Nicanor and Just as Well, other then those three that's really it. Hopefully the Belmont undercard is better.
Of course my condolences go out to Carolyn Hine as she lost her wonderful Champion Skip Away today at the age of 17. #3 on the North American Earnings List, in a way Skip Away should be #1 as the 1-2 (Curlin and Cigar respectivly) had run in the Dubai World Cup which is why they are 1 and 2. Of many races, "Skippy" as he was called is honored with his own race the Skip Away down at Gulfstream. Somewhat fitting he passes away on the eve of the Preakness which he finished second in 1996 to Louis Quatorze. Skip Away was trained by Mrs. Hine's husband Sonny.
There's no chat tomorrow, I will be announcing the Summer Series List sometime in the next two to three weeks.
Here is this year's field for the 136th Preakness.
12th (6:12)
Preakness S. (G1)
1 3/16 Miles | Open | 3 Year Olds Stakes | Purse: $1,000,000
Prg. # PP Horse Jockey Trainer Wt. Claim $ Equip. Med. ML
1 1 Aikenite Castellano J J Pletcher Todd A 126 LA 20-1
2 2 Schoolyard Dreams Coa E M Ryan Derek S 126 LA 15-1
3 3 Pleasant Prince Leparoux J R Ward Wesley A 126 LA 20-1
4 4 Northern Giant Thompson T J Lukas D Wayne 126 LA 30-1
5 5 Yawanna Twist Prado E S Dutrow, Jr. R E 126 L 30-1
6 6 Jackson Bend Smith M E Zito Nicholas P 126 LA 12-1
7 7 Lookin At Lucky Garcia M Baffert Bob 126 LA 3-1
8 8 Super Saver Borel C H Pletcher Todd A 126 LA 5-2
9 9 Caracortado Atkinson P Machowsky Michael 126 LA 10-1
10 10 Paddy O'Prado Desormeaux K J Romans Dale 126 LA 9-2
11 11 First Dude Dominguez R A Romans Dale 126 LA 20-1
12 12 Dublin Gomez G K Lukas D Wayne 126 LA 10-1
Aikenite is the stablemate of Super Saver, and is coming off a second place finish in the Derby Trial, Schoolyard Dreams finished second just in front of the Derby champ in the Tampa Bay Derby. Pleasant Prince is coming into the race off a third in the Derby Trial, Northern Giant finished second in the Lane's End, and ... Yawanna Twist will have to channel his inner Funny Cide (he's a NY Bred) to have a chance, he's also the closes to a local as his trainer is from Maryland and his jockey started his US career here. Jackson Bend, I still think is a bit overhyped, but he could suprise people. A much better post for Lookin at Lucky, and gets a key jockey change. The champ is here! No jockey has won back to back Preakness' since Pat Day did it three times in a row, and Calvin's record outside of Churchill isn't great, but Super Saver well he's the champ afterall. Caracortado (Scarface is Spanish), is considered to be the best of the new shooters. Paddy O' Prado and his stablemate First Dude have jockeys who know Pimlico very well and Dublin will try to win from the same post that his dad did.
There is not much pace in this race which means if Super Saver gets a loose lead he could wire them. The downside the last time a Maria's Mon colt was going against a Baffert trainee who was very good was Monarchos who ran in the 01 Preakness against Point Given, after defeating the son of Thunder Gulch in the Derby. However Point Given showed that he was a very good horse by turning the tables on Monarchos. That's the one thing that concerns me about this race is that Lucky will turn the tables on Super Saver. Then there is Caracoratdo who ran pretty well in California. I think Paddy sadly is going to bounce in this race. In all this is really not a great race sadly.
My top three are going to be Super Saver, Lookin at Lucky and either Caracorado, Aikenite, Dublin or Yawanna Twist for third. It would be the second Preakness win for Calvin Borel, and first for both Todd Pletcher and WinStar as an owner (they of course bred Funny Cide). Now lets just hope that it ends up this way.
The undercard somewhat leaves alot to be desiered. Rainbow View is in action as is Nicanor and Just as Well, other then those three that's really it. Hopefully the Belmont undercard is better.
Of course my condolences go out to Carolyn Hine as she lost her wonderful Champion Skip Away today at the age of 17. #3 on the North American Earnings List, in a way Skip Away should be #1 as the 1-2 (Curlin and Cigar respectivly) had run in the Dubai World Cup which is why they are 1 and 2. Of many races, "Skippy" as he was called is honored with his own race the Skip Away down at Gulfstream. Somewhat fitting he passes away on the eve of the Preakness which he finished second in 1996 to Louis Quatorze. Skip Away was trained by Mrs. Hine's husband Sonny.
There's no chat tomorrow, I will be announcing the Summer Series List sometime in the next two to three weeks.
March 14, 2010
The Z Word, and a bittersweet day
Note: This was written Saturday night, I've since calmed down quite a bit after avoiding both HRTV and TVG the past few days.
Wow! Zenyatta and Zardana, what a race by these two this weekend. Zardana upsetting Rachel Alexandra down at the Fair Grounds and Zenyatta finding a hole at the last minute to avoid the upset in at Santa Anita. Looks like dispite the retirement of Life is Sweet on Saturday, Team Shirreffs had a great day.
Of the two, Rachel was expected lose since she wasn't ready, and she did lose to the right horse (Zardana was the only other graded stakes winner). I'm a bit annoyed that she was rushed for one race. Also what if she's not HOY this year? She had one of the greatest 3yo seasons for a filly in a long time, and she'll still go in the HOF. Ferndinad lost his first race as the defending HOY, so did Kelso four of the five years where he was the defending HOY. Golikova takes a start before starting her winning ways as well. She's not the first HOY to lose her first start, and she won't be the last. So hopefully this doesn't deter Team Rachel, and it will be a huge learning experience for her. Keep in mind she hadn't lost since the Pocahontas in 2008, that was her final time she was riden by Brian Hernadez. As for Zardana, if anyone had to upset her, I'm glad it was her. Congrats to Arnold Zeltcher who gets a bit of revenge (Gabby's Golden Gal was run off her feet by Rachel in the Oaks last year), David Flores (who ironicly was Zenyatta's first rider, and wouldn't have riden Big Z if Mike Smith hadn't had to go out of town) and of course John Shirreffs.
Zenyatta, what can I say she's great! Had Mike Smith not found that hole, we could be talking about a huger upset then Zardana. I do think that if she gets a horrible ride by Mike in the Apple Blossom, she will lose.
However in reading some of the things that happend after Rachel lost, struck a nerve with me (and I appoligze in advance for saying this, but I need to get this off my chest). Apperently there was some cheering at Santa Anita after Rachel lost, yes I'm sure they where happy that Zardana won, but really? Everyone goes, thats rivalry talk, it's healthy for a rivalry. Really? What rivalry? The last time I checked they never met. I personally think a rivalry is formed once they meet a few times (Affirmed and Alydar, Sunday Silence and Easy Goer, more recently Indian Blessing and Proud Spell, Proud Spell and Music Note, Empire Maker/Peace Rules and Funny Cide, Funny Cide and Evening Attire etc.). Also apperently the Moss' basically called Zardana, the "better horse". Really? Today she was the better horse, but she has a long way to go to be mentioned in the same breath as Zenyatta AND Rachel. Also they don't own her.
I LOVE Rachel AND Zenyatta. However both of their connections are not the greatest. This is why I wanted to see a Co-Horse of the Year, that way everybody would be happy. I don't love horses for their connections (although Sackatoga horses are the exception ;)), I love horses for them. In a way Rachel Alexandra to me will be the horse I started following because she had Rachel in her name (afterall Rachel is my first name), and Zenyatta will be Balance's kid sister (I loved Balance when she was running). I love them for being well them. I hope in the future they meet up.
What about the Apple Blossom? According to DRF, it sounds like that Rachel will be skipping the race. I think it was more that she isn't going to be ready then that she lost. Hopefully we see her in May for the La Trioanne on the Oaks undercard. Afterall we know she loves Churchill!
The most important thing is that all the horses come out of this race safe and sound! To me this is more important then a win. And personally I'm glad that the buildup and races are now over and we can now move onto the rest of the TC season.
Once again I apploigze, but as I say this is the beauty of horse racing, anything can happen. We all have different opinons, but there are times where people don't always respect them. I do hope that if I respect your opinon, you will respect mine. Thank you very much.
And now back to your regularly reg. programming already in progress.
Lets talk about the three Triple Crown preps,
Odysseus got his nose to the wire first in the Tampa Bay Derby over Schoolyard Dreams with Super Saver in third. Uptowncharlybrown pretty much showed that he's a nice horse, but not Derby material. Meanwhile, Rule is the solid #1 horse for WinStar and the #2 horse in the Pletcher barn. Lookin at Lucky also won by a head over Noble's Promise in his first start of the year. My guess is the AR Derby is next for him, and last, but not least Sidney's Candy became the favorite for the SA Derby after going gate to wire in the San Felipe. The biggest disapointed of the weekend: Bell's Shoes ride. It's going to go down as the WHAT WAS HE THINKING? Catagory. She Be Wild scratching was also a disapointment of the weekend.
However the biggest disapointment of them all wasn't what happend to Rachel, and Zenyatta overcoming what was a really bad ride in the long run, is NTRA Live. They should have been better prepared for such a major event. IMO they where the biggest losers of the weekend. I'm willing to give them a benifit of a doubt for today, but if it happens again then... You get the point.
Tomorrow, a review of Sunday night's Undercover Boss episode featuring Arlington and Calder!
Wow! Zenyatta and Zardana, what a race by these two this weekend. Zardana upsetting Rachel Alexandra down at the Fair Grounds and Zenyatta finding a hole at the last minute to avoid the upset in at Santa Anita. Looks like dispite the retirement of Life is Sweet on Saturday, Team Shirreffs had a great day.
Of the two, Rachel was expected lose since she wasn't ready, and she did lose to the right horse (Zardana was the only other graded stakes winner). I'm a bit annoyed that she was rushed for one race. Also what if she's not HOY this year? She had one of the greatest 3yo seasons for a filly in a long time, and she'll still go in the HOF. Ferndinad lost his first race as the defending HOY, so did Kelso four of the five years where he was the defending HOY. Golikova takes a start before starting her winning ways as well. She's not the first HOY to lose her first start, and she won't be the last. So hopefully this doesn't deter Team Rachel, and it will be a huge learning experience for her. Keep in mind she hadn't lost since the Pocahontas in 2008, that was her final time she was riden by Brian Hernadez. As for Zardana, if anyone had to upset her, I'm glad it was her. Congrats to Arnold Zeltcher who gets a bit of revenge (Gabby's Golden Gal was run off her feet by Rachel in the Oaks last year), David Flores (who ironicly was Zenyatta's first rider, and wouldn't have riden Big Z if Mike Smith hadn't had to go out of town) and of course John Shirreffs.
Zenyatta, what can I say she's great! Had Mike Smith not found that hole, we could be talking about a huger upset then Zardana. I do think that if she gets a horrible ride by Mike in the Apple Blossom, she will lose.
However in reading some of the things that happend after Rachel lost, struck a nerve with me (and I appoligze in advance for saying this, but I need to get this off my chest). Apperently there was some cheering at Santa Anita after Rachel lost, yes I'm sure they where happy that Zardana won, but really? Everyone goes, thats rivalry talk, it's healthy for a rivalry. Really? What rivalry? The last time I checked they never met. I personally think a rivalry is formed once they meet a few times (Affirmed and Alydar, Sunday Silence and Easy Goer, more recently Indian Blessing and Proud Spell, Proud Spell and Music Note, Empire Maker/Peace Rules and Funny Cide, Funny Cide and Evening Attire etc.). Also apperently the Moss' basically called Zardana, the "better horse". Really? Today she was the better horse, but she has a long way to go to be mentioned in the same breath as Zenyatta AND Rachel. Also they don't own her.
I LOVE Rachel AND Zenyatta. However both of their connections are not the greatest. This is why I wanted to see a Co-Horse of the Year, that way everybody would be happy. I don't love horses for their connections (although Sackatoga horses are the exception ;)), I love horses for them. In a way Rachel Alexandra to me will be the horse I started following because she had Rachel in her name (afterall Rachel is my first name), and Zenyatta will be Balance's kid sister (I loved Balance when she was running). I love them for being well them. I hope in the future they meet up.
What about the Apple Blossom? According to DRF, it sounds like that Rachel will be skipping the race. I think it was more that she isn't going to be ready then that she lost. Hopefully we see her in May for the La Trioanne on the Oaks undercard. Afterall we know she loves Churchill!
The most important thing is that all the horses come out of this race safe and sound! To me this is more important then a win. And personally I'm glad that the buildup and races are now over and we can now move onto the rest of the TC season.
Once again I apploigze, but as I say this is the beauty of horse racing, anything can happen. We all have different opinons, but there are times where people don't always respect them. I do hope that if I respect your opinon, you will respect mine. Thank you very much.
And now back to your regularly reg. programming already in progress.
Lets talk about the three Triple Crown preps,
Odysseus got his nose to the wire first in the Tampa Bay Derby over Schoolyard Dreams with Super Saver in third. Uptowncharlybrown pretty much showed that he's a nice horse, but not Derby material. Meanwhile, Rule is the solid #1 horse for WinStar and the #2 horse in the Pletcher barn. Lookin at Lucky also won by a head over Noble's Promise in his first start of the year. My guess is the AR Derby is next for him, and last, but not least Sidney's Candy became the favorite for the SA Derby after going gate to wire in the San Felipe. The biggest disapointed of the weekend: Bell's Shoes ride. It's going to go down as the WHAT WAS HE THINKING? Catagory. She Be Wild scratching was also a disapointment of the weekend.
However the biggest disapointment of them all wasn't what happend to Rachel, and Zenyatta overcoming what was a really bad ride in the long run, is NTRA Live. They should have been better prepared for such a major event. IMO they where the biggest losers of the weekend. I'm willing to give them a benifit of a doubt for today, but if it happens again then... You get the point.
Tomorrow, a review of Sunday night's Undercover Boss episode featuring Arlington and Calder!
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!
December 28, 2009
Early Derby Choices and a Very Special Announcement
I know it's early, but Friday we will only be four months away from the First Saturday in May, the Greatest Two Minutes in Sports, the Run for the Roses: The Kentucky Derby! So with that I'm going to put out my first Derby prospects together in this post. I will tell you that the horse that I'm gaga over (aka Rule) is not #1 (I'm not that stupid to put a G3 winner ahead of a G1 winner on the first list), nor is the Juvenile Champ (Vale of York (IRE)). However, I think the rest of the list is very reasonble and interesting. There are five of them for right now going in reverse order (worst to best, although all of these horses are very good horses).
#5 Noble's Promise (Cuvee): Won the Dixiana Breeders Futurity (G1) and the Fitz Dixon, Jr. Memorial Juvenile Stakes. He was third in the BC Juvenile (behind Vale of York and Lookin at Lucky), and second in the Cash Call Futurity. The big concern with him is that he's never been on dirt (only synth and turf) and his sire Cuvee had one race beyond a mile and he finished last. Now of course Noble has out done his father by winning the mile and sixtheenth Breeders, but still the question of dirt is big.
#4 Blind Luck (Pollard's Vision): Is Calder the new Mid Alantic? Up until Old Fashioned's injury and Friesan Fire's debacle this year, since 2004 the Mid Alantic has sent horses who have gone on to star status starting with Smarty Jones, going to Afleet Alex, then Barbaro, then Hard Spun and finally Eight Belles and Proud Spell. Calder may just take the title away from them, with stakes winner Jackson Bend, G1 winner Homeboykris and G2 winner D'Funnybone all starting their careers at the Florida racetrack. However, the best of them all could be this filly. Filly? Uhh you know there is a race for them, don't you? Yes I know the likelyhood of this girl ending up in the Derby isn't great, but right now she is my Oaks pick and the early favorite for the race. Her only two losses where in the Del Mar Debutante and BC Juvenile Fillies, her Hollywood Starlet was by far the most impressive race I saw this year by a two year old. The cool thing is she has a win over a dirt surface. Now granted it was over 40k claimers, but still a dirt win is a plus. Hopefully she does well next year weather she is Derby or Oaks bound.
#3 Super Saver (Maria's Mon): Lets see WinStar bred, from the same female family as the sire of Personal Ensign, by a 2yo champion who has sired a Derby champ, and oh yeah did I mention he's a WinStar homebred? From the same people who brought you horses such as Funny Cide (although he did not run for WinStar), Bluegrass Cat and Colonel John brings you this G2 winner. The WinStar boys are loaded this year with a potential three headed monster (Super Saver, American Lion, and Rule). He has a win on dirt and a win at Churchill. That helped Rachel Alexandra this year, and I think it will help Super Saver next year.
#2 Buddy's Saint (Saint Liam): How hard was it to leave Rule off this list? It was extreamly hard that if he had been here, in all likely this guy (or Blind Luck) would have been left off. However, the fact that he has crossed the line first in all three of his races (he was DQ'ed from his maiden win, but rebroke his maiden in the Nashua), and that he will be facing horses such as Winslow Homer, Super Saver and Rule puts him #2. This is Saint Liam's only crop after a freak accident claimed his life, hopefully Buddy can make his dad very proud. The New York 2yo route has been hit or miss, but the fact that he has a win over dirt is a plus.
#1 Lookin at Lucky (Smart Strike): Cross out the BC Juvy, that was IMO a fluke win for Vale of York. Lucky was able to return to the winners circle in the Cash Call Futurity. Of course the concern of him not winning on dirt is a strike. However, Bob Baffert (who is loaded himself of Derby prospects) has said that he will prep on dirt before the Derby. This is HUGE news considering he will have to leave Cali in order to get a dirt surface. I don't think him ajusting to a dirt surface will be a big problem, however like synths not all dirt surfaces will be alike. Baffert has three Derby winners, (Silver Charm, Real Quiet and War Emblem) is this the year he gets his fourth? Only time will tell.
Honorble Mention: Rule (Roman Ruler), Winslow Homer (Unbridled's Song), Aikenite (Yes It's True), American Lion (Tiznow)
I need to see more from: Jackson Bend (Hear No Evil)
I plan on doing a Top 5 list at the end of each month leading up to the Derby. If this is successful, I may bring it back after a 2 month break in May and June for the Breeders' Cup. Until then I hope that you enjoy this list.
Meanwhile I announced on the Facebook Fan page (you need to be a member of Facebook in order to see most of the activities), that I had a very special announcement to make. If you did not read my Twitter page earlier tonight, then you don't know about my very exciting news. I got accepected into the Thoroughbred Bloggers Alliance (TBA as it's known by). From their website, the TBA "are a diverse group of horse racing professionals and fans blogging about the sport we love." You can find the TBA website at: http://tbablogs.com/
I'm honored to be part of this group and in celebration of me getting in, I'm asking all my readers to donate (if they can) to Old Friends (TBA's choice) or a horse rescue of your choice. This is really exciting and I really want to thank Patrick and Brian of TBA for accepting Thoroughbred Chat as a member. Thanks guys!
#5 Noble's Promise (Cuvee): Won the Dixiana Breeders Futurity (G1) and the Fitz Dixon, Jr. Memorial Juvenile Stakes. He was third in the BC Juvenile (behind Vale of York and Lookin at Lucky), and second in the Cash Call Futurity. The big concern with him is that he's never been on dirt (only synth and turf) and his sire Cuvee had one race beyond a mile and he finished last. Now of course Noble has out done his father by winning the mile and sixtheenth Breeders, but still the question of dirt is big.
#4 Blind Luck (Pollard's Vision): Is Calder the new Mid Alantic? Up until Old Fashioned's injury and Friesan Fire's debacle this year, since 2004 the Mid Alantic has sent horses who have gone on to star status starting with Smarty Jones, going to Afleet Alex, then Barbaro, then Hard Spun and finally Eight Belles and Proud Spell. Calder may just take the title away from them, with stakes winner Jackson Bend, G1 winner Homeboykris and G2 winner D'Funnybone all starting their careers at the Florida racetrack. However, the best of them all could be this filly. Filly? Uhh you know there is a race for them, don't you? Yes I know the likelyhood of this girl ending up in the Derby isn't great, but right now she is my Oaks pick and the early favorite for the race. Her only two losses where in the Del Mar Debutante and BC Juvenile Fillies, her Hollywood Starlet was by far the most impressive race I saw this year by a two year old. The cool thing is she has a win over a dirt surface. Now granted it was over 40k claimers, but still a dirt win is a plus. Hopefully she does well next year weather she is Derby or Oaks bound.
#3 Super Saver (Maria's Mon): Lets see WinStar bred, from the same female family as the sire of Personal Ensign, by a 2yo champion who has sired a Derby champ, and oh yeah did I mention he's a WinStar homebred? From the same people who brought you horses such as Funny Cide (although he did not run for WinStar), Bluegrass Cat and Colonel John brings you this G2 winner. The WinStar boys are loaded this year with a potential three headed monster (Super Saver, American Lion, and Rule). He has a win on dirt and a win at Churchill. That helped Rachel Alexandra this year, and I think it will help Super Saver next year.
#2 Buddy's Saint (Saint Liam): How hard was it to leave Rule off this list? It was extreamly hard that if he had been here, in all likely this guy (or Blind Luck) would have been left off. However, the fact that he has crossed the line first in all three of his races (he was DQ'ed from his maiden win, but rebroke his maiden in the Nashua), and that he will be facing horses such as Winslow Homer, Super Saver and Rule puts him #2. This is Saint Liam's only crop after a freak accident claimed his life, hopefully Buddy can make his dad very proud. The New York 2yo route has been hit or miss, but the fact that he has a win over dirt is a plus.
#1 Lookin at Lucky (Smart Strike): Cross out the BC Juvy, that was IMO a fluke win for Vale of York. Lucky was able to return to the winners circle in the Cash Call Futurity. Of course the concern of him not winning on dirt is a strike. However, Bob Baffert (who is loaded himself of Derby prospects) has said that he will prep on dirt before the Derby. This is HUGE news considering he will have to leave Cali in order to get a dirt surface. I don't think him ajusting to a dirt surface will be a big problem, however like synths not all dirt surfaces will be alike. Baffert has three Derby winners, (Silver Charm, Real Quiet and War Emblem) is this the year he gets his fourth? Only time will tell.
Honorble Mention: Rule (Roman Ruler), Winslow Homer (Unbridled's Song), Aikenite (Yes It's True), American Lion (Tiznow)
I need to see more from: Jackson Bend (Hear No Evil)
I plan on doing a Top 5 list at the end of each month leading up to the Derby. If this is successful, I may bring it back after a 2 month break in May and June for the Breeders' Cup. Until then I hope that you enjoy this list.
Meanwhile I announced on the Facebook Fan page (you need to be a member of Facebook in order to see most of the activities), that I had a very special announcement to make. If you did not read my Twitter page earlier tonight, then you don't know about my very exciting news. I got accepected into the Thoroughbred Bloggers Alliance (TBA as it's known by). From their website, the TBA "are a diverse group of horse racing professionals and fans blogging about the sport we love." You can find the TBA website at: http://tbablogs.com/
I'm honored to be part of this group and in celebration of me getting in, I'm asking all my readers to donate (if they can) to Old Friends (TBA's choice) or a horse rescue of your choice. This is really exciting and I really want to thank Patrick and Brian of TBA for accepting Thoroughbred Chat as a member. Thanks guys!
November 30, 2009
Predicitions for the Eclipse Awards
Yes they aren't given out till January, but here are my predictions for this year's Eclipse Award winners except for Horse of the Year. I'll give my explination on why I'm not choosing that catagory at the end.
2yo Female- She Be Wild (Offlee Wild)
A filly who raised from what I call the "ugly ducklings" (maiden claimers) to "beautiful swans" (stakes races), this filly started her career in a 40k maiden claimer, finished second in a G1 before winning the BC Juvenile Fillies. She also got a bit of luck on her side after California's top filly Mi Sueno suffered a career ending injury and New York's best filly Hot Dixie Chick skipped the BC after winning the Spinaway up at Saratoga. Her trainer Wayne Catalano is no stranger to training top fillies, as he also trained 2006 BC Juvenile Fillies winner Dreaming of Anna (Rahy).
2yo Male- Lookin at Lucky (Smart Strike)
Normally the BC Juvenile winner would win this award, however this won't be the case this year. With the winner of the race, a Euro who will be wintering in Dubai, Lucky gets it as he won 2 G1 races and was undefeated until the BC. His form over to dirt should not be a problem as his big bro is G2 winner Kensei (Mr. Greeley).
3yo Female- Rachel Alexandra (Medaglia d' Oro)
Dear Eclipse voters,
If one Rachel Alexandra Morrison-Jackson is not an unanimous champion, then I think you should lose your voting previliges
Love a Rachel Alexandra fan
Just kidding ;). In all seriousness she should be unanimous dispite Careless Jewel (Tapit) coming on mid-Summer and winning the DE Oaks and Alabama. Rachel this year did something that no female could do, win the Woodward. And she did it fighting off Macho Again (Macho Uno) and Bullsbay (Tiznow). Plus she became the first female to win the Preakness in 85 years, the second female to win the Haskell and she almost broke the 2 track records (Belmont and Monmouth). All this after she romped home by 20 1/2 lengths in the KY Oaks.
3yo Male: Summer Bird (Birdstone)
Really known as the "Other Bird" from after the Derby until his Travers win. Still to become the first horse since Easy Goer to take the Belmont, Travers and Jockey Club Gold Cup in the sam year is quite an accomplishment. Unfortnally with his career no in doubt, we may never know how good he exactly is.
Older Male: Gio Ponti (Tale of the Cat)
Really he wins this by default, as this was one of the worst older male classes in a while. However, the good news is he's coming back next year and hopefully we'll see him in the Classic again (I also think he'll do fine on dirt).
Older Female: Zenyatta (Street Cry (IRE))
Dear Eclipse voters,
If Zenyatta Mondatta Moss is not an unanimous champion, then I think you lose your voting previligies.
Love a Zenyatta fan
Just kidding (again) ;). Like Rachel, if Zen is not unanimous it would be a shame. After all she did become the first female ever to win the Breeders' Cup Classic. This in her first try against the boys, in her final race ever (there hasn't been an "offical announcement", but Jerry Moss did say that the Classic was her final race).
Male Sprinter: Zensational (Unbridled's Song)
This is one that is really up in the air and could come down to who did more this year. While Kodiak Kowboy (Posse) will have his supporters, but this guy was just wow all year. His downside is he did finish 5th in BC Sprint to a longshot, and he did retire before he really hit his prime.
Female Sprinter: Informored Decidsion (Monarchos)
It pains me to say this girl deserves it, but she does. I'm sorry, I never could get on board with her, to me she just seems to be a synth specialist. It's really a shame that Music Note (A.P. Indy) wasn't in the BC F/M Sprint as I think she would have won going away. Keep an eye on Sara Louise (Malibu Moon), next year though as she could be a huge factor.
Turf Female: Ventura (Chester House)
This is another up in air situations, but it reality it comes down to this girl and Goldikova (IRE) (Anaaba). And since the 2 time Mile winner is coming back to try for three in a row, I would love to see Ventura get it. She lost by a nose to Gio Ponti, got two tough beats by Informed Decidsion, however was able to beat the boys in the Woodbine Mile and just wrapped up her career in the Matriach. I'm not 100% sure if she'll take it, but I sure hope so.
Turf Male: Gio Ponti (Tale of the Cat)
Had he been in the Turf instead of the Classic, he would have been America's best hope. He won 5 G1's in a roe from a mile to a mile and half. Including outside of of the Turf, the biggest race in the Arlington Million.
2yo Female- She Be Wild (Offlee Wild)
A filly who raised from what I call the "ugly ducklings" (maiden claimers) to "beautiful swans" (stakes races), this filly started her career in a 40k maiden claimer, finished second in a G1 before winning the BC Juvenile Fillies. She also got a bit of luck on her side after California's top filly Mi Sueno suffered a career ending injury and New York's best filly Hot Dixie Chick skipped the BC after winning the Spinaway up at Saratoga. Her trainer Wayne Catalano is no stranger to training top fillies, as he also trained 2006 BC Juvenile Fillies winner Dreaming of Anna (Rahy).
2yo Male- Lookin at Lucky (Smart Strike)
Normally the BC Juvenile winner would win this award, however this won't be the case this year. With the winner of the race, a Euro who will be wintering in Dubai, Lucky gets it as he won 2 G1 races and was undefeated until the BC. His form over to dirt should not be a problem as his big bro is G2 winner Kensei (Mr. Greeley).
3yo Female- Rachel Alexandra (Medaglia d' Oro)
Dear Eclipse voters,
If one Rachel Alexandra Morrison-Jackson is not an unanimous champion, then I think you should lose your voting previliges
Love a Rachel Alexandra fan
Just kidding ;). In all seriousness she should be unanimous dispite Careless Jewel (Tapit) coming on mid-Summer and winning the DE Oaks and Alabama. Rachel this year did something that no female could do, win the Woodward. And she did it fighting off Macho Again (Macho Uno) and Bullsbay (Tiznow). Plus she became the first female to win the Preakness in 85 years, the second female to win the Haskell and she almost broke the 2 track records (Belmont and Monmouth). All this after she romped home by 20 1/2 lengths in the KY Oaks.
3yo Male: Summer Bird (Birdstone)
Really known as the "Other Bird" from after the Derby until his Travers win. Still to become the first horse since Easy Goer to take the Belmont, Travers and Jockey Club Gold Cup in the sam year is quite an accomplishment. Unfortnally with his career no in doubt, we may never know how good he exactly is.
Older Male: Gio Ponti (Tale of the Cat)
Really he wins this by default, as this was one of the worst older male classes in a while. However, the good news is he's coming back next year and hopefully we'll see him in the Classic again (I also think he'll do fine on dirt).
Older Female: Zenyatta (Street Cry (IRE))
Dear Eclipse voters,
If Zenyatta Mondatta Moss is not an unanimous champion, then I think you lose your voting previligies.
Love a Zenyatta fan
Just kidding (again) ;). Like Rachel, if Zen is not unanimous it would be a shame. After all she did become the first female ever to win the Breeders' Cup Classic. This in her first try against the boys, in her final race ever (there hasn't been an "offical announcement", but Jerry Moss did say that the Classic was her final race).
Male Sprinter: Zensational (Unbridled's Song)
This is one that is really up in the air and could come down to who did more this year. While Kodiak Kowboy (Posse) will have his supporters, but this guy was just wow all year. His downside is he did finish 5th in BC Sprint to a longshot, and he did retire before he really hit his prime.
Female Sprinter: Informored Decidsion (Monarchos)
It pains me to say this girl deserves it, but she does. I'm sorry, I never could get on board with her, to me she just seems to be a synth specialist. It's really a shame that Music Note (A.P. Indy) wasn't in the BC F/M Sprint as I think she would have won going away. Keep an eye on Sara Louise (Malibu Moon), next year though as she could be a huge factor.
Turf Female: Ventura (Chester House)
This is another up in air situations, but it reality it comes down to this girl and Goldikova (IRE) (Anaaba). And since the 2 time Mile winner is coming back to try for three in a row, I would love to see Ventura get it. She lost by a nose to Gio Ponti, got two tough beats by Informed Decidsion, however was able to beat the boys in the Woodbine Mile and just wrapped up her career in the Matriach. I'm not 100% sure if she'll take it, but I sure hope so.
Turf Male: Gio Ponti (Tale of the Cat)
Had he been in the Turf instead of the Classic, he would have been America's best hope. He won 5 G1's in a roe from a mile to a mile and half. Including outside of of the Turf, the biggest race in the Arlington Million.
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