I've never done a Throwback Thursday post on this blog. Might as well do one for today since well I feel like it. Today's is all about the Derby and possibly one of my personal favorite Derbys at that.
Showing posts with label Super Saver. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Super Saver. Show all posts
February 20, 2014
February 5, 2011
Look Out Uncle Mo
In 2006 while Barbaro was winning the Kentucky Derby, a Storm Cat colt ridden by Ramon Domingez and trained by Todd Pletcher and owned by WinStar Farm was finishing in second. His name was Bluegrass Cat and he would go on to win the Haskell before finishing his career in Travers finishing second behind that year's champion Bernardini. As a stallion, Bluegrass Cat is off to a wonderful start with an Oaks favorite in Kathmanblu.
However today, his half brother Cal Nation made his debut in impressive fashion. By Distorted Humor out of the AP Indy mare She's a Winner, Cal Nation hails from one of the hottest female families in the past few years. Not only did Bluegrass Cat finish second in the Derby, but Super Saver who won last year is from the same family (She's a Winner and SS' dam Supercharger are full sisters, their full brother Girolamo won the Vosburgh last year as well). This makes CN a cousin to Super Saver's half brother Brethren who also happens to be by the 2003 winning Derby winning sire. But like Super Saver, Brethren and his brother, Cal Nation is owned by WinStar Farm and trained by Todd Pletcher.
However, dispite the title that his stablemate Uncle Mo should watch out, there are a few things that need to be cleared up. First off is history, no horse has won the Derby without starting at 2 since Apollo did it in 1882. Secondly, this was only his first start and it may have been against poor company. It will be interesting where he does go next, however he is a horse who should get better as the distances get longer. This horse could be a special one to follow this year and may well end up being the best of the Pletcher bunch.
It's going to be a fun Derby trail down in Florida that's for sure.
However today, his half brother Cal Nation made his debut in impressive fashion. By Distorted Humor out of the AP Indy mare She's a Winner, Cal Nation hails from one of the hottest female families in the past few years. Not only did Bluegrass Cat finish second in the Derby, but Super Saver who won last year is from the same family (She's a Winner and SS' dam Supercharger are full sisters, their full brother Girolamo won the Vosburgh last year as well). This makes CN a cousin to Super Saver's half brother Brethren who also happens to be by the 2003 winning Derby winning sire. But like Super Saver, Brethren and his brother, Cal Nation is owned by WinStar Farm and trained by Todd Pletcher.
However, dispite the title that his stablemate Uncle Mo should watch out, there are a few things that need to be cleared up. First off is history, no horse has won the Derby without starting at 2 since Apollo did it in 1882. Secondly, this was only his first start and it may have been against poor company. It will be interesting where he does go next, however he is a horse who should get better as the distances get longer. This horse could be a special one to follow this year and may well end up being the best of the Pletcher bunch.
It's going to be a fun Derby trail down in Florida that's for sure.
October 18, 2010
Derby Siblings
With his win at Belmont on Saturday, Brethren avoided what I like would like to call "The Derby Sibling Curse". What is that you may ask? While winning the Kentucky Derby is the biggest accomplishment in most horses careers, it might spell doom for their younger siblings.
Just ask Coincide, Rockcide and Homicide, 2 sons and a daughter of the Slewacide mare Belle's Good Cide. Three black sheep in one family, now Coincide won a couple of races, but the other two did not. Who was the good sheep for their dam? That would be none other then the Gusty Gelding himself, Funny Cide. Now of course Rockcide redeemed herself by being the dam of G3 winner Rule, but still she never won a race on flat and her lone try over the jumps.
Big Brown's little sister My Chestnut Girl has won only 1 race over in Europe.
Smarty Jones' little brother and sister Speedy Jones and Elusive Moment have a combined 1 win. EM is the lovely horse pictured above when she was a 2 year old. No she didn't win that day either sadly, I actually saw her again as a 3yo and she finished last.
Elusive Sparkle and Broadway Ticket, both little sisters to Street Sense did a little better then the average Derby winning sibling, but not as well as their champion brother.
Since 2003, the most successful Derby winners sibling has been Tiago who of course is Giacomo's little brother. He won the Santa Anita Derby and the Goodwood (the later as a 3yo), and had finished third in Belmont and the BC Classic. Then again he was born the same year as Street Sense, Hard Spun, Curlin, Rags to Riches etc.
It's really unfair to put Brother Bird (Mine That Bird's kid brother), Lentenor and Nicanor (Barbaro's brothers) in the conversation for a few reasons.
For Brother Bird, he has only made 7 starts in his career and has won his 2 races this year. Plus he just finished 5th in a stakes race on his first try and he's only 3. As for Nicanor and Lentenor, it's asking alot considering how beloved Barbaro was. Also Dynaformer's are better on turf then they are dirt, with that being said Nicanor has had some success on dirt and Lentenor finished 4th in this year's Florida Derby.
As for Brethren, he's only had one race under his belt. Weather he turns out to be a G1 winner like Super Saver or a claimer like their big brother Hedge Fund (who was retired a few months ago to WinStar) it remains to be seen. Whatever happens, he will be a special part of 2010 KY Derby for who his big brother is.
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| Elusive Moment (IRE) (Elusive Quality x I'll Get Along (Smile)), full sister to 2004 KY Derby and Preakness winner Smarty Jones. Taken before her first start (October 20, 2007 at Delaware Park) She finished 4th. Photo by me (Rachel Levine) |
Just ask Coincide, Rockcide and Homicide, 2 sons and a daughter of the Slewacide mare Belle's Good Cide. Three black sheep in one family, now Coincide won a couple of races, but the other two did not. Who was the good sheep for their dam? That would be none other then the Gusty Gelding himself, Funny Cide. Now of course Rockcide redeemed herself by being the dam of G3 winner Rule, but still she never won a race on flat and her lone try over the jumps.
Big Brown's little sister My Chestnut Girl has won only 1 race over in Europe.
Smarty Jones' little brother and sister Speedy Jones and Elusive Moment have a combined 1 win. EM is the lovely horse pictured above when she was a 2 year old. No she didn't win that day either sadly, I actually saw her again as a 3yo and she finished last.
Elusive Sparkle and Broadway Ticket, both little sisters to Street Sense did a little better then the average Derby winning sibling, but not as well as their champion brother.
Since 2003, the most successful Derby winners sibling has been Tiago who of course is Giacomo's little brother. He won the Santa Anita Derby and the Goodwood (the later as a 3yo), and had finished third in Belmont and the BC Classic. Then again he was born the same year as Street Sense, Hard Spun, Curlin, Rags to Riches etc.
It's really unfair to put Brother Bird (Mine That Bird's kid brother), Lentenor and Nicanor (Barbaro's brothers) in the conversation for a few reasons.
For Brother Bird, he has only made 7 starts in his career and has won his 2 races this year. Plus he just finished 5th in a stakes race on his first try and he's only 3. As for Nicanor and Lentenor, it's asking alot considering how beloved Barbaro was. Also Dynaformer's are better on turf then they are dirt, with that being said Nicanor has had some success on dirt and Lentenor finished 4th in this year's Florida Derby.
As for Brethren, he's only had one race under his belt. Weather he turns out to be a G1 winner like Super Saver or a claimer like their big brother Hedge Fund (who was retired a few months ago to WinStar) it remains to be seen. Whatever happens, he will be a special part of 2010 KY Derby for who his big brother is.
August 30, 2010
Bittersweetness
Well it was an interesting weekend to say the least. No offence to Travers winner Afleet Express or Personal Ensign winner Persistently, but I think both winners where flukey. In the case of Afleet Express, he just nosed out Fly Down who I personally think is the second best 3yo in the US behind the absent Lookin at Lucky. As for Persistently, she got a perfect ride after Rachel was forced to the lead. However, I doubt she wins another race as only 2 of her vanquishers have since (Songtress and Sara Louise where the only two to win another race so far, Garden District is now retired, Zardana is MIA and Unriveled Belle all of a sudden can't win). With that being said, both wins are bittersweet.
Express' sire of course is Afleet Alex who basically singlehandly made Delaware Park the place to be. Per is owned by the Phipps family who of course owned Personal Ensign who sadly passed away this year. In matter of fact, PE's granddaughter Storm Flag Flying upset Azeri in this race in 2004. The loss stings a little bit less as Per is from the same female family as a weanling filly by Hard Spun (Per's granddam is the one and only Heavenly Prize and her sister Oh What a Windfall is the dam to the weanling).
As much as I'm disapointed in Super Saver (hope he's okay, second to last is unlike him) and Rachel (she ran her freaking heart out, and got beat in the last half furlong by a bad ride by Calvin). The biggest disapointment on the weekend was Life at Ten. She had a perfect spot and faded at the end to finish third. Also Miss Singsix ran like who I though she would.
On the West Coast, Richard's Kid defended his PC title. While he has a few dirt wins, I just don't think he has what it takes to win the Classic. I hope Awesome Gem is okay, he's the one I'm worried about the most. I think he's never finished in last. Then again it was that kind of weekend with the Hungerian Bullet, Overdose losing for the first time in Germany.
As for this week's Challenge, I only got one entry so I'm discounting this week's totals and will try again this upcoming weekend. I should have a few nice posts this week, stay tuned!
Express' sire of course is Afleet Alex who basically singlehandly made Delaware Park the place to be. Per is owned by the Phipps family who of course owned Personal Ensign who sadly passed away this year. In matter of fact, PE's granddaughter Storm Flag Flying upset Azeri in this race in 2004. The loss stings a little bit less as Per is from the same female family as a weanling filly by Hard Spun (Per's granddam is the one and only Heavenly Prize and her sister Oh What a Windfall is the dam to the weanling).
As much as I'm disapointed in Super Saver (hope he's okay, second to last is unlike him) and Rachel (she ran her freaking heart out, and got beat in the last half furlong by a bad ride by Calvin). The biggest disapointment on the weekend was Life at Ten. She had a perfect spot and faded at the end to finish third. Also Miss Singsix ran like who I though she would.
On the West Coast, Richard's Kid defended his PC title. While he has a few dirt wins, I just don't think he has what it takes to win the Classic. I hope Awesome Gem is okay, he's the one I'm worried about the most. I think he's never finished in last. Then again it was that kind of weekend with the Hungerian Bullet, Overdose losing for the first time in Germany.
As for this week's Challenge, I only got one entry so I'm discounting this week's totals and will try again this upcoming weekend. I should have a few nice posts this week, stay tuned!
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 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.
May 10, 2010
March to the Black Eyed Susan
Welcome to Preakness Week! Often known as the ugly stepsister, the Preakness believe it or not, is a key race when it comes to the Eclipse Awards. Since 2001, the winner of the Preakness has been named 3yo Champion Colt/Gelding. Of course there is one exception to this rule of thought and that's because last year's winner was a filly. However, I think she turned out to be an okay horse in the long run (wink wink). Seriously though here is the list and what they've done/did after their Preakness wins.
2001: Point Given (Wins in the Belmont, Haskell and Travers, named HOY as well as 3yo Colt/Gelding)
2002: War Emblem (Win in the Haskell)
2003: Funny Cide (3rd in the Belmont, 3rd in the Haskell)
2004: Smarty Jones (2nd in the Belmont)
2005: Afleet Alex (Win in the Belmont)
2006: Bernardini (Win in the Jim Dandy, Travers and JCGC, 2nd in the BC Classic)
2007: Curlin (Wins in the JCGC and BC Classic, 2nd in the Belmont, 3rd in the Haskell, named HOY as well as 3yo Colt/Gelding)
2008: Big Brown (Wins in the Haskell, Monmouth Stakes)
2009: Rachel Alexandra (Wins in the Mother Goose, Haskell and Woodward, named HOY as well as 3yo Filly)
If Super Saver where to following in these lovely boys and girl's steps, he'll have to win the Preakness. The good news is that Calvin Borel will be riding Black Eyed Susan day and in the BES to get used to the track. All the pressure in the World is on him in the Preakness, however I think more pressure is on Todd Pletcher to try to grab the only TC race he hasn't won yet.
The big reason being... Aikenite. It's a bit of a risk entering another horse when you have the Derby winner for a different owner (Aikenite is owned by Dogwood Stable) but it has happend before. In matter of fact, Todd's former boss Wayne Lukas was the last one to do it. He entered Overbrook's Cat Thief, even though Charismatic owned by Bob and Beverly Lewis had won the Derby. That's how loaded Todd is this season, now the mile and 3/16 may still be too long for Aikenite, but like Super Saver he wasn't that bad of 2yo. He beat Ice Box in his first start, and went on to finish third behind Dublin in the Hopeful and 2nd behind Noble's Promise in the Breeders Futurity. Of course those three went on to the Derby finishing 2nd, 5th, and 7th (Ice, Noble, Dublin) respecitvly. His two bad beats where this year in Holy Bull and Bluegrass. Holy Bull winner Winslow Homer was injured and Bluegrass winner Stately Victor didn't show in the Derby, however runner up of that race Paddy O' Prado finished third. Aikenite is coming off a second place finish to Hurricane Ike in the Derby Trial, and although he had enough earnings to go, his connections decided to skip. I do think he's up against it in the Preakness, especially with his Derby winning stablemate, but I think he'll do well in Saturday's race.
I do want to appologize for not doing a Weekend Preview and Recap, I hadn't felt that great on Friday, so I just skiped this past weekend. A few notes about upcoming chats, I haven't decided yet when the next chat will be. One more thing, I'm pleased to announce the Horse Racing Bloggers Awards, these are awards given out to the best horse racing blogs wether it's TB, QH, Arabians or SB. Nominations open next week, but you cna check out the catagories now!
2001: Point Given (Wins in the Belmont, Haskell and Travers, named HOY as well as 3yo Colt/Gelding)
2002: War Emblem (Win in the Haskell)
2003: Funny Cide (3rd in the Belmont, 3rd in the Haskell)
2004: Smarty Jones (2nd in the Belmont)
2005: Afleet Alex (Win in the Belmont)
2006: Bernardini (Win in the Jim Dandy, Travers and JCGC, 2nd in the BC Classic)
2007: Curlin (Wins in the JCGC and BC Classic, 2nd in the Belmont, 3rd in the Haskell, named HOY as well as 3yo Colt/Gelding)
2008: Big Brown (Wins in the Haskell, Monmouth Stakes)
2009: Rachel Alexandra (Wins in the Mother Goose, Haskell and Woodward, named HOY as well as 3yo Filly)
If Super Saver where to following in these lovely boys and girl's steps, he'll have to win the Preakness. The good news is that Calvin Borel will be riding Black Eyed Susan day and in the BES to get used to the track. All the pressure in the World is on him in the Preakness, however I think more pressure is on Todd Pletcher to try to grab the only TC race he hasn't won yet.
The big reason being... Aikenite. It's a bit of a risk entering another horse when you have the Derby winner for a different owner (Aikenite is owned by Dogwood Stable) but it has happend before. In matter of fact, Todd's former boss Wayne Lukas was the last one to do it. He entered Overbrook's Cat Thief, even though Charismatic owned by Bob and Beverly Lewis had won the Derby. That's how loaded Todd is this season, now the mile and 3/16 may still be too long for Aikenite, but like Super Saver he wasn't that bad of 2yo. He beat Ice Box in his first start, and went on to finish third behind Dublin in the Hopeful and 2nd behind Noble's Promise in the Breeders Futurity. Of course those three went on to the Derby finishing 2nd, 5th, and 7th (Ice, Noble, Dublin) respecitvly. His two bad beats where this year in Holy Bull and Bluegrass. Holy Bull winner Winslow Homer was injured and Bluegrass winner Stately Victor didn't show in the Derby, however runner up of that race Paddy O' Prado finished third. Aikenite is coming off a second place finish to Hurricane Ike in the Derby Trial, and although he had enough earnings to go, his connections decided to skip. I do think he's up against it in the Preakness, especially with his Derby winning stablemate, but I think he'll do well in Saturday's race.
I do want to appologize for not doing a Weekend Preview and Recap, I hadn't felt that great on Friday, so I just skiped this past weekend. A few notes about upcoming chats, I haven't decided yet when the next chat will be. One more thing, I'm pleased to announce the Horse Racing Bloggers Awards, these are awards given out to the best horse racing blogs wether it's TB, QH, Arabians or SB. Nominations open next week, but you cna check out the catagories now!
May 2, 2010
Super Luck
Sometimes it takes a while before someone who is supposed to win to win the biggest race in his or her sport. Look at Phil Mickelson and how long it took him to win a major (Masters), or Ray Borque and Jerome Bettis in winning the Stanley Cup and Super Bowl respecitvley. Before yesterday Todd Pletcher was in the same boat they where in before their won their titles. That is until a Maria's Mon colt, and a Lousiana bred jockey changed that. With Super Saver's win in the Run to the Roses, Todd Pletcher went off the list as the one of the greatest trainers not to win the Derby. This was Calvin Borel's third win in four years and the first win for WinStar Farm as an owner, they where previously the winning breeder of Funny Cide.
If you recall on Friday, I said the following.
Yeah forget about that Backtalk third place finish. That was a swing for the fences. Paddy was third so that's okay. Super Saver got the perfect trip to get the win today. And with this win, I think it's time for the Tampa Bay Derby to get a grade upgrade. Since 07, it has produced 2 winners, 2 third place finishers in the Derby, a 3rd place finish in the Preakness and a 2nd place finish in the Belmont. All, but 1 (ironicly it was Super Saver) did NOT win the TB Derby. Then again, the winners haven't/didn't do much after their wins, the lone exception being Street Sense. It will be interesting to see what happens.
The Oaks, wow what a finish! California goes 1-2 with a Lukas horse in third. Blind Luck showed why she is the best 3yo filly in the Country, but my heart broke for Evening Jewel. So close, but yet so far away. I can't wait to see what she does in her next race which will more then likely be at Hollywood.
Speaking of grade upgrades, the Fantasy should be another race to be looked at. Since 2005, it has produced the following:
2005: Round Pond, 2006 BC Distaff winner
2006: Ready to Please, 3rd in the Mother Goose, 2nd in the Dogwood BC both races in 2006
2007: High Heels, 3rd 2007 KY Oaks
2008: Eight Belles, 2nd 2008 KY Derby
2009: Rachel Alexandra, 1st 2009 Preakness, Haskell, Woodward, KY Oaks, Martha Washington, Fair Grounds Oaks, Mother Goose, Champion 3yo Female, Horse of the Year
2010: Blind Luck
I'm really interested where Blind Luck goes next.
As for the rest of the weekend:
La T: My fellow Rachel fans, take a deep breath, she didn't lose by much and the winner was coming off a G2 win. Her Beyer (as well as Unriveled Belle) was a 103, which means while she has taken a step back, it's not as far as you think. I think his win on Super Saver earned Calvin one more chance on her, both he and Rachel have very simlar running styles and in her next race she should be fully cranked and ready to go. As for the winner, meh I think she's going to bounce next time out, but then again I'm not a fan of any of her connections (inluding her sire) which is the opp. of what I was with Zardana whose series of inconsitancy caught up to her.
Eight Belles: I guess Hot Dixie Chick hates mud. I gotta give Bell's Shoes some love, she almost got up for third. Hopefully the Acorn is next for her. The winner is undefeated on dirt, and could be a horse to be rekoned with. That's of course Dixie doesn't get a fast track.
Alysheba: It's time to retire Friesan Fire, he just hasn't been the same horse since his injury. No excuses for Bullsbay (last) or Macho Again (third to last) either. The Stephen Foster is coming up a bit on the tough side, I won't be suprised if these two bounce back there.
Woodford: Blues Street bombed badly. However, apperently the horses he beat in NO where suspect. How about General Quarters, it came a year late, but it was great to see Tom McCarthy get a win on Derby day. People say he's found a home on turf (I thought this was his first start, this was actually his second), but I would like to see him to go for the G1 win on dirt. Keep in mind, he is a stakes winner on dirt so he's no slouch there. He would be only the second horse to win G1's on all three surfaces (Lava Man being the other).
One more thing from the Derby, there is a trainer change, Awesome Act will be staying in the US. He'll be joining the Steve Asmussen barn, which is no suprise as that's who Vinery uses for their big name horses. I assume if he goes back to England he will rejoin the Jeremy Noseda barn.
With that being said, Congrats to Barry of Pari Mutual Wagering as he won the Road to the Roses Thoroughbred Chat Readers League! Barry, please email me at thoroughbredchat at yahoo dot com with an post on anything about horse racing that you would like. Thanks again everyone for particpating in the league this year, and I do appologize for not keeping everybody updated on how everyone was doing. That's something I plan to fix for next year.
I'm going to be taking the next few days off of posting here, but will be back later in the week with new content stay tuned!
If you recall on Friday, I said the following.
I think Super Saver with Calvin "Bo-Rail" Borel will win this year's Kentucky Derby, his third Derby win in the last four years, Pletcher's first win, and WinStar's first win as an owner. Finishing in second I have Paddy O' Prado the maiden winner who finished in second in the Bluegrass, and in third I have my dark horse Backtalk.
Yeah forget about that Backtalk third place finish. That was a swing for the fences. Paddy was third so that's okay. Super Saver got the perfect trip to get the win today. And with this win, I think it's time for the Tampa Bay Derby to get a grade upgrade. Since 07, it has produced 2 winners, 2 third place finishers in the Derby, a 3rd place finish in the Preakness and a 2nd place finish in the Belmont. All, but 1 (ironicly it was Super Saver) did NOT win the TB Derby. Then again, the winners haven't/didn't do much after their wins, the lone exception being Street Sense. It will be interesting to see what happens.
The Oaks, wow what a finish! California goes 1-2 with a Lukas horse in third. Blind Luck showed why she is the best 3yo filly in the Country, but my heart broke for Evening Jewel. So close, but yet so far away. I can't wait to see what she does in her next race which will more then likely be at Hollywood.
Speaking of grade upgrades, the Fantasy should be another race to be looked at. Since 2005, it has produced the following:
2005: Round Pond, 2006 BC Distaff winner
2006: Ready to Please, 3rd in the Mother Goose, 2nd in the Dogwood BC both races in 2006
2007: High Heels, 3rd 2007 KY Oaks
2008: Eight Belles, 2nd 2008 KY Derby
2009: Rachel Alexandra, 1st 2009 Preakness, Haskell, Woodward, KY Oaks, Martha Washington, Fair Grounds Oaks, Mother Goose, Champion 3yo Female, Horse of the Year
2010: Blind Luck
I'm really interested where Blind Luck goes next.
As for the rest of the weekend:
La T: My fellow Rachel fans, take a deep breath, she didn't lose by much and the winner was coming off a G2 win. Her Beyer (as well as Unriveled Belle) was a 103, which means while she has taken a step back, it's not as far as you think. I think his win on Super Saver earned Calvin one more chance on her, both he and Rachel have very simlar running styles and in her next race she should be fully cranked and ready to go. As for the winner, meh I think she's going to bounce next time out, but then again I'm not a fan of any of her connections (inluding her sire) which is the opp. of what I was with Zardana whose series of inconsitancy caught up to her.
Eight Belles: I guess Hot Dixie Chick hates mud. I gotta give Bell's Shoes some love, she almost got up for third. Hopefully the Acorn is next for her. The winner is undefeated on dirt, and could be a horse to be rekoned with. That's of course Dixie doesn't get a fast track.
Alysheba: It's time to retire Friesan Fire, he just hasn't been the same horse since his injury. No excuses for Bullsbay (last) or Macho Again (third to last) either. The Stephen Foster is coming up a bit on the tough side, I won't be suprised if these two bounce back there.
Woodford: Blues Street bombed badly. However, apperently the horses he beat in NO where suspect. How about General Quarters, it came a year late, but it was great to see Tom McCarthy get a win on Derby day. People say he's found a home on turf (I thought this was his first start, this was actually his second), but I would like to see him to go for the G1 win on dirt. Keep in mind, he is a stakes winner on dirt so he's no slouch there. He would be only the second horse to win G1's on all three surfaces (Lava Man being the other).
One more thing from the Derby, there is a trainer change, Awesome Act will be staying in the US. He'll be joining the Steve Asmussen barn, which is no suprise as that's who Vinery uses for their big name horses. I assume if he goes back to England he will rejoin the Jeremy Noseda barn.
With that being said, Congrats to Barry of Pari Mutual Wagering as he won the Road to the Roses Thoroughbred Chat Readers League! Barry, please email me at thoroughbredchat at yahoo dot com with an post on anything about horse racing that you would like. Thanks again everyone for particpating in the league this year, and I do appologize for not keeping everybody updated on how everyone was doing. That's something I plan to fix for next year.
I'm going to be taking the next few days off of posting here, but will be back later in the week with new content stay tuned!
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!
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