Barbaro Updates: 499

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Update 3042: John White, HRTV analyst who I met at Delta Downs and discussed Barbaro with affection, writes this about what might have been: It's Post Time: Barbaro Remembered.

Update 3041: Pfizer is participating in a marketing deal to broaden the reach of the Barbaro Memorial Fund: Laminitis Research Gets a Boost.

Update 3040: Old Friends has a new resident: Will's Way To Old Friends. Coincidently I was actually chatting to Michael Blowen this morning, but on the topic of our anti slaughter event in DC.

Update 3039: The weather was a little mixed this morning with threatening rain, which really did not materialize. It was also quite warm. We had eight sets, and nearly everything went well ... except our Jock, Jose Figuerao got dumped after breezing a horse. Fortunately he (and the horse) were fine ... but we could give Fig plenty of grief especially after he made it into the Houston Chronicle today (could not find the article online) for having ridden his 200th career win aboard Chromdoll on Sunday. She is one I gallop. What did we get for his 200th win ... some soggy donuts from his agent Travis! Come on ... anyway, a fun morning.

Update 3038: Steve Haskin takes an early look at the prospects for this year's Kentucky Derby: Ky. Derby Trail: What Foot Forward?

Please keep calling and writing, and consider coming to DC March 4 and 5.

Posted by Alex at 10:45 AM | Comments (174)

Barbaro Updates: 498

updates are now here.

Update 3037: My interview yesterday on "at the races" with Steve Byk is archived here. It also includes Julie from Churchill Downs discussing the Jackson's decision to memorialize Barbaro at Churchill.

Update 3036: Curlin and Pyro work together again this morning, six furlongs in an impressive 1:13: Curlin, Pyro Impressive in Workouts.

Update 3035: A chilly start to the day, but bright sunshine once the sun came up. We had ten sets, so a busy morning. This included a few 2yos, our first to ship in. My understanding is we will get many 2yos to help get ready over the course of the next month or two. Anyway, all my horses went nicely and it was a pleasant morning's work. There was an announcement over the backside PA system, about 7 am, asking if anyone had found a horse, please contact the stable gate. An hour later the same announcement was broadcast. Lets hope the horse was discovered! I also witnessed a "turn and burn", for the first time. This is quarter horse training ... apparently they jog the horse back to the eighth pole, turn around and then go as fast as they can. It was odd to witness.

Update 3034: Ed Fountaine writes about drugs in horseracing: 'ROID TO TROUBLE HALL OF FAMER VAN BERG: DRUGS RUINING RACING.

Determining the size of a stallion's book can be complicated and it is tempting to push for a large book for a popular stallion. Winstar is looking to control this a little: WinStar's Way: Controlling Books, excerpt:

"This year, our goal for Distorted Humor will be between 95 and 100 mares," Cauthen said. "We're slowly reducing his book for a couple of reasons. One, we're hoping to extend his career so he'll be here when he's 25 or 30 instead of for a shorter period. Two, we feel like that as the price of stud fee goes up, his exclusivity should go up so there's not as many of his foals out there. That's an advantage to everyone commercially or anyone who breeds or races. If you had one of the five grade I winners he had last year, that's a positive; it was a little exclusivity. A long career and not too many foals out there both are probably good things."

Please keep calling and writing, and consider coming to DC March 4 and 5.

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Barbaro Updates: 497

updates are now here.

Update 3033: Just off the phone with Jennifer Rench from New Bolton. Quick update, ABC6 and NBC10 were there today interviewing Dr. Richardson, that will be shown (at least) locally on the evening news I guess. Lots of flowers and baskets arrived today. There is also now a second poster on the fence.

Update 3032: Some great news today from South Dakota: Slaughter Bill Killed in S.D. This incident is a timely reminder of the importance of ending slaughter at the Federal level. Please join fellow horse advocates in DC on March 4 and 5 to help make this happen: An Invitation from Paula Bacon.

Update 3031: We have a name for Barbaro's yearling full brother: Barbaro to be interred at Churchill Downs, it concludes:

As the days count down to the second anniversary of Barbaro's Kentucky Derby triumph, Gretchen Jackson said she has taken solace in following the progress of Barbaro's two full siblings--a two-year-old colt named Nicanor and a yearling they have decided to call Lentenor.

"We went down and saw Nicanor just last week, and he's looking great ... doing fine," she said. "He's coming along just as the average two-year-old would ... except he's carrying a tremendous amount of baggage."

Update 3030: I am on air, on break and coming back after the break (update 3029)!

Update 3029: I am scheduled to be on At the Races with Steve Byk at 4:15 Eastern Time today. Its on Sirius channel 126 and live streming from http://www.thoroughbredracingradionetwork.com.

An update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

With all of the media coverage this Tuesday morning I have spent the morning reminiscing about the brilliant life and tragic loss of Barbaro. The announcement came earlier this morning that his place of rest would be at Churchill. What a wonderful place. There have been a lot of great things that have come out of his unfortunate death. He has helped bring so much needed awareness to important issues. We are thankful for the Fan's of Barbaro and all of the people who have given money for the rescue of our friends and to the research for laminitis. The developement of aritificial surfaces, like the Tapeta track at Fair Hill, gives horsemen another tool to keep their horses sound and out of harms way. Every bit of help we can get to keep these animals safe we will gladly take. Hopefully the horse industry as a whole will continue to develope new ways to further enrich the lives of these wonderful beasts. Barbaro touched a lot of people in every walk of life if only for a brief moment in time. He is not easily forgotten!!!

Update 3028: Superfecta here, with your regular Tuesday update on a rather unusual Tuesday:

One year ago today, I was working feverishly to keep the Penn Vet servers up and running against the sudden onslaught of traffic when the news of Barbaro's death had been announced. Unsurprisingly, given the difficulties of communication in a school with two campuses, the news went out over the wires before most of the staff was notified, which led to some quite harried scenes.

Rather unwisely, we had no plan in place to deal with that eventuality, even though it had been quite clear for several days that things were looking rather grim (and, indeed, that his prognosis had been deemed 'poor' in July). I had been at New Bolton the Thursday before and happened to notice in passing that Gretchen Jackson looked a little more concerned than usual, although I didn't think too much of it at the time. Friday I heard that the outlook was not good but that options were still being evaluated. I went to a luncheon on Saturday and when it was discovered that I worked at Penn Vet, there were naturally a few questions about Barbaro (although the prevailing understanding seemed to be 'I thought he got better and went home' for some reason). I responded that while I wasn't in a position to say anything official nor was I close to the clinical end of things, as someone who had experience around horses, I didn't think he'd last the weekend -- I was actually a little surprised that they waited until Monday to put him down, since Sunday would have given a little more privacy (and time for everyone involved to prepare for the press (and internet traffic) the next day).

UPenn 'central' seemed like they were less than happy with us for asking for help with image hosting and the like when the day came -- indeed, they had taken little interest in the Barbaro situation since shortly after he arrived. Nonetheless, they did pitch in (for a fee -- each part of Penn is essentially its own business and is run accordingly) and the site stayed up, despite very shaky infrastructure (which is why the donation sites are all hosted elsewhere -- so that part of the Vet School could use a big donation as well).

Did things go on too long? Perhaps a bit, but it's certainly not the worst case I've seen. I knew a stallion who had been terribly burned in a fire (the other three horses involved were killed), but because of his value as a stud, he was kept alive (often in obvious pain, and very disfigured) for almost a year after the event, suffering through infections and foundering a few times before a vet finally insisted that enough was enough. Barbaro had more good days than bad and I always had the sense that everyone realized that even in the best case scenario, a normal, successful stud career was not terribly likely (given the logistics) and so decisions were not made with that as a goal. But was it worth trying? Sure.

Burying his ashes at Churchill Downs seems fitting -- it's already a public space and anything that recalls his final 1/16th of a mile in the Derby is a worthy endeavor.

Update 3027: I did a brief phone interview for WUKY 91.3 FM out of Lexington KY. It should air sometime this afternoon for those in the Lexington area. I am also supposed to be on Sirius radio later today (4:15 east coast I think).

Update on Barbaro's ashes: Barbaro's ashes will be buried at Churchill Downs, excerpt:

The ashes will be buried at the center of a brick plaza outside the track's Gate 1, which also is near the entrance to the Kentucky Derby Museum. The Jacksons have commissioned a statue of the horse to mark the gravesite.

Update 3026: I love this article: Remembering Barbaro: Kentucky Derby Winner Changed Thousands of Lives.

Update 3025: A year ago today, January 29, 2007, a heroic Barbaro lost his fight for life. We can all remember where we were when we received the tragic news. For me, I was driving back to Fair Hill to meet someone when I received a call.

What I was not so prepared for was the tremendous work that has continued in recognition of a horse who stood for everything we aspire. At 10:30 am today, Eastern Time, we are holding a vigil. Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, please at that time spare some thoughts for a great racehorse and an inspiration for us all to continue his legacy.

At 10:00 am eastern time there will be a press conference held at Churchill Downs hosted by the Jacksons. This conference appears to be to announce the burial site and memorial for Barbaro: A lasting peace for Barbaro, excerpt:

The Jacksons are going to commission the statue and loan it to Churchill Downs as part of the official Barbaro Memorial Site. The site will be free and accessible to the public 24 hours a day. The Jacksons considered several options for Barbaro's ashes before deciding on Churchill.

"Churchill was where he had his most memorable race," Gretchen Jackson said yesterday. "It will be accessible to all the people who loved him so much. It was hard to wrestle with, but it's just the right place. And Churchill has been great with all this."

Today will see some added Barbaro press coverage, and some of that focus is also on Barbaro's legacy. The following are two examples:

Barbaro's Legacy: A year after death, horse lives on as a vital Web symbol., excerpt:

The "Fans of Barbaro," as they call themselves, have helped save more than 1,900 horses from slaughter by donating more than $800,000, said Alex Brown, an exercise rider who administers the Web site, which is located at www.alexbrownracing.com. Each week, horse rescuers go on his site and ask for donations to help save horses.

Barbaro's spirit carries on one year after his death, excerpt:

"I think it has been absolutely remarkable that so many of the Fans of Barbaro participate in horse rescue," Gretchen Jackson said. "Isn't that absolutely remarkable; just a real grassroots movement that has accomplished something, made some changes. It's excellent; if we could just get the [anti-slaughter] bill through Congress it would be even more remarkable."

Please keep calling and writing.

Posted by Alex at 10:51 AM | Comments (855)

Barbaro Updates: 496

updates are now here.

Update 3024: Anyone who wants to know how great Barbaro was as a racehorse just needs to listen to his exercise rider: Brette recalls thrill of riding Barbaro.

Update 3023: Press release from New Bolton Center regarding visits to New Bolton today by FOBs Laura J Smith and Lyn Gilbert and the fundraising gifts they donated (and pictures): Barbaro's legacy endures as anniversary approaches.

Update 3022: A cool blog post about FOBs: You've Got to Have Fans.

Update 3021: The Jackson's are hosting a press conference tomorrow in Kentucky: Jacksons at Churchill Downs 1/29/2008.

Update 3020: A pleasant evening spent at Sam Houston Race Park. I stayed from about the second race to the seventh. One of the horses I ride ran in the seventh, but did not run too spectacularly. I left then just in time to miss another horse I ride win the eighth! Always my good timing! A day off today.

Please keep calling and writing. Note the additional needs in South Dakota.

Posted by Alex at 1:34 PM | Comments (253)

Barbaro Updates: 495

updates are now here.

Update 3019: Off back to Sam Houston Race Park for the evening's racing.

Update 3018: Update on the situation at Santa Anita: 'Anita Cancels Jan. 27-28 Programs.

Update 3017: As usual on a Sunday morning, we had a lot of horses working and a lot of Jockeys helping. For me this meant a lighter day, with only seven to ride. I did "two minute clip" one horse a half a mile, much as I did last Sunday, although a different horse. All the horses I rode went without much incident, which is always a good thing. As I was waiting behind the gate to stand one of my horses, we had a set of five breaking from the gate and working 5/8ths. It was almost like a mini race. I also watched another horse breaking out of the gate as I was jogging towards the gate, and the horse turned a sharp left. It turns out it was the same horse that did the same thing a couple of weeks ago, although this time the jockey stayed on (it was not our horse).

Got a call from a buddy of mine at Hollywood Park, he said the track there is atrocious after all the rain they have had. There are also plans afoot to redo the Santa Anita surface. Seems the horsemen are not to happy at this point. OK, now waiting for my HRTV interview, which should be in about 30 minutes ...

Update 3016: A very pleasant evening Saturday evening spent at Sam Houston Race Park. I was there with a few FOBs and we had a pretty decent race card to watch, including two Stakes. The first Stakes was for fillies and mares, going long. It was won in impressive style by the Larry Jones trained Buy The Barrel. She was simply much the best and cruised to an easy win. The feature race of the night was the Maxxum Gold Cup going a mile and an eighth. Goosey Moose and Honest Man led the short field going head and head down the backside. Reporting for Duty and Red Rock Creek were far behind. Coming around the final turn the short field tightened up and Reporting for Duty simply blew by everybody. Red Rock Creek also ran on nicely to finish a game second. A nice exacta for our barn! Here are the full result for the night (chart).

I also received a gift from the FOBs along with a card. A very nice evening for sure.

Update 3015: An excellent article, by Dan Gelston, exploring Barbaro's Legacy: Barbaro's legacy stretches far beyond Kentucky Derby victory.

Update 3014: Santa Anita is racing today, as part of the Sunshine Millions with Gulfstream Park: Sunshine Millions On at Santa Anita.

Update 3013: No rain this morning! Must be the first time in a while I think. That being said, the track was a mess, no other way to describe it. Hopefully it will continue to dry out this afternoon and we can have a decent track for the races tonight, which include a couple of Stakes races.

We had nine sets this morning, and I think I galloped fifteen miles. All my horses went nicely despite the track conditions, and the morning went without incident. During the break we watched races from Doncaster and Navan (TVG) and its fun hearing the comments of those not familiar with our racing back home when we watch thirty horses lining up for a race. I also watched a couple of goats butting heads in one of the barns we have horses. I think they are good friends, and I am not sure what the dispute was. It was over quickly. Anyway, all in all a pleasant morning, which was a good thing as I was very tired coming into work.

Update 3012: Kieren Fallon, who was recently acquited of charges of conspiracy to defraud, has been suspended for eighteen months on drug charges. He is appealing: Jockey Fallon banned for 18 months after cocaine positive.

Bluegrass Cat, second behind Barbaro in the 2006 Kentucky Derby, has had his first foal: Bluegrass Cat's First Foal.

Posted by Alex at 10:53 AM | Comments (463)

Barbaro Updates: 494

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Update 3011: Santa Anita canceled again today: S.A. Cancels; Hopeful for Millions.

Update 3010: My HRTV interview is sunday, not saturday. An update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

Today is frigid Friday. All horses are going well and getting ready for another work day tomorrow. They are all finding partners that match up to ability and fitness level. Powdered Donut and Rosie, Rocky and Paris, Kitty and Molly all workout together. Robbie and Tim weigh much the same (I can not disclose how much or Tim would kill me) and are evenly matched when breezing horses together. Gator Nation is feeling good after having a little break. Perhaps he is feeling a little too good because he dropped Robbie. Both horse and rider made out fine and everyone returned to the barn safely.

Update 3009: Another mucky morning this morning at Sam Houston Race Park. It rained on and off all morning and the track was already a mess from the persistant rain we have endured for the last few days. Actually everything is a mess. We had nine sets, six before the break and three after the break. All mine went nicely for the most part. One was a little kean, and he is probably the biggest horse at the track, and you have to give him his head when galloping or he will simply drag you over his head. Galloping him in the rain can be tricky. We did survive.

As I was cleaning tack Becky Witzman of HRTV called, I am going to do a phone interview tomorrow, about 9:30 am west coast time. When she learned where I was she was more kean for me to pet Golden Hare for her than worry about what we would talk about tomorrow.

Update 3008: War Pass tops the 2007 Experimental Free Handicap at 127 pounds, seven pounds ahead of Pyro, Dixie Chatter and Into Mischief. Indian Blessing leads the filly division at 123 pounds: War Pass Tops Experimental.

Diabolical was fourth in his Dubai debut behind the typically impressive Asiatic Boy: Asiatic Boy Romps in Al Shindagha.

Please keep calling and writing.

Posted by Alex at 10:54 AM | Comments (221)

Barbaro Updates: 493

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Update 3007: Turfway Park also canceled racing today: Turfway cancels Thursday card.

Curlin and Pyro breezed 5/8ths together this morning at Fair Grounds: Curlin Works at Fair Grounds, excerpt:

Curlin turned in his first workout since being named Horse of the Year, breezing five furlongs in 1:00.60 Jan. 24 over a track rated "good" at Fair Grounds.

Working in company with Curlin was Winchell Thoroughbreds' Pyro, runner-up in the Bessemer Trust Breeders' Cup Juvenile (gr. I) and an Eclipse Award finalist for champion 2-year-old. Pyro was credited with the same five-eighths time, although he actually finished about a head in front of his older stablemate, according to a release from Fair Grounds.

Update 3006: This is starting to get a little ridiculous, racing was again canceled today at Santa Anita: West Coast Millions Races in Doubt.

Update 3005: An update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

Yesterday was a busy morning with the dentist visiting. Bubble Gum was a champ and stood like a lady for him. Apparently she likes the dentist more than the blacksmith. She is one tough cookie when the blacksmith tries to put hind shoes on. Even with a little medicine to make her mellow she was giving him a hard time. I hope this tough nature oozes over into her racing. Runnin Numbers her mother was a tough lady and she seems to be following in her footsteps which will be fine if she can run like her mom!!!

Not much sun on this Thursday morning at Fair Hill but at least we aren't getting any snow just yet. Tim reports that the horses are training well. I was in the barn briefly this morning and as I walked by Kitty she was tossing her head with excitement. Even though my time was limited I could not help myself and had to stop to give her a huge hug and kiss. What must the help think? I rush in and out and the only work I do is to love on the horses! I passed Molly in the shed row and asked her how her day was going. She seemed fine. What a life!!! Anyway, Tim now reports that Lucky is his best ride of the day. He travels around the track like a professional. We miss him on the farm but I hope he can get to the races. We now have a new baby in the barn for Gator Nation's owner. She is very pretty and just loves attention. Sar Treaty is her name and she is no doubt in the best place for love and affection and hopefully the best place to get her to the races with loads of success. Bubble Gum has been her companion to the track for the last two days and she takes everything in stride. Another new horse in the barn is named Seventeen Love (of course a Not For Love filly). Seventeen Love will be with us to get fit for her debut at Belmont. Rocky galloped well this morning and was taken to the gate to stand. It is always a good thing to get a horse to relax in the gate and just give them a chance to chill out. Rocky had no problems doing either and was quite relaxed. Real Lace ran yesterday and I hope that she is happy and ok. I think about her everytime I go into the barn and she is not looking at me from the first stall. Sometimes change is hard.

Update 3004: A damp and chilly morning this morning at Sam Houston Race Park. I initially had seven sets, but then one of my horses was ridden by someone else who came in to get on a couple, so with only six sets I was done by the break time. All my horses went nicely, I cleaned some tack during the break and was finished before 9 am. A good day to get finished relatively early, I say relatively because even when we are finished late its only 10:30 am!

Update 3003: X Steve Klesaris trainee Diabolical is making his first start of 2008 for Godolphin in Dubai today and faces a very tough challenger in Asiatic Boy: Diabolical to Debut for Godolphin.

On Saturday Sam Houston Race Park hosts a couple of Stakes races including the $100,000 Maxam Gold Cup: Maxxam field small but competitive. A few FOBs plan to attend: HONEST MAN at SAM HOUSTON!!!

Please keep calling and writing.

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Barbaro Updates: 492

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Update 3002: Typically we see European-based horses coming over to the US to explore further racing opportunities, not so much the other way around. Nownownow, winner of the inaugural Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf, is bucking the trend and is off to Ireland for a tilt at the European Classics: Breeders' Cup winner Nownownow to race in Europe.

Update 3001: A bit of a grotty, muddy morning this morning at Sam Houston Race Park. It was raining early but the rain subsided after two or three sets. We had nine sets in all, which was complicated a little by one rider not showing up for the first few sets, and getting a couple of freelance riders to come in and make up for those sets. All my horses went nicely, a few of which went to the gate to stand. After we finished work, I went for breakfast with our Jockey (Jose Figuerao) and our soon to be Jockey (Erik McNeil). A fun morning if not a little chaotic early.

Update 3000: Probably the most global racing event in the world in 2007, the 2008 renewal of the Dubai World Cup looks similarly interesting, with a possible meeting of Curlin and the tongue-wagging Premium Tap: World Cup Card Has Strong Nominees.

Please keep calling and writing.

Posted by Alex at 10:53 AM | Comments (118)

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Update 2999: An update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

Tuesday morning is giving us a slight reprieve from the frigid air that followed us from Utah. We are getting back into the swing of things. Several of our horses worked on Saturday. Molly (Sailing Home), Kitty (Tailtails), and Rocky (Rockin Fun) all had a half mile work. Everyone handled things well and have come out of the works nicely. Paris Night had a delayed work due to a slight impaction which to a horse can be quite dangerous. She recovered well enough to have a work on Monday. Lucky is doing great and gets to gallop with two fillies Rosie and Powdered Donut. He is not studdish at all but does like to show off a bit. The girls give him a run for his money. Wanda(Two of Wands) has returned to galloping after having a short break. She is definately keeping Robbie fit for his upcoming Steeplechase season. Binkley is quite happy now that we have returned and enjoys following Tim on his morning rounds. Luke is in good form and has of course not lost any weight while we were away.

On another note, hopefully everyone got to watch the episode of Extreme Makeover on Sunday Night about Freedom Hills Therapeutic Riding Center. It was great to see Mike Rea riding again. What a wonderful service they provide for people and I am so thankful that they got a makeover. The house is wonderful and the barn and riding facility are great. I know lots of people will enjoy this place. These wonderful animals have a way of reaching into the soul where nothing else can. What a great thing!

Update 2998: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

The Eclipse Awards presented (in the words of Radiohead) no surprises; Curlin was duly crowned Horse of the Year and Three-Year-Old Colt - ESPN notes that only last year, he had yet to make his first start. Chief owner Jess Jackson continued to send out positive signals about Curlin's continued career on the track, but of course there are still those pesky legal issues to work out before he can move forward toward a trip to Dubai.

The public got to vote on 'Moment of the Year' this time out, with Rags to Riches' triumph in the Belmont as the very deserving winner. It's even more impressive in hindsight when you consider Curlin's place in the firmament now.

Perhaps my only quibble with the results is Lawyer Ron's Champion Older Male title; not to take anything away from Lawyer Ron, but English Channel continuously faced and beat world-class competition -- while the Male Turf Horse category is clearly his, it says a lot about the relative status of turf racing in the US that he is relegated to a secondary title.

The Guardian's sportblog had a rather interesting take on the Eclipse Awards, not only noting racing's much higher profile in the UK but also pointing out that the award for best trainer was:

"...reckoned to be a match between Todd Pletcher and Steve Asmussen, both of whom, somewhat inconveniently, were serving suspensions for breaches of the anti-doping rules when the racing year opened back in January 2007."

Oh, that. Moving swiftly onward...

They also suggest that racing's revenue potential is 'equivalent to that of the NBA' and yet it remains 'the sport that dare not speak its name.'

While it's lovely to hand out awards (provided you have writers, of course), if racing is really making as much cash as the NBA, someone really ought to be marketing that information...

Update 2997: A pleasant start to the week this morning at Sam Houston Race Park. Because of all the rain we have had (did not rain this morning) the track was sealed. It was a little muggy this morning, but certainly not cold. We had ten sets, so it was pretty busy, six sets before the break and four sets after the break. All my horses went pretty nicely, each galloping a mile. This is standard training after a day off yesterday. I was expecting to get plenty of grief over the Packers, but no one seemed to want to give me too much stick. Anyway, a decent morning's work.

Update 2996: Curlin was named Horse of the Year and 3yo Champion for 2007 during the Eclipse Award Ceremonies held last night: Horse of the Year Curlin stars at Eclipse Awards. Rags to Riches and War Pass were among the other Eclipse winners: Voting for 2007 Eclipse Awards.

Please keep calling and writing. Today is National Call In Day, you might also want to use this "cartoon" as a flyer / fax.

Posted by Alex at 10:50 AM | Comments (100)

Barbaro Updates: 490

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Update 2995: Despite the more aggressive adoption of Steroids testing in weanling and yearling sales, 2yo in training sales have not been as quick to take on this challenge: Testing for Steroids Slow to Begin.

Update 2994: Freedom Hills, a Therapeutic Riding Program that worked with Mike Rea, was featured on Extreme Makeover last night (including a interview with Mike Rea). For those that missed the show you can find details to watch it here: Freedom Hills Extreme Home Makeover.

A day off today, so I am off to ride General (OTTB). And we were third in our sailing race on saturday, I did not fall in and did not get in the way! The Packers were second last night ...

Update 2993: Tonight is the Eclipse Awards: Curlin's rise to be on display at Eclipse Awards. We are represented by Curlin (3yo Colt and Horse of the Year), Pyro (2yo Colt) and Steve Asmussen (outstanding trainer). The ceremonies are broadcast on TVG at 9:30 ET.

Please keep calling and writing.

Posted by Alex at 2:22 PM | Comments (91)

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Update 2992: Carl Nafzger is honored in Texas: Nafzger Honored, Credits His Horses, excerpt:

"We've had a lot of great horses and a lot of great relationships," Nafzger said. "but we owe it all to the horse. The horse has taken us all these places."

Turfway Park falls victim to the cold weather today: Turfway Cancels Jan. 20 Program.

Update 2991: A very chilly, but dry morning this morning. Temperatures bordered on freezing first thing (I know ... there are plenty of places in the country worse off). We had many workers this morning and many jockeys on hand to help out. I had eight sets, which included one that open galloped a half mile. She went nicely, it was her second bit of work coming off a layoff. I think I went about the right time! All my others went nicely that I rode, and one I gallop each day apparently breezed well so I am excited to see her running soon (not likely here though).

I received an e-mail from the clockers stand at Fair Hill. Cold there this morning but a few workers on the Tapeta track, including Better Talk Now.

Update 2990: Evening Attire, at the grand age of 10, finished second yesterday in New York after a typically slow start: Angliana Tops 'Attire in Aqueduct, excerpt:

Evening Attire's trainer, Pat Kelly, couldn't find fault with his gelding's valiant effort in the Aqueduct.

"It's all we can ask for," Kelly said. "This will set him up good for the Stymie (March 1), which he won last year."

War Pass, current Derby favorite of Nick Zito's, had a mild form of colic late Friday and missed a scheduled workout on Saturday: War Pass bounces back from touch of colic, excerpt:

"War Pass showed signs of abdominal discomfort with the symptoms of a mild impaction at feed time on Friday," said Migliacci. "As a result, we decided to send him to the Palm Beach Equine Clinic, where he could receive maintenance fluids all evening. It was basically a precautionary measure. He passed manure all evening, had a good night, and is back to normal this morning."

Update 2989: Richard Dunwoody, a retired Steeplechase Jockey from the UK (who was a very very successful jockey) reached the South Pole via a route first attempted by Sir Ernest Shackleton. He accomplished this with American Doug Stoup and raised money for Charities including Racing Welfare: Former jockey treks to South Pole.

Update 2988: Another drizzly dull start to the morning at Sam Houston Race Park. The rain died offf pretty quickly, the clouds cleared into a nice but somewhat chilly day. Had 9 sets and I galloped 17 miles. 12 miles before the break and 5 miles after the break. All the horses galloped nicely and the morning went without any troubles. I am now on my way to Galveston Bay to crew a boat (not entirely sure what that means).

Update 2987: Glenye Cain Oakford provides an update on Barbaro's brothers: Barbaro's little brothers progressing, excerpt:

"He's physically a very attractive colt," Stephens said. "Conformationally, he's pretty correct, and substance-wise, he has some scope. He doesn't have the length of leg Barbaro had at this point. Barbaro was gawkier at this stage, and Nicanor is a more attractive horse at this point.

"There's such heavy expectation put on him," she said. "You try not to, and you just hope he does something."

Posted by Alex at 11:03 AM | Comments (194)

Barbaro Updates: 488

updates are now here.

Update 2986: Curlin had an easy 5/8ths work this morning: Curlin, Pyro, Grasshopper Work.

Update 2985: A post-ski vacation update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

Today was a bright and sunny Friday which was quite a switch from the snow we returned in last night. It was gorgeous in Utah but we are so happy to be back with the horses. Needless to say that Tim will be keeping his day job!!! The horses seemed none the worse with us not being here. Under the watchful eye of Robbie and the grooms everyone appears to be fine. Rocky has gotten strong and competitve and must really love this cold weather. This morning I stopped in the barn to see everyone and Kitty was in her stall jumping up and down. She stopped whriling around long enough for me to give her a pat. Molly continues to be in great form as does Two of Wands. Binkley was very happy to see Tim and enjoyed his breakfast and a little attention. Luke has had new shoes while we were away and hopefully I'll be able to get him to the track a few times this weekend. He is steady as a rock and loves to go with the youngsters. I'm not sure what will be happening this weekend but I'm sure there will be some excitement to report on.

Update 2984: A chilly and damp morning here this morning at Sam Houston Race Park. Leaving work it was 44 degrees, which is pretty grim. I hope its warmer tomorrow, I am supposed to be sailing after work!

We had nine sets today, six before the break and three after the break. Two of my sets went to the gate and came out of the front. One set came out very sharply, and is ready to work from the gate (with the jocks), my horse in the other set sat back and when the gates opened it took me a while to encourage her out of the gate. We walked and then jogged away, but kept straight. She will require plenty of gate schooling in the next couple of weeks. All my other horses went nicely for a pleasant morning's work. One of our exercise riders (Scott), went shopping yesterday for Giant's gear. He had a few of the others' wearing Giants wear and they all thought it was rather amusing ...

Update 2983: Its sad to report that Hesanoldsalt, who ran in Barbaro's Florida Derby, died yesterday in a freak accident at Palm Meadows: Hesanoldsalt Euthanized.

First foals have now been reported for Artie Schiller and Lion Tamer.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 2982: Rags to Riches' win in the Belmont Stakes was voted Moment of the Year and will receive an Eclipse Award: Belmont Stakes Voted Top 'Moment'.

Update 2981: A chilly morning which seemed to get chillier as the morning went along. That being said, it was a pretty low key, easy, morning's work. I had ten sets, and as the only one with ten sets I pretty much got out of tack duty. A good trade, one extra horse and no tack to clean. All the horses I rode went nicely. We took a couple of sets to the gate, and galloped them out of the front. Its been a few weeks since I had done that, but the horses went nicely. They were recently arrived horses so we were finding where they were at with their gate work. All in all, a good morning's work.

Update 2980: Santa Anita will plan to close for a few days when it adds a new binder to help repair its drainage system: Santa Anita to Close for Track Fix.

First foals have recently been born to Borrego, Giacomo, Shirocco and Suave.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 2979: Here is Susan Wagner of Equine Advocates on Martha Stewart today: Watch Martha Stewart Wed 1/16.

Update 2978: Superfecta here, with your (usually) regular weekly update.

The World Thoroughbred Racehorse Rankings were recently released; Curlin is the highest-rated US-based horse, coming in tied for second with Authorized, Dylan Thomas and Invasor (despite his retirement early in the season). Street Sense, English Channel, Any Given Saturday and Lawyer Ron also make the top ten. Rags to Riches comes in at 13th overall, and ranks first on the filly & mare listing; the rankings are also available in a number of different categories.

But they all come behind the German-bred Manduro; he was unbeaten last year at five and is now at Kildangan Stud. As impressive as his numbers are, the Belfast Telegraph notes that:

"...although Manduro's mark of 131 makes him an exceptional performer, and the best world champion since Hawk Wing earned 133 in 2004, it should be remembered that the very best of the bests - a Sea-Bird or Secretariat - have a four as their middle number."

and moreover:

"But although the top quintet were way above average, those beneath came up short. "It's rare to have as many as five that good," said the senior Irish Flat handicapper, Garry O'Gorman. "but there was a bit of a soft underbelly."

Aiming to make their mark on next year's rankings are 3-year-olds El Gato Malo and Z Fortune, who both won races this previous weekend. El Gato Malo looked good, but I sill have yet to pick a bandwagon to jump on just yet.

Finally, it seems that a solution has possibly been found for Santa Anita's Cushion Track nightmare -- we'll see if it pans out.

Update 2977: A truly yucky morning this morning at Sam Houston Race Park. It started raining about 2 pm yesterday and continued until about 10 am this morning. On top of the mucky weather we had a busy day with ten sets. We only managed five before the break, but just got the tenth in before the track closed at 10 am. Fortunately all my horses went nicely, the wet weather can create additional problems with controlling the horses but it did not seem a problem today. Anyway, all in all a decent morning's work despite the weather, and now having had a hot shower all is well!

Update 2976: Susan Wagner of Equine Advocates is appearing on Martha Stewart's show today.

Update 2975: Mandura is the World's best for 2007, Curlin was considered 2 pounds behind Mandura along with Dylan Thomas Authorized and Invasor: MANDURO CROWNED WORLD LEADER.

Wagering was down in the US slightly for 2007 despite handle being up as a function of Racinos: Wagering Down, Purses Up in 2007.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 2974: The Cushion Track will remain at Santa Anita while experts add a "binder" to try to improve the drainage system: Additive May Aid Santa Anita Track.

Update 2973: No decision yet but a decision is close regarding Barbaro's ashes and memorial: Decision due on Barbaro's ashes, excerpt:

"It's taken us long enough," she said. "The No. 1 thing we've been doing is trying to decide who will do a statue of Barbaro. We've spent time looking at various artists' work, and we're now waiting on maquettes [small preliminary models] to see how each artist represents him. That's what we're waiting for. Once we see those, and I don't know how much longer that will take, everything should come together.

"He will be in a significant place where there is access to everyone who is interested in visiting him," she said. "It's an appropriate place in terms of how we like to think of him."

Update 2972: This should be a great day out for west coast FOBs on January 20: Santa Anita to Host Old Friends Day, excerpt:

The event was organized with the support of Amy Zimmerman, executive producer for HRTV and director of broadcasting at Santa Anita.

"Our coming out to Santa Anita just seemed a great fit," said Blowen. "But mostly, this was our way of thanking all of our West Coast supporters."

Update 2971: A pleasant morning at Sam Houston Race Park to start the work week. We had nine sets, so pretty busy, but each seemed to go quite nicely. I had one who was a little tough, but aside from him all the others went around with a long reign enjoying their mile gallops. There was one loose horse shortly after the renovation break. I watched two outriders trying to catch it, at a full gallop, it was not easy for them. All the Cowboys fans were pretty quiet this morning, offering congratulations for the Packer's win. One of our exercise riders said he was off to the mall today to try to find some Giants gear to wear, its more likely to snow here tomorrow I think!

Update 2970: 2006 Eclipse Award winner Wait A While won her first race of her 2008 campaign: Wait a While Waits, Wins 'Gorgonio'. Her trainer, Todd Pletcher, has now trained more than 2,000 winners: Pletcher Captures Win No. 2,000.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 2969: Under new rules buyers at Keeneland and Fasig-Tipton Kentucky can request a test to discover if a horse has been administered Anabolic Steroids, one such test was requested at the recently concluded Keeneland Sale: One Steroids Test Requested at Sale.

Update 2968: Keeneland's January sale ended with mixed results: Keeneland Median Sets Record.

A day off today so I am off sailing.

Update 2967: A pleasant evening yesterday evening spent at Sam Houston Race Park. Jose Figuerao rode a couple of winners for us, outlasting Paul Nolan in a tight finish in the first race and just getting up in the seventh race. Paul Nolan rode one winner making it seven winners for the last three days. Given the earlier post time I was able to watch some races from Santa Anita including Zenyatta's win in the familiar colors of Giacomo and Tiago: Zenyatta Stings El Encino Rivals. I also kept a close watch on the football game and can now look forward to the Packers having homefield advantage for next weekend!

A quick update from Jill Stevens regarding Nicanor:

Nicanor has had a couple of easy open gallops this month. He continues to be very smart and willing. So far, he is making easy work of everything. It will be just education for a long time yet though.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 2966: Off to the races at Sam Houston Race Park that caps off the week's work. Of course one eye (or both) will be on the Cowboy's game.

Update 2965: Another gorgeous morning this morning at Sam Houston Race Park. Sunday as usual is a big work day for us, the jocks doing all the breezing. They had nine sets and we (remaining exercise riders) had eight sets. One of our riders works on the gates during the races and was hurt last night when a horse broke out of the gate and leaned into him coming out. Not sure the extent of his injury but he may be out for a while. Talking about the gate, and mishaps, I watched a set break from the gate as were jogging back to the gate, the horse on the inside ducked to the left as soon as they broke from the gate, unshipped his rider and bolted around the track backwards on the outside rail. Sometimes times can be a little dangerous. All my horses went nicely and all in all a decent low key morning for me. Course lots of people excited about the Packers winning and a potential match up with the Cowboys if they can get passed the Gints!

Update 2964: Yesterday was day six at the sales at Keeneland and another decline. Today is the final session: Saint Liam colt tops sixth session of Keeneland January.

Tiago had to settle for third in his first race since the Breeders' Cup behind a much improved Air Commander who outdueled Johnny Eves down the lane: Air Commander Drops 'Fernando Bomb.

Update 2963: We had three Stakes wins at the Fair Grounds today, including the 3yo Stake: Z Fortune Moves up in LeComte. We also won the second race here at Sam Houston Race Park, and our maiden was fourth in his first start in the third race. This was the horse I went to watch run (New Heights) coming back from watching a marvelous Packers victory over the toothless Seattle!

Update 2962: Einstein made a belated return to the races yesterday after the horrific incident at Pimlico on Preakness day which cost the life of Mending Fences. He may now be targeting the Donn Handicap: Einstein Sharp in Gulfstream Return.

Update 2961: Another gorgeous day here in Houston. It started off a little chilly, but soon warmed up as the sun came up. We had eight sets, I had one or two I had not ridden before, but they all went quite nicely. Everyone seemed in pretty good form this morning, although a few seem to be rooting for Seattle this afternoon. I don't think this is a new love for a new team more to try to give me grief. One of our riders is an Eagle's fan, and he was wearing a Cowboys shirt this morning. Now that is confusing. Anyway, all in all a good and pleasant morning's work!

Update 2960: Keeneland's January Sale posted declines yesterday, marking the third straight day of declines over last year: Keeneland January sale posts across the board price decreases.

Tiago returns to the races today to make his four year old debut. This is his first start since the Breeders' Cup Classic: Tiago, Johnny Eves Vie in 'Fernando.

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Update 2959: An interesting racing prospect for the Jackson's for 2008: Jacksons buy multiple Grade 1 winner Precious Kitten.

Update 2958: Today's New York Times article on Horse Slaughter: Horses Spared in U.S. FaceDeath Across the Border.

FOBs respond: Slaughter Issue In The NY Times.

Update 2957: It looks like another gorgeous day here today in Houston. A little chilly to start (in the 40s) but warming up nicely (which is good because I am off sailing.) I had seven sets today, six before the break and one after the break. A few of our riders had eight sets, but all in all a pretty quiet morning's work. I got on a couple of horses I don't usually ride, so things appear to be getting switched around a little. That being said, all the horses I rode went nicely so a very pleasant morning's work. Our assistant also gave me a nice jacket (Steve Asmussen branded) which will actually serve me well on the sail boat as it is wind and water proof!

Update 2956: Santa Anita raced yesterday and has delayed a decision about what to do with its Cushion Track surface: Santa Anita Delays Surface Decision.

War Pass, winner of the Breeders' Cup 2yo race and likely Eclipse winner and current Derby favorite had his first work yesterday, 3/8ths in 37 seconds: War Pass returns to work tab at Palm Meadows.

Keep calling and writing.

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Update 2955: Kentucky Horse Park is to be honored with an Eclipse Award: Horse Park Receives Eclipse Award, excerpt:

"For 23 years, we were able to care for John Henry, while he was visited by millions of fans and allowed us to tell our story," Nicholson said. "John Henry epitomized our philosophy that horses are our heroes and our partners."

Update 2954: An update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

We had a sunny Thursday morning today. Tomorrow Tim and I are going on our once a year skiing vacation with a group from Fair Hill so many of our horses worked. It can be very difficult to leave our horses with anyone but we feel confident with Robbie and our help. Kitty worked a sharp five eighth's and is very close to the races. Last night when I fed her dinner I gave her a big kiss and told her to be careful while we're away. Paris Night and Rocky worked a half mile in company and he is all the man. The new grey filly Powdered Donut did her first quarter mile for us and so far is doing everything right. Molly (Sailing Home) breezed a steady five eighth's of a mile. She must be feeling spunky because last night at feed time she reached out to grab me for some affection as I walked by. I was happy to oblige with a stroke and my typical reponse to her which is "Hey Molly how's it goin." Heart Struck the new Lion Hearted filly we have is still familiarizing herself with her surroundings but seems to enjoy it here. Lucky (who definately was lucky when he came our way) has a new friend to gallop with. He and Rose Campbell seem to enjoy each others company and both went around like professionals. Tim did report however that Lucky was a bit naughty for the blacksmith. Everyone survived and he got new shoes on. Sean Massey was here this morning to watch his Veiled Reference gallop. I'm not quite sure what the next move for her will be but I'm quite sure Tim and Sean have a plan.

Update 2953: A pleasant and short morning's work this morning at Sam Houston Race Park. I had seven sets, a couple of the jocks had eight and a couple of the other riders only had six, so we were done pretty early. This despite the outriders not showing up on time and creating a little delay in the opening of the track. One of the horses I have been getting on since I have arrived here was ridden by someone else today, that's always a bit of a bummer. I did, however, get to ride a Graded Stakes winner, which was pretty cool. We had a few go to the gate, just standing and backing out. One of mine is running for the first time this weekend so we want to make sure he handles loading into the gate well. All in all a pleasant morning's work.

Update 2952: Illinois is the latest State to approve banning levels of Anabolic Steroids: Illinois adopts model rule for anabolic steroids, excerpt:

Approval of the model rule helps Arlington Park and Hawthorne Race Course to comply with the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders' Association's mandate that took effect January 1, making mandatory testing for anabolic steroids a requirement in order for a race to be designated a graded stakes.

"I think it's a good rule," said Kevin Greely, Arlington's vice-president of racing and racing secretary. "But horsemen need to know six months out, not three months out, so it's good that testing is being delayed until September."

The third day of Keeneland's sale showed a decline over the third day last year: Business Declines at Keeneland Sale, excerpt:

"As the sale goes from book one of the catalog (sessions one and two) to book two (sessions three and four), the quality level of the stock changes (and declines)," he said. "From year to year, you don't always have the same quality in book two as the previous years. Actually, today, for what was here, I thought they (the horses) sold very well. I was a little disappointed with the not sold rate, but I think it is a good indication of what this market is. Last year it was 18.5%, which is low. Today it was 22.8%, so it was around the kind of a figure that has been established in this industry as being 'acceptable.' "

Keep calling and writing.

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Update 2951: As States take action to ban Anabolic Steroids on a state by state level, there is concern this is necessary to avoid federal legislation: Steroids Discussed in Washington, excerpt:

Waldrop said the objective of the meeting on Capitol Hill was to inform legislators racing is "attempting to manage the problem" with model rules and penalties. He said it's key for individual states to adopt the regulations.

"The word to (the racing industry) is to act, or Congress will act forcefully," Waldrop said. "A blanket prohibition would not be practical for our industry. The model rule RCI and the RMTC adopted is the way to go. We need to step up as an industry, or Congress may be tempted to pass legislation."

Update 2950: A little chilly first thing this morning at Sam Houston Race Park, but it soon warmed up to what looks like a nice and bright day. We had nine sets this morning, six before the break and three after the break. A couple of the horses I rode I think were new to the barn but certainly new to me. Both went well. A couple of the sets went to the gate and stand and back out. We do a lot of gate work, but I think it pays off to have the horses nice and relaxed in the gate before they break to race. All in all a decent morning's work.

Update 2949: Palace Music, sire of Cigar, was enthanized on Monday in Australia: Cigar's Sire Palace Music Dead.

Keeneland's Sale remains strong in its second day: Phipps dispersal ignites Tuesday session at Keeneland.

Keep calling and writing.

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Update 2948: This appears to be a little confusing at this stage, but here it is: Surface Switch: Going Hollywood?

Update 2947: Superfecta here, back with your regular Tuesday updates. Today, we kick things off Derby-style:

Well, it's January and that means that it's time for insanely early predictions about who will line up on Derby Day. War Pass is the early favorite on the just-launched official Derby site.

While his Juvenile victory was impressive (and he gained my respect by coming over to show off for the crowd), I'm not convinced he wants that distance -- but we'll see how things shape up. Giant Moon is picking up some column inches forhis recent Count Fleet victory; so far he remains undefeated in four starts.

The 'other' Nick Zito trainee Anak Nakal (something akin to 'naughty child' in Arabic, or 'brat' in Indonesian in case you were wondering) interests me; I really like the female half of his pedigree and he's got some seasoning

Bill Mott's Court Vision is one to watch, as is Pyro -- but I'm not sure we've seen our winner just yet.

But fear not -- you can now keep up with all the Derby news via Facebook (thanks to Handride for the tip) - that should add another few hours to my weekly total spent there.

In other news, we should know something later this month about Curlin as there's a foreclosure hearing scheduled for the 22nd; I actually think this is a positive step forward that should help resolve matters and, hopefully, see him back in real training shortly.

Of course, there was this worrying passage in the article:

An attorney for Jess Jackson, the founder of Kendall-Jackson Winery and owner of Stonestreet Stables, and his wife, Barbara Banke, who own 80 percent of Curlin, said in court documents that until the issue is resolved, it is impossible to sell the horse or the breeding rights.

"Some of the best and most viable purchasers will not consider such a transaction while this problem exists," attorney Richard Getty wrote, declining to name the potential buyers or price.

Make of that what you will.

At least the results from New Hampshire will give everyone something to follow in the meantime...

Update 2946: A pleasant Tuesday morning to start off the week's work. It was a little muggy and cloudy with expected rain I guess (they sealed the track at the break time). We had nine sets, all mine went nicely and were very straightforward. There were a couple of loose horses on the track which is somewhat typical after all the horses had the day off yesterday.

Update 2945: Penn National, the first race track I visited on my tour of race tracks, is getting ready to reopen with a Casino and consequently better purses. Racing is scheduled to resume February 12: 'New' Penn National Awaits Opener.

Opening day at Keeneland's January sale was up significantly from a year ago and included a $2.7 million broodmare purchase: Keeneland Sale Off to Solid Start.

Keep calling and writing.

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Update 2944: Keeneland's January sale is now underway. Premium Tap's mom fetched $700,000 today: Premium Red Brings $700,000.

Update 2943: Santa Anita canceled racing for the third straight day today: Santa Anita Cancels Live Racing.

A monday update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

We had a lot of workers on Saturday. Sailing Home (Molly) did what we call a two minute lick. Breezing speed is faster than fifteen seconds a furlong. A two minute lick is fifteen seconds a furlong. Seven furlongs can be quite a workout doing a two minute lick but Molly handled it just fine. Paris now being recovered from her abcess worked three furlongs and handled the Tapeta quite well. Both Sand and Song and Winaway breezed together for three eighths of a mile. These two horses have run and are just beginning to gear up for their 2008 season. The two new girls Powdered Donut and Rose Campbell went their first eighths and both were very impressed with themselves. None the less all of these wonders seemed just fine this morning (Monday) after the Saturday works. With all of the warm weather we are having the two colts in our barn Rocky and Lucky are strutting their stuff. The fillies think it is springtime and they are in love. At least Rocky is a gorgeous creature. Lucky is a lot like Jim Carey in Dumb and Dumber. He is cute in his own way and we love him all the same.

Update 2942: A fun evening yesterday at Sam Houston Race Park. We won the first and last races (congratulations Fig) and a few of us went out afterwards knowing that today we have off. I will be going sailing this morning.

California Horse Racing Board is planning to meet tomorrow to determine whether it makes sense to switch its current meet from Santa Anita to Hollywood Park: Hollywood May Sub for Santa Anita.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 2941: Curlin posted his first work this morning since the Breeders' Cup Classic: Curlin Posts Work at Fair Grounds.

Santa Anita canceled racing for the second day in a row: Santa Anita Cancels Jan. 6 Program.

Update 2940: Nine sets this morning and a warm morning it was. One of my sets was a bit of a disaster (quote from the assistant trainer) going sideways and too fast at the gallop. Not so good, the remainder all went nicely. Oh well, sometimes things don't go quite as you like them to. Also, when it is work day (like today) you end up riding many horses you don't usually ride. One of the horses I ride everyday except when she works, worked really nicely this morning. I am guessing she is about a month from running, it will be fun to see how she runs. She last ran at Saratoga and won I think. All in all a decent morning bar the one horse, but that happens once in a while. Now off to ride an OTTB which I hope is fun!

Update 2939: A pleasant evening spent at Sam Houston Race Park yesterday evening with LyndaP. Paul Nolan won the first two races.

Bernardini has sired his first foal, a filly out of Belle Nuit: Bernardini Sires First Foal.

Update 2938: Smooth Air won his first stakes race in the Hutcheson at Gulfstream this afternoon: Smooth Air Breezes to Hutcheson Win. Off to Sam Houston Race Park for a couple of hours of racing.

Update 2937: Unsafe conditions, caused by the weather and poor drainage in its Cushion Track, has led Santa Anita to cancel racing today: Santa Anita cancels racing.

Update 2936: Only eight sets this morning, and this despite the fact that one rider was a "no show" and we had to each ride one of his horses. We did have a new rider start, he has worked for Steve for a while but came in from the Fair Grounds. He actually worked for Steve at Presque Isle so I knew him a little bit. All in all a decent morning's work, whacky warm (and a little wet) weather aside. During the break I acquired more peppermints, one for the pony, the rest for me. I also watched some racing from the UK in our tackroom, its funny watching it with American racing guys asking all sorts of questions.

Update 2935: Santa Anita is bracing for bad weather across its Cushion Track which already has drainage issues: Everyone's focus on track.

Frank Stronach and his Adena Springs Farm top the list of breeders for the fifth consecutive year: Adena Springs Tops Breeders' Lists. Adena Springs also has a retirement program: Adena Springs Retirement Program.

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Update 2934: A Friday update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

At least this morning (Friday) was not windy yet it was still a bit cold. As I left the barn earlier Luke was standing in the porta pad sleeping in the sunlight. Tomorrow will be a big breeze day. Paris, Rocky, Sand and Song, and a few others will all work on the Tapeta track. Binkly the new barn cat is doing his part in keeping the rodent population at bay. He has learned quickly and sure enjoys being a barn cat. Real Lace will be running tomorrow and looks to be in a good spot. Hopefully she will run well and be safe. Powdered Donut is quite the Hudini. Strict attention must be paid to leaving her cross tie up without the webbing to hold her in. She nips right under the cross tie. What possesses a horse to crouch down and go under a cross tie I will never know. We all had a good laugh as she meandered to the hay pile like this behavior was normal. Anyway, we will update tomorrow after the works to keep you all up to speed.

Update 2933: Eclipse Award finalists have been announced with plenty of familiar names: Curlin Tops Eclipse Finalists
.

Update 2932: Warmer than yesterday morning at Sam Houston Race Park, but not too warm. We had nine sets today which included a few workers which kept our jocks busy all morning. For me it was a very pleasant morning with all horses (bar perhaps one) going very nicely. During break time I went to the kitchen, and then to see David Rollinson (friend and steward) and we watched a race from Sedgfield. David also has a bunch of peppermints on his desk, I took a few back for me ... and our pony.

I am sure I have said it before, but this dirt race track is very good to train over. I think Steve agrees hence why we have so many horses here. I had planned to travel west but asked our assistant this morning about staying for the entire meet. Seems that will work assuming nothing goes drastically wrong. After we were done I hung out with Cash (Asmussen) a little. I am still in awe that he gallops here, one of the best riders to sit on a horse for sure. A good morning's work.

Update 2931: The first 3yo stakes race at Gulfstream Park and thus a very early Derby prep, is being run on Saturday, the Hutcheson Stakes: Zito Sends Out Two in Hutcheson.

Keep calling and writing.

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Update 2930: A chilly update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

It is cold this Thursday morning and the wind chill ins -5 degrees. The people seem to be bothered by this weather more than the horses. The Tapeta track is riding great and we are so lucky to have this to train on in the winter. The main dirt track would be like training on a beach. This is also the time of year when we take stock in the past year and look forward to the coming year at the same time. We have had several brushes with reality this past year. A few of our horses have gone on to be riding horses. Real Lace and Mass Romantic were claimed and Red Aspen went to Florida and ran two really great races. All in all we have been very lucky and had no life threatening injuries. We take great care to pay attention to what might cause harm to these animals but accidents can happen. We realize that we are fortunate to have made it through the year without major harm. Sometimes losing one of our horses can be like giving up a family pet. I miss them when they are gone and their personalities are never forgotten. Looking forward to the coming year we have a lot of youngsters with promise. Kitty and Molly are very close to racing and both are very interesting individuals. Paris and Rocky are really progressing well, and of course the new babies like Lucky and Bubble Gum are really learning and enjoying things so far. Veiled Reference has showed a lot of promise and Not A Fling ran a great race and finished third last week. Two of Wands showed promise in her first start and I can't wait to see her figure it all out! She is a tough cookie. Powdered Donut and a Lion Hearted filly have just come in and seem eager to train and learn. Luke is still with us and talks to me every night for his dinner. What more could I want? Red Aspen will be coming back from Florida to start the next phase of her life (being a mom). I can't wait to see her and give her a mint or two for her efforts. Who's Happy will be back after her winter break and she should be tough to beat. We look forward to this year with hopeful anticipation and encourage all of you to enjoy it with us.

Update 2929: HBOs Barbaro documentary won a 2007 media Eclipse Award: HBO Sports Wins Eclipse Award, the following are excerpts:

"HBO Sports is honored to accept this very prestigious award," said Ross Greenburg, president of HBO Sports. "We want to thank Gretchen and Roy Jackson (Barbaro's owners) for their generous support on the project, and of course Barbaro for reminding the world of its love of animals."

and

"The film came together after we met the Jacksons," said Margaret Grossi, who produced the documentary. "We recognized that they were making a genuine effort to save the horse. They never veered in their conviction and never relinquished hope. They handled all of the ups and downs with a lot of class."

Update 2928: It was a chilly morning this morning at Sam Houston Race Park, probably late twenties warming up to mid thirties through the early part of the day. I did call Tim to get the temperature in Fair Hill, he said it was nine degrees and they were only going to shedrow the horses! We had ten sets, so we were busy. A few of the later sets went to the gate, all went nicely. There were a couple of spills on the track, colder weather makes you less agile and the horses more alert. Oh well, I survived anyway so not a bad start to the day.

Update 2927: Heavy rain is forecast for the Santa Anita area in the next few days and concern remains regarding the integrity of the drainage of the Cushion Track: Santa Anita Track Dilemma Not Over.

If you can spare an hour listen to this: TRRN: Person and Race of the Year. Congratulations to Bev Strauss!

Please keep calling and writing.

Posted by Alex at 10:52 AM | Comments (147)

Barbaro Updates: 474

updates are now here.

Update 2926: An amusing gaff: Irish riders see old year out too soon (found on equidaily.)

Update 2925: A New Year's update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

Happy New Year to all of our fans out there and a happy birthday to all of our horses. What a cold and windy Wednesday morning but Tim is holding up well. On Saturday morning Kitty and Molly breezed a strong half mile breaking from the starting gate. Both are doing great and should be to the races shortly. At dinner time last night both ladies seemed just fine and ready to eat. Paris Night also breezed on Saturday. This was her first breeze back after having a few problems with an abcess in her foot. She is fine now and enjoyed going an easy quarter mile. Veiled Reference is fine and she is bobbing her head for her food. She has really grown up in the last few months. Yesterday after a little hike with my running dog Zeke, we had to bring Luke in after he was jumping and speeding around the porta pad. He is sure enjoying this cooler weather. Rockin Fun breezed by himself on Saturday and is making slow but steady progress. He was ready to eat his dinner last night as always. We also have another new horse in the barn and her name is Powdered Donut. She is a grey filly who is obviously very sweet. I would like to thank her owner Marty for the beautiful flowers he brought me. He obviously knows who's good side to be on. Not a lot exciting to write about this morning. Lucky is now at Fair Hill and doing just fine. Robbie fell off him yesterday but he stood still and let Robbie jump back on. He must have seen something that he thought was very scary. Both horse and rider survived to live another day.

Update 2924: Today was very chilly! When the sun got up it didn't get much warmer and the wind picked up too. I thought galloping close to gulf coast I would only experience warm weather! Oh well. On top of that I had to wear that nasty Romo shirt. Its done. I had nine sets today, a busy morning after a couple of days off. All went well for me, not for everyone. Figuerao jumped off, or fell off, not sure. He kept hold of his horse. Another horse went down, right in front of us. He lay down for a couple of minutes, and then got up. It was an odd thing to watch, he appeared fine. A groom got slapped by a horse, I think he had to go to hospital for a check up, but is fine. Just a few odd incidents at the track this morning.

Update 2923: Marty McGee assesses the three year old crop that is based in Florida: Fertile ground for Derby prospects.

Please keep calling and writing.

Posted by Alex at 11:00 AM | Comments (92)