Barbaro Updates: 599

updates are now here.

Update 3552: Another excellent entry on The Rail that explains what the French Jockey Club has in place for its retired racehorses that ensures they can avoid slaughter: A New Approach to Horse Adoption.

I just returned from Quarter Horse racing at Ajax Downs. The experience was somewhere between point-to-point racing in Pennsylvania and match racing in Houston. Over half the jockeys are exercise riders at Woodbine. They can ride at Ajax as the weights are a little higher. The purses are decent, the final race was a $40,000 stakes race, thanks to the Casino. A smallish crowd. Interesting and will return.

Update 3551: My latest entry on The Rail: Unwanted Horses? Yes and No highlights the essay I wrote on unwanted horses: Sensible debate over unwanted horses would help anti-slaughter lobby.

Update 3550: A subdued mood in the barn this morning. It was the kind of morning where you just wanted to get on with your work and get things done. The trainer of the winner of King's Silver Son's race offered his sympathies. His horse ran a terrific race and is now two for two.

That being said, the morning was busy. I had eight sets, five before the break and three after the break. All went nicely except for on my last horse I forgot to tighten the girth. Not smart. While the saddle did not slip too far the girth ended up slipping under the horse's belly. Just lucky the horse galloped very nicely as it could have gotten ugly.

Update 3549: Eight Belles tribute is now planned for next year's Derby: Porter: Appropriate Time Is Derby.

Smooth Air's first race since the Derby is a winning one in the Ohio Derby: Smooth Air Much the Best in Ohio Derby.

The feature at Woodbine, the Grade II Nassau Stakes, went to Callwood Dancer: Callwood Dancer Wins Nassau Thriller.

Update 3548: There is no worse feeling in racing than losing a horse. And today we lost King's Silver Son. As I type he is being euthanized. He was vanned off after the second race. I went to the backside with him. Suspensory and sesamoid damage. Nothing can be done. Very sad. He was eating hay when I left. Hawty Creek's last place performance is a blessing, she came home. No one wants to endure a fatal breakdown. Just a bad day.

Update 3547: A pleasant morning this morning at Woodbine. It was warm, although a little muggy and cloudy. We had eight sets, five went out before the break and three after the break. All went nicely for a hassle free morning.

Hawty Creek is running today at Philadelphia Park. We have four runners at Woodbine, and Eric "Superstar" McNeil, who I galloped with this winter at Sam Houston, has his first ride as a bug boy at Lone Star this afternoon.

Update 3546: The Bloodhorse reviews the recent Triple Crown near misses: Elusive Triple Crown: 6 Near-Misses.

Belmont Stakes update for Friday, with little over a week to go: Belmont Update: Friday.

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Update 3545: Excellent opinion piece from Sean Clancy, who went with me on my first visit to New Holland: Cracking the Whip: It's time to come clean on shortcomings of racing industry.

Update 3544: My latest entry on The Rail:

Prado Won't Ride Casino Drive Until Belmont.

Update 3543: Trainer Rick Dutrow remains very confident in Big Brown: Dutrow: 'It's a Foregone Conclusion'
.

Update 3542: Another pleasant morning at Woodbine, if just a little longer. I had seven sets, three went before the break and four were after the break, three of which went to the gate. Everyone went nicely, so an easy and relaxing morning. We have a couple of runners this afternoon and we are also paddock schooling four horses, so I will return a little later to help out.

Update 3541: Big Brown remains on schedule for his tilt at the Triple Crown: Belmont Notes: Big Brown Right On Target, excerpt:

On a scale of 1-10, McKinlay, said the quarter-crack was about a "seven or eight" in terms of being healed.

"At this, point we are playing it as safe as possible," McKinlay said. "All I do is make sure the wires are intact. I just check it every day after it's done."

We are now running a weekly competition on the OTTB wiki to highlight OTTB entries. The first OTTB of the week is Fugue, also known at "Dott":

New York bred, retired at 5 to his forever home where he was trained and competed in H/J and dressage. We celebrated his Quarter-Century birthday on March 30, 2008.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Barbaro Updates: 597

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Update 3540: When I was in Texas, I had the pleasure of meeting Lyn Reardon, who runs LOPE TX. They were recently on the local news: HOPE FOR INJURED RACEHORSES.

I just got back from a visit to Mohawk Racetrack. More on that visit tomorrow.

Update 3539: Kudos for Little Cliff's previous owners for shedding light as to how Little Cliff ended up in a kill pen, and also emphasizing their distaste for the practice of horse slaughter: Previous owner responds to Little Cliff's rescue, excerpt:

LA Buzz indeed appreciates the efforts made by Another Chance For Horses on behalf of Little Cliff and the many other horses they have saved, and the efforts of all other horse rescue organizations. We also strongly condemn all horse slaughter and across the border horse transport for slaughter.

Update 3538: A simply gorgeous morning this morning at Woodbine. Combine this with a great morning of riding horses for a few hours, and sometimes you wonder if there really is a better job! I rode seven, four before the break and three after the break. All went well. Angela, one of the exercise riders at another barn, who I had asked to read my unwanted horses and slaughter essay, was very complimentary about the essay, as she galloped by me on the inside rail. That's cool. I want horse people to read it and get it.

Update 3537: Santa Anita is still looking at options in order to improve its synthetic surface in time for the Breeders' Cup: Base of SA Surface Could Be Replaced.

A pleasant evening spent at Woodbine. We had one runner last night which finished a decent second.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 3536: Very sad news: Nashoba's Key Dies in Freak Accident.

Update 3535: As many people expected, Edgar Prado has been engaged to ride Casino Drive: Prado To Ride Casino Drive.

Update 3534: Belmont update: Casino Drive Cruises; Big Brown Bounces.

Update 3533: Chaos at Woodbine this morning. Three riders hurt. One horse bolted away from construction and ran into another. I think the horse that bolted was badly hurt. Track was closed for a while. Another horse came flying down the outside rail as we were walking back. A horse I was riding was feeling too good, rearing and plunging. Just a day to remember that things can and do go wrong. I was lucky, aside from the one horse who did quiet down pretty quickly, my horses went well. I had seven to ride, four before the break and three after, all three going to the gate. They stood well. The weather was also more pleasant despite dour predictions!

Update 3532: Casino Drive may breeze this morning, depending on the weather and the track: Casino Drive 50-50 for Wednesday Breeze.

Grade 1 winner Panty Raid has been retired with a torn suspensory: Grade I Winner Panty Raid Retired. Nine year old Takeover Target keeps on going: 9-Year-Old Nears Retirement.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 3531: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update:

While much of the news over the long weekend focused on Big Brown's latest quarter crack (Fran's HoofBlog will be getting more details direct from his farrier later in the week, so keep checking for updates), the rumors over who will ride Casino Drive continue to swirl. Garrett Gomez is now definitely out of that picture, though -- he's replacing Julien Leparoux aboard Macho Again. A decision is expected Wednesday for Casino Drive; my money is on Edgar Prado.

Big Brown did jog over the Belmont track today, so one would assume his foot is not giving him much, if any, trouble; one wonders if some of the drama over his foot might be more of a Rick Dutrow mind game than anything else; it's an obvious excuse to fall back on if things do not go to plan on Belmont day.

Other Belmont contenders were working over the weekend; Anak Nakal(!) worked a bullet at Saratoga, Denis of Cork put in five furlongs at Churchill Downs, Tale of Ekati worked at Belmont, although Barclay Tagg was apparently less than pleased with his effort and it sounds as though his plan may change. Tomcito, now recovered from his myectomy, jogged at Belmont as well.

In other news, The Tin Man is apparently doing reasonably well in retirement after a worrying time following a knee fracture, although he's still hampered by the injury. Here's hoping he can enjoy a healthy retirement nonetheless.

Finally, like the good people at Railbird, I was particularly intrigued by a maiden special weight over the Belmont turf last Saturday. 3-year-old Monastic Springs, the first foal for great racemare Ipi Tombe, dealt with traffic problems like an old pro -- winning in his first start. I may have a new favorite 3-year-old -- here is his debut race.

Update 3530: My latest entry on The Rail which announces the new OTTB wiki page:

Retired Thoroughbreds: Athletes for All Occasions.

Update 3529: Back to cold again, very windy and chilly at Woodbine this morning! Thankfully a quiet day for me with only five to ride. We had quite a few workers so that eleviated my schedule considerably. The horses i rode went nicely. The horses that worked, that I usually ride also went nicely, so a good morning despite the inclement weather.

And to more important news, Big Brown returned to the track: Big Brown Returns to the Track.

Update 3528: Updates on The Belmont: Belmont Update: 12 Days Away and Belmont Notes: May 26.

My essay on Unwanted Horses: Sensible debate over unwanted horses would help anti-slaughter lobby.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 3528: Curlin was back on the work tab this morning, along with Steve's two Derby entries, Pyro and Z Fortune: Curlin Sharp in Six Furlong Work.

Update 3527: My most recent entry on The Rail:

Congress Steps In.

Update 3526: Some positive news from the Big Brown team: Big Brown Healing.

Update 3525: A pleasant morning's work this morning at Woodbine. I had six sets, three before the break and three after the break. All three after the break went to do some gate schooling. Each went nicely, although for one set we had to wait an awfully long time behind the gate and my horse was getting a little impatient. He's a big colt so I had to keep him on the move so as not to allow him to get too worked up. We survived and he galloped great afterwards. I did also ride the pony during a set I did not have a horse to ride. We actually were useful as I had to get off and give someone a leg up after she had departed her horse abruptly. Anyway, Charlie the pony was standing nice and quietly as I was helping out. Someone else remarked about how well behaved he was to stand like that. He prompty walked off, started into a jog, then a gallop, then the buzzer went off for Charlie, the loose horse!

Happy Memorial Day.

Update 3524: FOB Sharon Crumb is planning this year's Barbaro Celebration at Delaware Park: Celebration of Barbaro Planned..

Update 3523: A nice article on Michelle Nevin, Big Brown's exercise rider: Nevin getting ride of her life aboard Big Brown.

Update 3522: My latest entry on The Rail, providing an overview of a training program: Getting a Horse Ready to Race.

Update 3521: A setback for Big Brown who has had a history of quarter cracks: Big Brown Has a Quarter Crack, excerpt:

McKinlay first saw Big Brown Friday evening. He is treating the colt with an iodine and alcohol solution ot draw out the infection. Perhaps as early as Monday, McKinlay expects to close the crack in the hoof wall, which is about 5/8 of an inch with wire stitches.

"I'm relaxed," Dutrow said. "He's going to make the race."

Update 3520: A lovely morning at Woodbine, no more complaints about the weather! We had seven sets this morning, four before the break and three after the break. All the horses I rode went quite nicely and for a change we had not gate work to do. A lovely day for the races this afternoon and we only have one runner, but it will be a good excuse to get back outside!

Update 3519: Garrett Gomez will replace Julian Leparoux on Macho Again for the Belmont Stakes: Gomez to Ride Macho Again in Belmont.

Favorite Mauralakana, under Kent Desormeaux, won the Grade 2 Sheepshead Bay: Mauralakana rockets to victory in Sheepshead Bay.

Update 3518: Congress is taking a closer look at the sport of horse racing: Congress joins debate on racing, thoroughbred troubles.

Update 3517: OK, so today I will not complain about the Canadian weather. Its actually quite nice here at Woodbine this morning. Very nice indeed. I had seven sets, three before the break and four after the break. All very straightforward. Three of my horses went to the gate for some schooling. Very relaxed. All in all a pleasant morning's work. We have three runners this afternoon and one to paddock school, so I will be returning to the track to help out a little.

Hawty Creek (remember her), was scheduled to return to the races today at Penn National. She was scheduled for a turf race, but the races have come off the turf so she won't be running. She should be back to the races soon!

Update 3516: An interesting article on the potential of a match up between Curlin and Big Brown: Curlin vs. Big Brown: Could it happen? excerpt:

Steve Asmussen, the trainer of Curlin, said he has read a quote attributed to Rick Dutrow, the trainer of Big Brown, regarding a possible matchup. Dutrow, in the Friday editions of Daily Racing Form, said a race between the two "would be good for racing, it would be good for us, it wouldn't be so good for them."

In response, Asmussen said that Dutrow "has laid out three races for his horse," referring to the Belmont, Travers, and Breeders' Cup Classic, which will be run on Santa Anita's synthetic surface. "Two of them are for 3-year-olds, and the other is on a synthetic surface, which neither one of us has ever raced on. Pretty daring of him, huh?"

Progress is bing made on the OTTB page. Please review and add any appropriate content.

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Update 3515: One of the top 3yos of 2007, No Biz has now been retired: Grade 1 winner Nobiz Like Shobiz retired.

Update 3514: Excellent: Eight Bells for Eight Belles.

Update 3513: My latest entry on The Rail:

The Art of Switching Leads.

Update 3512: We are creating a wiki page for OTTBs. The goal is to create a resource that helps market OTTBs as great second career horses. We want to invite anyone who has an OTTB to include information about him / her. We also want to make sure those interested in adopting OTTBs can use the resource to seek out a great horse. Please visit the page and provide any feedback or add any appropriate content.

Update 3511: Well it was a little warmer this morning, a little warmer! We had seven sets, three of mine were before the break and four were after the break. Three went to the gate for a little schooling. No problems. One of my earlier sets was our latest winner, and the fastest horse at Woodbine, Kingsgate Bay. He felt good after his track record equaling performance on Monday. All in all a pretty straightforward morning's work. We have one runner this afternoon as well as a few paddock schoolers, so I will be returning to the track later to help out.

Update 3510: The Farm Bill's President's veto has been overrridden. Sadly it appears there nothing in there for the slaughter issue: Farm Bill veto overridden by House, Senate.

Denis of Cork and Macho again, two aspirants for the Belmont, are doing well at Churchill: Denis of Cork, Macho Again Doing Well.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 3509: My latest entry on The Rail:

The Art of the Morning Gallop.

Update 3508: An update on the retired The Tin Man: The Tin Man Enjoying Retirement.

Update 3507: I received the following e-mail this morning:

Dear Alex,

Thank you for your time

Update 3506: A very near miss for a thoroughbred: Soldier's donated horse heads for slaughter.

Update 3505: I am in Canada, and guess what ? It's cold. They say this is oddly cold for this time of year, and it will warm up very soon, I will believe it when it warms up! Aside from the weather, a pretty pleasant morning this morning at Woodbine. I had seven sets. Four before the break and three after the break. All my horses went pretty nicely. The shedrow seemed to run smoothly and now I am just thawing out!

Update 3504: The Belmont Stakes is looking to shape into a surprising large field at this stage with eleven 3yos being considered. The second choice will be the very lightly raced Casino Drive, and he is still looking for a jockey: Casino Drive's connections still considering jockey for Belmont.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Barbaro Updates: 591

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Update 3503: Big Brown returned to the track this morning for a jog once around Belmont Park: Dutrow Discusses Curlin, Prado's Ride.

Update 3502: Another thought provoking article on The Rail:

What About the Veterinarians? excerpt:

Somehow, veterinarians are escaping the criticism that is being heaped on owners and trainers in the recent soul-searching of the racing industry. Make no mistake: the liberal medication rules in American racing offer a steady flow of cash into the vets' bank accounts, and they will be highly reluctant to kill the goose that lays the golden eggs.

Update 3501: It will get warm. It has to get warm. It is thoroughly cold right now at Windy Woodbine. We had a light day today for training. I had five to ride. Two before the break and three after the break when the gate opened at 8:30 am. All three stood in the gate and schooled well. Just too cold for May!

Update 3500: UPS makes a donation to Thoroughbred Charities of America: UPS honors Eight Belles.

Steve Haskin reviews the Preakness: Haskin's Preakness Recap: Bye, Bye, Babe.

I try to explain the economics of the Big Brown stud deal: Breeding Economics.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Barbaro Updates: 590

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Update 3499: Curlin's dad, Smart Strike, is among the Canadian Hall of Fame inductees for 2008: Canadian Hall of Fame inductees announced.

Update 3498: My latest entry on The Rail:

Big Brown's "Run Down".

Update 3497: A very interesting piece from The Rail today: They Eat Horses There, Don't They? excerpt:

Since last year, thoroughbred breeders and owners have been allowed to declare on a horse's papers that the animal is not intended for human consumption, so therefore cannot be slaughtered. This coincides with the formation of Ligue pour la Protection du Cheval, which is funded by France Galop, the governing body of racing in France, and by check-offs from owners and trainers who agree to contribute a percentage of purses. The Ligue will take possession of racehorses that can no longer compete, provide veterinary care for injuries and then place the horse in a new job or in retirement, depending on the age and ability of the horse. The Ligue retains possession of the animal for life, to avoid unscrupulous new owners selling the horse on for slaughter.

Update 3496: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

Welcome to the second installment in our occasional series called 'Horses Americans Should Know.' Today's featured horse is Soviet Song.

Soviet Song was bred and raced by Elite Racing Club; she remains a part of their operation today as a broodmare. The Club's structure is one that would be most welcome in American racing; members pay a low annual fee (less than £200) and receive weekly newsletters and the right to visit the stables (even to see the broodmares and foals, which is a rare opportunity indeed by American practices), regular events and, of course, some share of any prize money (but with over 15,000 members, that's obviously not why most people are joining).

Soviet Song's dam, Kalinka, was one of the first broodmares acquired by the Club; she won a few races for them and has gone on to become a very successful broodmare -- Soviet Song, born in 2000, was her second foal.

Soviet Song started her racing career off with great style; she was unbeaten as a 2-year-old and quickly stepped up in class; her final race for the year, the Fillies' Mile at Ascot, was her first Group 1 win.

Things might have seemed less successful by American standards in her 3-year-old year; while she did not win, she was fiercely competitive in races including the 1000 Guineas -- finishing just behind the likes of Six Perfections and Intercontinental -- all while never missing a share of the prize money.

As a 4 year-old, Soviet Song was in top form -- four wins, including the Group 1 Falmouth Stakes and one over the boys in the Sussex Stakes.

Her 5-year-old season was hampered by illness; although she won the Falmouth for a second time and came second in the Sussex, she picked up 'a chill' that forced her to sit out much of the rest of that year.

She returned at six for a final crack at a Royal Ascot win -- her fourth such attempt -- and was victorious in the Windsor Forest (a raced created in 2004 to 'keep more leading fillies in training beyond the age of three').

Soviet Song's awards include the 2004 Cartier Award for Top Older Horse and she was the highest-rated older filly in the world in 2004 and 2005. She was retired to Kirtlington Stud in Oxfordshire in late 2006, but experienced some initial breeding problems, failing to get in foal to both Montjeu and Galileo.

Happily, those issues are now resolved and she is currently in foal to Oasis Dream, with her first foal expected in 2009.

Like Big Brown, Soviet Song has had foot problems that have necessitated glue-on shoes -- but she still managed 24 starts and 9 wins. IEAH could learn a lot from Elite Racing Club.

And speaking of Big Brown...

Update 3495: WKYC.com with an expose on Sugar Creek auction.

Update 3494: A pleasant morning this morning at Woodbine. The wind has dropped and while still a little chilly early, it soon warmed up. I only had four sets to gallop. I also rode our pony, Charlie, while we worked four sets. It was fun being out there on the pony pretending to help out a little, while riding a horse that was very nice and relaxed. He's pretty cool for an ex racehorse, who I guess was not fast enough. Anyway, altogether a pleasant morning that was finished off with breakfast provided by our jockey's agent thanks to Kingsgate Bay!

Update 3493: A very pleasant evening last night spent with a few people from the racetrack. Jack (Jocko) Lauzon was with us, and he told us he had just received word he had won the Avelino Gomez Award. The award will be presented on Woodbine Oaks day. "Jocko" is a retired jockey, retiring at the end of the last meet, and is now a jocks' agent. Congratulations!

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 3492: Big Brown has now arrived at Belmont Park. He ran down a little behind during the Preakness. This is not unusual and with three weeks I would think this is not a problem to heal up: Big Brown Arrives; Ran Down in Preakness.

A pleasant afternoon at Windy Woodbine. We had two runners including a great win from Kingsgate Bay in the finale!

Update 3491: My latest entry in The Rail:

Belmont Preparations: What to Expect.

Update 3490: Today is Victoria Day, a Canadian holiday. This means we are racing this afternoon. Today it was also cold this morning and very windy. Come on Spring, please come back!

We had a relatively quiet morning this morning with six sets, four before the break and two after the break. All my horses went nicely despite the whipping wind which nearly knocked you off your horse as you turned into the stretch. We have two runners this afternoon so I will be returning to the track later today.

Update 3489: Excellent article on breeding: For breeders, market dictates method.

Lots is being written about Big Brown, including: Big Brown on brink of history heading into Belmont.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 3488: Latest entry on The Rail:

Rick Dutrow Sizes Up Casino Drive.

Update 3487: A bit of a damp morning this morning at Woodbine, but not too bad. We had eight sets, two of mine went to the gate after the break. It was a good morning's work and for the most part my horses went nicely. There was some chatter this morning about Big Brown's overwhelming Preakness win. Some chatter about his stud contract and the sad reality of racing when its not economical to run our best horses. To do that, you do it for the Sport, its not a business decision.

Update 3486: Media coverage of a very impressive Preakness win by Big Brown:

Big Brown untouchable in Preakness
Big Brown Crushes Preakness Rivals
Big Brown one step closer to Triple Crown after Preakness romp
Big Brown Rules Preakness

Update 3485: Wow. That was impressive. Big Brown dominated what was likely a weak field. But dominated. The Belmont will be a short field, but with Casino Drive potentially an interesting horse race. Big Brown has done nothing but win, and win convincingly. The Triple Crown may be won this year.

Update 3484: Steve Klesaris trained Roman Ruler eaked out a win in the Barbaro Stakes this afternoon at Pimlico: Barbaro Stakes Ruled by Roman Emperor.

This morning the Preakness horses completed their final preparations, which included a short work for Big Brown: Final Preparations for the Preakness.

We had a winner in the first this afternoon at Woodbine. I was over there helping school the two horses in the paddock during the second race. Now returning to Woodbine to see our horse run in the seventh, and then watch the Preakness!

Update 3483: As part of ESPNs coverage of the Preakness this afternoon, they will be airing a roundtable discussion on safety issues, 4 pm this afternoon.

Update 3482: A little wet this morning at Woodbine, but not too bad. Its still not too warm yet however. We had eight sets. Sadly the main track was closed at one point, I believe a horse broke down. We ventured over to the training track (dirt track) while the main track was closed. The rest of the morning went with too much trouble although I did see a loose horse gallop by our barn. No one seemed too worried about trying to catch it! We have a couple of runners this afternoon, and will also be schooling a couple in the paddock during the second race so I will have a little busy afternoon before settling in to watch the Preakness.

Update 3481: Steve Haskin's assessment of the Preakness: Haskin's Preakness Analysis: Vroom!

Friday's activities of the Preakness contenders: Final Preakness Preparations.

New York Times has an excellent article this morning on the fate of racehorses after they have finished running: Saving Horses One at a Time.

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Update 3480: As expected, Eight Belles tested negative for drugs: Eight Belles Tests Negative for Steroids.

Update 3479: Bloodhorse on Student Council's come from behind win: Student Council Grinds Out 'Special' Win.

Update 3478: Wow! Nice win by Student Council in the Pimlico Special this afternoon. I galloped him my last day at Sam Houston Race Park.

Update 3477: Behindatthebar is out of the Preakness with a bruised foot: Behindatthebar out of Preakness.

Update 3476: A pleasant morning this morning at Woodbine. We had seven sets. Four of which went to the gate (which does not open until 8:30 am) so there was quite a bit of waiting around to get to the fourth set. During that time I did manage to pull a horse's mane. I galloped her earlier and I noticed the mane was getting too long.

The four I took to the gate all stood nicely. One of the riders from another barn saw the HBO slaughter videos last night (thanks to Jen's blog which is widely read by horse people at Woodbine). She was horrified and said she could not sleep. We chatted about ideas to raise some funds. I am very glad conversations are occuring that were not occuring a few months ago!

Update 3475: The Big Brown stud deal was due to be announced yesterday and was postponed: Big Brown Stud Deal Will Have to Wait. This is what I had to say about it: The Sport Vs. The Business.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 3474: Nothing unusual in the Necropsy report of Eight Belles: Eight Belles' Necropsy Report Released.

Not too sure what to make of this: Safety Panel to Serve as 'Bully Pulpit'. One of my concerns was the lack of teeth such a panel will have (Safety Panel Needs an Independent Voice) and this piece seems to admit it!

Update 3473: Thursday's Preakness update: Preakness Update: Thursday.

From The York Dispatch: Horse racing industry must try harder to reduce on-track deaths.

Update 3472: Part of the stakes-rich undercard of the Preakness is the second running of the Barbaro Stakes, won last year by the Michael Matz trained Chelokee: Roman Emperor Gets Shot in Barbaro
.

Update 3471: A chilly windy morning this morning at Woodbine, but once the sun came up it started to warm up a little. What happened to spring around here ? We had eight sets, four before the break and four after the break. Three of those after the break went to the gate for some gate schooling. All my horses went nicely. No dramatics for today which is a relief after the last couple of days!

Update 3470: Big Brown who has been put in as 1 - 2 favorite, but will likely go off at shorter odds than that, has post position 7 for the Preakness: Big Brown Draws Post Position 7.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 3469: From The Rail: What to Do With All Those Horses? Of course I responded!

Update 3468: My latest entry on The Rail:

A Call for Consistent Whip Rules.

Update 3467: Must viewing for all horsepeople: HBOs piece on Horse Slaughter:

HBO -RACEHORSE SLAUGHTER

HBO HORSE SLAUGHTER PRT. 2

Update 3466: New York Times article on Nicanor: Barbaro's Little Brother Nearly Ready to Run, excerpt:

"I'm always hoping Nicanor will be as good as Barbaro," Gretchen Jackson said. "I've gone down twice to see him since he got to Fair Hill. It's fun to be down there, fun to be around him. When I see him, there is a certain happiness and sadness combined. It's a very emotional thing for me. When I see him, I like to rub my hands down his legs. It makes me feel like I'm back in touch with Barbaro."

Update 3465: Another relatively quiet morning this morning, with only six sets. I had three go to the gate, which does not open until 8:30 am so we had a little waiting around. I did fall off this morning. I think the horse was as shocked as me, and just stood there and waited for me to lead him off the track. He only jinked a little, but sometimes that is all that is needed when you are not paying attention! We had a few visitors to the barn after we were done work. I showed them around and tried to remember the name of all our horses. It was a challenge that I failed on a couple of occasions! Oh well, I'll be bringing in the glue tomorrow!

Update 3464: Thoroughbred Charities of America has announced a memorial fund to honor Eight Belles in light of all the outpouring of support: TCA Announces Eight Belles Memorial Fund.

Preakness preparations on Tuesday: Preakness Update: Tuesday.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Update 3463: Hot on the heals of the retirement of Europe's leading sire Sadlers Wells, America's leading sire Storm Cat has retired: Storm Cat Pensioned.

Update 3462: Paul Moran's piece on the Horse Slaughter HBO Special is now on The Rail:

HBO Misses the Point.

Update 3461: Gayego will return for the Preakness on Saturday: Gayego Will Challenge Big Brown Again.

Update 3460: Superfecta here, with your regularly weekly update. Today, we take a look at Preakness history.

The Preakness is named after Preakness, a colt by Lexington, who was owned by Milton Holbrook Sanford and was the winner of the inaugural Dinner Party Stakes. Sanford owned Preakness Stables in Preakness, NJ, as well as a stud farm in Kentucky of the same name; apparently he was more than a little fond of the word.

The Dinner Party Stakes was itself named after (appropriately enough) a dinner party hosted by Sanford in 1868. The race, first run in 1870, was to be for 3-year-old colts and fillies, over a distance of 2 miles.

Presumably a fair amount of alcohol was consumed at this Petronian dinner, for the Governor of Maryland declared that he would have a track built to host this great race, which would offer a $15,000 purse - and so Pimlico was born.

On the day of the Dinner Party Stakes, Preakness himself was one of only two colts in the seven-horse field, and it was his first start (and only start for the year). A $2000 yearling purchase (the top price in that year's 1868 Woodburn sale), Preakness would continue to race through his 8-year-old season and eventually retired to stud in England.

After his purchase by the Duke of Hamilton, however, things got a bit peculiar. Preakess apparently became very difficult to handle (at least for his owner) and the Duke shot and killed him after an 'incident' in his stall. An outraged British public demanded, and received, much stricter laws governing the treatment of racehorses and other animals.

Preakness had some notable offspring; his son Fiddler won the Alexandra Plate, whose entry conditions at that time are worth considering (and if you've never looked through the New York Times Archives, you should):

The Alexandra Plate, 1000 sovereigns, added to a sweepstakes of 25 sovereigns each, 15 forfeit, for 4-year-olds, to carry 9 stone; 5, 9 stone 6 pounds; 6 and aged, 9 stone 7 pounds; mares and geldings allowed 4 pounds; winners of any sweepstakes or price worth 2,000 sovereigns in any country in 1881 or 1882, or the Ascot, Goodwood, or Doncaster Cups or Alexandra Plate in 1881 or 1882, to carry 5 pounds extra; maiden 4-year olds at the time of starting allowed 7 pounds, 5 and upward, 10 pounds; pure Barbs and Arabians allowed 28 pounds, and no other allowance; the second horse to receive 200 sovereigns out of the stakes and the third horse to save his stake; to start at the new mile post and go once around; about three miles, 21 subscribers.

It certainly makes the graded stakes shuffle for the Derby look simple and orderly.

But back to the origins of the Preakness as a race; the Dinner Party morphed into the Dixie (and so it remains today) - now America's 8th oldest stakes race. In 1873, Pimlico created a new stakes race for 3-year-olds to be run over a mile and a half in honor of Preakness, and so the second jewel of the Triple Crown came into existence (although it would not be so known until the 1930s).

The race was not always run at Pimlico, however - between 1890 and 1909, it was run at Morris Park and Gravesend in New York. The distance changed not infrequently as well - it only settled on its current 1 3/16 in 1925, and it has been as short as a mile and as long as its original 1 1/2 at various points in its history.

Today, there's even an indie band called The Preakness; I would suggest that the story of their namesake would make a great twee-pop ballad.

Update 3459: Paul Moran assesses HBOs feature on Horse Slaughter that first aired last night: HBO expose falls short of the mark, excerpt:

Above all, the piece failed to place blame on the owners of horses sent to slaughter or confront those ultimately responsible. Ownership of an animal comes with the responsibility to provide proper care and feeding. Selling a horse -- any horse -- for a few hundred dollars with full knowledge that it will be vanned to Canada or Mexico, slaughtered, butchered and ultimately eaten somewhere in Europe of Asia is appallingly inhumane.

Update 3458: We have improving weather! Very cool. Another relative quiet morning this morning for us at Woodbine. Only five sets. However one of my horses was very fractious coming off the track this morning. I had a feeling this was going to happen. As I was walking to the track I said so to another rider coming back "This may be the closest for me to falling off, if I don't fall off" ... sometimes you just know! As I came off the track my horse knocked our assistant trainer out of the way and just went nuts going towards the tunnel. Bucking (I lost my neckstrap twice he bucked so high) rearing and plunging. At one point I was half off. He seemed to know it and relaxed and waited 'til I was set and then went at it again! Anyway, once I got him back in the tunnel my left styrup leather had come lose. That was it, time to dismount and lead him home. Phew, I survived. The others went well.

Update 3457: Sadlers Wells, 14 times Europe's leading sire has been retired due to declining fertility: Sadler's Wells Pensioned.

Monday's Preakness activities: Preakness Updates: Monday.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Barbaro Updates: 583

updates are now here.

Update 3456: Chelokee remains 60 - 40 as things remain positive for his recovery. A cast change will occur about May 26: Chelokee On the Improve.

Update 3455: The Preakness loses a key contender to the Canadian Triple Crown: Harlem Rocker To Skip Preakness, excerpt:

"We really believe the horse has a bright future, and (Mr. Stronach) decided to take a step back right now," Adena Springs Farm managaer Dan Hall said. "Our next main objective will be the Queen's Plate. Todd (Pletcher) is very high on the horse and wanted to run him in the Preakness, but we almost always take the conservative approach, so we're going to be patient and stick to our program."

Update 3454: A quieter morning this morning which was very pleasant. We had a few workers and I only had four to ride. I also went up to watch a few of the workers and just generally hung out. It was nice not going a million miles an hour just trying to keep up with things! Anyway, a pleasant and easy morning's work!

Update 3453: Sunday's report for the Preakness contenders: Preakness Updates: Sunday.

HBO is releasing a story on Horse Slaughter today: HBO Horse Slaughter Story May 12th.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Barbaro Updates: 582

updates are now here.

Update 3452: A busy day at the track today. We had four runners this afternoon and were blanked. I also helped out with Eddie Kenneally's runner in the Stake and am now about to return to the track and "do her up" and feed her. She ran a nice fourth. A long day, but we now have a couple of "dark days" (no racing) so the next couple of days should be a little more relaxing.

Here is my entry for The Rail today:

Curlin to the Arc?

Update 3451: This morning I walked about twelve miles around the shedrow. That would be great if I needed the exercise, but now I have blisters! I also galloped four horses before the break. Each went nicely. We had a winner yesterday, Sir Winston, which was very cool as he is one of the horses I gallop. Even better this morning as the agent brought us in our breakfasts. Five runners this afternoon, Eddie Kenneally also has a runner here in the Stake so will try to watch that race too. Actually Michael Matz may also have a runner in that race. Busy busy!

Update 3450: More on Casino Drive's Peter Pan win:

Casino Drive spices up Belmont
Casino Drive Spectacular in Peter Pan
Belmont Stakes next for Casino Drive after dominant Peter Pan win.

Update 3449: Casino Drive stormed into the Triple Crown picture with an emphatic display in only his second start: Game's On Big Brown.

Update 3448: My latest entry on The Rail:

Retiring Horses.

Update 3447: Some excellent news from Philadelphia Park: PHILLY PARK RETIREMENT PROGRAM.

Update 3446: Its still chilly here first thing in the morning. I am looking forward to the warm weather! We had a quieter morning this morning, I only had five sets. Four before the break and one after the break. All galloped nicely. I walked three that did not train today. These included our 2yo winner yesterday who seems to have come out of his race in fine fettle. As I was finishing up I got a call from Brendon, Eddie Kenneally's assistant (previous employer), and he is here to run a horse in a Stake tomorrow. Always good to see familiar faces!

Update 3445: A thoroughbred mare was saved in honor of Eight Belles on Monday: AC4H New Holland on Monday. Laura Hillenbrand, author of "Seabiscuit", also rescued a horse: Eight Belles' Gift to Seabiscuit Author.

Update on the Preakness: Preakness Updates: Friday.

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Barbaro Updates: 581

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Update 3444: A pleasant afternoon spent at Woodbine. We had three runners. Two thirds and we won the 2yo dash ... 2 furlong race. Sadly one of our guys was claimed, Glenleary. I galloped him quite a lot and handed him over to his new connections. They assured me they would do their best by him. He's a cool dude. After we were done I caught up with Jen, who wrote the cool horse slaughter article in the Toronto Star. We watched the remainder of the races and swapped stories.

Update 3443: My latest entry in The Rail:

A Belmont Prep: Peter Pan.

Update 3442: It remains chilly and windy at Woodbine, and seriously we need the Spring weather back! I had seven sets this morning. Four before the break and three after the break. A pretty straightfoward morning of work. The three I rode after the break all went to do some gate schooling. Very relaxed in the gate. Most of the horses galloped nicely, the only problem is the wind, which picked up after the break, gets the horses a little more excited. Anyway, all in all a decent morning's work. Will be returning to the races this afternoon.

Update 3441: Trainer Rick Dutrow is confident in Big Brown as they prepare for The Preakness: Dutrow confident entering Preakness.

Its the Lone Star Derby on Saturday, and it features one of my favorite horses, Poni Colada: El Gato Malo to try dirt in Lone Star Derby.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Barbaro Updates: 580

updates are now here.

Update 3440: The Bloodhorse on Nicanor's move to Fair Hill: Great Expectations: Barbaro's Brother, excerpt:

"I'm very glad he's with Michael and Peter, and especially glad he's owned by the Jacksons," Stephens said. "They haven't put any pressure on the horse as far as expectations are concerned; they're laid-back and low-key, and I know they'll do the right thing by him."
"Now he's gonna have to prove himself," said Brette. "Obviously, Barbaro was one in a million, maybe one in a lifetime."

Update 3439: Rick Porter has identified MidAtlantic Horse Rescue to be beneficiaries of an Eight Belles wristband: Eight Belles Wristbands Benefit Rescue. Eight Belles will be saving slaughter-bound thoroughbreds.

This is also quite interesting: Officials: Don't Discount Welfare Groups.

Update 3438: Superfecta here, reposting Tuesday's update - Alex noticed that the internet had eaten it, so here it is again! (If you're looking for today's post on Makybe Diva, that's here).

The good news is that the NTRA is taking what happened to Eight Belles in the Derby very seriously; president and CEO Alex Waldrop has a blog entry musing about how we can make racing safer (and he invites comments and suggestions). I've weighed in with quite a few already, and Green but Game has a great (and growing) list of ideas as well. The other positive headline is that Chelokee came out of surgery well and so his odds are a bit better - up to 60%.

While the impact of their injuries continues to be felt (and please do continue to follow and contribute to the discussions going on at TheRail and across the TBA), there's still a Triple Crown season going on (although it certainly seems to be lacking in enthusiasm just now from most corners).

At this point, it seems likely that Big Brown will not be facing any of his Derby competition (such as it was) again at Pimlico -- only Recapturetheglory is still under consideration. One can hardly blame them, given the sorts of numbers everyone else ran -- only Big Brown (109) and the ill-fated Eight Belles (102) managed a triple-digit Beyer in the Derby. That does not mean no one will show up, though - I still like Giant Moon at the Preakness distance and Harlem Rocker should be a nice addition to the field, but there's still the feeling they are running for second.

I'm not joining the list of those who just want to hand Big Brown the Triple Crown, however -- the Belmont should be interesting, and we may get a preview in the Peter Pan on Saturday. My current horse crush, Tomcito (already a winner at the Belmont distance as a 2-year-old) will be on hand, as will the highly-touted Casino Drive in what will be his second start. Normally I would worry about his lack of experience, but when all your family does is win the Belmont, you're worth keeping an eye on. (To that end, I've already added his so-far-unraced 2-year-old half-brother, Man of Iron, to my Virtual Stable). Here's hoping for a good, safe race this weekend that will provide some real competition in New York.

I also highly recommend a read of Ray Paulick's latest column at ESPN. He addresses a few points that seem to have fallen by the wayside lately rather well...

Update 3437: From The Rail: The Jockey Club has announced a new committee in light of Eight Belles' tragedy: Jockey Club to Study Safety. This is my response: Safety Panel Needs an Independent Voice.

Update 3436: A hectic morning at the track this morning at Woodbine. I ended up getting on ten, and with the chillier weather the horses were in quite high spirits. I was fortunate, I did not fall off. The siren was, however, very busy this morning and I saw a few loose horses galloping around. Three of my horses schooled in the gate, one of which is running tomorrow. All galloped quite nicely and now I am done I will sleep well this afternoon!

Update 3435: Trainer Rick Dutrow outlines his pre-Preakness plan for Big Brown: Dutrow has it all figured out.

Big Brown is being courted for his stud duties: Stallion Deal Near on Big Brown.

Texas upholds its support for the horses: Mexican Slaughter Industry in Trouble.

Please keep calling and writing.

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Barbaro Updates: 579

updates are now here.

Update 3434: Some interesting news out of New York: NYRA Considers Synthetic Tracks, excerpt:

"This is not something we can do overnight, but we are looking at all of the different synthetic surfaces," Lee said. "We also are aware of the discussion going on about synthetic surfaces, and we hope when we get to the point of moving in that direction the kinks will be worked out."

Update 3433: Curlin may reappear in the Stephen Foster in five weeks. His connections are also considering racing him in Europe: Prospect of Curlin proves daunting, excerpt:

Curlin, owned primarily by the Stonestreet Stables of Jess Jackson, has earned more than $8.8 million, a little more than $1.1 million shy of Cigar's all-time record of nearly $10 million. Asmussen said nothing beyond the Foster is set, and it is possible the colt may not run in October in the $5 million Breeders' Cup Classic, which he won last fall. Asmussen said the Arc de Triomphe and/or the Japan Cup are being kicked around as alternative races so as to showcase Curlin in other parts of the world.

Update 3432: A pleasant morning this morning at Woodbine. We had six sets and a complete crew of people on the ground. I did walk one during the break just to help keep moving things along, but a much more relaxed day. The six I rode went nicely. Two of them went to do a little gate schooling and were perfectly behaved. That was good for as I was stood in the gate with one of them, a loose horse came galloping by being chased by an outrider. As I was leaving the gate I observed Chantal Sutherland getting a leg up on the horse!

My morning entry on The Rail:

Rider Remembers Fusaichi Pegasus.

Also this morning I had a coversation with another rider, it went something like this:

me: "Where are you from?"
he: "Ireland"
me: "Whereabouts?"
he: "Sligo"
me: "My buddy used to gallop Sligo Bay for Beau Greely"
he: "We have many of his offspring"
he: "Who is your buddy"
me: "Andy Durnin"
he: "I know Andy, we used to hang out when he came to Belmont"

Andy Durnin is the exercise rider I interviewed for the above The Rail entry.

Update 3431: An assessment of the Derby from a European viewpoint: Dirt and drugs undermine American racing's big day.

Mike Jensen of the Philadelphia Inquirer wrote this article and interviewed me, among others: Horse racing at a sadly familiar juncture.

Please keep calling and writing.

Posted by Alex at 9:58 AM | Comments (146)

Barbaro Updates: 578

updates are now here.

Update 3430: An update on Chelokee's status after his surgery on Monday: Surgery successful for colt injured on Oaks day.

Update 3429: A good opportunity to add your comments: Safety First.

Update 3428: Another hectic morning this morning at Woodbine, although we were light on horses that needed training. I ended up riding four horses and walking about six. Five hours of solid exercise before stopping. I am knackered. The horses I rode went nicely. All is well.

Update 3427: An excellent article from Paul Moran: The Sport Is Here to Stay, excerpt:

While it is true that, in Europe, females commonly compete against males, European racing, conducted exclusively on grass courses and without the array of medication permitted for use in this country, is quite different from its American counterpart. The ground is more forgiving; the pace less punishing. Minor injuries are treated with time and rest, not corticosteroids and other substances that temporarily mask pain.

Please keep calling and writing.

Posted by Alex at 10:07 AM | Comments (124)

Barbaro Updates: 577

updates are now here.

Update 3426: A brief update on a few of the horses considering the Preakness: Daily Derby Notes: May 5.

Update 3425: My latest entry on The Rail:

The Derby Is Over. So Now What?

Update 3424: Phew. Another rather chaotic morning with a couple of grooms light. I think this will be resolved in the next day or so! Weather wise it was beautiful, although still a little chilly. I ended riding six, hotwalking three and doing a couple of other odd jobs. All in all a tiring morning, but I guess its not so bad when you get paid for your exercise! Also, one of the exercise riders from another barn told me she read this blog and really liked it. Very cool. She had first seen it from Jen's Blog, which is excellent for Ontario racing coverage.

Update 3423: An update on Chelokee: Chelokee Given '50-50 Chance' to Survive.

Please keep calling and writing.

Posted by Alex at 9:57 AM | Comments (242)

Barbaro Updates: 575

updates are now here.

Update 3422: Michael Blowen, at Old Friends received this e-mail and contribution:

Hello. My name is XXXX, and I am 11 years old, and I won money off of Eight Bells at a Derby party yesterday. I feel so bad about what happened to her that I can not enjoy my money that I won. So, I am going to donate my winnings to your organazation and so is my mom. I found out about you on the internet last night. Your farm sounds like a very nice place. I am asking everyone that I know if they also won money off of Eight Bells, and if they would like to dotate their money as well. Some people that I am asking are donating money just to be nice. So I just wanted to let you know that as soon as I collect the money, my mom will send you a check. From, XXXX

Michael also informed me they have just taken in a barren broodmare, Richard's Lass. She won the Geisha and the Pimlico Oaks.

Update 3421: Dr. Richardson will be on the following shows discussing the Derby:

CBS Evening news tonight at 6:08pm

CBS Early Show tomorrow morning

CNN tomorrow morning b/t 6:00am - 9:00am

Fox News - 9:15am tomorrow morning

Update 3420: Big Brown appears in good order after the Derby: Dutrow After Derby: 'The Horse is Good'
. He may be facing an entirely new cast of characters in the Preakness: The Morning After: Big Brown Scare Off.

Off back to the races at Woodbine.

Update 3419: A little chaotic this morning. We were a couple of people short which creates a little havoc with the schedule. I think I ended up riding six. They went nicely. I hotwalked a couple and did other various odd jobs. With people short you just have to pitch in. A few people noted they saw the horse slaughter article in the Toronto Star, and now know a little more about me! Good conversations. Of course Eight Belles was also discussed. Andy Durnin texted me from Churchill. He said Larry Jones was fielding lots of questions from reporters just outside of her stall. Just very sad.

Update 3418: Eight Belles.

Update 3417: My initial reaction to Eight Belles' tragedy: Was the Track Too Fast?

Update 3416: Eight Belles ran her life out. Big Brown won (very impressively).

Update 3415: Some better news for Chelokee: Chelokee Update: No Fracture, excerpt:

"It was just a dislocated ankle that was put back in order," Matz said May 3, on the morning of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I). Matz will saddle Visionaire in the Derby. "The skin was not broken which is a good thing, and there was heat below the articulation, which means there is blood flow. The ankle will probably have to be fused. He had a good night. He ate and laid down and got up several times."

Off back to Woodbine to help Jen with a handicapping seminar (remember my picks). Then to help out with our paddock schoolers.

Update 3414: A little lighter this morning with only six to ride at Woodbine. Five before the break and one following the break. All the horses seemed to train well and are doing well here at Woodbine. During the break I pulled the mane of one of our horses who is running this afternoon. Queen of Dreams, a first time starter. She stood there very relaxed. It was not until I had nearly finished did I realize she was not even tied up! I finished up the morning getting bridles ready for our paddock schoolers, we have five to school today as well as two runners, and then walking the pony who is temporarily housed in another barn. A nice pleasant morning, but we will be busy this afternoon!

My latest entry on the Rail which offers some insight into what the Derby contenders will be doing today before the race: Getting a Horse Ready on Derby Day.

Update 3413: Today is Derby day, here are my picks and analysis: Alex Brown's (Slightly Biased) Picks.

This is what the Derby horses did yesterday: Daily Derby Notes: May 2.

A great article on the issue of Horse Slaughter (Cover story Toronto Star): Battle to save horses from slaughterhouse, excerpt:

Zito's wife Kim will greet Little Cliff at their farm in Kentucky soon after the Derby. The horse has been in quarantine since being saved from the slaughterhouse.

"We need to have a little compassion and say, 'Thank you.' "

Posted by Alex at 9:43 AM | Comments (628)

Barbaro Updates: 575

updates are now here.

Update 3412: WJZ (Mike Schuh) from Baltimore on Nicanor's arrival at Fair Hill: Barbaro's Brother Arrives In Maryland.

Update 3411: Hall of Fame trainer Frank Whiteley has died: Frank Whiteley Jr. Dies.

Update 3410: It looks like Chelokee broke down today in the slop at Churchill. Chelokee Update-4:39pm.

Update 3409: The Rail's contributors make their Derby selections.

Update 3408: A wet and blustery morning this morning at Woodbine, and for the first set it was hold on to the neck strap for me ... twice I had to let it go as I was launched air born! Luckily I landed back where I needed to land and survived all the "excitement". We had eight sets altogether, and four of those went to the gate. That means some waiting around as the gate does not open until 8:30 am and my fourth set was complete by 7:30 am. During the hour break I helped sort out one of the feedrooms and cleaned a couple of the racing bridles. Odd jobs to keep things going. Anyway, today was a morning of survival, and I survived!

Update 3407: Friday and its Oaks day at Churchill: Country Star aims for third Grade 1 win in Kentucky Oaks.

Here are my two most recent entries at The Rail:

Horses Running for More
Big Brown Sizzles; Smooth Air Is Slow

Please keep calling and writing.

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Barbaro Updates: 574

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Update 3406: Artist Alexa King has been selected to design Barbaro's statue at Churchill Downs: Derby Museum unveils design for Barbaro statue.

Update 3405: Some outstanding photographs of Nicanor from today.

Update 3404: And Nicanor arrived at Fair Hill this morning: Nicanor ships to Fair Hill.

Update 3403: Big Brown worked a sharp 3/8ths this morning at Churchill Downs in 35.4: Big Brown Gets Easy Work at Churchill, excerpt:

"It looked good to me," Dutrow said. "I watched from the frontside and I'm as happy as I could be. I could see when he turned around with the pony right away he was a little too agressive, which you could expect, I think. It just went as good as it could have possibly went; it didn't look like he did too much and he was well within himself."

Update 3402: A chilly start to another gorgeous morning here at Woodbine. We had a busy morning with nine sets, five before the break and four after the break. Twenty seven horses trained which is our record, we have twenty nine here right now. All my horses went nicely. We took three sets to the gate for a little gate schooling. All were calm and relaxed. There were a few loose horses running around during the morning, the "alarm" was quite busy, thankfully non of them were ours.

You can now pre-order a DVD of The First Saturday in May.

Finally, Nicanor embarks on the next stage of his young life: Nicanor Ships to Fair Hill.

Update 3401: Here are two of my recent posts on The Rail, that detail what the Derby contenders are doing this close to the race:

Gate and Paddock Schooling
Big Workouts Are Over, So Now What?

Please keep calling and writing.

Posted by Alex at 9:40 AM | Comments (132)