Barbaro Updates: 671

Posted August 30, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3973: A fun afternoon at the rodeo in Toronto. Laura survived her bull ride, but not long enough for the eight seconds. This was my first "behind the scenes" view of a rodeo and I have to say I was pleasantly impressed with how things work. The "stock" animals all looked very healthy too!

The Nick Zito trained Anak Nakal took the $1 million Pennsylvania Derby: Anak Nakal Nabs Pennsylvania Derby.

Update 3972: Gorgeous day at Woodbine! We had 8 sets - 4 before the break and 4 after the break one of which went to the gate. I think I must have galloped about 15 miles so I'm now pretty knackered. Off to the rodeo with Laura who is a freelance exercise rider at Woodbine. She's riding a bull - I might be driving back to Woodbine. Getting on an animal knowing with absolute certainty you will fall off is a little whacky.

Update 3971: Happy Labor Day.

A terrific win yesterday by Breeders Stakes winner Marland in the Saranac at Saratoga. Another wire to wire ride from Richard Dos Ramos in his first ride at Saratoga: Marlang Wires Rivals in Saranac.

Curlin seems well after his win on Saturday. Plans for his next start will be announced after his first breeze back: Relaxed Mood at Curlin's Saratoga Barn.

Update 3970: Peppers Pride scratched today, aborting her effort to break the record for consecutive wins. The track was getting sloppy: Peppers Pride Scratched From Record Try.

Update 3969: A gorgeous afternoon spent at the races, but not Woodbine. The quarterhorse races at Pivoc Downs. There are about three more weekends of racing at Picov Downs before the end of the "meet". It will be the end of an era as there will be a new track opening in its place for next year. This is the second time I have visited, and its just an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon. Plenty of the horsemen have Woodbine connections. A few of the jockeys are exercise riders at Woodbine. One jockey is a very recently retired Woodbine jockey.

I did run into Dave Landry. He is a photographer who I had previously met at Woodbine and also brother of jockey Robert Landry. He had heard the interview I had had on the local sports radio station. He was pretty impressed with it and apparently there were plenty of calls into the show afterwards. Great PR for the slaughter issues I think.

Update 3968: Racing's focus today switches to New Mexico, and Peppers Prides attempt at something very very special, seventeen consecutive wins: Wait is over for Peppers Pride.

Found on Paulick Report.

Help will be needed in the wake of Hurricane Gustav: SOS Gustav Cat 3 Hurricane.

Update 3967: A busy and warm morning here this morning at Woodbine. We had nine sets. Five before the break and four after the break. No gate schoolers. All my horses galloped nicely, so a fun morning despite a lack of sleep (went out a little last night).

Lots of people gratulating us on Curlin's win yesterday. It's nice to be a part of the team, even if we are a remote part of the team. Anyway, it will be interesting to see where Curlin goes next. He had to dig deep for yesterday's win, but he certainly showed a lot of heart in getting the job done!

Update 3966: Media coverage of yesterday's Woodward:
CURLIN GRINDS IT OUT
Curlin notches Woodward win
Curlin Cashes in Woodward, Nears Cigar
Curlin 'consummate professional' in Woodward

Update 3965: Curlin, who was put to task today by front running Past the Point, did manage to run down the front runner and win by about a length in today's Woodward. He is now second on the all time money list.

Update 3964: Hall of Fame rider, Gary Stevens, offered a ringing endorsement for the new Santa Anita surface. This surface is scheduled to play host to the Breeders' Cup in a couple of months: Stevens endorses overhauled Santa Anita surface.

Update 3963: Quite a busy morning again here at Woodbine, with eight sets. For some reason it was one of those mornings that seemed exhausting when it really was not! Gorgeous weather here too. All the horses I galloped galloped very nicely. We had a couple of sets school in the gate, no problems there either. All in all a decent morning's work. We have a runner here this afternoon in the tenth race. Course much of our attention will be focused on Saratoga and Curlin!

Update 3962: Churchill Downs is reducing it's stakes purses, due to a decline in bettng handle, for it's fall meet: Churchill Makes Deep Cut in Fall Stakes.

Today Curlin will attempt to get one step closer to the record for total earnings: Curlin overwhelming favorite in Woodward.

Tomorrow Peppers Pride will attempt to break the modern day record for consecutive wins: Peppers Pride still on track for historic run.

Posted by Alex at 9:53 AM | Comments (167)

Barbaro Updates: 670

Posted August 29, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3961: Penn National, which is experiencing an increasing number of breakdowns, is closing it's track for a renovation project: Penn National to Suspend Racing.

Lately I have been a little more exposed to Standardbred racing. On Sunday the Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society is having their annual horse show: OSAS Standardbreds Horse Show.

Update 3960: A troubling story, with a fortunate ending: Retired Horse Saved from Return to Track, excerpt:

In the future, when trying to sell or give away horses after racing them, Puglisi said he plans to exercise "more due diligence" in placing them with new owners. Mighty Mecke's foal papers were given to Hubbs, at her request, something Puglisi won't do again in deals involving retired runners.

With previous racehorses that Puglisi had retired and sold, he said there was a written contract that the new owners had signed, saying the animals would not run again. There was no written contract for Mighty Mecke, but Puglisi will make the document a requirement from now on before he releases a horse.

"I think the foal papers are the key to all this; they (the new owners) really only need them if the horse is going to race," Puglisi said.

Mighty Mecke is at Klesaris' barn at the Fair Hill Training Center in Maryland.

"We're trying to decide what to do with him,"" Puglisi said. "Right now, we're thinking about keeping him as a pony. He's very special to everybody on our whole team."

Update 3959: I am now scheduled to do a radio interview a little after 1 pm on FAN950. You can listen over the internet I think.

Update 3958: A bit of a damp morning this morning at Woodbine. Foggy and muggy too. We had a busy morning with nine sets. Five went out before the break. We also gate schooled three. For my first set, I was galloping around steadily and as I approached the wire a horse and rider literally came from the outside rail to right in front of me. The rider fell off (he had no choice) and then the horse did a lap of the track on his own. Thankfully all was well.

It was the Canadian Hall of Fame ceremony last night, covered by Jen: BIG NAMES. Darren (my boss here) mentioned this morning that he donated a Curlin halter for the ceremony. It was auctioned off for $4,000 to go towards the Hall of Fame. Very cool.

Update 3957: Reigning Horse of the Year, Curlin is the favorite for Saturday's Woodward Stakes and has drawn post position 5: Curlin overwhelming favorite in Woodward

Looking for more feedback: NTRA Marketing Task Force.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 12:50 PM | Comments (46)

Barbaro Updates: 669

Posted August 28, 2008

Updates are now here

Update 3956: Curlin is racing on Saturday in the Woodward at Saratoga. Here is a quick look at his challengers: Taking shot at Curlin, place in lore.

Found on Paulick Report.

Update 3955: Big Brown breezed on the turf today: Big Brown Breezes on Turf.

Update 3954: Warmer this morning at Woodbine. Some drizzle spinkled in. We had an easy morning with only six sets, four before the break and then two to the gate after the break. All went pretty easily. There is no racing at Woodbine this afternoon, ahead of a holiday Monday program next week.

Jen has a nice story on an OTTB, now polo pony. She also notes that tonight is the Canadian Hall of Fame induction ceremony: RINGS OF FAME.

Update 3953: Benny the Bull, who has the same connections as Big Brown and has been on a five race winning streak, has been retired due to an ankle injury: Benny the Bull retired due to ankle injury.

Projecting Nicanor's first start, which could be a while yet: Looking Back to Look Forward.

Looking for more feedback: NTRA Marketing Task Force.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:54 AM | Comments (53)

Barbaro Updates: 668

Posted August 27, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3952: Here is an update on Lights On Broadway, a horse that is on our Top Bunk List: Rescue Update For Lights On Broadway.

Update 3951: My radio interviewed got bumped, for a LPGA story. It should occur tomorrow or friday.

Update 3950: Another chilly morning this morning at Woodbine. We had seven sets, three of which went to the gate. This meant we had a long break while waiting for the gate to open. Coffee from the kitchen and a stop over in the HBPA office for the break. Each of my horses went nicely for a decent morning's work. As the sun was coming up the siren went off and a loose horse came galloping directly towards us. I could not see it at all until it past us. Thankfully it did not decide to run into anyone as he was hard to pick out!

Later today, I am to be interviewed on radio live on The Fan 590 (just after 1 pm).

Update 3949: Steve Asmussen on the loss of Parker Buckley: Far worse than any tough beat, excerpt:

The death of Buckley, whom Asmussen had known for 21 years and employed for the last 16 months, has had a profound impact on the trainer who is in the midst of the best year of his 22-year career.

"When you go from [thinking] that he had a broken leg to he's gone, to this point it's been impossible for me to catch up with," Asmussen, 42, said by phone from Dallas on Tuesday, one day before he was to attend Buckley's funeral in Florida. "It is a loss or a vacancy that won't be filled."

Looking for more feedback: NTRA Marketing Task Force.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:00 AM | Comments (65)

Barbaro Updates: 667

Posted August 26, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3948: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

With the Travers and the Pacific Classic in the record books (and yes, there will be more on the Pacific Classic later this week), it's nearly time to turn our attention to the Woodward, which will feature a certain horse named Curlin. But before we look ahead to the weekend, let's examine the storm brewing across the pond over Ballydoyle's alleged employment of team tactics.

On the face of it, it would seem that the Aidan O'Brien-trained horses don't need to do much more beyond simply turning up - their most recent notable victory over the past weekend saw Duke of Marmalade collect his fifth Group 1 victory of the year, equaling the records of earlier Ballydoyle stars (and current Coolmore stallions) Rock of Gibraltar and Giant's Causeway.

Yet some are concerned there is more at work here than simply the best horse winning; a number of times over the past few years, Team Ballydoyle has been accused playing the game rather less than fairly. The British racing rules define the infraction as follows:

Rule 153 (iv) states that a rider shall not "make a manoeuvre in a race in the interests of another horse in common ownership or under common control or from the same stable or team, whether or not such a manoeuvre caused interference or caused his horse to fail to achieve its best possible placing".

Of course, whether or not it's the real thing (or whether the stewards catch it) is debatable; a charge of team tactics after a poor outcome for a Godolphin horse led to considerable bad feeling between Aidan O'Brien and jockey Frankie Dettori in 2006:

O'Brien is less likely to hanker after Dettori, however, after his childish complaints about "team tactics" at Ascot on Saturday. The Italian goaded the stewards into a 14-day suspension for Seamus Heffernan, who rode another Ballydoyle colt in George Washington's race.

The Guardian has been bringing the issue up all summer; first, taking the view that the multiple Ballydoyle entries in major races may lead to suspicion, even if there's nothing particularly nefarious afoot:

Pacemakers are good for top-class racing, particularly when it comes to preserving stamina in the breed. They help to ensure that 12-furlong races are won by proper 12-furlong horses.

But does anyone need three or four? O'Brien leaves nothing to chance, which is one reason why he has achieved so much. This, though, may be one of those times when you can have too much of a good thing.

Duke of Marmalade's International Stakes win brought the topic back up to the surface, with Lydia Hislop arguing that the use of team tactics was precisely what was going on:

So why was that rule not applied to the moment when Colm O'Donoghue, the rider on pace-setting Red Rock Canyon, eased away from the rail to leave a Duke Of Marmalade-sized hole up his inside? It was a gap Johnny Murtagh immediately asked that horse to fill, as the shortest route to a fifth consecutive Group One win.

O'Donoghue's driving instructor may have watched the race with some satisfaction: it was copybook execution of Mirror, Signal, Manoeuvre. Nearing the half-mile pole, he looked over his left shoulder. Clearly, for his purposes, it was safe to go but, like a careful driver, he also checked over his right once the manoeuvre was complete.

Had O'Brien and O'Donoghue been summoned to account by the stewards, they might have argued that Red Rock Canyon peeled off the rail due to hanging under pressure, rather than by the will of his jockey, who was looking around to try to avoid hampering others as his horse weakened.
...

Yet leaving an inquiry uncalled and allowing the reverberations to echo freely may turn out best - by chance - for the British Horseracing Authority. For Murtagh has since been quoted ascribing clear intent to O'Donoghue's actions. "I was always going to follow Colm," he said. "I didn't want to start worrying about other horses. I just wanted to worry about myself and Colm and I said to him, 'when you get to the four marker, just ease off and give me the passage through'. It's what Ballydoyle's all about."

This provides the BHA with an opportunity to advise Team O'Brien that such tactics breach the rules of racing. Given that Saturday's manoeuvre merely ceded an advantage to Duke Of Marmalade, rather than materially improving his finishing position - Phoenix Tower had every chance, once chiselled out of his Ballydoyle coffin - O'Brien can expect a private letter rather than a retrospective inquiry.

So it sounds as though the matter will rumble on, fueled by equal parts jealousy and dodgy-looking finishes (and good luck proving what's going on in either direction) - but it will be intriguing to see if Henrythenavigator does indeed come to contest the Breeders' Cup Classic - and who else might be coupled with him.

One of America's most successful (and legit) rabbits, Shake the Bank, is running in a race all by his lonesome at Presque Isle on Thursday - here's hoping he's allowed to win, for once!

Update 3947: Jen provides an update on the standings at Woodbine as well as an update on the Top Bunk List which now has a couple of additions: SKY'S THE LIMIT.

Update 3946: Another chilly start to a glorious morning here at Woodbine. We had a light day today, I only had six sets. Four before the break and two after the break and no gate schoolers. The first one I rode galloped two miles and pulled the entire way. I was exhausted for the rest of the morning! Thankfully all the others, for the most part, went nicely.

The HBPA of Ontario is sponsoring a boat cruise this afternoon, which should make for a fun outing!

Update 3945: Trainers Eoin Harty and Neil Howard on their respective stars after their terrific efforts in the Travers Stakes: Harty says heart lifted Colonel John in Travers.

Ten Most Wanted, who also won the Travers, sired his first winner: Ten Most Wanted Sires First Winner.

Patrick Biancone's ban is extended through November 1: Biancone agrees to extended ban.

Looking for more feedback: NTRA Marketing Task Force.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:58 AM | Comments (42)

Barbaro Updates: 666

Posted August 25, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3944: Curlin had his final breeze ahead of the Woodward on Saturday. He went an easy half mile, which is typical of the final breeze before a race for Steve Asmussen's horses: 'Professional' Curlin set for Woodward.

Update 3943: Update from Penny at Timwoolleyracing.com:

This Monday morning was a pretty good one. Who's Happy ran at Philadelphia Park and tried to keep up with the sprinters. She gave it her all down the lane but when she dug in the front runners dug in faster. She came home fine and has suffered no ill affects from her race. Rajashthan seems fine after his third place finish last week. He seems a bit body sore but nothing that can't be managed. Sweet Ginger Brown was a star for her first race and she has come home in great shape. Sprinting will not be her thing but Tim needed to start somewhere. This week should be a pretty quiet one. I think one of the new horses will be running this week but Tim has just entered and it will be a few days before we know.

We stayed up last night (anything after 9pm for us is late) to watch some racing from California. What a great bunch of racing. Del Mar has a polytrack surface and I wonder what it is like to train on. It would be interesting to know what kind of soundness problems they are experiencing from the track. People seem to think the polytrack is much safer and I would like to believe it is so but would also like to see the data to support it. Anyway, I will try to corner the trainer to get more accurate information for you.

Update 3942: Wow, after a few hot days it got a little chilly this morning. Has summer disappeared ? Once the sun came up, it did turn into a nice day, but the start was a little crisp! We had seven sets, four before the break and three after the break. All went nicely. Our workers also seemed to work well for a hassle free morning.

Laura, a freelance exercise rider here, was displaying a nice pink bandage over her left hand and wrist this morning. She is also a rodeo rider and showed me her spill from a bull this weekend, hence the bandage!

Jen's Thoroughblog discusses the fate of Sky Diamond this weekend, who we had on our radar via the Top Bunk List. Just very sad. When I told Jen about it on Saturday, she was either shocked or angry, not quite sure which. She printed out his PPs and showed them to all his Woodbine connections, who were similarly upset.

Update 3941: Media coverage of the Pacific Classic:

GO BETWEEN TAKES PACIFIC CLASSIC
Go Between caps Gomez's big weekend
Go Between, Gomez Land Pacific Classic
Go Between collars Well Armed in Pacific Classic

Looking for more feedback: NTRA Marketing Task Force.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:56 AM | Comments (57)

Barbaro Updates: 665

Posted August 23, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3940: Tonight it is the marquee race from the Del Mar meet, the Pacific Classic. We have Student Council in the race, who will be one of the favorites: Pacific Classic boasts a field that runs deep.

Found on Paulick Report.

Update 3939: Post race reports of some of the Travers contenders: Horses Come Back OK After Rough Travers.

Update 3938: Fairmount Park had a "paddock sale" yesterday. This is a means for horsemen to sell on their horses, and these sales usually coincide with the end of the meet. Sadly it is also an opportunity for kill buyers to pick up horses. It appears that many of the horses sold yesterday were actually placed outside of the slaughter pipeline: Urgent: Fairmount park paddock sale.

Update 3937: A busy morning this morning at Woodbine, and a muggy morning too. We had eight sets, four before the break and four after the break. Twenty four horses trained and all went relatively smoothly. The horses I rode all galloped nicely. No gate schooling. We had four workers, no problems. Altogether a decent morning's work.

We have a runner this afternoon, so I will go over and help out a little. Our two runners in the stake yesterday ran decently, finishing third and fourth. The winner won quite comfortably, and
came from the other side of our shedrow. So if we cannot win the race, its nice to see our neighbours do so!

Update 3936: Travers Reports:

TRAVERS: IT'S THE COLONEL BY A NOSE
Colonel John in a squeaker
Col. John Noses 'Mambo' in Epic Travers
Colonel John edges Mambo in Seattle in Travers

Congratulations to Michael Matz for his win in the King's Bishop: Visionaire Passes All in King's Bishop

Update 3935: Lots of good racing today. All marred by the fate of Sky Diamond.

Update 3934: Duke of Marmalade, who may be the top turf runner in the world right now, won the postponed Juddmonte Stakes that was moved to Newmarket due to the conditions at York this week: DUKE THE INTERNATIONAL STAR.

Update 3933: Another very pleasant morning this morning at Woodbine, although it looks like it is shaping to be a hot day! We had seven sets, four before the break and three after the break. Our last set went to the gate and then we galloped together (three two year olds) for a mile. All went very nicely. As did all the other sets.

We have a couple in the 2yo stake this afternoon, so I will go back and help out: Asmussen holding two aces.

The main racing focus will however be on Saratoga, with the Travers Stakes as well as some terrific racing on the undercard. We have Pyro in the Travers, as well as J Be K in the King's Bishop, which might actually be the better race. I will also be rooting for Tres Borrachos. Fun racing!

Update 3932: Jose Caraballo, Barbaro's jockey in his first two races, was extremely unlucky not to win the Grade 1 Personal Ensign yesterday aboard Lemon Drop Mom. They were beaten on the head bob on the wire: Ginger Punch Prevails in Ensign Thriller.

Big Brown had his first breeze yesterday since his Haskell win. Dutrow wanted to breeze on the turf, but his last minute request was denied: Big Brown breezes at Aqueduct.

Still seeking feedback: NTRA Marketing Task Force.

Posted by Alex at 9:57 AM | Comments (82)

Barbaro Updates: 664

Posted August 22, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3931: Not a typical racing story: Two-year-old filly leaves seasoned trainer flabbergasted.

Found on Paulick Report.

Update 3930: Actor Paul Sorvino, who supported Americans Against Horse Slaughter, on CNN: Movie star saves horses.

Update 3929: Another pleasant morning here at Woodbine. We had seven sets, four before the break and three after the break. All went nicely. We have a new rider, Dominic, who actually worked for Steve in the US up until Derby time. He is also a jockey. Anyway, he seems to be settling in well and the two horses he worked this morning also seemed to go well. A simple and straightforward morning.

Some interesting coverage at Jen's thoroughblog today.

Update 3928: While we wait for the Travers Stakes on Saturday there are other good races over the next few days.

On Sunday at Del Mar, we have the Pacific Classic. Last year this was the coming out for Student Council. Student Council has returned to California for this race after a nice closing second on the Whitney. My boss, Darren, is supervising his preparations: Go Between, Student Council highlight Pacific Classic.

2007 Eclipse Award winner Ginger Punch is running today at Saratoga: Ginger Punch tries 10 furlongs.

Looking for more feedback: NTRA Marketing Task Force.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:58 AM | Comments (57)

Barbaro Updates: 663

Posted August 21, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3927: I got to see both mother and father race: Filly foal for Maybe Diva.

Found on equidaily.

Update 3926: Update from today from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

These are some beautiful mornings we are having and both horses and riders are enjoying it. Today is Thursday and Tim has a busy day. Rajasthan is running at Laurel Park and Sweet Ginger Brown will be making her first start at Penn National in the first race. Tim will be going to Penn for the first time starter to make sure she has a good experience. Rajashthan has loads of experience and racing is no big deal to him. Hopefully he will run a bang up race. Ginger has been doing great and it will be great to get an idea of what she can do. You can never be really certain how they will race until they are actually racing. There are some horses that really can go in the morning but put them into a tight spot in racing conditions and they don't fair very well.

Who's Happy will be racing on Saturday at Philadelphia Park and she is doing great. Lilly (Happy's little sister) worked a great quarter mile yesterday and Tim is getting excited about her. She is a tough filly who pins her ears when being tacked up and reaches out to bite people as they walk by. She now stands behind a screen for safety.

Paris Night worked three eighths yesterday and did it quite well with Robbie aboard. Veiled Reference looks forward to going to the track everyday. She is a very active girl. Miss M.V.P. is growing taller and I believe Tim reported that she worked her first half with him a few days ago and handled it just fine. Vicar's Tune continues to be his usual lovey and quiet self. What a personality. Anyway, wish Tim luck today at the races and hopefully the horses will run well.

Update 3925: Superfecta here, with a special extra message about a project Alex and I are involved in:

As Dana put it, the rumors are indeed true; a few of us horse racing blogger types (along with a number of other fine people affiliated with the racing industry) have been arguing working on the NTRA Marketing Task Force for the past few weeks. We're not all going to Vegas (although as I understand it, what happens there, stays there - so I suppose taglines do work) since 1) getting that many racing bloggers in a room might create a disturbance in the Force and 2) it's expensive to fly these days and some of us are far too busy with our real jobs to take the time out. (Although I did find it odd that the upside of missing the conference is that some of our ages remain a secret).

Nevertheless, I'm sure we will be well represented and the debate and discussion generated so far has been very useful. What I find most encouraging is that the NTRA realized there was a gap as far as reaching out to fans old and new and is making a real effort to try and find ways in which to fill it.

So, here's your chance to tell the NTRA what you think - what messages would you like to pass along? How would you market racing to new fans? What beer do you wish your local track served? Tell us here.

Update 3924: Another lovely morning this morning at Woodbine. We had seven sets, four before the break and three after the break. I had a couple go to the gate for some schooling. All went nicely. I also rode the pony, Charlie, for one set. He was very relaxed and enjoying his tasks. During the break I went to the track kitchen and had a coffee with Brian, from Brian Lynch's. We discussed my recent visit to OLEX. It's great people here are reading about this stuff!

We have a runner this afternoon in the first race, so I will return to help out a little. We had a runner in the last race last night, who finished third. We were all a little tired this morning!

Update 3923: Pyro is the morning line favorite for the Travers Stakes, drawing post 11: Pyro morning-line favorite for Travers Stakes. Steve Asmussen also has the likely favorite of the The King's Bishop, J Be K: Talented three-year-old sprinters converge on King's Bishop. Both races are run this Saturday and broadcast on ESPN.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:04 AM | Comments (45)

Barbaro Updates: 662

Posted August 20, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3922: An update from Nicanor's blog: Exploring the Hills at Fair Hill.

Update 3921: Hello from WendyinMI again. Sadly, JulieZ and I have returned to our respective homes and back to the world of reality. We spent our final day at The Spa relaxing and hanging out with our friends. We cheered on one member of our group in the Nathan's Hot Dog eating contest. He managed to eat 6 dogs a mere 18 and 3/4 dogs behind the winner. Just doing it makes him a winner in our books!

The track wasn't nearly as crazy and crowded as it was on Sunday for the races. We caught up with Richard DePass to give him a thank you gift for our tour the other morning. Richard was busy in the racing office and asked us to come inside. That was cool because we walked into the draw for the upcoming races. Many trainers and agents were inside. It's a very low-tech operation as they literally draw the names from a box and shout out the information. Thanks to Richard for allowing us to see some terrific behind the scenes action! As a side note, in his jockey days, Richard rode Hoist the Silver in the '78 Kentucky Derby and Great Redeemer in the '79 Kentucky Derby!

Overall, JulieZ and I met many amazing people both at the track and around town. We had countless "pinch-me" moments. We met, in no particular order, Allen Jerkens , The McPeek clan, Andy Serling, John Veitch, Dallas Stewart, Barbara Livingston, Ramon Dominguez and even my teen heart throb David Cassidy. Young Jane Motion and Alex Matz were very excited to tell their families (including us since we were speaking with the Motion's at the time) about meeting Whoopi Goldberg in the elevator. They were both grinning from ear to ear. You just never know who you will bump into and where. We still can't believe our luck to have Dallas Stewart sit down next to us at a Thai restaurant!

I haven't experienced any thing else as fan friendly and accessible as horse racing at Saratoga. Thanks to all who made it that way.

Update 3920: One of the best meets on the European calender, York's Juddmonte meet, is being ravaged by wet weather: York Cancels Two More Days.

Update 3919: Another very pleasant morning this morning at Woodbine. Another lovely weather day! We were quite busy this morning. I had nine sets, five before the break and four after the break. All went very nicely. I rode a couple of horses I have not ridden in a while, and it was fun to get reaquainted.

Peter Gross, who wrote this very flattering story, has become interested enough in the slaughter issue to join me yesterday in our visit to OLEX. He writes about his experience: The Sad End to a Thoroughbred's Life.

Update 3918: The marquee 3yo race for the summer is the Travers Stakes this weekend at Saratoga. Although the race lacks the leading 3yo in the country, Big Brown, it still has a few intriguing runners. Tres Borrachos, along with Colonel John, is a leading contender from California. He is coming off his Swaps win: Tres Borrachos seeks dirt success.

Yesterday afternoon I spent time at OLEX auction. Far removed from the horses I ride at Woodbine, many of these horses were bought for kill. The average kill price was 30 cents per pound. We noted two thoroughbreds, but there were many more standardbreds: OLEX Auction Report 8/19/08.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:55 AM | Comments (37)

Barbaro Updates: 661

Posted August 19, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3917: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

The biggest racing news of the past 24 hours is the death of Genuine Risk; as a tribute, Washingtonian.com has re-published a great 2002 article detailing her racing success, breeding troubles and eventual happy retirement. Genuine Risk's Derby is the first one I can clearly remember looking forward to and watching on television (and hey, I picked the winner), so her death is particularly poignant. The 'oldest living Derby winner' tag has been passed to another of my favorites, Alysheba.

A small aside - Alysheba's success on the track was, at the time, the focus of some consternation since there was a perception that he needed Lasix to run his best races (and one which seemed fairly justified by his results without it). The great William Nack's article on how he hesitated to vote for him for Horse of the Year in 1987 for that reason is interesting re-reading in light of the current climate, although pulling Lasix back off the table isn't quite as popular a notion (yet) as getting rid of steroids.

While he was perhaps not of the same caliber as Genuine Risk, I was still saddened to hear of the death of Bowman's Band following colic surgery; the 10-year-old stallion always seemed solid on the track and ran until age 6 - that in itself can seem like a feat nowadays. But let us focus on the great mare once more; here is her Derby victory.

Genuine Risk certainly has worthy successors on the track; Proud Spell and Music Note put on quite a show in the Alabama this past weekend. The only downside to their battle is that it is likely the last time this year we will see them face off; Proud Spell is unlikely to run in the Breeders' Cup (although she may be Philly Park-bound), and Music Note's plans include a trip back to Belmont.

Racing success is not just for 3-year-olds; Ginger Punch runs in the Personal Ensign on Friday against the likes of Spring Waltz and Unbridled Belle, while Hystericalady takes to Monmouth Park on Saturday. Prior to their races, the turf fillies are in action - Wait a While, Rutherienne, Sharp Susan et al. are running in the Ballston Spa on Thursday (although I have an eye on Valbenny). The depth of the filly and mare divisions seems nearly bottomless this year.

It's a shame Eight Belles isn't around to really make them work for it.

Update 3916: Very sad news: Exercise Rider Parker Buckley Dies.

Update 3915: Paulick Report on the late and great Genuine Risk: A 'GENUINE' PLACE IN HISTORY.

Update 3914: Another thoroughly gorgeous morning this morning at Woodbine. I had eight sets, four before the break and four after the break. All my horses galloped nicely. Jimmy (McAleney) came in to work three of our horses. They seemed to work well. All in all, a lovely morning.

Update 3913: Excellent news for Woodbine, as Better Talk Now may come up here for the Canadian Intermational: Better Talk Now could be headed to Canada instead of Breeders' Cup, excerpt:

"I think we'll be more inclined to run him in the Canadian race," Motion said. "We've got to make a decision with him. I think it's unlikely we would go to the Breeders' Cup this year. That fact that it's out in California on the firm turf, it's going to be a tough race."

Here is a list of the Warren mares saved by Tranquility Farm last weekend: WARREN BROODMARES.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:02 AM | Comments (67)

Barbaro Updates: 660

Posted August 18, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3912: For Genuine Risk: Remembering a Great Champion.

Update 3911: Genuine Risk, who was the oldest surviving Kentucky Derby winner, died today: Oldest Derby winner Genuine Risk dead at 31, excerpt:

The farm said Genuine Risk died peacefully shortly after being turned out in her paddock.

"Genuine Risk was an amazing horse with tremendous heart that lived a life befitting a champion," owners Bert and Diana Firestone said in a statement. "We are truly blessed that she was a part of our life, and we are deeply saddened by her passing."

Discussion: Genuine Risk has Died.

Update 3910: Lots of workers this morning at Saratoga for Steve Asmussen, including Curlin of course: Curlin Zips 7 Furlongs in Woodward Work, excerpt:

"All of his serious preparation is in for the Woodward and we’re feeling very good," said trainer Steve Asmussen. "It was his tempo, his work; it was all about him today. We wanted him to have a serious work, and once he was into it he was very serious, steady, and impressive."

Update 3909: Hello again from WendyinMI and JulieZ in Saratoga!

We had a great time this weekend and here's our recap:

On Saturday, Arrr won the Mother's Special Day. My favorite part about this race was Tom Durkin's call. You could still hear people throughout the day saying ARRRRRR. Great Fun! It was also fun that my friend's horse, Feline Felon came in second!

Better Talk Now came in a very strong second in the Sword Dancer. Carried wide by another horse on the turn, Blackie dug in and came up short of the victory. After the race, he dragged his exercise rider, Fenella back to the barn and proceeded to show his frustration at losing by taking frequent shots with both teeth and legs at Fen and assistant trainer Heather. We were told the workers in the test barn were getting a good laugh watching them both avoid Blackies quick action. Thankfully there were no direct hits! Better Talk Now's antics endear him to many.

The other stakes race on Saturday was the very exciting Alabama. Proud Spell gutted it out down the stretch against Music Note and refused to lose. She is truly an awesome little filly!

On Sunday, Saratoga delivered the most beautiful day of weather. A rarity so far this meet! There was only one stakes race, The John's Call. Julie and I were on the backside for the race. When the horses came to the track, you could hear the huge crowd cheer as if we were at a football game! It was simply amazing!

Julie and I were rooting for the McPeek trained BiggerBadderBetter who we met on Friday. He is a friendly horse that seems to enjoy sticking his tongue out while relaxing in his stall. Evening Attire was scratched as the race was kept on the turf. We were disappointed to see BiggerBadderBetter come in fifth. He just tired at the end of the race. Summer Patriot ran very well for the win.

It's been a fantastic visit so far. We even managed to see Curlin's work early this morning! Now we are off to catch another day of racing. We've even entered a friend of ours in the hot dog eating contest. It will be another great day at The Spa!

Update 3908: Another gorgeous morning at Woodbine. We had a few workers and two jockeys in to help with the workers. Catherine O'Brien and Jimmy McAleney. Jimmy was fresh back from his trip to Washington and his second place finsh yesterday in the Longacres Mile. He also gave me an Emerald Downs hat, pretty cool! Anyway, the workers appeared to go nicely. The horses I galloped went nicely too. I had six sets. One to the gate.

Darren (assistant) also told me that Curlin worked very nicely this morning at Saratoga. He'll have one more easy work to set him up for the Woodward.

Update 3907: Woodbine-based True Metropolitan fell a neck short under (our jockey) Jimmy McAleney in the Longacres Mile yesterday at Emerald Downs: Local Hero Wasserman Wins Longacres Mile.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:03 AM | Comments (65)

Barbaro Updates: 659

Posted August 16, 2008

Updates are now here

Update 3906: The Paulick Report wraps up the week: THE WEEK THAT WAS: AUG. 10-16.

Update 3905: Wow! Somebeachsomewhere rolled to two victories today, winning his heat and the final of the Confederation Cup in sub 1:50.

Update 3904: It looks like a few of our top horses are considering ducking the Breeders' Cup, which will be run over a synthetic surface: Proud Spell Another Likely BC No-Show.

Update 3903: A very pleasant morning again at Woodbine. I only had five to ride, three went before the break and two after the break. We had a few workers so I helped to sort those out with the jocks. All my horses galloped nicely, and the weather remains fantastic!

During the break I caught up with the "lip tattoo" guy here at Woodbine. He is also one of the gate crew. Anyway, I wanted to ask him about how to seek out a tattoo number if I knew the name of a horse (this was based on an e-mail query I received yesterday). The upshot is while it is not straight forward, if you have a copy of the foal papers (i.e. as the breeder you may keep those records) you can interpret the lip tattoo from the registration number on the foal papers. I wrote about it here: Lip Tattoos and Papers. This might be useful for breeders and so forth interested in making sure their horses do not pass through public auctions unnoticed.

Update 3902: Welcome from Saratoga Springs, NY!

This is WendyinMI checking in while on vacation with fellow FOB JulieZ. What a great place to vacation! It's my first time (Julie's as well) and I can guarantee it will not be my last.

Julie and I have checked out all the fun tourist places and have otherwise made sure to do all the proper first-timer things. We have arrived early in the mornings for the workouts, hung out at the local eateries such as Siro's, walked through the beautiful historic town and drank water from the mineral spring at the track. There's so much to do!

I will brush on some of the highlights from our trip thus far. Through a very special favor from a friend of mine I was invited to join retired jockey Richard DuPass while he made his rounds in the morning. He is the agent for Cornelio Velasquez, one of the leading jocks for this year's Saratoga meet. There's nothing like a jockey's agent giving you a tour of their home turf. We started the rounds hopping into his golf cart and pulling up next to the great Allen Jerkens! We chatted with The Chief for a bit then moved on to the rest of the barns. We went everywhere which felt like going through the entire town of Saratoga Springs. On the tour we even met David Cassidy of Partridge Family fame. You just never know who you will run into! After Richard's tour we stopped by the McPeek barns and visited with Sue McPeek and her daughter. Sue updated us on Ask The Lord's retraining into a track pony. Then she introduced us to their horses. It was a special morning to say the least.

Another highlight was the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. It's an absolute must-do while in Saratoga. And if you are at all nearby, hop into a car and get to this exhibit. Julie and I walked into this special exhibit and stopped at the closest display. My jaw fell to the ground as I saw a Christmas ornament in the Lael colors painted with Elizabeth in PA next to the beautiful scrapbook made for the Jackson's by the very people on this board. Some of the letters written to the Jackson's are in another book for museum guests to read. I recognized a few FOB names there too! I so wanted to take a picture to post on this discussion board but photos are not allowed to be taken in the museum.

Speaking of photos, I am slowly posting mine here. Keep checking them as I will continue to add to them until I return home on Tuesday.

Julie and I have another full day ahead of us. We must go now to meet up with our seasoned Saratoga friends who include photographer Maggie Furbay and artist Shawn Faust! Both had attended the Barbaro Celebration in July. Shawn is currently working on a painting of Big Brown while here in Saratoga!

It's off for another great day of racing at The Spa!

Update 3901: Race reports from key races yesterday:

Proud Spell Gets Final Word in Alabama
Grand Couturier Repeats In Sword Dancer
Juliet's Spirit Takes Ontario Debutante

Update 3900: A pleasant afternoon spent at Woodbine races. Juliet's Spirit won the 2yo stake. She is now three for three with two stakes wins. I watched the Sword Dancer in the paddock just after we saddled Jambalaya Joy (who ran a nice race to finish fifth). Better Talk Now ran well with his usual late run, but was not good enough to beat Grand Couturier who himself had a troubled trip. I then saw the rerun of the Alabama while back on the backside at Woodbine. Proud Spell just got the better of Music Note.

Update 3899: Off back to the races at Woodbine. We have three in the 2yo fillies stakes race. The same three that finished first, second and fourth in the My Dear a little earlier in the meet. Juliet's Spirit will likely be favorite, lets hope they all run well. I will also be rooting for Better Talk Now at Saratoga in the Sword Dancer. The Alabama also looks like an intriguing race with Music Note and Proud Spell: Showdown of top fillies in Alabama. Two of my personal favorites are also running later today, Humble Janet and Poni Colada. Lots of interest!

Update 3898: Another simply gorgeous morning this morning at Woodbine. I keep having to remind myself that it is still August because the weather here is much like mid September at Fair Hill. We had a nice and quiet morning this morning with only five sets. Four before the break and one after the break. A very early finish. All my horses went nicely. Once I was done I went over to watch others galloping from the bleechers by the racing office. Just a relaxing way to spend an hour, while doing a little reading.

Update 3897: Great news, after a long set of negotiations: Endangered Mares Removed From Feed Lot.

This is discussed here: 6 stallions, 40 preg. mares Needs Help.

And here you can learn more about a feedlot.

Posted by Alex at 10:03 AM | Comments (106)

Barbaro Update: 658

Posted August 15, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3896: A pleasant afternoon spent at Woodbine. We had a couple of runners, one of which won nicely (Poppin). Lovely weather during our races. It did rain later.

Update 3895: Red Rocks is scratched from tomorrow's Sword Dancer at Saratoga. Better Talk Now will now be one of the favorites: Red Rocks Out of Sword Dancer Stakes.

Update 3894: Paulick Report looks at the reach of the Jockey Club within the racing industry: JOCKEY CLUB: ALL ABOUT CONTROL.

Update 3893: An update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

Tim has reported that he had a great Thursday morning. Our Hearthrob sped away from the gate yesterday and today she worked an eighth of a mile is a blistering thirteen. She is doing great and has become quite a solid little girl. Lilly (sister of Who's Happy) worked again this morning and Tim says that she takes after her big sister in more than one way. All of the babies out of Enraged have been tough cookies and Lilly is no differant. That's OK with us because the first two fillies are both stakes winners and hopefully Lilly will follow them down that path.

Robbie just rode a winner in Saratoga for Jonathon Sheppard. It must be quite exciting to ride and win a race in beautiful Saratoga.

Veiled Reference went to the track for the first time yesterday and she is doing great. The trainer and I have miscommunicated about when Happy is running. She is running on PA day at the races but it is actually next Saturday not this Saturday. Happy is doing great and hopefully it will be a good day for both the owners and the trainer.

Update 3892: A simply gorgeous morning this morning at Woodbine. A pleasure to be riding horses. We had seven sets, four before the break and three after the break. All three latter horses went to the gate for a little schooling. All went nicely, the horses enjoying the lovely weather too. As I started galloping my last horse, after visiting the gate, I spied a loose horse coming flat out towards us. Thankfully he stayed along the outside rail and exited the track as I was galloping by. Those can always be dodgy moments.

Update 3891: Many good races this weekend at Saratoga where the wet weather has been a contributing factor:

Proud Spell in a small and talent-filled field for the Alabama Stakes: Music Note Adds to Alabama Intrigue

Red Rocks, Dancing Forever and other Grade 1 winners compete in the Sword Dancer: Grade I Winners Invade Sword Dancer

Finally, Evening Attire may be a possibility for the John’s Call Stakes on Sunday: Evening Attire Hopes It's Off the Turf

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:33 AM | Comments (59)

Barbaro Update: 657

Posted August 14, 2008

Updates are now here

Update 3890: The end of an era: Last Seattle Slew horse in training retired.

Update 3889: An update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

Update 164: What great weather we have been having! This morning was cool and the horses seemed to be enjoying some fresh air. Vicar's Tune ran at Laurel on Saturday and finished second by a neck. He just got nipped at the wire but ran a bang up race. What a cool horse. Gator Nation has returned from Colonial Downs and is as happy as ever. Simon Hobson took very good care of him in Virginia. Gator now lives in the end stall and loves to check out what's going on outside the barn. Beth (takes care of horses on other side of barn for Tim) tried to get Tim to move him to her side but Tim wouldn't budge. I stopped briefly this morning to give Gator a hug and he is just such a personality.

Who's Happy should be running this weekend at Pennsylvania day at the races (Philadelphia Park). She is doing great. Her little sister had her first piece of work on Saturday going an eighth and seems to have the same temperment her sisters have.

Sweet Ginger Brown has somehow figured out how to rip her stall matt. They are so thick I'm not sure what she did to rip it but we have now given her several toys to play with. Ginger doesn't look like a baby anymore. She has grown very tall and seems to have loads of confidence. She will race soon and I hope her confidence carrys over!

Mrs. MVP continues to train well and seems to be settling in here just fine. What a pretty girl she is.

Veiled Reference is still causing loads of trouble at feed time. She sure loves to eat. I stopped this morning to give Rajasthan a pat and a hug but he really wanted to play. He is all boy and knows how to show you. I stepped accross the isle to a more willing participant (Gator). Paris Night is training well and Robbie loves her. She is as gorgeous as ever.

We have several new horses in the barn now and I will try to get the trainer to spend a little time putting a few stats together that I can share with you. Luke continues to enjoy his days living at the farm with Timmy and Whip. He may ship in to school a few babies for a day or two.

Update 3888: A pleasant morning at Woodbine this morning. I had eight sets, five before the break and three after the break. Two of those after the break went to the gate to school. All went nicely and the weather is gorgeous. I also rode the pony "Charlie" after we were done. Much fun. This afternoon we are paddock schooling five horses in the second race, I will be going back to help out. I am now in the Jake Howard Center, on the backside at Woodbine, typing away and hanging out with the chaplain, Shawn!

Update 3887: A few internet accessibility issues yesterday afternoon. Hopefully all will be well today!

Spent a lovely lunch with Shelley from the Canadian Horse Defense Coalition yesterday then spent the evening enjoying racing at Woodbine along with good book.

The OTTB of the week winner, Carson City Kid's owner, has asked that the winnings be split between The Friends of Ferdinand and The Exceller Fund as they were both instrumental in saving Carson City Kid.

Jess Jackson has proposed Big Brown and Curlin meet this fall: Jackson: Meet Us in the Gold Cup Instead

Which was subsequently turned down by IEAH: Ball Back in Iavarone's Court: No Thanks

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:15 AM | Comments (51)

Barbaro Updates: 656

Posted August 13, 2008

Updates are now here

Update 3886: A quiet morning this morning at Woodbine with only six sets. Four of mine went to the gate, which meant I only had two before the break and a long break time waiting for the gate to open. During that time I wandered over to the track kitchen for a coffee, and then to the HBPA Office for some reading. Usual routine. All my horses galloped nice and quietly, and those that gate schooled stood well and quietly in the gate. That's better than one other I observed from another outfit. It literally sat down in the gate, and after doing so for a few minutes they had to open the front doors to get it to get back up. No harm.

Update 3885: The Grade 1 Sword Dancer, run this weekend at Saratoga on the turf has a couple of intriguing runners. Dancing Forever, who's mother underwent similar surgery at New Bolton Center as Barbaro (Time, money well invested) and Red Rocks who most recently defeated Curlin and is now a US resident (Red Rocks settles in for first start with Hennig.)

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:58 AM | Comments (72)

Barbaro Updates: 655

Posted August 12, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3884: An update on Lentenor and La Ville Rouge, at Mill Ridge Farm in Kentucky: A Visit with La Ville Rouge and Lentenor.

Update 3883: Eight Belles will be memorialized in a ceremony Sept. 7 at 2 p.m. in the Kentucky Derby Museum's gardens: Eight Belles honored at Derby Museum.

Update 3882: And the winner of the OTTB of the Week contest is Carson City Kid.

From Keeneland to Fargo ND, his career was well traveled!

Update 3881: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

Although not directly related to the Arlington Million, a highlight of the broadcast from my perspective was last week's Claiborne Farm Foal Patrol segment. Featured was über-broodmare Hasili, who was relocated from England to the US last year, with her most recent Empire Maker foal (she also has a 2006 Empire Maker filly). It's an interesting move, since Juddmonte Farms realizes that her appeal is largely European, describing her as:

"...not the American commercial type with a blocky body and a big hip," O'Rourke said. "She is tall and somewhat narrow with not much hip, yet her progeny have the big hips, apparently from Danehill."

Although it's not directly spelled out, it sounds as though she came to the States as a 'last chance' to have a 2007 foal (which turned out to be her Storm Cat yearling) after she did not get in foal to Oasis Dream back in Britain. In any case, she looked tremendous in the video footage, as did the foal (even though I've never been a fan of Empire Maker, despite his regal breeding) -- it's nice to have her here.

Other famous mares are keeping busy as well; Makybe Diva's first foal, her colt by Galileo, will be sent to auction next spring and her Fusaichi Pegasus foal is due next month. She's got a date planned with Encosta De Lago (her original suitor for last year, although equine influenza prevented their meeting) shortly thereafter. She's also busy with her new range of merchandise.

Better Than Honour, dam of Jazil, Rags to Riches and Casino Drive will also be on the block herself in the near future -- come November, you too could own a champion broodmare (if you have a few million lying around), although she's not in foal right now, so there's no special extra bonus if you buy now. I'd be curious to see what she would produce were she to be bred to Monsun or another strictly European stallion, although I would wager she will be back in the Coolmore fold and will be spending quality time with the likes of Haradasun or perhaps even the aforementioned Encosta De Lago. Time will tell...

Update 3880: A simply gorgeous morning this morning at Woodbine. I had eight sets, five before the break and three after the break. One of our riders had the day off, so some of the horses I rode were not my usual horses, but it is nice to ride one or two different ones from time to time. All my horses went nicely to make for a straightforward morning.

Update 3879: Curlin, and other top runners from Steve's barn at Saratoga, worked on Monday: Asmussen Stars Work at Oklahoma Track.

Don't forget to vote for your favorite OTTB. It does look like a leader is emerging. Voting ends at noon today.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:58 AM | Comments (50)

Barbaro Updates: 654

Posted August 9, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3878: I have been on the road now for a little over a year. This is what I posted on August 6, 2007:

Update 2274: I left the Fair Hill area at 3:30 this morning to drive to Penn National. My plan (which of course may be fluid) is to gallop at Penn National for a few weeks. Chuck, a Fair Hill vet, also does work at Penn National and contacted Murray Rojas and got me a start. I arrived a little before six ... and once things got going rode seven at the track, and then one at a nearby farm. It was strange being the stranger at the track having been at one track for so long (nearly 20 years at Fair Hill) and also knowing every horse I ride is new to me. That being said, everyone was super nice, those who work for Murray Rojas as well as their freelancers who took me with them to get on a couple more horses at another barn. I have to admit to being a little edgy driving up to Penn National, but for a first day things went smoothly enough. It was a muggy, humid morning though ...

Update 3877: One more day left to vote for the OTTB of the Week. One of the contenders is competing in the Beijing Olympics. He is well adrift of the two front runners in the voting, who are currently only separated by three votes. Please vote and help determine which horse rescue receives the $500 prize.

Update 3876: Rags to Riches mum, Better Than Honor, is to be sold: Better Than Honour to Be Sold.

Jen provides a wrap up of weekend racing for Canadian horses, plus a not so good story regarding Chuckwagon Racing, popular is western Canada: WINS.

Update 3875: A day off today!

Yesterday we had a runner in the last race at Woodbine. I went over to help out a little. Mr. Rowdy ran third. After the races I met a friend and we went over to Mohawk to watch Somebeachsomewhere. I have not been to too msny standardbred races, but the sport is quite popular in Ontario. Somebeachsomewhere is very popular. After last night's dominating performance where he swept by his rivals coming out of the first turn, he is now six for seven on the year. Very impressive and fun to witness live.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Update 3874: Paulick Report's weekly wrap: THE WEEK THAT WAS: AUG. 3-9.

Update 3873: An easy morning for me this morning at Woodbine. I only had four to ride. We had a few workers, and many of my regular horses were working. I watched some of the works after I was done galloping.

We have had a tough week so far this week with our runners. One was pulled up early in its race early in the week. All appears OK, and the horse is now going home with our shedrow foreman which is nice. He will be a companion for a half bind mare, once he settles in.

I congratulated Chantal on her five timer this morning. I was among many doing the same. I also saw Tyler, he was very upbeat despite not getting the monkey off his back!

Update 3872: Red hot jockey Chantal Sutherland rode five winners yesterday at Woodbine. Included in those winners was a win in the stakes race by just nosing out Tyler Pizarro's horse. It would have been Tyler's first stakes winner. Not (yet) to be. Chantal did the same thing to Tyler a couple of weeks ago: Sutherland Takes Five, Including Duchess.

Leading Canadian trainer Mark Casse saddled his 1,000th winner yesterday in the first race: Casse earns 1,000th career win on Saturday at Woodbine.

Media reports of the Arlington Million:

Spirit One Goes Wire-to-Wire in Million
Spirit One tops 1-2-3 Euro finish

Update 3871: What a terrific race the Arlington Million was. Spirit One went wire to wire in a tremendous performance. Archie could not get clear until late, but a deserved wire to wire victory for the French invador, Spirit One!

Update 3870: Quick FYI, ESPN and HRTV are showing the major races from Arlington this afternoon.

Update 3869: This is a very interesting development: Graded Stakes Tied to Adoption of Rules.

Thoroughbred Brief only recently addressed this idea: High Stakes - The Limits of Private Regulation.

Update 3868: A gorgeous morning this morning at Woodbine. Almost a little chilly to start the day! I had seven sets, five before the break and two after the break. A few galloped two miles, so almost a tiring morning.

A very flattering article was written in the Down The Stretch, which is widely distributed on the backside here at Woodbine. A few riders said nice things about it after the break to me. As I was cleaning tack I chatted with Robert Landry, one of the Jockey's here and on the board at LongRun. He had read the article. I then had breakfast in the kitchen and caught up with a few others. Great press for everything everyone has done.

Update 3867: It is Arlington Million day today and an international field is assembled. The leading contender, Archie, has an impressive international resume and trainer: Archipenko continues to impress entering Arlington Million.

Posted by Alex at 10:04 AM | Comments (142)

Barbaro Updates: 653

Posted August 8, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3866: Wild weather cancelled Saratoga today: Weather Forces Spa to Cancel 8 Races.

Update 3865: It is nice to see not all farming interests are pro-horse slaughter, as some would try to portray: Farming leader makes stand against horse slaughter, excerpt:

"When learning about the issue, people advocating horse slaughter kept saying horse slaughter is an important industry to farmers and horse owners. I had to take a stand and tell Congress this was just not true," Dr Boyd said.

"The industry exists out of greed and those advocating horse slaughter could care less about horse welfare."

Found on Paulick Report.

Update 3864: Today, the discussion board is two years old. Here is the second post posted on August 8, 2006: Welcome to Tim Woolley Racing.

Thank you Prospero for all your support.

Update 3863: A busier morning this morning at Woodbine with eight sets. Five before the break and three after the break. It was a very damp morning, with plenty of rain and thankfully no humidity. All the horses I rode went nicely. Two went to the gate for a little schooling. On my way out I stopped by the track kitchen for a decent breakfast. I ate and chatted with Laura, who is originally from Lithuania, and is a freelance exercise rider here. Fun actually sitting down and chatting with someone you see every morning and simply exchange hellos.

Update 3862: It is Arlington Park's big weekend this weekend. Aside from the Arlington Million, they have the Secretariat Stakes and the Beverly D, both also Grade 1 events. The Jackson's are represented: Trio of prominent turf runners to meet in Beverly D.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:59 AM | Comments (82)

Barbaro Updates: 652

Posted August 7, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3861: The HBPA, an organization I know little about despite spending most mornings in their office during break time, started out as a horse welfare organization: From Horses to Handles: an HBPA Miscellany.

Update 3860: Nautical Agent in her new career: I see your little belly.

Update 3859: A quiet morning this morning at Woodbine with only five sets. Two of those went to the gate for some gate schooling, so there was a long gap between the third and fourth sets. All horses went nicely. During my long break I went to the track kitchen, then to the HBPA office, then back to the barn and a lot of reading. I also got a chance to help catch a loose horse this morning. Not one of ours, but she was on her way into our barn. Lots of chatter this morning about Brett Favre's move to the Jets. It's now raining.

Update 3858: Timeform rates Curlin the number one racehorse in the world, Duke of Marmalade is number two, followed by Big Brown and Papal Bull: Timeform rates Curlin as world's best horse in current Global Rankings.

Further progress for the forty six thoroughbreds culled from a California breeding program: Endangered Horses On Way to Being Saved. Discussed here: 6 stallions, 40 preg. mares Needs Help.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:00 AM | Comments (103)

Barbaro Updates: 651

Posted August 6, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3857: Nice recognition for the Finger Lakes Thoroughbred Adoption Program, which I visited on my way up to this current Woodbine meet: Inside Track: Purple Haze
.

Update 3856: Its nice to see OTTBs competing in the upcoming Olympic Games: Racehorses to compete in Olympics.

And PLEASE, don't forget to vote for your favorite OTTB. $500 is at stake!

Update 3855: Excellent commentary: Furious.

Update 3854: A very pleasant morning's work this morning at Woodbine. We had ten sets (one of our riders had the day off) and all went very nicely. It is also a gorgeous morning here too. Four of my horses went to the gate for a bit of gate schooling. All behaved very well. Just one of those good mornings.

Update 3853: The major race of this weekend is the Arlington Million. It usually attracts competition from overseas and this year is no exception. Yesterday Archipenko, the likely favorite, had a nice slow work at Arlington in preparation. Einstein will be one of the marquee US challengers: Probable Favorite Works For 'Million'.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:01 AM | Comments (46)

Barbaro Updates: 650

Posted August 5, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3852: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

Mark your calendars for August 30th - Curlin will be heading back to dirt for the Woodward although owner Jess Jackson indicated that turf is still an option down the line:

"The Arc is probably out for this year," Jackson said. "We think he can be a turf champion but I'm not sure he has enough time this year to make the adjustment," Jackson said. "The flexibility of his racing style and the tactics he'd have to use (on the turf) vary so you'd have to train him for that."

As much as I would like to see Curlin in a race like the Arc, I agree that he would need a serious turf foundation for it; most horses aiming for it have had carefully planned campaigns with that in mind and it does seem that more than one or two starts on turf would be enough to get there (at least if being competitive were the goal).

In other news, 28-year-old Breeders' Cup Distaff champion and Eclipse Award winner Princess Rooney has been diagnosed with EPM (Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis), a neurological disease spread by parasites which can be serious at any point, but is certainly very much a concern for a mare of her advanced age. Here's hoping for a speedy recovery.

Returning to Curlin, it seems that although it's unlikely we will see him race at five, it's not entirely off the table, according to details from the Paulick Report:

Jackson also called for a "league" or series of races for older horses that he said, if accomplished by 2009, could convince him to keep Curlin in training and forego his stud career for another year. "That's a concept that's attractive," he said, "but the devil is in the details. It's very preliminary."

While obviously just an idea now, such a suggestion is another hopeful sign that the sport is beginning to head in the right direction; coupled with the announcement that the Breeders' Cup is banning steroids beginning with next year's event, there are some encouraging moves to note. Keep 'em coming.

Update 3851: Horse of the Year Curlin's next start will be back on the dirt at Saratoga:Curlin making next start in Woodward.

More details here: CURLIN: WOODWARD NEXT STOP.

Update 3850: A quick update on Nicanor: Update on Nicanor's Activities.

Update 3849: An easy morning this morning at Woodbine, with only six sets for me. Four before the break and two after the break. All galloped easily for a trouble-free morning. We did have a few workers, and Jimmy (McAleney) came in to help out. All seemed to work well.

Update 3848: The Hall of Fame ceremonies were yesterday. Dr. Richardson was the keynote speaker: Hall of Fame: It's All About the Horse.

The sales at Saratoga got underway last night: Mr. Greeleys set early pace at the Spa.

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:00 AM | Comments (84)

Barbaro Updates: 649

Posted August 4, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3847: More coverage on the 40 mares and 6 stallions that were given away: Horse Rescue Saga: Breeder Was 'Lied To', excerpt:

"These horses were not intended for that purpose," said Ben Warren, owner of Warren's Thoroughbreds in Hemet, Calif. "I'll take them back right now if that's what people think."

He said he gave the horses to an individual he identified as Dave Quinn, who told him he was taking them to a ranch in Riverside, Calif.

Warren said Quinn told him he wanted the foals of the broodmares, who are pregnant, to prepare them for sale as racehorses, and the stallions for future breeding. Quinn took the first group of horses by transport truck July 27 and the rest two days later, Warren said.

"He lied to me, plain and simple," Warren said. "I thought they were going to good homes. And I'll tell you another thing. If those horses went to Arizona, they didn't go legally because none of them had a Coggins Certificate."

Discussion: 6 stallions, 40 preg. mares Needs Help.

Update 3846: Curlin worked this morning and a decision will be announced about the plans for his next race tomorrow: Jackson to reveal Curlin's next start on Tuesday.

Update 3845: Big Brown appears fine after his hard fought win yesterday: Big Brown comes back fine from Haskell.

Update 3844: A review of yesterday's Breeders Stakes win and the masterful ride of Dos Ramos: PRETTY GOOD, excerpt:

It was a fateful day at a charity event when Schickedanz, who has owned and raced such world-class runners as Langfuhr and Canadian Triple Crown winner Wando, decided to hire England to train one of his horses. All the other Schickedanz runners are trained by Mike Keogh.

"We were at a horse retirement function and he said he was going to pick out a yearling for me to train," England recalled. "When I got Marlang, I knew early on it was the best horse I have ever trained."

Winning trainer Debbie England is on the Board of Directors for LongRun.

Update 3843: Today is a big day for Edgar Prado: Edgar Prado saddles spot in National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame.

Found on Paulick Report.

Update 3842: Another day off today!

Media coverage of Big Brown's performance yesterday in the Haskell:

BIG BROWN GETS UP LATE TO WIN HASKELL
Big Brown gets it done in Haskell
Big Brown Delivers Gutty Haskell Win
Big Brown regains winning stride in Haskell

Please keep calling and writing both DC and your local offices.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 11:21 AM | Comments (75)

Barbaro Updates: 648

Posted August 2, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3841: Big Brown won the Haskell. But it was ugly. I would be surprised if we see him run again, and certainly this is not the same horse who won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness.

Richard Dos Ramos outrode everyone in the Breeders Stakes at Woodbine. He went wire to wire with Marlang. A great race, and great race riding!

Update 3840: An easy morning for me this morning at Woodbine with only five sets. A few of my horses were working and the jocks came in to ride. Lovely weather too. All the horses I rode galloped nicely, and we had no gate schooling. Very straightforward.

Big Brown returns to the races today for the first time since his Belmont debacle. If he is the real deal, he will win the Haskell very comfortably. Lets just see.

At Woodbine we have the final leg of the Canadian Triple Crown today. The Breeders Stakes. It is a mile and a half on the turf, and should be a race under great conditions. All Breeders' news at Jen's. We have a runner in the first, and hopefully he can (finally) break his maiden.

Update 3839: Reports on the major races yesterday:

Perfect Zenyatta Rolls to Seven Straight
Ready Set Goes in West Virginia Derby
Indian Blessing Cruises in Test
Sky Mom Rallies For Arlington Oaks Win

Update 3838: Zenyatta kept her unbeaten record in tact at Del Mar. Her effort looked easy in the end, but she did have her work cut out to get into position to make her final run. She also looks to be a very large horse!

Update 3837: Many culled thoroughbreds are in need of rehoming: Rescue Effort Seeks Help for 46 Horses, excerpt:

Priscilla Clark, president of Tranquility Farm in Tehachapi, Calif., claims that unless her facility can raise the money to buy and place the Thoroughbreds, which include six stallions and 40 pregnant broodmares, she said they would be sold to unknown buyers, most if not all for slaughter.

"The plan is to procure as many of the horses as possible and put them in a safe situation," she said.

It is discussed here: Seattle Bound -CA Stallion - Needs Help.

Update 3836: Sky Mom ran down Dreaming of Liz in the Arlington Oaks with a big move around the turn. Indian Blessing was in a stalking position before drawing away for an easy win in the Test Stakes at Saratoga.

Update 3835: Ready Set held on to win the West Virginia Derby for the Jackson's and Michael Matz! Z Fortune never really got into the race. We did win the race before with Zanjero, who must love the track at Mountaineer Park.

Update 3834: Two updates from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com. The first from today at Saratoga, the second from Fair Hill, yesterday:

Saratoga:

A light rain is now falling in Saratoga after a beautiful and sunny Saturday morning. While I was in the park looking at the beautiful flowers and listening to the birds I began to think about the yearlings being sold next week. Running along the tree lined street I wondered where they would end up. Who would buy them and where they would race? All of these babies are well bred and have been selected to sell in the main sale at Saratoga. Would their lives be long and happy ones? How will these babies take to being trained and learning about the racing game? I stopped by Walnut Green yesterday to pet a beautiful gray colt. He was standing so politely watching and waiting for his turn to be shown to a prospective buyer. He must have been used to loads of attention because when I stopped to stroke his face and talk to him he just soaked it all in. He seems to trust humans so it is a good start. As I look out the repository window I can see him out again. Having no idea what hip number he is I do not know what his breeding is but he seems to be very popular. Will he like training and stay sound enough to get to the races? Will he run fast or long and have confidence and dig in when being tested? What direction will his life go? This is just the beginning for these babies and hopefully they will give their owner's a lot of exciting racing days and hopefully when their racing days are over their owner's will return the favor by giving them a place to live and all the love they need for the rest of their days! Who knows what direction life takes horses and humans?

Fair Hill:

Today was not bad for a Friday. Rose Campbell has come out of her effort at Penn National the other night just fine. Showing little interest in keeping up with the pack, she will probably go home to be a riding horse. She is very lucky that her owner loves her to bits.

King Congaree and Sweet Ginger Brown breezed this morning. Skipping around the track for five eighths of a mile, both horses seem to be rapidly approaching the races. Sweet Ginger Brown seems to love the Tapeta surface and may make the trip to Presque Isle in a week or so to run. Vicar's Tune is coming around after his last trip to Colonial Downs and may run again next week at Colonial or Laurel. Our Hearthrob and Paris Night are now training partners and went a mile and a half at a leisurely pace this morning. They have both come back from lay offs and seem eager to train.

Saar Treaty will be running at Colonial Downs tommorrow on the turf. Hopefully she will like the track and not be bothered by the ship to Virginia. She is a confident filly and not much seems to bother her.

Real Lace has been under saddle for a few days with Tim in the saddle. He has decided that she needs a little more RNR and has sent her to a local farm. She has come back to her old self being very vocal at feed time. It is wonderful having her back. Hopefully with a bit more time off she will return to win a few more races.

Robbie rode at Saratoga yesterday and finished third beaten by just half a length. What a beautiful racetrack to skip around. I'm sure it is dreadful to get nipped at the wire but the scenery couldn't be better.

Tim is checking to see when the next video will be ready. I remain congnizant of the fact that you can not rush an artist but remain hopeful that it will be finished soon.

Update 3833: More racing news for today.

Baffert is back at Saratoga, and has an interesting runner today in the second, Spaniard, as well as Indian Blessing in the featured Test Stakes: Baffert back for working vacation at Saratoga.

In California Zenyetta returns to the races. She is probably the best filly running in North America: Zenyatta has rivals thinking of second.

At Arlington, I am rooting for Sky Mom, since I think I rode her once in Houston: Sky Mom Primed For Arlington Oaks.

We also have a couple of 2yos running this afternoon at Woodbine, Jen picks neither of them,, but certainly an exciting day all around.

Update 3832: Eight sets today for a relatively busy morning this morning at Woodbine. No gate schooling, which also meant no long break waiting for the gate to open. A few of mine galloped two miles, so quite a few miles galloped also. All went pretty nicely, and the weather here remains gorgeous.

Racing is on ESPN this afternoon, which includes the Test Stakes at Saratoga and the West Virginia Derby at Moutaineer Park: TV Schedule.

Update 3831: Breeders' Cup is taking a strong stand on steroids, penalizing racetracks that don't come on board as well as trainers