Barbaro Updates: 696

Posted September 30, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4096: Mike Iavarone Co-President & CEO; IEAH Stables, owner of Big Brown and others, was a guest on Bloodhorse's Talkin' Horses, and was asked about Horse Slaughter:

Ontario, Canada:
Can you comment on your position on the horse slaughter issue?

Iavarone:
My position is horse slaughter is pretty obvious as I have been somewhat outspoken against it and Dr. Patty Hogan who will be our head surgeon at the Ruffian Center has given testimony in Washington DC against it.

Update 4095: Big Brown returned to the work tab for the first time since his win at Monmouth: Big Brown Drills at the Big A.

Update 4094: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

I spent much of Saturday glued to TVG (now a TBA sponsor) since the Powers That Be did not see fit to otherwise televise more than one of the eleven G1 races featured this weekend between Belmont and Santa Anita (not to mention the overseas races). Before the two star performances, however, there were a few upsets along the way.

First, Henrythenavigator finally saw the back of Raven's Pass -- a horse he has beaten three times. They may face each other once more this season in California; one imagines that the weather and firmer ground would favor Henrythenavigator -- after last year's nightmare with George Washington, I wonder if they would be so keen on trying the Breeders' Cup if this year's installment were at a muddy Belmont. Ginger Punch was not so lucky against Cocoa Beach in the Beldame and Street Boss was also outfinished in the Ancient Title, but neither could really be said to have run a terrible race -- they both just seemed a bit tired.

The new surface at Santa Anita proved no impediment to superstar Zenyatta; she's (almost always easily) beaten the best fillies of her generation, and Saturday's Lady's Secret was no different. Hystericalady gave it all she had, but when jockey Mike Smith asked Zenyatta to go, she loped off, leaving the few who dared to face her in the dust. Her consummate ease in the Distaff division suggests that she might take a crack at the Classic - but perhaps next year. Let her win the Filly & Mare Classic this go-round, let the dust settle and swoop in for next year's Classic Classic. If she's this good at 4, she could be even more of a monster at 5 -- and I would not be surprised if retirement was an easy excuse for some top colts to duck her.

Curlin's record-breaking Jockey Club Gold Cup repeat was almost coolly professional; he clearly knew just what he had to do and dispatched his rivals with no trouble once called upon. He's earned his place in history while the rest of his agemates sat on the sidelines watching -- and I doubt they would have matched his success. I was not a Curlin fan during last year's Triple Crown series; I didn't like the path he took to the Derby, I didn't like his jailbird owners and I especially did not like that he was switched from Helen Pitts to Steve Asmussen. I give a lot of credit to Jess Jackson for trying to iron out the ownership situation and even more to the horse himself for proving what he was capable of. Here's hoping we see him in the Classic - and, if we are lucky, next year. We'll see how he settles in at Santa Anita.

Of course, there were many other fine performances -- Wait a While's Yellow Ribbon was another confident victory by a star, although her effort is being somewhat eclipsed by Curlin and Zenyatta's stories -- but having watched Zenyatta win, it's easy to see why others seem to pale in comparison.

Check back later this week for more on last weekend's races (which will likely involve a discursion into folklore -- you have been warned) and a preview of Sunday's Arc, which should see Zarkava take on Duke of Marmalade...

Update 4093: Some wild and wet weather this morning at Woodbine. Thunder and lightening rolled in later in the morning, and my last horse (Terry Jordan's) stayed in the shedrow as the thunderstorm loomed directly overhead! The six I galloped for Steve all went nicely. Which was good because of a distinct lack of sleep from last night's benefit could have made for a tough morning's work! Now time to recuperate a little, although I am having lunch with some of the LongRun people!

Update 4092: Peppers Pride is in the entries for Saturday at Zia Park, New Mexico. She is attempting to increase her winning streak to seventeen races and set a modern day record: Peppers Pride Seeks Record 17th Win.

Last night we, Darren Dominic and I, attended a benefit for fellow exercise rider Matt Douglas. Matt suffered third degree burns in a barbeque accident last week and will be out of action for a good while. It was good to see so many people out in support of Matt. The highlight of the evening was a "bidding war" between jockeys Jono Jones and Tyler Pizarro for a picture that I am not entirely sure either of them wanted. Fun to watch and all for a great cause.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:05 AM | Comments (77)

Barbaro Updates: 695

Posted September 29, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4091: Another monday and a new class of "students" for Internet for First Time Starters at Woodbine. This is our second batch of students. I have to say it is fun to teach, and fun to get to know a few more people on the backside at Woodbine.

Update 4090: Two letters to the editor in the Daily Racing Form are further evidence that the industry, the NTRA, has taken the wrong approach to horse slaughter: Letters to the Editor.

Update 4089: I just heard that Graham Motion added his name to the letter sent to DC to support anti-slaughter legislation (ABERCROMBIE'S STRONG PITCH TO END SLAUGHTER).

Curlin is now at Santa Anita: Curlin arrives at Santa Anita for possible Classic start.

Update 4088: Eight sets this morning at Woodbine. All mine galloped nicely, making it a very straightforward morning. Seven were for Steve (Darren) and then the one extra one for Terry Jordan (Anita).

I had a nice chat with one of the exercise riders here coming off the track. We were discussing the state of the horse slaughter legislation in the US, and the unwillingness of the NTRA to get behind the issue (H.R. 6598). It's great discussing this issue with regular horsemen and realize that the NTRA's stance is not only unacceptable, but not reflective of the regular horsemen. This is also supported by the letter sent to DC from Abercrombie!

Update 4087: It is apparent now that Curlin may run in the Breeders' Cup, and in doing so may meet Big Brown: Curlin En Route to California, excerpt:

Following the Gold Cup, Jackson said. "First we'll have to get him adjusted. But it is up to him whether he likes the track and the surface. So, those are concerns we still have. But we'll consider it now that we're past this hurdle. That's the next prospect for us and we'll give it every bit of attention. I am being very cautious and doing my due diligence first."

Asmussen, speaking by phone emphasized that they are not committing Curlin to the BC Classic at this point.

"He came out of the (Gold Cup) great. What we decide will only matter according to how he is on that race track. We're going to California to work him, and nothing past that," he said.

In winning the Gold Cup, Curlin bypassed Cigar to become the richest North American-based Thoroughbred in history with earnings of $10,246,800.

Dual Classic winner Big Brown already has been committed to the Breeders' Cup and is due in California several days prior to the race.

"Big Brown is doing good,”" trainer Rick Dutrow said by phone from New York. "I was happy to see what I saw yesterday with Curlin, and I can't wait to get out there and put him (Big Brown) in the gate."

Asked how he felt as a "fan" to possibly see a race between Curlin and Big Brown, Dutrow said, "Oh, we're excited as we can be."

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:00 AM | Comments (96)

Barbaro Updates: 694

Posted September 27, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4086: Ten year old Evening Attire is now retired: 10-Year-Old Evening Attire Retired.

Update 4085: A busy morning this morning at Woodbine. We had a few workers. We also had a freelance exercise rider come in to help out. That lasted a couple of sets. I had eight sets, five before the break and three after the break, for Steve / Darren. All mine galloped nicely, although one of mine tried to wipe out Darren as he let me go as we entered the racetrack. That's him, he's a bull sometimes, and can be uncontrollable when in that form! I also got on an extra one, again, for Anita (Terry Jordan). He also galloped nicely. I finished up the morning watching a bit of english footy in Mike Keogh's barn.

Curlin, along with a couple of other Asmussen horses, is on his way to California. Jen has a good wrap up of yesterday's events as well as a look forward to Woodbine's key stakes next weekend: BEARS, OH MY!

Update 4084: Some terrific racing yesterday from coast-to-coast. The highlight was obviously Curlin's record breaking victory, but there were also terrific performances by many others including Zenyetta and Stardom Bound. Here are the racing media reports of Curlin's victory:

RESULTS FROM BIG BREEDERS' CUP PREP RACES (includes coverage of all the Breeders' Cup prep races)
Curlin earns trip to Santa Anita
Curlin's Gold Cup Triumph Makes History
Curlin breaks record, easily wins Jockey Club Gold Cup

Update 4083: It's all Curlin!

It might not have been Curlin's most visually impressive win, but a strong win nonetheless as he ran down the front running Wanderin Boy, in a hand ride, in the slop at Belmont. I watched the race with Darren (Steve's assistant here), Dominic (our work rider who has ridden Curlin), Danny (Jim McAleney's agent) and Gary (Patrick Husband's agent). Just a great win!

Update 4082: Curlin is now in the security barn, along with all today's runners at Belmont Park. As we wait and hope to see Curlin set a record this afternoon, let's remember the horse whose record he will attempt to beat: Cigar.

We should also take a little time to remember the ill-fated Exceller, who won the Jockey Club Gold Cup and defeated two Triple Crown winners in the process: 1978 Jockey Club Gold Cup - Exceller.

Update 4081: A bit of a damp and dreary morning this morning at Woodbine. The big question of the morning was whether they will race on the turf this afternoon. We have a horse entered MTO (main track only in a turf race) and he will only run if the race comes off the turf. There is a chance this will happen given the importance of saving the turf for the big races of next weekend.

I had seven sets altogether. Six for Darren (Steve Asmussen) and I got on an extra horse for Anita (Terry Jordan). This horse had just shipped in from Vancouver, although I think he had run at Woodbine earlier in the meet (plenty of flying miles for him!) All my horses went nicely. So the work part of the morning was nice and straight forward.

Update 4080: There are eleven Grade 1 races today at Belmont and Santa Anita, as well as key races from Ascot and Turfway Park (TV LINEUP AND POST TIMES FOR SATURDAY'S BIG RACES).

The racing world will be focused on one race, however, the Jockey Club Gold Cup and Curlin's attempt at making racing history:

Curlin ready to take place alongside sport's all-time greats
Curlin aims for history
Curlin Stares Down Cigar's Earnings Mark
Curlin takes aim at record in Jockey Club Gold Cup

Posted by Alex at 9:48 AM | Comments (158)

Barbaro Updates: 693

Posted September 26, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4079: A fun day at the races capped by a Michael Keogh double from which we profited.

Update 4078: Off to the races to catch up with Jen.

Update 4077: Bad weather has forced Belmont Park to cancel racing today in order to prepare for it's big weekend of racing: Friday Live Racing Cancelled at Belmont.

Update 4076: Another simply gorgeous morning this morning here at Woodbine. I have been warned by more than one person that it gets very cold up here before the end of the meet. And when it starts getting chilly it will only get colder. But the weather lately has been absolutely fantastic!

We had nine sets today, so quite a busy day. Five before the break and four after the break. Three of the latter went to the gate to stand. All my horses galloped nicely so a very relaxed morning. Darren got a call from Scott (Blasi). All is well with Curlin ahead of his big day tomorrow.

Chantal Sutherland has been in California for a few days, and has just returned. I caught up with her walking back on the track after one of my horses had finished galloping. I quized her on the new track surface at Santa Anita and she was pretty enthusiastic about it. Lets hope the reports continue to be positive!

Update 4075: Saturday might be considered the best day of racing in terms of number of Stakes races, outside of the Breeders' Cup. The undercard to the Jockey Club Gold Cup (Curlin's race) at Belmont Park includes four other Grade 1 events. Santa Anita plays host to six Grade 1 events and the undefeated Zenyetta will be one of the stars on show. Also Turfway Park also has a number of Stakes races, and Perfect Drift will be on hand for his retirement ceremony: Perfect Drift Ceremony Set for Turfway
.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:59 AM | Comments (72)

Barbaro Updates: 692

Posted September 25, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4074: All eyes will be on Curlin's attempt to win the Jockey Club Gold Cup on Saturday and make some racing history. Exceller won the same race, defeating two Triple Crown winners in the process: EXCELLER: A CAUSE CELEBRE, excerpt:

This Saturday, to honor Exceller's Jockey Club Gold Cup victory, a number of racetracks across the U.S. will host a "Toast to Exceller Day," in order to raise awareness and donations for the Exceller Fund and many other equine charity groups. A special cocktail, "The Exceller," is being sold at several tracks, including Mountaineer, Finger Lakes, Laurel Park and Presque Isle Downs, with proceeds benefting the Exceller Fund.

"I cannot thank our partner tracks enough for their support with this and I wish to especially thank the New York Racing Association for their commitment to the Exceller Fund that will be a lasting relationship for many years to come," said leading New York trainer Gary Contessa, who in August was named president of the Exceller Fund.

Update 4073: If Curlin can win the Jockey Club Gold Cup on Saturday, history will be made: Curlin Stares Down Cigar's Earnings Mark.

Update 4072: Another lovely morning at Woodbine. We have had a spectacular run of weather lately! We had seven sets, four before the break and three after the break. All my horses went nicely to make it an easy morning's work. Not such a bad thing after a latish night last night at the races. We had a runner, Tactical, who finished a game second. I hung out with trainer Terry Jordan (two runners and one winner) and Danny who is Jimmy McAleney's agent. Jimmy rode both of Terry's horses. A good fun and interesting evening.

Update 4071: After the opening day at Santa Anita the feedback from horsemen regarding the new synthetic surface has been positive. With major stakes scheduled for the weekend and the Breeders' Cup at the end of the meet, this track will come under a lot of scrutiny: New SA Surface Gets Positive Reviews.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:01 AM | Comments (49)

Barbaro Updates: 691

Posted September 24, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4070: A fund has been established for the children of Parker Buckley. Parker was an exercise rider for Steve Asmussen, and tragically died at Saratoga this August: Fund established for children of exercise rider.

Update 4069: No doubt this letter: ABERCROMBIE'S STRONG PITCH TO END SLAUGHTER helped limit some of the damage caused by the NTRA's decision not to support the new bill in the House to ban horse slaughter, and helped get the bill out of committee yesterday. Some great people signed this letter. it is great to see this stand and frank illustration that the NTRA does not represent the view of horsemen. Very cool!

A quiet morning this morning at Woodbine, with only six sets. We had four before the break and two after the break that went to the gate. All mine went nicely, which was good as it was one of those morning's where I just felt tired from the get go. It was also a nice and warm morning!

Update 4068: Today is opening day at Santa Anita, along with it's new racing surface. As the host for this year's Breeders' Cup, many horsemen will be looking to see how the new racetrack holds up: Morvich highlights Oak Tree opening day.

H.R. 6598 passed the House Judiciary Committee yesterday. It now awaits a vote by the full House on the floor: Federal Ban on Horse Slaughter One Step Closer.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:00 AM | Comments (87)

Barbaro Updates: 690

Posted September 23, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4067: Larry Jones, trainer of Eight Belles Proud Spell and Hard Spun, plans to retire by the end of 2009: Trainer Jones to Retire by End of 2009.

Update 4066: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update:

Although I'm in the midst of an extremely busy week at work, I have been keeping up with my Task Force co-authors in Las Vegas via their regular Twitter updates which are aggregated at Raceday 360 Wire along with all the other racing news that's fit to scrape - if you have not been yet, do check it out.

If you have been keeping up, you'll know that Perfect Drift has been retired, but I'm glad they decided to at least try him out to see if he wanted to race another season; obviously he told his connections 'not so much' but it's nice to see that they did right by the horse on both counts. You also know that Commentator rocked the MassCap - check out Teresa's coverage of the day here.

It's still auction season, despite the tanking economy, and quite a number of top racemares are now on the block as broodmares: Honey Ryder, currently in foal to Giant's Causeway and I was a little dismayed to see Intangaroo up as a 'racing and/or broodmare' prospect. Pure Clan is also up for sale only a short while after her American Oaks victory; last year's winner of the same race, Panty Raid, is also in the sale - I would hope that Intangaroo and Pure Clan stay around a while longer. They are saving the last spot in the auction for über-broodmare Better Than Honour; she's not in foal this year, but one imagines that she will boost the bottom line.

Curlin is ready to go for the Jockey Club Gold Cup (and we will have more on that and the many other stakes races that will not be televised beyond TVG/HRTV later this week), but perhaps the most exciting racing news this week continues to be Weekend Hussler in Australia. He began his season with a solid second on August 16th and has won his three races since then; clearly his Horse of the Year honor is not weighing him down at all. He has now won seven Group 1 races and is on target for the Caulfield Cup as a prelude to the Melbourne Cup. The bay gelding's bandwagon is well worth jumping on, if you are not on board already. And as an added bonus, there's a lot less waiting around in between races to see him compared to North American stars.

Check back later this week for more on Curlin and Mambo in Seattle...

Update 4065: We are being asked to call those on the Judiciary committee and request they attend today's meeting, beginning 1 pm today, to discuss and vote on HR 6598: TODAY 9/23 1 PM WEB CAM JUD COM HR6598.

Update 4064: Wall Street will have an obvious impact on the thoroughbred market: MARKET CRISIS HITS THE HORSE BUSINESS.

Update 4063: Another gorgeous fall morning this morning at Woodbine. We had seven sets, five before the break and two after the break. Another easy-going morning. One of my horses, galloping for the first time since his second place finish last week, pulled very hard for the mile gallop. I was exhausted at the end. Hopefully he will settle back down again in the next day or so as he gets back to his training routine. All in all a pleasant morning's work.

Update 4062: Nine year old Perfect Drift, who has not been able to return to his peak form of a couple of years ago, has been retired: Grade I Winner Perfect Drift Retired
.

Proud Spell, who was second in her most recent start, will skip the rest of the year (Breeders' Cup) but might return to the races next year: Proud Spell to Get Rest; May Run in 2009.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:59 AM | Comments (79)

Barbaro Updates: 689

Posted September 22, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4061: We just finished the final class of our three class series at Woodbine: Internet for First Time Starters at Woodbine. It was fun, and I think we will have new students again for next week!

Update 4060: Curlin completes his final preparations ahead of his attempt this weekend to become the all-time leading money earning racehorse: Curlin 'Perfect' in Work for Gold Cup.

Update 4059: Some more cool Top Bunk List coverage: "Top Bunk" List Helps Past Champions Find Happy Endings.

Update 4058: Jen provides a summary of events at Ajax / Pivoc Downs from yesterday (I met her there): NEED FOR SPEED.

Please continue to express your thoughts to the NTRA regarding their "position" on horse slaughter (H.R. 6598). It is super critical they hear from both fans and horsemen.

Update 4057: Another lovely morning at Woodbine this morning. The fall weather here is terrific, so far! We had a nice and easy morning with only six sets. I had one go to the gate for some schooling, the rest just galloped easily. All my horses went nicely.

The winner of the big race yesterday at Ajax Downs (their first graded stakes) was ridden by Tony Phillips. He is from London and is an exercise rider at Woodbine. We chatted this morning about his success. Seems like a very cool guy. I also gave Mr. Rowdy a pat after his victory yesterday at Woodbine. It was nice to see him win after running four pretty decent races at the meet without actually winning any one of them. He's a cool horse, one I had written about a few times regarding his "athletic" talents!

I was a bit stressed out this morning at we had a few technical difficulties with the sites here (wiki and updating this site), but thankfully Host My Site made the fix!

Update 4056: Hall of Fame Jockey Earle Fires retired yesterday at Arlington Park. He was inducted in 2001 and ends his career with 6,470 wins putting him in 9th place for all time wins for a jockey: Hall of Fame Jockey Earlie Fires Retires

Grade 1 winner Tough Tiz's Sis is retired after injuring herself in a workout on Saturday: Tough Tiz's Sis Retired Due to Fracture

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 12:35 PM | Comments (58)

Barbaro Updates: 688

Posted September 20, 2008

Updates are now here

Update 4055: A great day spent at Picov Downs and then back at Woodbine. We had a pleasant afternoon watching quarter horse racing, including the first graded stakes at the J track. We then returned to Woodbine and watched Mr. Rowdy win the ninth race. Just very cool!

Update 4054: More on the popular Commentator's win yesterday: Commentator cruises to record victory, excerpt:

Commentator not only carried the stable colors of owner Tracey Farmer to a record-smashing 14-length triumph in the $500,000 Massachusetts Handicap yesterday, the valiant 7-year-old gelding also carried the torch in trainer Nick Zito's ongoing crusade against the slaughter of horses.

One of the over-riding reasons that Zito opted to enter Commentator in the 66th running of the MassCap was the zero-toleration policy that Richard Field's ownership team at Suffolk Down instituted this year to take the lead within the thoroughbred industry against the cruel slaughter of horses.

Following the winner's circle presentation, Zito dedicated Commentator's popular victory in front of 17,712 to a late former client, John Hettinger, who was a pioneer in the fight against the slaughter of horses.

"Nobody says you're not supposed to euthanize a horse, nobody says that. The problem you've got is, it's one of the ugliest things, horse slaughter," said Zito, whose wife, Kim, has also taken an active role in the fight to bar horse slaughter. "Mr. Fields, what he's done at Suffolk Downs, he should be commended."

and

"Commentator will carry the torch (against horse slaughter) until . . . whenever," Zito said of his ageless gelding who notched his 13th victory in 20 lifetime races.

Found on Paulick Report.

Update 4053: Another lovely morning this morning at Woodbine. A little chilly later perhaps. We had an easy morning. Seven sets, five before the break and two after the break. It was one of those morning's that you just enjoy galloping horses, and all mine went nicely. We had a few workers, and I rode one or two of the horses our work rider usually rides. Sometimes it is fun to switch up a little bit.

We have a couple of runners this afternoon, but I am off to Picov Downs for their last day of their meet (quarter horse racing) and the last day on a J track as they begin contruction on a new track!

Update 4052: Media reports on Commentator's victory yesterday:

Caps off to Commentator
Commentator's winning margin says it all
Commentator Does the Talking in Mass Cap
Commentator outclasses competition in MassCap romp

In other racing news, Proud Spell was upset (Seattle Smooth upsets Proud Spell in Cotillion). Indian Blessing cruised to her win (Indian Blessing runs away in Gallant Bloom) and My Pal Charlie won the Super Derby (My Pal Charlie earns clear Super Derby win.)

Update 4051: Commentator strolled to victory in the Massachesetts Handicap at Suffolk Downs and Suffolk acts on slaughter policy.

Update 4050: LongRun day at the races today at Woodbine. It appears LongRun did get plenty of support. And it was nice to see some x-racers on display.

The highlight of my day was meeting a young lady by the name of Yael Gottesman. I think she was at Woodbine entirely independent of LongRun. She is seventeen and is wheel-chair bound. She was at Woodbine collecting signatures. She wants to present these signatures to her MP to push for horse slaughter legislation. She read the story in the Toronto Star (Battle to save horses from slaughterhouse) and has been on a mission ever since. The NTRAs recent declaration to essentially support the practice of slaughter was a major downer for me personally. Meeting and chatting with Yael was a major inspiration. The other cool thing was that it was my boss, Darren Fleming, who pointed her out. He signed the petition right above my name.

Update 4049: Jay Hovdey wrote a strong opinion piece in the Daily Racing Form calling out the NTRA for switching positions (WALDROP'S WAFFLE) on the horse slaughter issue: Slaughter bill needs backing. (Need to have a subscription, but a wonderful piece nonetheless).

A very pleasant morning's work at Woodbine. We had eight sets, five before the break and three after the break. Two of my horses after the break went to the gate for a little schooling. All my horses went nicely, and I did not see a loose horse all morning nor hear the siren!

Today is LongRun's Day at the Races: Be A Hero For Just One Day - Support LongRun Day at Woodbine . It's terrific to see firsthand how a track supports it's horses. This is in stark contrast to the NTRAs position on slaughter (H.R. 6598).

Update 4048: Some interesting racing today. Most notable of the runners will be Commentator, who has run some terrific races now that he is seven years old. He overmatches his rivals in the Massachusetts Handicap at Suffolk Downs, and lets hope he wins like a good horse should win: Commentator Odds-On For MassCap.

Indian Blessing, who was recently scratched from the Ruffian, returns to sprinting and takes on older horses in the Gallant Bloom Handicap at Belmont: Indian Blessing Tries Older Horses.

It is also the Louisiana Super Derby: Macho Again attempts to rebound in Super Derby.

Posted by Alex at 9:57 AM | Comments (79)

Barbaro Updates: 687

Posted September 19, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4047: A very pleasant afternoon spent at the races at Woodbine. The weather is simply terrific! We had two runners. A first time starter in a 2yo turf event. Wives Tales ran a great race to finish second, beaten a head on the wire. She has a nice future I think. We were second in the next race also with Celina Slew. David Cotey, who we share a barn with, won the race. A good guy and a nice win. I shared a beer with some of his staff after the race.

As good as the day was, I still cannot shake the feeling of betrayal from our racing elite via the NTRA (WALDROP'S WAFFLE.) I had a great day thanks to the horses, who are our sport. We should never loose that focus. The NTRA is simply wrong not to support an end to horse slaughter as soon as possible. Sadly I kind of figured they were not wholly behind the ban of slaughter even when I was told otherwise by others. I did attempt to schedule a meeting with them last Fall when I was at Keeneland. And I made it clear I was interested in discussing their support for anti-slaughter legislation. They did not respond to my persistent efforts. I have heard Waldrop waffle on the topic during a radio interview. Very sad.

Update 4046: Another lovely fall-type morning this morning at Woodbine. When the sun does rise it rises right behind the turn and creates significant glare when you are jogging and galloping down the backside. This morning there was a loose horse and we really could not see it and whether it was coming at us thanks to the glare. Anyway thankfully we avoided it, and actually our pony Charlie did the business again and enabled Darren to catch him coming into the tunnel! We had nine sets, five before the break and four after the break. A pretty busy morning for sure. All my horses went nicely so it was pretty relaxing.

Thanks to those who have contacted the NTRA to express your concerns regarding their "position" on horse slaughter.

Update 4045: I am simply going to repost this: WALDROP'S WAFFLE. And Waldrop explains the position here: H.R. 6598.

There is such a contrast regarding the NTRA's position on horse slaughter and that of horsemen I meet with during my extended travel of racetracks. And now Nick Zito, who continues to be outspoken against the practice, is running Commentator at Suffolk Downs in part due to their zero tolerance for slaughter. The NTRA should realize that it needs to start making decisions because they are simply the right decisions to make! Our stars need protection. The integrity of our sport is in danger.

I would encourage everyone to contact the NTRA in a respectful manner and share their concerns over this issue.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:02 AM | Comments (54)

Barbaro Updates: 686

Posted September 18, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4044: Very sad to not have the explicit support of the NTRA: WALDROP’S WAFFLE.

Update 4043: This is a very interesting adaption to the claiming rule in California, designed to protect owners that give their horses a needed break: Non-claiming rule takes effect in Calif. on Saturday.

Update 4042: Larry Jones received a 7 day suspension and a fine of $500 for his clenbutorol positive in June: JONES SUSPENDED FOR CLENBUTEROL POSITIVE.

Update 4041: Fall weather here at Woodbine. We had eight sets, five before the break and three after the break that went to the gate for some schooling. Having been at the races last night (we did not have any runners, but I went over to "socialize" a little) I was a little tired which made the morning a little longer! Thankfully my horses went nicely and it was an incident-free morning. Not so for others as one loose horse came flying down the backside, going the wrong way, as we were stood in the gate. Another horse sat down in the gate, almost like how a kamel would sit down. Not too funny, but amusing to watch. All was well.

Update 4040: An intriguing idea to encourage more international participation in the Kentucky Derby for next year: British Race Provides Path to Derby.

The Maryland Racing Commission has approved a ban on steroids: Maryland Latest State to Ban Steroids.

Commentator, who at seven years old is as good as he has been, will be an overwhelming choice in the Massachusetts Handicap on Saturday: Commentator takes thrill ride north for MassCap.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:57 AM | Comments (71)

Barbaro Updates: 685

Posted September 17, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4039: Hurricane Ike was obviously devastating for animals in it's path. Habitat for Horses, which itself was flattened, is one of the leaders in helping recover horses from the devastation. I was fortunate to meet Jerry Finch when I was in Houston last winter: Saving the animals in Ike's aftermath.

Discussion: URGENT: HFH hit by IKE, Need Help Now.

Update 4038: A very cool story ahead of the Massachusetts Handicap at Suffolk Downs: Trainer rides to the rescue.

One thing I have realized over the last couple of years is how important it is to highlight horsemen who are involved in helping horses. The above article is a great illustration. I had lunch today with an exercise rider at Woodbine. She had plenty of ideas about how to try to get more support from other horsemen at Woodbine. Many horsemen do care.

Update 4037: Proud Spell, who was not planning to be considered for the Breeders' Cup, may now be considered for the Breeders' Cup: Proud Spell Could Be Breeders' Cup Bound.

Colonel John, winner of the Travers Stakes in his last start, had his first work over the new Santa Anita surface. He will not run again before the Breeders' Cup: Colonel John Works Over New 'Anita Track.

Casino Drive will soon arrive in the US ahead of a prep race for the Breeders' Cup Classic. This race is also likely to attract some of the best turf runners from Europe: Spirit One, Casino Drive shipping in.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:01 AM | Comments (78)

Barbaro Updates: 684

Posted September 16, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4036: More press on the retirement of Rudirudy: New career beckons for former top horse.

Update 4035: Jen covers the retirement of Rudirudy, who was a Top Bunk listed horse: CRISPY.

Horse Canada's September / October issue has two articles on horse slaughter. One I am quoted, written by Karen Briggs who I met at Mohawk one afternoon. The other is written by John Holland on the unwanted horse and horse slaughter myth. Sadly I don't think these articles are online. I bought my copy at Fortino's, by the track at Woodbine!

Update 4034: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update:

It's a bit of a quiet week; Curlin had a workout to prep for the Jockey Club Gold Cup on the 27th and Colonel John became one of the first Breeders' Cup contenders to work over Santa Anita's new surface. Like Big Brown and a number of other potential starters, he will not have another race before the big day (although one hopes that the Classic will be more of a career resurgence for Colonel John, rather than the final act). Big Brown is unlikely to arrive in California more than a few days before the event, so the Polytrack will be just as new to him as it will be to many of the other potential starters.

Speaking of new surfaces, Duke of Marmalade may become one of the first high-profile stars to take to the track at the new Great Leighs racecourse - that's if he skips the Arc, of course. The track will be staging a Breeders' Cup 'trials' card on the 27th and it seems they have earned the support of the Breeders' Cup organization, after a long-delayed opening for the new facility and its all-weather track. The Saturday evening event will be broadcast in the US on TVG. (And yes, this is the first I've heard about it as well).

It seems that the new surface at Santa Anita and the chance to earn world bragging rights may indeed prove a strong pull for the European contingent:

This in turn raises the distinct possibility that four of the top six horses in the world on ratings - Duke Of Marmalade, Curlin, Big Brown and New Approach - could line up for the same event, with the winner emerging as a true global champion.

This is just what the Breeders' Cup needs if it is to justify its boast that is the "world championship" of racing. Twenty-four years after the event was first staged, this year's Cup could mark a new beginning, if Europe's owners and trainers have the imagination to rise to the challenge.

I will be particularly intrigued if New Approach does come to California; he's been somewhat overlooked, given the sheer number of stars Ballydoyle is turning out and the ongoing Big Brown/Curlin trash talking, but the Jim Bolger trainee may be the most versatile horse in the bunch:

Fact is, of course, New Approach already has the perfect CV for the modern stallion. Four times a Group One winner, champion juvenile and a Derby winner, who has won from seven furlongs to a mile and a half. A win on an artificial surface would be the icing on the cake.

One would also hope he would remain in training beyond the autumn as well; he may have been a champion at two and been outstanding this year, but he still only has seven lifetime starts. This year's 3-year-old crop in Europe (including fillies Zarkava and Goldikova) seems to be as deep as the North American (male) version is weak; it's going to be an interesting showdown if all the top names all ship over.

Update 4033: Laura, a freelance exercise rider from Woodbine, riding a bull.

Update 4032: It felt like a fall morning this morning at Woodbine. We had a quiet morning's work. I only had five sets. All mine galloped nicely. Sadly a horse (not ours) collapsed on the track. The track was closed for a while and we took one of our sets to the training track.

I went to the track to watch our last two sets of workers. One of my horses was working and we had a new rider in to work him. My horse was a little keen in the warm up and ran off with the rider. The cool thing was though how our pony, Charlie, did his job and enabled Darren to catch the horse at a full gallop. They then regrouped and the work went very well.

Update 4031: The injury database, which 75% of racetracks have agreed to participate, will likely face resistance in terms of reporting injuries during morning workouts: Injury Database Could Face Resistance.

Last night I taught my second Internet Literacy class here at Woodbine. It is fun to get back to do a little bit of teaching, and especially with students who really want to learn and will apply what they are learning almost immediately.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:56 AM | Comments (51)

Barbaro Update: 683

Posted September 15, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4030: Curlin completed his penultimate breeze this morning ahead of his next start in the Jockey Club Gold Cup: Curlin Turns in Work for JC Gold Cup.

Update 4029: An upbeat update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

What a gorgeous Monday morning. Tim Woolley Racing had a great weekend beginning with Saar Treaty running a great race at Laurel and then Powdered Donut running a bang up race at Presque Isle. Both fillies are back home and taking a few days of rest. Robbie also rode a winner for Paul Rowland at Kentucky Downs on Saturday. Tim is trying to find a race for Who's Happy and she still gives him quite a workout. Sweet Ginger Brown should be running again within the next week to ten days and I'm sure she will be happy to get going. Ginger gets bored easily and likes to be in the action. Mrs. M.V.P. is coming along nicely and is getting very close to the races. She is eating well and talks for her dinner every night. What a joy to be around. Little Bubble Gum is breezing steadily and is ready to make the move to three eighths of a mile. She is a very forward filly and we need to let her body catch up with her brain. Bubble Gum is very smart and knows just what she wants and wants it all right now. It should be quite interesting getting her to the races. Paris Night (big,gorgeous filly by Louis Quatorze) has had a bit of an impaction all weekend. The veternarian is keeping an eye on her and hopefully she will have some relief soon. Rajasthan came out of last weeks race just fine and will now be turned out for the winter. He should be leaving in the next day or two to have his break. Hopefully we can bring him back next year with a little more luck.

Luke spent the weekend without his little Whippie who had to go to a pony club event rally. He made out just fine but was sure happy to see her last night. Whip had a clean round stadium jumping and also a clean round cross country. The only trouble she had was in dressage where she would not pick up on her right lead . Uncle Tim and Meghan have been working on this but it will take a little time. Anyway, both horse and rider had a great weekend and returned to the farm unblemished. Remember, something goods going to happen today, look for it!!!

Update 4028: Quite a busy morning this morning at Woodbine. We had eight sets, four before the break and four after the break. All my horses went nicely, which included two to the gate for a little schooling. Its a good job they all did go nicely as I had a bit of a late night last night and a late start to the morrning's work. We went out after the races with a few of the jockeys, exercise riders and at least one trainer. A fun evening, but a late evening. Only saw one of the jockeys this morning (Chantal Sutherland) and that was after the break!

Update 4027: Over the weekend another horse from the Top Bunk List had been retired. TOP BUNK LIST RUDIRUDY RETIRED!!

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 12:02 PM | Comments (27)

Barbaro Updates: 682

Posted September 13, 2008

Updates are now here

Update 4026: Phew, a long day at the races. Four runners and no winners. Yesterday we had a nice winner. That's racing. We share a barn with David Cotey and he had a nice winner of the 2yo boys stakes race. I think that while they only won by a neck, they won with a bit in hand. Nice 2yo and congratulations!

Update 4025: A muggy and damp morning this morning at Woodbine. We had seven sets, four before the break and three after the break. All went nicely and without incident. One loose horse did come barreling off the track and through the tunnel as we had just cleared the tunnel, exiting the track ourselves. That got our horses a little "excited", but no problems and the loose horse was soon caught.

It appears that horses stabled at Sam Houston Race Park weathered Hurricane Ike safely. They were finishing up their quarter horse meet and cancelled their last two live dates: Tracks mostly unhurt by Ike.

Update 4024: Media reports of Big Brown's win yesterday:

BIG BROWN WIRES 'EM
Big Brown Holds Off Proudinsky On Turf
Big Brown tenacious on turf
Big Brown up to turf test in Monmouth Stakes

Update 4023: An impressive wire-to-wire winning performance for Big Brown over less than ideal conditions at Monmouth Park. It looked like he ran too free early, but he got a breather down the backside and had enough in hand to hold off the late chargers.

Update 4022: Comments made yesterday by Big Brown's owner led to speculation that Big Brown may return to the races as a 4yo. This has now been flatly refuted: Iavarone: Big Brown Will Not Race at 4.

Update 4021: A grey and humid morning this morning at Woodbine. We had quite a busy morning with eight sets. Four before the break and four after the break. One to the gate for some schooling. All my horses galloped nicely for a hassle-free morning. Not so for everyone. There was a loose horse on the track galloping around at a good clip. One of the outriders, Rob, did an amazing job of catching the horse, at full speed right in front of everybody. The horsemanship displayed was better than anything I have seen at the rodeos I have visited. Very cool!

Update 4020: Big Brown returns to the turf today, at Monmouth Park. This will be his final prep race before the Breeders' Cup, and it won't be an easy task: Who's afraid of Big Brown? excerpt:

"On turf, we're happy to take him on and feel like we have a big chance," said Kiaran McLaughlin, trainer of Shakis, winner of the Bernard Baruch last out.

"I'm really looking forward to running in this race Saturday," said Bobby Frankel, trainer of Proudinsky, whose chances improve if the turf is less than firm.

The NTRA is looking to implement a new equine safety plan in short order: NTRA Hopes to Fast-Track Safety Plan.

Posted by Alex at 9:58 AM | Comments (91)

Barbaro Updates: 681

Posted September 12, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4019: A winning update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

Sorry for the short notice on this one but the trainer just called to report that Saar Treaty won her race at Laurel Park by five lengths. Finally Tim was able to enter her in a race going long for two year old fillies. He did have some concern because Michael Matz and Graham Motion had entries but she managed to win handily. I only just heard late last night that he was going to the races with her today or I would have given you more notice. Congratulations to her connections. We will try to find out if she was Saarland's first winner.

Update 4018: A pleasant afternoon spent on the backside at the races today at Woodbine. We schooled four horses in the paddock for the third race. Three of which will be running this weekend. I brought one of them back after schooling, she was getting a little fractious. We then had a runner in the seventh race. Finished a closing third and not a bad race really. Just a pleasant afternoon.

I have not finished reading this story yet about Mango an OTTB. But if the rest of the story is like the first part of the story that I have read, then it's a great story about a horse who was perhaps a little misunderstood: The Mango Story.

Update 4017: A bit of a dreary morning this morning at Woodbine weather-wise. We did have an easy morning schedule. Six sets, four before the break and two to the gate for some schooling after the break. One of my horses pulled much harder than I had expected. I almost decided to pull him up mid-gallop, but persevered and finished up the exercise. All in all, a decent morning's work.

Update 4016: My interview with Steve Byk on At The Races. We discuss the Top Bunk List and other related issues. It begins halfway through the first hour: Broadcast Archives.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:01 AM | Comments (54)

Barbaro Updates: 680

Posted September 11, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4015: Big Brown's race on Saturday is not going to be so easy: Big Brown Faces 10 in Monmouth Stakes.

Update 4014: Showing Up, campaigned by the Jacksons and Barclay Tagg, will stand at stud in Florida for $7,500: Showing Up to Stand at Adena Springs.

I am now off back to the races here at Woodbine.

Update 4013: Another chilly start to a simply gorgeous day here at Woodbine. We had seven sets, four before the break and three after the break. The three after the break all went to the gate for some schooling. All went nicely. Just a treat of a morning's work. As I was leaving from the kitchen after work someone turned to me in the line and asked if I had saved any horses recently. He had read this article. The cool thing is you get a genuine sense here at Woodbine that people do really care about these horses and think it is cool the work that everyone is doing on this site. Thanks to the local media that has given us some great coverage.

Update 4012: Big Brown is ready for his weekend race on Saturday: Big Brown All Set For Monmouth Stakes.

A quick update on Nicanor: An Update, a Photo, and a Note.

Day 3 of the Keeneland Sales: Day 3: Bidding robust for top stock.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:59 AM | Comments (63)

Barbaro Updates: 679

Posted September 10, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4011: An excellent HRTV / Bloodhorse video on Old Friends and Michael Blowen: Old Friends.

Update 4010: An update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

Sorry for the brief hiatus blogging. This morning most of the horses got trained before the deluge. We are excited to get much needed rain to help the ground soften a bit.

Rajasthan is off the run at Presque Isle tomorrow. He was his usual active self while I tacked him up this morning. Vicar's Tune will also be running tomorrow at Laurel Park. I had a great time giving him a bath this morning and he is such a love. Hopefully both of these boys will run great tomorrow.

Saar Treaty continues to train well while we are trying desperately to get her into a longer race for two year old fillies. Who's Happy is aiming for another race and continues to tote Tim around the track everyday. You would think that with such a workout everyday Tim would be loosing the roll around the middle he has acquired with middle age.

We have a new chestnut filly in the barn and her name is DDtaxwhatyouwant otherwise know as Taxi. She is such a sweetheart and is as quiet as a mouse in the barn. She is by the sire Artax and I haven't seen many Artax babies but she is quite pretty and has a lot of Chrome.

King Congaree continues to get taller and taller. He is doing great and has kept a great personality while still being a colt. I can't wait to get him to the races. Sweet Ginger Brown is looking to run again. She now has all kinds of toys in her stall to keep her occupied. She gets bored very easily. Veiled Reference is still causing lots of commotion in the barn. She is a happy girl and everyone knows it. Marcy Lee (know as Lily & Who's Happy's little sister) continues to get meaner and meaner. She will reach over the stall door to bite you and you need eyes in the back of your head when your walking away from her. That's OK with us because all good fillies have a mean streak. Tim reports that she covers the ground effortlessly and he is getting excited about her.

Powdered Donut is looking for another race. Turf season is getting tough on us now and it continues to get harder to get in. I took a few minutes on Sunday to groom on Mrs. M.V.P. and she is really growing tall. She is looking more like a grown up.

Tim and I went to a wonderful event on Friday Night at the Maryland Polo Grounds. We enjoyed our first polo match and also took part in an auction to benefit the Cool Kids Campaign. The Cool Kids Campaign supports children with cancer and their families nation wide. What a great night we had. I sincerely hope they raised lots of money. This is the first polo match that either one of us had seen and it was quite exciting. I'm not sure either one of us would be good at swinging such a large mallet while staying on a horse but it might be fun to try. Anyway, we had a great time and the weather was perfect. I'll try to corner the trainer and get some more barn information for you.

Update 4009: A quick reminder, I am scheduled to be on At The Races with Steve Byk today, at 4:30 pm (which is also Sirius Channel 126). I (think I) will be talking about the Top Bunk List and related topics.

Update 4008: While it was a chilly start to the morning here at Woodbine, it is turning into a stunningly gorgeous day! We had seven sets, five before the break and two after the break. The horses enjoyed the brisker weather and one of my horses was particularly sharp, plunging and bucking his way off the track. Thankfully I managed to stay on board! All the others went nicely for a simply enjoyable morning's work. Due to the wet weather we had yesterday I think the turf races have been rescheduled for the polytrack. If that is the case its likely our only runner tonight will be scratched. Oh well!

Update 4007: Big Brown had his final work ahead of his race this weekend at Monmouth Park. He went an easy 5/8ths on the turf at Aqueduct: Dutrow Pleased with Big Brown's Work.

We spent a very pleasant afternoon yesterday at the races, at Fort Erie. A much smaller racetrack than Woodbine, yet one with plenty of history and a very nice paddock area. The crowd was very sparse, but there was one patron wearing a Barbaro hat! This was my second trip to Fort Erie, and we capped it off by visiting Niagara Falls and some dinner.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:56 AM | Comments (118)

Barbaro Updates: 678

Posted September 9, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4006: I am scheduled to be on At The Races with Steve Byk tomorrow, at 4:30 pm.I (think I) will be talking about the Top Bunk List and related topics.

Update 4005: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

Champs Elysees finally got that elusive G1 win in the Northern Dancer last weekend, so he's no longer a disappointment to his illustrious family -- that's six G1 winners so far for his dam, Hasili. Here's hoping 3-year-old Raise the Flag and her Storm Cat and Empire Maker fillies follow in their siblings' footsteps.

But back to the race -- there was another mysterious misfire from a Rick Dutrow-trained horse -- Frost Giant, like Kip Deville in the Woodbine Mile, was a favorite who showed little -- and Better Talk Now encountered some bad racing luck but is apparently doing fine now. I noticed that I had Champs Elysees 'activated' in my Road to the Breeders' Cup stable, but this was not a race that earned any points. Apparently not all G1s are equally important.

Times are tough all around...there weren't enough interested rich people to scrape together more than $7.7 million dollars to meet the reserve (still undisclosed) on Vallenzeri, Azeri's yearling colt. It seems a partnership deal will now be sought -- that would certainly be a fun one!

One wonders if the mysterious malaise affecting other top Dutrow-trained horses will extend to Big Brown in his specially-created race on Saturday; while it was tailor-made for him, it seems possible that actual competition may turn up in the form of Silver Tree and Proudinsky - even Red Rocks was mentioned, although that seems unlikely given that he's been out of training lately. I'd love to see Einstein in the race (as suggested on the Monmouth Park homepage poll, which does not work in Firefox -- the same can be said for much of their website), but in any event, one hopes it will be a good day for the track, since the race in question won't be on any easy-to-watch networks...

Update 4004: More on the sad passing of John Hettinger: Horse Activist, John Hettinger Dies.

Update 4003: Curlin had his first work since his Woodward win yesterday. An easy half mile breeze in 51.34. He is scheduled to have two more breezes as he prepares for his next start, the Jockey Club Gold Cup: Curlin breezes for first time since Woodward triumph.

A day off for me today!

Update 4002: The Keeneland Sales have begun. The state of the sales is a good reflection of the state of the entire thoroughbred industry, and the sales are down significantly: KEENELAND DAY ONE: DUBAI ACCOUNTS FOR 27%

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:02 AM | Comments (40)

Barbaro Updates: 677

Posted September 8, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 4001: Cool. Just taught my first class since I left the University of Delaware. Internet beginners for those at Woodbine. Three people attended and it was a hands-on session. Very fun. Now they have homework to do: Internet for First Time Starters at Woodbine.

Update 4000: An update on Better Talk Now's race yesterday from Sue's News:

For all you Better Talk Now fans out there it seems that Ramon pulled up absolutely furious. He was sitting in a great position thinking he was going to win and a horse came across him and nearly brought poor Blackie down. Thank goodness everything ended up OK but REALLY annoying.........

Update 3999: Another cool story (see the previous update and the found Arab for the first of the day). Led Zeppelin influence a horse box gift for a racehorse rescue in England: Gift from Crown Prince boosts Racehorse Sanctuary.

Found on Thoroughbred Brief.

Update 3998: A lovely morning here this morning at Woodbine. We had six sets, four before the break and two after the break, one of which went to the gate for some schooling. All went nicely.

Miracles do happen! There was an alert out about a lost horse, flyers all over Woodbine and posted here: PLEASE HELP ME FIND MY HORSE. This Arab went missing August 29 in the afternoon. Shana, one of the riders at Woodbine, told Darren (my boss) the horse had been found. When I went to the gate for some schooling, it turns out it was one of the gate crew (Pat) who found the horse ... wandering down the road. I have no idea what happened with this horse between August 29 and his discovery, but it is simply very good news for the morning ... and the buzz at Woodbine!

Update 3997: Eight Belles memorial service was held yesterday: Eight Belles Honored in Public Memorial, excerpt:

"I was the lucky one who got to see her come into the barn as a long-legged, gangly 2-year-old filly and was also the one who was lucky enough to see her turn into a lovely, gallant and courageous racehorse," Jones said. "My memories of her on the day (of the Derby) is that she had so much poise. She knew everyone was here for her and she just decided that with 150,000 people looking, she felt she owed it to every one of them to make eye contact. I think people were mesmerized by her.

"She put in such a gallant effort that day and we couldn't have been more proud of her efforts, and more devastated at what happened.

"She stole a piece of my heart, and when she fell that day she ripped a big piece of my heart right out. But I'm so glad she found her resting place right here, in this fabulous garden of Churchill Downs."

You can view the ceremony here: Kentucky Derby Museum Channel.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 10:03 AM | Comments (61)

Barbaro Updates: 676

Posted September 6, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3996: Just a bad day at the races, when you think and hope it will be otherwise. A horse lost his life in the sixth race. Very sad. Better Talk Now appeared to run a dull seventh. Perhaps there was simply not enough pace for him to run at. The Niagara Queen, our horse, looked to tire badly. Also on the same, yielding, turf track. Winners won. Losers lost.

Update 3995: Paulick Report on John Hettinger: HETTINGER: A MAN WHO LOVED HORSES. It begins:

Saturday was a bad day for horses. One of their best friends in the world, John Hettinger, passed away at the age of 74. No one fought harder to end the slaughter of horses in the United States than John Hettinger.

He was tireless and passionate about ending slaughter. He talked about it, wrote about it, did something about it. He was a man of words and of action. And he put his money where his mouth was.

Of all the things John Hettinger ever said or wrote about horse slaughter, there is one paragraph that has stayed with me. It came from an article he wrote in 2003 and asked me to publish in the Bloodhorse.

"How do we as an industry feel about our horses?" he wrote. "Are we horse lovers? Are these animals, who work for us in one way or another throughout their entire lives, sensitive and capable of trust, courage and generosity of spirit? Or are they fast cows without horns?"

Fast cows without horns? That line got me. Until then, I was ambivalent about slaughter

I am now off to Woodbine to watch some fast horses race.

Update 3994: A bit of a damp and dreary morning this morning at Woodbine. I had seven sets overall. Six for Steve, and then I freelanced one for Anita (Terry Jordan). A very straightforward morning.

I did see Better Talk Now coming off the track after his training session. He was in very good order for his race today. Let's hope he can get his win. I also ran into Jonathan Sheppard, he has a runner in the filles and mares stake. Running against our horse The Niagara Queen. In fact we have some great racing here this afternoon, let's hope the weather cooperates a little bit!

MEGA ACTION.

Update 3993: We have lost a great horse advocate. John Hettinger was a leader in the fight to end horse slaughter. He also took in horses that were bought from New Holland: Horse Advocate John Hettinger Dies, excerpt:

Winner of the Eclipse Award of Merit in 2000, Hettinger was an outspoken opponent of horse slaughter and founded Blue Horse Charities to abolish the mistreatment of horses and to set up adoption for many after their racing careers were over.

Asked in one interview why he was so devoted to the cause, Hettinger said: "All of my best friends have four legs."

Discuss: John Hettinger Passed Away Today...... and RIP Horse Advocate John Hettinger.

Eight Belles will be memorialized today in a ceremony in the Kentucky Derby Museum Gardens: Public Invited to Eight Belles Ceremony.

Update 3992: A long day spent at the sales today at Woodbine. We ended up buying three fillies. I actually bid on one filly as an under bidder. An interesting experience, I had never bid on a horse at an auction before. Prior to the bidding I looked at quite a few horses. If I did this for a week or two I think I would get a decent eye for what to look for. For today it was a steep learning experience. I also met Jill, an FOB. She will be attending the races here tomorrow and hopefully we will all meet up and have a fun time.

Update 3991: A busy day today. Not so much galloping-wise as we only had seven sets and were pretty much done by 9 am. We have six runners today, and there is also the sale this afternoon, which begins at 3 pm. We are busy looking at horses for the sale this morning. Busy busy. Rain early in the day, but it appears to have cleared out for a pretty decent afternoon!

Update 3990: Not surprisingly, 2007 2yo champion War Pass is retired. He did not recover from his fracture that was likely sustained in the Wood Memorial this spring: 2YO Champ War Pass Retired.

The 2yo filly champion is running today at Belmont: Indian Blessing to stretch out for Ruffian.

Posted by Alex at 9:55 AM | Comments (114)

Barbaro Updates: 675

Posted September 5, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3989: A pleasant afternoon spent at the sales barns at Woodbine looking at yearlings that will sell tomorrow. This is the first time I have actually "inspected" horses for a sale. I learned quite a lot in a short period of time! Since Better Talk Now is stabled in the stakes barn just by the sales barns I also went over to see how he was doing (very relaxed with his crew in attendance at feedtime).

For all things racing at Woodbine this weekend, check Jen's blog: DRAMA.

Update 3988: A pleasant morning's work at Woodbine. We had seven sets, four before the break and three after the break. The three after the break all went to the gate for some schooling. All went nicely.

I had a long break between my first four and final three. After visiting the kitchen to get my coffee and hanging out with Brian Lynch (rider) and Joey, who both work for Bryan Lynch (trainer) I went over to the stakes barn to see Fen and Better Talk Now. It was good to catch up and to see how well Blackie looks. He looks ready for his race here on Sunday!

Update 3987: We have a very strong day of racing here at Woodbine on Sunday with a pair of Grade 1s and a Grade 2 race. Better Talk Now is coming up from Fair Hill to run in the Northern Dancer. Lets hope he relishes the turf here, wins and returns for the International. The "co-feature" is the Woodbine Mile, which is headed by Kip Deville: Kip Deville vs. Ventura in Woodbine Mile. We are running The Niagara Queen in the Grade 2 Canadian.

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 (44)

Barbaro Updates: 674

Posted September 4, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3986: Old Friends will become the retirement spot for Lava Man: Lava Man headed to Old Friends, excerpt:

"From the beginning, Steve and everyone associated with this amazing athlete have done what's best for Lava Man," Old Friends President, Michael Blowen said. "I can't tell you how thrilled we are that they've entrusted the care of this unbelievably talented champion to us."

Update 3985: Curlin's next race will be the Jockey Club: Curlin Headed to Jockey Club Gold Cup.

Paul Moran notes my radio interview: Brown interview on slaughter issue.

Update 3984: Washington Post has a nice story on CANTER MidAtlantic: Retired Racers Find a New Track.

Update 3983: Another relatively quiet morning this morning at Woodbine. We had six sets. Steve Asmussen was still here to supervise. One of my horses, who is running in the next couple of days, nearly dropped me. He whipped around so fast I have no idea how I did not get unshipped. Perhaps it was simply the fear of falling off in front of the boss that saved me! Needless to say, the horse was feeling good. All my others went nicely, which included one gate schooler.

We have a couple of runners this afternoon as well as a few to school in the paddock, so I will venture over to help out a little later. Hopefully it will be a fun afternoon!

And more coverage for Lights on Broadway: From Slaughter Truck to First Class.

Update 3982: A fun evening spent at the races yesterday at Woodbine. We had four runners, one of which won. Steve was still here to saddle the runners. All seemed to cool out well afterwards. Southern Exchange, the leading 2yo colt from Woodbine so far this meet, had shipped to California to run in the Del Mar Futurity. He may have gone off as favorite, and finished fourth beaten a little more than a length. He actually seemed to run very well given the tactical change of running on the pace of the race: Baffert Wins Eighth Futurity.

More Lights on Broadway coverage: Lights on Broadway: Shining Brightly Again.

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 (40)

Barbaro Updates: 673

Posted September 3, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3981: Lights on Broadway's story makes the New Zealand press: Top racehorse narrowly escapes death. The story is also noted on Texas Horse Talk's breaking news.

Update 3980: Big Brown breezed today on the turf ahead of his scheduled turf race on September 13: Big Brown Breezes for Monmouth Stakes.

Update 3979: Sheikh Mohammed retired a horse by his ill-fated and beloved Dubai Millennium: Dubai Millennium horse retired.

Update 3978: It turns out we bought five horses from the sale last night, not six as I had thought. Jennifer summarizes the sale, the upcoming stakes this weekend at Woodbine and notes my radio interview in FAN 590: SPIN MOVE.

A light morning's work this morning at Woodbine. Steve was still here to supervise. I only had five sets, all of which galloped nicely. One went to the gate for a little schooling, and was very well behaved. I did get a chance to watch one of our horses work from the rail, with Steve. And we chatted about his thoughts on being at Woodbine and the polytrack. Very interesting to get to spend a little time in light conversation. All in all a pleasant morning's work.

Update 3977: A very pleasant evening was spent at the select sale at Woodbine. I got there about half way through and hung out with Tony Goswell and Jennifer for a while. Tony was there buying, Jennifer was reporting. I then went to sit down with Steve Asmussen and Darren Fleming. I think in the end we bought six horses. It was fascinating listening to them discuss the horses as they came in the ring and then see the ones that they bid on.

At the other end of the "industry", here is a report from my recent visit to OLEX auction in the most recent edition of Down The Backstretch: A Horse's final hours - my unhappy trip to a livestock auction.

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 (45)

Barbaro Updates: 672

Posted September 2, 2008

updates are now here.

Update 3976: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

Perpetual underachiever Anak Nakal finally stepped it up over the holiday weekend to take the Pennsylvania Derby and rewarded his backers at 16-1. I've always liked his pedigree but had more or less given up on seeing him return to the winner's circle. I can't say it was the strongest field ever assembled for the race, but in any event it was nice to see Joe Bravo get the win.

Curlin had to work harder than expected in the Woodward, but it sounds as though the Classic may be back on the agenda; let's recall that a start at Saratoga was previously verboten as well, thanks to its reputation:

Curlin did not impress everyone on Saturday, but Saratoga is notorious as "the graveyard of champions" and Jackson laid it on with a trowel. "Aside from the Dubai race and the Breeders' Cup, this is the most important race we've won, because of its historic nature, and its premier contribution to Curlin's legacy," he said. "Good horses like Man O'War and Secretariat had problems here. That's an honour roll of some of the greatest. I'm glad Curlin showed he was up to it."

Indeed, it sounds as though plans for Curlin still include another trip abroad post-Breeders-Cup (or possibly instead of), if all goes well:

Jackson left the door ajar to Santa Anita, acknowledging that "the perfect scenario" would be to go for both the Jockey Club Gold Cup and Breeders' Cup - as he did last year - and then on to Japan in November. But he implied that this schedule would ask too much of the horse.

It would certainly be another feather in his cap if he could pull it off. And in case you were wondering, the foot wasn't bothering Racehorse of the Year Weekend Hussler at all.

Update 3975: A quieter morning this morning at Woodbine with only six sets. Our boss, Steve Asmussen, is in town and was supervising. He was in good form. He is also here for the sales later today. All the horses I galloped went nicely, so a hassle free morning's work. After we were finished I went off to the sales barns. Tony Goswell, someone I have known for many years when I was at Fair Hill, is here for the sales so I wanted to catch up. He was in good form, and kind of surprised to see me here working for Steve! He also introduced me to a bunch of people and I will return for the sales this evening. All fun.

Update 3974: A terrific summary of events that led to the retirement of Lights on Broadway. He was a Texas Champion. He was purchased by a kill buyer, and then by a quarter horse trainer. He became a member of the Top Bunk List. He has now retired back to Texas:

Lights on Broadway Shines in Texas.

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 (37)