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Update 4214: Very cool: Alysheba Arrives at Kentucky Horse Park, excerpt:

Onto the van strode Hall of Fame trainer Jack Van Berg, who called out to "Sheba" in his distinctive, gravelly baritone. The horse whipped its head around and began pawing the floor of the van.

and

McCarron, who rode both John Henry and Alysheba, said, "Although I'm sorry John Henry isn't with us, I'm glad he's not here today to hear me say that Alysheba was the greatest horse I ever rode. He launched my career to another level by winning the Kentucky Derby, and he did it with style, grace, and athleticism."

Update 4213: Much better this morning at Woodbine weather-wise. And we are told we will have some nice weather for a few more days to come! I had seven sets at Steve's this morning. Three before the break, and four after the break that all went to the gate. All galloped nicely. Between my sets I went up to the track to watch a couple of our workers go. They also seemed to work well. I also got on one early for Anita (Terry Jordan) in the sand ring. Again she went nicely. A longish morning but all went well.

Update 4212: It's the time of year when we learn of many of our stars retiring. No decision has been announced regarding Curlin, but retirement plans have already been made for Henrythenavigator, Ginger Punch, Midnight Lute, Lewis Michael and Pyro and more.

Penn National will resume live racing October 31: Live Racing Returns to Penn National.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:44 AM | Comments (28)

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Update 4211: A chilly start. When I got up, Hank, my roommate and boss, told me it was minus 2! I quickly found my one pair of long johns. It turned out to be a better morning this morning weather-wise than yesterday as there was no wind and bright sunshine.

A busy morning this morning at Woodbine. We had eight sets at Steve's. Five before the break and three that schooled in the gate after the break. For the most part they all went well. I did get on one early in the sand ring too. He went nicely. It was another peaceful start to the day.

Jen writes about my auction experience from tuesday and the discovery of a what is highly likely a classy racehorse that shipped to slaughter. She even took a guess at who it was: TRICKS, TREATS.

Update 4210: There is a real lull now in top class racing in the United States, with the possible exception of the Clark Handicap at Churchill Downs which may attract the best horse that did not run in the Breeders' Cup: Commentator Possible For Clark Handicap.

Sam Houston's racing dates have now been moved to Retama: Sam Houston's racing dates shifted to Retama.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:41 AM | Comments (49)

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Update 4209: So there is a small chance I am wrong. I may have misread the lip tattoo, so I won't reveal his name. If I did not misread the tattoo, and I don't think I did as I looked at it pretty carefully in the kill pen yesterday, then I was in a kill pen with a horse who ran second in a grade 2 stake and won three races in seven starts. No worse than second except the one race he did not finish.

When I realized this today (after running his tattoo and getting his PPs) I tried to see if he had not yet shipped. He has shipped. I know it should not matter if they were good runners, or not. But to me it does. This just makes me sick.

Update 4208: It's only October! Yikes. We had snow flurries this morning at the track at Woodbine, and the wind was whipping around. Not pleasant weather-wise. A few people have assured me this is unseasonably cold, I just hope they are right!

We had six sets at Steve's today. Four before the break and two after the break which went to the gate for some schooling. All mine went quite nicely despite the ridiculous weather conditions. As I have for the last few days, I started a little earlier in the sand ring with one of Anita's (Terry Jordan). He loves it out there, just jogging around very happily. I also took one of their's to the main track and he pulled very hard galloping, the entire gallop. So now I am exhausted from galloping and from trying to stay warm!

Update 4207: Steve Haskin reviews the Breeders' Cup: Classic Recap: Pass the Torch.

Curlin has now returned to Churchill Downs. No future decision has yet been made: Curlin back in Kentucky; future remains unclear, excerpt:

"I have nothing but admiration for the horse," he said. "You hate to see him get beat in any way, shape, or form. Mr. Jackson's quite the sportsman. He left a lot of money on the table to bring him back [to race in 2008] and he tried different things with him, like the turf in New York and the synthetic track there [at Santa Anita]. He's a true sportsman. The fans wanted to see him run and Mr. Jackson allowed that to happen."

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:55 AM | Comments (71)

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Update 4206: Another tuesday, another visit to OLEX.
Many of the horses went to kill. I saw five thoroughbreds go through. Three went for 24 cents / pound, one for 22 cents and one for 16 cents per pound. It was a bad day for Belgiums. One went through for 5 cents / pound. Oddly I felt particularly sad for that horse, although all their fates are the same.

Afterwards I made a trip out to see "Smooch", Kiss My Hoof, who we bought last week from the auction. He looks terrific in his new surroundings, which happen to be an Amish farm about 30 kilometers north of the auction. He was happy munching grass, jogging and cantering around his field. He looked very sound and a lovely mover. The plan is to ride him next week and get him into another home. As sad as going to the auction is, seeing Smooch seemed to make things right at least for one horse anyway (starfish ?)

Update 4205: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update (post-Breeders' Cup edition).

With the 2008 Breeders' Cup in the books, the focus shifts almost immediately to next year. Who will be retired? Who is coming back? What are they aiming for? We know the answers for a number of the winners (and contenders) already, but the list is far from complete. In no real particular order, here's what's next for some of the stars who ran last weekend:

Ventura held off Indian Blessing in the Filly & Mare Sprint -- will we see either of them next year? No word yet.

One imagines we will see much more of Maram, winner of the Juvenile Filly Turf, although I wonder if she'll be shipped to Europe in search of more suitable races.

Upset Turf Sprint victor Desert Code could head to Hong Kong before ending his season, while Sprint winner Midnight Lute will likely be retired -- trainer Bob Baffert suggested that there are simply no races in which to enter him. Fleeting Spirit, however, will be back for another try at the Turf Sprint next year.

The Dirt Mile was Albertus Maximus' third start for Croat trainer and noted kinesiologist Vladimir Cerin; apparently we will indeed see him next year. It had already been determined that Lewis Michael would go to Three Chimneys for 2009, so he's probably on his way there now. Well Armed may not have liked the pace on the day, but the tough gelding will keep on running.

Juvenile Turf winner Donativum has many options - but as a gelding one that is not open to him is the 2000 Guineas in England. As a result, trainer John Gosden may point him toward the Kentucky Derby - he confirms it's an option they are seriously considering. Plans for Midshipman, winner of the more traditional Derby-linked Juvenile, are perhaps more fluid - he may stay in the US, or he may be sent to Dubai.

If I had to pick a Derby horse at this point based on their two-year-old form leading up to last weekend, I'd only have one horse in mind. If I were choosing based on their performance in the Breeders' Cup, it's still the same horse -- Stardom Bound. Unfortunately there's still no official word whether she'll still be sold in the Keeneland November Breeding Stock Sale, but I'm hopeful her performance was enough to keep her racing, even if sold.

Filly & Mare Turf winner and Guinness enthusiast Forever Together is likely to remain in training next year, and Muhannak's connections hope he will defend his victory in the Marathon again next year. Marathon favorite Sixties Icon, whose trainer, Jeremy Noseda, felt the horse received a poor ride from Frankie Dettori, will be headed to either the Japan Cup or the Hong Kong Vase next.

The very welcome news that we should see Goldikova aim for a repeat win in the Mile next year should dispel some of the gloom over the list of retirements; not only did she bring the most electrifying closing kick to the weekend (even outranking Zenyatta's, in my opinion), but her connections make a fantastic story. How often does a jockey win the Mile on the same filly twice, then return years later as a winning trainer with another outstanding European filly? I'm looking forward to seeing more of Goldikova (although I was already a fan, having watched how she beat Henrythenavigator and how close she came to Zarkava), just as I followed Miesque. The lesson seems to be one worth learning: always bet the French-based filly (Miesque, Six Perfections, Goldikova) in the Mile.

Conduit is looking to repeat his win in the Turf next year; his connections seem to feel the St. Leger winner is improving with every race. It is likely we will see Soldier of Fortune next year, and Eagle Mountain still has a race or two left this season, likely in Hong Kong.

Both Henrythenavigator and Duke of Marmalade have been retired; it seems particularly a shame in the case of Henrythenavigator, since his second-place finish in the Classic hinted at distance abilities many (including me) had doubted he possessed. So it's back to the usual refrain in his case -- we'll never know how good he might have been. We should see more of the rather-overlooked (at least by me) Tiago as well as Colonel John next season. Champs Elysees will also remain in training, although I would imagine he might head back to the turf.

As to the Filly & Mare Classic starters, so far Ginger Punch has been retired, but there is no decision yet for Godolphin mares Cocoa Beach or Music Note; neither one may be able to withstand Zenyatta, but I would love to see more of Cocoa Beach in particular.

There's no word -- so far -- on the two biggest winners; both the Raven's Pass and Zenyatta camps are quiet on what is next for their stars -- and ditto for Curlin, who is back in Kentucky for a little time off before the next chapter (whatever that may be) begins. While I sincerely doubt we'd be lucky enough to get all three back next year, I'd be reasonably happy with two...

Update 4204: I don't know if this is a warning of things to come, but it was windy and chilly at Woodbine this morning. A few degrees colder and some moisture and it would have been brutal! Oh well, it is Canada! We had a quiet morning at Steve's this morning. I had four sets. All straight forward gallops and all galloped nicely. After the break I watched a couple of sets of ours work. That was colder. Standing on the rail! I had started the day riding one of Anita's (Terry Jordan) in the sand ring, and he also went nicely. A cold but short morning's work.

Jen reviews the last day of racing for the meet at Fort Erie, which may or may not reopen for next year. Jen also notes the retirement of Siphonizer: HOLD THE FORT.

Update 4203: Ray Paulick does a thorough review of this year's Breeders' Cup event: MEASURING BREEDERS' CUP SUCCESS.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:49 AM | Comments (43)

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Update 4202: Another Monday afternoon, another internet class: Internet for First Time Starters at Woodbine.

Update 4201: A bit of a dreary and damp morning this morning at Woodbine. And it is supposed to get colder tomorrow! We had a light day today at Steve's, I had only five sets. Four before the break and one after the break. All galloped nicely, although one did pull quite hard, for the entire two miles. When I pulled up I was pretty exhausted! We had Jimmy (McAleney) in to breeze a few horses. Caroline, who freelances and is planning to be a jockey, also helped out with the breezing. Our own work rider (Dominic Terry) went south last week, I think to Fair Grounds. After finishing up, Hank (our assistant) and I went for breakfast. Now it's nap time!

Update 4200: Some post Breeders' Cup coverage:

Breeders' Cup Postscript: All is Well
Gosden revels in Raven's Pass's Classic win
Shirreffs touts Zenyatta for Horse of the Year
Decisions still to be made for Curlin, Zenyatta

We had a long day at the races yesterday, getting blanked with our six runners. Thankfully we were able to watch Darren (Fleming) saddle Magna Graduate to win the Ack Ack at Churchill Downs: Magna Graduate Tops Ack Ack Field.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:45 AM | Comments (44)

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Update 4199: Jen wraps up the Breeders' Cup from a Canadian perspective: BANG!

Now back to the races!

Update 4198: A pleasant morning at Woodbine this morning. Many people remarked on how sad they were to see Curlin get beaten. Horsemen really like this horse for sure. And he did run a good race in defeat. Everyone also thought it was an outstanding Breeders' Cup too. Kudos to all involved.

We had six sets at Steve's this morning, so quite relaxing. All my horses galloped nicely. Jimmy McAleney came in after the break to work four horses. I started the day off a little earlier taking Anita's horse to the sand ring to jog. Very cool.

We have six runners this afternoon so we will be busy. Bad looking weather looks like it is coming in too so hopefully it won't effect the racing too much!

Update 4197: Racing media on the Classic:

Stunner! Raven's Pass Upsets Curlin
Raven's Pass powers to Classic win - WITH VIDEO
Raven's Pass conquers the Classic
LIVE BLOGGING BREEDERS' CUP SATURDAY

Some terrific racing over the two days of Breeders' Cup. And I think it certainly was great for our sport. To me the top two performances were the wins of Zenyatta on Friday and Goldikova on Saturday. Congratulations to all who competed.

Update 4196: Curlin finished fourth in the Classic. Congratulations to Ravens Pass for a great performance. Duke of Marmalade for a great European exacta. Tiago for just getting up for third. Curlin looked a little uncomfortable (to me) on the surface early in the race and was quite far back. He made a very strong move around the turn to take the lead and was unable to sustain that position in deep stretch. Certainly not the result I was hoping, but he ran hard and was not disgraced in defeat.

Earlier on the card Storm Treasure ran a terrific race to be a closing third in the turf sprint. A cool horse for sure. All in all a great Breeders' Cup. Congratulations to all the winners and to all those who participated.

Update 4195: A wet morning this morning at Woodbine, but fortunately not too cold. I had seven sets for Steve. All went very nicely considering the conditions. The one who was pretty kean yesterday galloped much more smoothly today, which was a relief. If you get one that really pulls, and its wet, then you do have problems! I took my horse out for Anita (Terry Jordan) early to the sand ring. He loves it out there, just jogging around with no care in the world. On the main track he is a bear to gallop!

I caught up with Billy Entenmann (another Fair Hill trainer and friend) briefly in the track kitchen. We are going to get together a little later over at Woodbine. He has a runner later in the day today.

It's quite exciting getting ready for the Breeders' Cup today. If Curlin wins, it will be a remarkable achievement, and while I can claim to have absolutely nothing to do with it, we are all a team! I will also be rooting for Storm Treasure, who I galloped a few times here at Woodbine, and Student Council who I rode one time at Sam Houston. Lets hope the racing today in the Breeders' Cup is as exciting as the racing was yesterday! I am off to Woodbine to participate in a handicapping seminar with Jennifer Morrison. I am not a great tipper but hopefully they will appreciate some of my homour!

Update 4194: Some terrific racing yesterday at the Breeders' Cup and Zenyatta was undoubtedly the star of the show:

Zenyatta completes perfect season
Zenyatta Makes It Look Too Easy
Unbeaten Zenyatta wins Ladies' Classic - WITH VIDEO

Ray Paulick blogged the entire afternoon: LIVE BLOGGING FILLY FRIDAY.

Now we move on to Saturday, another great card of racing and the grand finale, can Curlin win his second Breeders' Cup Classic:

Curlin taking on the world yet again
On the surface, Curlin faces key question in Classic

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Update 4193: Some terrific racing today in the first day of the Breeders' Cup. Certainly the performance of the day belonged to Zenyatta, an incredible mare who seems to do what she does with considerable ease. Breaks last, finishes first. She remains unbeaten and would be a serious contender for Horse of the Year honors if Curlin should falter tomorrow. A great start to this year's edition to the Breeders' Cup.

Sealy Hill was the best Canadian performer today. Last year's Canadian horse of the year was a long shot second in the turf race. She ran a very game race only to be outdone by the Jonathan Sheppard trained Forever Together.

Update 4192: Enjoy the Breeders' Cup this afternoon. I plan to, and will be offline likely until well after the races have run.

I did just receive this press release, and wanted to copy it in full here, it is simply very cool:

Teamwork Brings Siphonizer to Old Friends

OCTOBER 24, 2008--It takes a village to raise a child and, sometimes, it takes a community of compassionate people to retire a racehorse.

Witzman, for one, is delighted. "I've always thought about Siphonizer over these years," she said. "I'm so glad Old Friends was able to take him. Give him a kiss for me."

A fantastic example of the racing community banding together to do the right thing by a horse. Very cool. Please visit Old Friends.

Update 4191: Another chilly morning this morning at Woodbine. But not too bad! I had seven sets at Steve's. A very straightforward morning of galloping aside from one of my horses who really did pull quite hard for long enough I had visions of being run-off with. Thankfully I managed to get him back to the controlled gallop he needed to be in, but it was close! My horse for Anita (Terry Jordan) went out very early, to the sand ring. He is enjoying that change of pace, and it is pretty peaceful that time of the morning.

I caught up with Bruce Jackson, who has a runner here this afternoon. Bruce runs the Fair Hill Equine Therapy Center (as well as trains a few horses) and it was fun catching up and seeing how the new center is developing ... very well according to Bruce! And he kept asking if I knew they had a Hyperbaric chamber. I don't even know what that is, but it sounds cool!

I also had a conversation with one of the jockey's here about a load of horses that have been bought for kill, that are near his own property. We were discussing options regarding getting the word out to possibly save some. Hopefully he will find the discussion board.

Jen has lots of Breeders' Cup coverage: GO GIRLS.

Update 4190: It's Friday and the first day of the Breeders' Cup. Races begin with the Filly and Mares Sprint at 3:35 pm (east coast). Today's coverage will be provided by ESPN 2.

For all the latest news, access Daily Racing Form, Bloodhorse, Thoroughbred Times and Paulick Report.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:40 AM | Comments (71)

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Update 4189: Paulick Report on Friday's card: PAULICK'S PICKS - FILLY FRIDAY.

Update 4188: Alysheba is returning home and will reside at the Kentucky Horse Park: Alysheba to Return to U.S.

Update 4187: Thankfully a little warmer this morning at Woodbine! Quite a busy morning too. We had eight sets, four before the break, and then four after the break that all went to the gate for a little schooling. All went nicely. In between the two groups of four, I got on one for Anita (Terry Jordan) and rode him out in the sand ring. It's a lot more relaxing for him out there, and for me! I had recently been riding a filly of their's, Tribal Belle, who finished second as the favorite in the Stake last night. She was only just beaten on the wire, and appeared to run quite well. A friend of mine shipped in with a horse. Lesa, who works for Billy Entenmann (at Fair Hill). We caught up briefly in the track kitchen and are planning an early dinner after feed time!

Jen has all the Woodbine-related Breeders' Cup news: GET SET.

Update 4186: Breeders' Cup begins tomorrow afternoon! All the latest news can be found at Racing Form, Bloodhorse, Thoroughbred Times and Paulick Report. The following is a small sample of interesting articles:

Pro-Ride Surface Attracts Europeans
Next Stop: The Zenyatta Zone
O'Brien continues Classic quest
Big Brown's absence puts Curlin in driver's seat for Horse of the Year
Asmussen brothers have come far
Top Turf contenders enter off lengthy layoffs

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:44 AM | Comments (60)

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Update 4185: I'll be rooting for Mandella's horses for the Breeders' Cup, especially in the Juvenile: Mandella Seeks More BC Glory, excerpt:

Mine That Bird, said Mandella, "is like a gift that was left on my doorstep." Owner Mark Allen recently purchased the son of Birdstone and transferred him to Mandella from Canadian-based trainer David Cotey, who guided the juvenile gelding to four victories in five starts, including a win three weeks ago in the Grey Stakes (Can-III) at Woodbine. All five of his races have come over the Woodbine Polytrack. His consistency leads Mandella to believe he deserves a chance in the Bessemer Trust Breeders' Cup Juvenile.

I am curious if Chantal Sutherland will retain the mount now that she is based at Santa Anita!

Update 4184: I did an impromptu interview at Woodbine on Sunday. Here it is: End Horse Slaughter: An Interview With Alex Brown.

Update 4183: A chilly and windy day here at Woodbine. There were reports of snow not too far north of here too! It's still October! I was assured, during breaktime, that this is unseasonably cold and it will warm up again before it remains cold. I had seven sets, and survived. The siren went off a couple of times earlier in the morning so I am guessing a couple of riders were too cold to stay balanced and in place! All in all not too bad a morning, but I need to go and find a pair of long johns!

Update 4182: The Breeders' Cup begins in two days. Here is what happened with each horse yesterday: Breeders' Cup Flash Notes.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:44 AM | Comments (35)

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Update 4181: Breeders' Cup post positions are now available.

Update 4180: It's tuesday, so I went over to the OLEX auction. I went with Alison, who gallops at Woodbine. We met a few people there. More horses than last week, and more of a mix of horses (last week it was mostly standard breds). Meat price was about 21 cents per pound. And I bought a horse. I am the proud owner of what may become a pretty cool kids horse (I am hoping). Anyway, he was one of three thoroughbreds. He is very cute and has a very kind temperament. I bought him from the kill buyer. Very cool.

Update 4179: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update (Breeders' Cup edition):

It's the Tuesday before the Breeders' Cup, and that means that any dithering over cross entries will be resolved at today's post position draw. With fourteen races spread over two days, it's not a terribly long time to study the fields.

With that in mind, here is your most basic of basic overviews of each race, with more specifics to come later in the week.

Friday Races

Filly & Mare Sprint
Intangaroo always shows up, Indian Blessing loves this distance, Lady Sprinter represents for Argentina and Zaftig is trying to make a comeback after her last race in June.

Juvenile Fillies Turf
When in doubt, I'm going with the Aidan O'Brien entry - in this case, Heart Shaped.

Juvenile Fillies (Gr.I)
When in doubt and there's no Ballydoyle horse, I'll stick with Shug McGaughey with fillies - in this case, that's Persistently. I also like Evita Argentina.

Filly & Mare Turf (Gr.I)
Wait a While is always tough here, but Halfway to Heaven has probably beaten stronger fields. Folk Opera could also turn up, but all in all, this is a tough one.

Filly & Mare Classic (Gr.I)
All Zenyatta, all the time. I think Cocoa Beach will make her work for it, though, and Carriage Trail will also be a danger.

Saturday Races

Dirt Marathon
King of Rome, Sixties Icon, Spring House. You heard it here first.

Turf Sprint
Fleeting Spirit, perhaps? (That's working on my other 'when in doubt' fallback - and I really have no idea here - bet the foreign filly in turf races).

Dirt Mile
I like Lewis Michael here.

Mile (Gr.I)
I love Goldikova's form and think she's the one to beat.

Juvenile (Gr.I)
Square Eddie is getting all the hype - will he live up to it?

Juvenile Turf
Westphalia could pull it off.

Sprint (Gr.I)
Midnight Lute is trying to repeat, but he's been quiet since winning last year. Fabulous Strike is in with a chance.

Turf (Gr.I)
With Red Giant out and many of the toughest European contenders opting for the Classic, one has to wonder if it could someone wind up being Better Talk Now's year (again). Having said that, it's tough to see the old guy knocking off Soldier of Fortune or the ever-improving Grand Couturier. Perhaps it'll be Red Rocks again?

Classic (Gr.I)
Curlin, Duke of Marmalade, Raven's Pass and Colonel John are your picks. Henrythenavigator is a great miler, but I don't see this distance working out well for him. True, it's also a question for Raven's Pass, but it still seems like a better fit for him. Champs Elysees is intriguing here, but I don't see him beating any of the above. And as for Casino Drive - who knows?

At least we will know the post positions very shortly...

Update 4178: I am no longer going to Houston for the winter. I am not sure yet what the plan will be: Sam Houston cancels meet.

Update 4177: A little windy this morning and the temperature kept dropping all morning. Horses were a little more sparky and riders were a little more bundled up! And they say it will get colder soon, snow was about an hour north of us! I had seven sets altogether. Fortunately for the most part they all galloped nicely. A couple of them scooted from under me a little bit in reaction to the strong wind, especially as it hit you around the quarter pole turn. I also forgot my new winter gloves, I had left them in my truck. I needed them and won't forget them tomorrow!

Update 4176: J Be K is out of the Breeders' Cup Sprint. Mast Track is out of the Classic and may still go in the Dirt Mile. Comunique is out of the Filly and Mare Turf. All the latest Breeders' Cup news at the Bloodhorse, Racing Form, and Thoroughbred Times.

My meeting on Sunday at the races at Woodbine, talking about horse slaughter: Meeting Alex Brown And The Return Of Sandy Hawley.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

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Update 4175: Another Monday night and another new class at Woodbine: Internet for First Time Starters at Woodbine.

Update 4174: Curlin completed his preparations this morning with a routine half mile work in 49 and 3/5ths. A very standard work, and one to be expected as a final work before a big race: Curlin Makes Final Prep for Classic.

Update 4173: Jen covers Madonna, Top Bunk, Golden Quill and some Breeders' Cup news: ICONIC.

Update 4172: An easy morning this morning at Woodbine. I only had five sets for Steve. Four before the break and one after the break. Three galloped two miles, and all galloped really nicely. I also got on a couple of horses for Terry Jordan. They both also went nicely too. A short and hassle-free morning. I did go and buy some gloves when I was done. My current pair, with plenty of holes, won't work when the chillier weather really does set in.

Update 4171: More horses put in their final preparations ahead of the Breeders' Cup with works yesterday at Santa Anita: Clocker: Consequence finishes fast over Pro-Ride.

Yesterday at the races I met Yaelle again. The young lady who is collecting signatures to present a petition to her MP to introduce legislation to end horse slaughter. She is a remarkable young lady, and was enjoying the racing and having her picture taken with a few of the jockeys. I had a long chat with Keith McAlmont, who is writing a story on Yaelle. Very cool.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

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Update 4170: Off back to the races here at Woodbine. More on Sandy Hawley's win yesterday: HAWLEY STILL A DANDY.

Update 4169: Phew, I am knackered. One of my horses (freelance horse for Terry Jordan) decided this morning that he was going to pull very hard. And he did. It was barely managable, and now I am paying the price! Before galloping we had to wait and watch the outriders catch a loose horse, no doubt that was what got my horse somewhat stired up. Anyway we survived! All my other horses (seven others) galloped nicely. Very nicely for an almost event free morning. It is also another gorgeous morning, a little chilly to start with a light coating of what must have been frost on the racetrack.

Update 4168: Media coverage of Sandy Hawley's win yesterday:

Hawley King of Tribe in Legends Race
Hawley steals show in Living Legends race.

A number of horses completed their final workout on Saturday ahead of the Breeders' Cup next weekend: Five Ladies' Classic contenders tune up on Saturday.

Update 4167: I was at the races this afternoon, and by far the highlight of the program was watching the "legends" race with all the hall of fame jockeys. Sitting around the table with a few local horsemen (who will remain nameless) we were trying to handicap the race and throw out Sandy Hawley's horse. He was the favorite and surely Sandy was not in good enough shape to win it. Various bets were made. And the class of Sandy Hawley showed through, and he won by a street. There was clapping after the race as clearly the Woodbine contingent was proud of their local hero. Very cool!

Update 4166: Another chilly start to a gorgeous day here at Woodbine. We had eight sets today at Steve's. I had five before the break and three after the break. All galloped nicely. My first horse was certainly feeling good on this chillier morning. He bronked quite high coming onto the track a couple of times. And then coming through the tunnel after training he started to get a little "fractious". There is not a lot of room in the tunnel for too much "play" ... but we survived. A good feeling horse! After finishing I got on one horse for Anita (Terry Jordan). She also went nicely for a nice start to a gorgeous day. Likely I will return to the track for the later races this afternoon.

Update 4165: With the Breeders' Cup less than a week away, we will see many of the Breeders' Cup hopefuls doing their last piece of work over the next few days. It also means there won't be any big feature races this weekend with the focus of the top horses being next weekend. We will however, be treated to a race of "living legends". Not horses, but Jockeys. And Woodbine's own Sandy Hawley will be one of the hall of fame jockey's competing. It is the fourth race at Santa Anita this afternoon: Bailey Rides Favorite in Legends Race
.

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Update 4164: Update from Penny at timwoolleyracing.com:

Thought I would take a few minutes on this beautiful Friday morning to fill the few of you that still read this website in on some happenings this weekend. Tim will be very busy on Saturday. JoJo (Hlatikulu) will be running at Laurel Park on the turf and Powdered Donut is in at the Meadowlands. Donut is in a tough stakes race but she is a tough filly and she has been doing great.

The Fair Hill International three day event is going on this weekend. One of our former racehorses was there last year and I hope he will be competing again this year. His name is Buckingham Place. Anyway, everyone have a great day and enjoy the weather.

Update 4163: A little chillier to start the day, at Woodbine. Someone asked me if there was ice on my windshield this morning! It did not appear to be quite that chilly. When the sun came up (about fifth set) it was gorgeous. I had seven sets for Steve, four before the break and three after the break that each did some gate schooling. All went nicely. I also got on for Terry Jordan, and they too went well if not a little strong. All in all a very pleasant way to start the day.

On my way out of the track I swung by the HBPA office. I read the following article: Historic Fort Erie track might be out of business. Clearly the competition in the area for casino gambling has hurt Fort Erie significantly. It is so close to Niagara Falls (Canada and US), both places having their own casinos and hotels.

Update 4162: A few of the headlines ahead of next weekend's Breeders' Cup at Santa Anita:

Cup attracts record crowd
Only seven step up to face Zenyatta
Curlin, ten O'Brien horses highlight Breeders' Cup pre-entries
Unique Breeders' Cup Attracts 180 Horses
Classic: Step Right Up

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

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Update 4161: Breeders' Cup pre-entries includes Storm Treasure in the turf sprint, who I have galloped a few times up here at Woodbine: BREEDERS' CUP PRE-ENTRIES.

Update 4160: A wet night last night but another pleasant morning at Woodbine. We had a light day at Steve's barn. I only had five sets. Two went to the gate for a little schooling, and they all galloped nicely. I also got on a few for Terry Jordan, so the morning was busy enough. It was good to see Chantale (exercise rider) back at the track after her nasty fall and back injury a couple of weeks ago. She's tough! Her near namesake, Chantal (Sutherland) is now winning races in California!

Update 4159: We share a barn with David Cotey, Barn 31. He has been great to work with so far. And has had one really nice 2yo, Mine That Bird. He is four for five, reeling off four straight wins in three stakes races. He recently sold the horse and he is Breeders' Cup bound for Richard Mandella: Mind That Bird BC Bound.

Here is the race order for the two day Breeders' Cup: Race Order Announced for Breeders' Cup.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

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Update 4158: From the NTRA: FORMER GOV TO MONITOR NEW NTRA SAFETY ALLIANCE. Likely some good stuff here, but the retirement program issue seems vague. And not suprisingly given the NTRAs recent stance to not support the current horse slaughter legislation, there is no mention of horse slaughter.

Update 4157: Lentenor is following the same path as his elder brothers Barbaro and Nicanor: Lentenor Update, excerpt:

"He shipped yesterday to John and Jill Stephens along with all the Jacksons yearlings," said Headley Bell, the managing partner of Mill Ridge. "He has continued to mature into a strong healthy colt, and we look forward to his racing career in time."

Update 4156: Another gorgeous morning this morning at Woodbine. Perhaps a little chillier than recent days, but pleasant enough. We had six sets at Steve's. Four before the break and two that schooled in the gate when the gate opened. All went nicely. Mikey was back from his Ohio trip, but I still helped out Anita (Terry Jordan) a little. Terry was also in town, flying in early this morning. Mikey was pretty psyched about his first career winner at Fort Erie, and has a ride tonight at Woodbine, so will go over to the races to watch. I am not sure how he did in Ohio riding the quarter horses!

Update 4155: Steve Haskin writes eloquently about Big Brown, Casino Drive and a little about Student Council: Cup Countdown: No Ordinary Horse.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

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Update 4154: Curlin will be entered for the Breeders' Cup Classic: LIVE BLOGGING JACKSON ON CURLIN'S CUP FUTURE.

This afternoon I attended the OLEX auction. I am guessing about 40 - 50 horses went through the auction. The majority were standard breds. The slaughter price appeared to be about 24 - 25 cents per pound tops. There were a few thoroughbreds. One sweet chestnut 3yo. We later discovered that while it appeared that he was bought for kill, he went to a dealer in a subsequent transaction. One horse went through the ring very lame. Was bandaged in the leg, and no rules broken. Still, it was a shame. Overall though the auction appears somewhat humane. Plenty of hay and water that I could see.

I did get a chance to meet some new people while there. One person spotted me as I walked by and introduced herself. She has been on this site! I am starting to build a pretty good network up here in Canada I think! I will plan to be back next tuesday.

Update 4153: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

With Big Brown's retirement, the Breeders' Cup Classic seems wide open (or at least it will until we know who is pre-entered on Thursday). Curlin is still the desired headliner, of course, and while his workout yesterday seemed to please both trainer Steven Asmussen and owner Jess Jackson, his appearance in the race is still far from a foregone conclusion. It's entirely possible he may skip the race for the Japan Dirt Cup, or he could even take on both.

In the event we do see him on October 25th, who might his competitors be? Go Between, winner of the Pacific Classic, has been mentioned as a possible starter, and Colonel John seems to be flying under the radar despite being proven in California (although, granted, not against the likes of Curlin). Many media eyes have shifted to Casino Drive; Steve Haskin notes that he is 'no ordinary horse.' His allowance win over the weekend allowed him to easily dominate a less-than-imposing field and he obviously has plenty of talent -- but winning the Breeders' Cup Classic with so little experience would be quite a feat.

The pre-entries this week will likely show a number of the top European competitors entered in both the Mile and the Classic; Aiden O'Brien seems as though he does not want to tip his hand just yet with Henrythenavigator. Goldikova's connections have chosen the Mile over the Filly & Mare Turf, but whether we see Duke of Marmalade take her on or pass up the race for the Classic remains to be seen. Raven's Pass may also be pre-entered in both races, but it's possible the picture will become slightly clearer on Thursday.

While I don't entirely agree with Bill Christine that 'Curlin vs. Zenyatta in the Classic is the only matchup that can save this Breeders' Cup now' I admit I'd very much like to see that...

Update 4152: Another warm morning this morning at Woodbine. We also had another light day at Steve's barn. I only had four sets, all before the break. I was able to then help out Anita (Terry Jordan) as Mikey, their rider is away for one more day. He is riding in a quarter horse stakes race today somewhere in Ohio! All in all a pleasant morning to be at Woodbine. We also had another winner yesterday so the barn was in good form this morning!

Update 4151: Today is pre-entry day for the Breeders' Cup, which runs in under two weeks time. In preparation for a possible tilt at a second Classic, Curlin worked 5/8ths yesterday between races at Santa Anita. While I did not get to see the work (was teaching) Hank, our assistant here now, watched on TV and thought it was very impressive. He looked to be just galloping, but went 5/8ths in 59.11 galloping out in 1:12.14: Curlin Works Toward Classic Start, excerpt:

"I was very pleased with him," said trainer Steve Asmussen. "He came out, noticed the crowd, gave it a little look jogging off. Carlos was very happy with him once he broke into a gallop. He was all business from there."

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

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Update 4150: With all the talk about retirement today, good news from the Better Talk Now camp: Better Talk Now on target for fifth BC Turf start, excerpt:

"I just worked him; they actually waited until I got back from Kentucky to work him, and I thought he went very well," Motion said. "As long as he comes out of it well in the morning, we'll go ahead and pre-enter him.

"I can't give you a reason why, but this horse this year has worked better than he used to, and even today we discussed breezing him with another horse. I talked with my assistant Adrian [Rolls] about it, and we decided he was going to do enough on his own. And sure enough, he did. He did plenty."

Another monday, another computer class at Woodbine: Internet for First Time Starters at Woodbine.

Update 4149: More on Big Brown's retirement: LIVE BLOGGING BIG BROWN RETIREMENT TELECONFERENCE.

Update 4148: Wow, not a good day. Big Brown is out of the Breeders' Cup: Big Brown Injured; Out of Breeders' Cup, excerpt:

The winner of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) had worked in company with Kip Deville over the turf course, with the stablemates finishing together in final time of 1:12 4/5 for six furlongs.

Afterward, it was determined that the colt had grabbed a quarter on the inside of the right front foot.

Big Brown is retired.

Update 4147: The undefeated filly Zarkava, who most recently won the Arc de Triomphe and was a dual classic winner, has been retired: Arc star Zarkava retired to stud.

Found on Paulick Report.

Update 4146: Another lovely morning this morning at Woodbine. The weather lately has been simply gorgeous. We had a light morning at Steve's barn. I only had four sets, all before the break. All galloped nicely. After the break I went to help out Anita (Terry Jordan). Their regular exercise rider, Mikey, is away for a couple of days in Ohio riding quarter horses. Mikey has been riding quarter horses all summer at Picov Downs (each Sunday). He also had his first rides on thoroughbreds at Fort Erie yesterday. A win, second and a third I think with four mounts. A great start for potentially a good apprentice jockey for the future!

It was also good to see Matt Douglas on the rail this morning hanging out. He is the exercise rider who nearly blew himself up with a barbeque earlier in the summer. He left hospital perhaps a week or so ago, and looked well from a distance.

Jen includes more information on Ontario-related racing, and writes nicely about Jimmy: AND THANKS.

It's a big day for Curlin. He will be working between the fourth and fifth races at Santa Anita. This will be his penultimate work ahead of the Breeders' Cup Classic, if he runs.

Update 4145: Happy Thanksgiving for those of us in Canada!

Media reports for Casino Drive's win yesterday:

Casino Drive heads to Classic off allowance win
Casino Drive Cruises in BC Classic Prep
Casino Drive cruises in 'perfect' BC Classic prep

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

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Update 4144: Another fun day at the races. We had two runners, and Jimmy Simms won the allowance race at the end of the day. A good way to finish the day. We went out for a meal.

Casino Drive also won his Breeders' Cup prep race at Santa Anita.

Update 4143: A well deserved award: Rep. Whitfield named 'Horseman of the Year', excerpt:

"Kentucky is the horse capital of the world and we should be the leader, it seems to me, in protecting these animals who mean so much to our economy," Whitfield told a group during a meeting at the Hunt-Morgan House.

Found on Paulick Report.

Update 4142: Another gorgeous morning this morning at Woodbine. I had seven sets this morning. Four before the break and three after the break. While all galloped nicely it was just one of those morning's when it was hard to get going. A little tired from yesterday I guess. We also have a couple of runners today, so back to the races later this afternoon! A good day to be outside for sure.

Update 4141: John Velazquez, who had been recently sidelined, returned to take the feature race yesterday at Keeneland: Alwajeeha Takes QE II Under Velazquez.

All eyes will be on Casino Drive today, as he makes his first start since his spring win in the Peter Pan Stakes: Casino Drive preps for Classic.

Update 4140: A gorgeous day to be at the races. I had a fun afternoon. We ran thrid in the second race. We also schooled a couple of horses during that race. I then went up and sat outside on the third floor (Champions Bar) and spent time editing an essay I am writing while watching a couple of races. I then went down to the paddock area for the first stake. Found a friend and grabbed a drink while watching the stake and following race. Went back downstairs for the next stake and then the following race watched the horse I "freelance" gallop finish fourth. He ran well. We then had a runner in the last, she finished second and ran a good race too. Finally I went to the jock's room to pick up some mints for one of our horses, courtesey of his jockey Chantal Sutherland. On my way home I chatted with Tim, and there is an outside chance he may bring a runner up here in a week or so! Very cool.

Update 4139: Off to the races!

Update 4138: Another crisp and gorgeous morning this morning at Woodbine. And it looks like it is shaping into a beautiful day for the races. I had eight sets for Steve. Four before the break and four after the break. One went to the gate for a little schooling. All galloped nicely. One horse I have galloped a few times lately ran in Barbaro's Derby. Storm Treasure is a beautiful looking horse and feels great underneath you when you gallop him. I hope we keep him around for a while longer. He just ran here in a Stake, and while he was only fifth, he was a fast closing fifth and ran a very good race I think.

We have a couple of runners this afternoon, so lets hope for some good racing luck. The horse I have been riding for Anita (Terry Jordan) is also running. Hopefully we will have a fun afternoon!

Update 4137: The Breeders' Cup is only two weeks away. All the major contenders, with the exception of Casino Drive, will have run their final prep races. There are feature races today from Keeneland (Magical Fantasy faces tough test in QE II Challenge) and Hawthorne (Hard to look beyond Adriano), but these will likely not have Breeders' Cup implications.

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Update 4136: More tracks enact a slaughter policy for their athletes despite the NTRA's reluctance to support the end of horse slaughter: Magna tracks enact slaughter policy, excerpt:

"Since the inception of MEC, we have taken care to protect the health and safety of [its] customers, workers, and equine athletes participating in activities at all of our facilities," Magna Chairman Frank Stronach said in a statement. "The goal of the policy is to forewarn industry participants who participate in the slaughter of racehorses that they are not welcome at any of our facilities across the country. I hope other racetrack owners formally adopt similar policies."

Update 4135: Off back to the races. It is a gorgeous fall day here although I would be kidding myself if I did not admit to missing Keeneland a little. Just a little!

Update 4134: Recently retired Lights On Broadway, galloping bridle-less: Lights On Broadway September Update.

Update 4133: One of my favorite mounts at Keeneland last year is running this afternoon at Keeneland: Taletobetold has the class edge, excerpt:

Although she typically flashes early speed, Taletobetold rallied from fourth last fall when she missed by a neck to Stylish Wildcat.

"I think that race showed she likes the course here at Keeneland," trainer Eddie Kenneally said. "She's been a very consistent filly. The timing of this race is very good, and she comes into this race in perfect shape."

Update 4132: Another crisp but gorgeous morning this morning at Woodbine. I had seven sets for Steve. Three went before the break and four after the break. Of those four, three went for some gate schooling. All went nicely. For my second set as I was starting my gallop I saw a loose horse come flying along the outside rail coming the wrong way. It managed to scatter the horses that were walking back after their gallops. One reared and deposited it's rider. Two loose horses were now running around. I think all was well. Joey, who was on the first horse, was taking the long walk back along the outside rail!

My horse for Anita (Terry Jordan) also galloped nicely. Just a lovely day to be riding horses.

We have a couple of runners this afternoon, so I will plan to return to the races. I am doing this update from the Jake Howard Center here on the backside. My laptop is broken and I need to figure out a quick fix!

Update 4131: Former Fair Hill horse, Adriano, who won the Kent Stakes six weeks ago, will be the favored horse in the Hawthorne Derby on Saturday as he competes against 7 three year olds on the turf. Adriano stands out in Hawthorne Derby.

Steve Haskins writes a nice article on Steve Asmussen's handling on Curlin.

"All the talk has been about Curlin and his earnings record and place in history, but few mention the brilliant and meticulous training job by Steve Asmussen."

Haskins Cup Countdown: A Time For Kudos.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

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Update 4130: The very well traveled, yet very lightly raced, Casino Drive will run on Sunday at Santa Anita in preparation for the Breeders' Cup two weeks later: Casino Drive to race on Sunday, excerpt:

Thursday at Hollywood Park, Casino Drive worked in company with stablemate Champagne Squall, a maiden. Both are trained by Kuzuo Fujisawa. Champagne Squall was timed in 1:02.80.

Tada said that because Casino Drive will start in the optional claimer "we don't have to give him more hard workouts, just keep him happy and in good condition" before the BC Classic.

Curlin will work between races on Monday at Santa Anita. This will be his key work ahead of the Breeders' Cup Classic: Horse of the Year Curlin to work on Monday.

Update 4129: Another gorgeous morning this morning at Woodbine, and not too chilly either! I had seven sets for Steve, four before the break and three after the break that each went to the gate for some schooling. All my horses went nicely. I also got on my one extra for Anita (Terry Jordan). He continues to get more relaxed in his gallops. This was a good thing this morning as we had to dodge a loose horse who was galloping at a decent clip towards us. As I was pulling up I saw Brian Lynch (rider) walking back from his spill. He came off at the eighth pole which is the worse point as you have a long walk back to the gap! Brian seemed fine.

Yesterday was the unveiling of the John Henry statue at the Kentucky Horse Park: John Henry gets lasting tribute. The article concludes:

One fan who gave to the fund and traveled from Weatherford, Texas, for the unveiling was Howard McClurkin, resplendent in black jeans, a black jacket, and a black cowboy hat.

"That little brown horse walked up to those doors of opportunity and just kicked 'em in, by himself," an emotional McClurkin said. "To me, he is a true American story. If he can succeed, anybody can succeed. . . . John Henry demonstrated that resolve is everything, and a lack of advantage means nothing."

Update 4128: Curlin still remains top of the timeform ratings: Zarkava Second in Timeform Rating.

The Breeders' Cup will return to Churchill Downs in 2010: Churchill Gets 2010 Cup; More on Way?

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

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Update 4127: Paulick Report explores further the issues of supporting the end of horse slaughter within the thoroughbred industry. A must read: INDUSTRY ORGANIZATION POSITIONS ON SLAUGHTER.

Update 4126: I heard about this this morning for the first time. I hope things can get fixed or my plans to winter in Houston may be up in the air: Hurricane Damage Stymies Houston Meet.

Update 4125: Another pleasant morning's work here at Woodbine. And a little warmer too! We had eight sets. Four before the break and four after the break, three of whom went to the gate for some schooling. All very straightforward. I then went to get on my horse for Anita (Terry Jordan) who is also galloping much more kindly as we get to know each other. I finished off the morning with lunch at the track kitchen (the food is pretty good at the track, and a lot cheaper than purchasing food outside the track) and a quick stop off at the Jake Howard Center (where I teach my cumputer class, which Jen mentioned in her blog today: ROCK STEADY.).

A very pleasant start to the day.

Update 4124: Two more horses are retired: Bustin Stones and Dreaming of Anna.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

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Update 4123: Two champions were euthanized today: Cozzene and Princess Rooney.

Big Brown worked 3/4s on the turf today at Aqueduct: Big Brown breezes at Aqueduct.

Update 4122: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

We are at that peculiar point a few weeks out from the Breeders' Cup where things get a bit odd, particularly with regard to the field for the Classic. Duke of Marmalade and Soldier of Fortune, both fresh from being crushed by Zarkava in the Arc, are still under consideration for the Ballydoyle folk, as is Henrythenavigator (also well beaten last time out), although the Mile is still possible as well for any/all of them.

Raven's Pass, who finally turned the tables on rival Henrythenavigator, is likely to go in the Mile - but like his fellow Europeans, the Classic is also on the table. And it's not just European turf horses lining up for the Classic; Bobby Frankel has indicated that Champs Elysees may also have a crack at it. Here's hoping this particular synthetic surface lives up to those heavy expectations.

Bill Christine suggests that Curlin's slow first work over said artificial surface at Santa Anita was something of theatrical first act, building momentum to a showdown with Big Brown (whose connections seem uncharacteristically quiet of late) and it seems a bit strange to think that the Classic could be Casino Drive's third lifetime start, but it's an unusual year. One this is for certain at this point -- the above-mentioned colts' connections are breathing a collective sigh of relief they don't have to face Zenyatta!

Update 4121: An update from Sue McMullen regarding the Arc and the tremendous performance of Zarakava, a 3yo filly who beat older horses in the best turf race in Europe:

The Arc was absolutely awesome, a vintage race on a card that showed us some exciting prospects for next year and drama in the Prix de l'Abbaye when one of the stalls didn't open so it had to be run again at the end of the card. A bit of a farce as half the field had gone a flat five furlongs before jockeys could pull them up so not all could reload later in the day. What can one say about the Arc? Although the French had backed Zarakava, the feeling on the course beforehand was that she was not the biggest filly and although hugely impressive against her own sex, how could she possibly take on the cream of the big, strapping colts some of them older than her? And it was a good Arc so she was facing some really classy colts. She even tried to duck right when she jumped out of the gate and again lost ground, just as she had in the Prix Vermeille when she inexplicably lingered in the gate and lost six or seven lengths. On that occasion she made up ground and cruised through the field, throwing down the gauntlet to the colts in the process. On Sunday Christophe Soumillion once again kept his head and with complete faith in the filly made up ground and and as she scythed through the field the cheering could have been heard in London. Soumillion is the French version of Frankie Dettori and with his usual ebullience, which has occasionally got him into trouble, he crossed the winning line and standing up in the saddle pointed down to the filly in a gesture of total admiration and respect. No three-year-old filly has won the Arc since 1982 and she is a true champion as it is a very tough race to win. You can't take anything away from her hugely impressive victory but it's possible the Arc was one race too many this year for Duke of Marmalade as he finished too far down the field to be a true showing for his level of talent.

Update 4120: Another chilly start to a simply gorgeous morning this morning at Woodbine. We had a light morning with only six sets, four before the break and two after the break. All mine went nicely, despite the construction work going on on the clubhouse turn! I then went to get on my horse for Anita (Terry Jordan) and he went nicely too. He can get quite strong, but after riding him for a little while I am starting to get to know his "quirks". All in all a terrific morning for riding horses.

Update 4119: Peppers Pride, who broke the modern day record for consecutive wins last weekend, came out of her race in good order and more races may be on her schedule: Peppers Pride targets two more stakes, excerpt:

Marr said Monday that Peppers Pride, a 5-year-old who is undefeated, emerged from her record-setting race in good order. He said next for her is the $170,000 New Mexico Cup Filly and Mare Championship on Nov. 9 at her Zia Park base in Hobbs, N.M. Following that race is the $125,000 New Mexico State Racing Commission Handicap at Sunland Park on Dec. 14. Both races are restricted to fillies and mares bred in New Mexico.

Marsh Side, who is based in California, may well return in the Breeders' Cup after his somewhat surprising win in the Canadian International: Marsh Side points to Breeders' Cup.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

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Update 4118: Another monday afternoon and another internet class. I have to say it is fun getting back to a little teaching: Internet for First Time Starters at Woodbine.

Update 4117: Curlin worked for the first time on the Pro-Ride surface at Santa Anita Park this morning. In typical Asmussen fashion, it is an easy work: Curlin, Student Council Work at SA, excerpt:

"We just breezed him back in a maintenance move," said Asmussen. "We're going to show Curlin the patience that I think he deserves."

Santa Anita clockers caught Curlin's fractions as :13 4/5, :26 4/5, and :39 4/5. Several people came out to Santa Anita's Clocker's Corner at about 6:30 a.m. just to get a glimpse of the chestnut champion at work.

Update 4116: A crisp fall morning this morning at Woodbine. But a great morning to be riding horses for sure, if you wear gloves. I had a pretty straight forward morning, six sets for Steve and then the one extra for Anita (Terry Jordan). Two of my horses did a little gate schooling, and all galloped very nicely. Just a very pleasant morning's work.

The otherside of our shedrow was pretty upbeat this morning, after their double yesterday that included the stakes win of Mine That Bird. Good guys and great to see them have another big winner. Mine That Bird has now won three stakes in a row.

Jen wraps up the weekend's racing, and also includes a picture of me with the departing Chantal Sutherland and other cool pictures taken by Wendy: GOLD MINES.

Update 4115: Wendy took some great photos of me galloping at Woodbine yesterday morning. I will note though that the loose horse was not mine, but I do think it was a friend's!

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

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Update 4114: Another fun afternoon spent at the races. We had two runners, a close fourth and a second. Both horses ran nicely without winning. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the win for the David Cotey trained Mine That Bird: Grey Win 4th Straight for Mine That Bird. We share a barn with David and he and his help have been super friendly since I arrived at Woodbine. Chantal Sutherland rode this winner, as well as the other stakes winner on the card and two more winners. Not bad for her last day at Woodbine. She is heading to California. All in all another fun day out.

Update 4113: Jen reviews the major races at Woodbine yesterday: WOW.

Update 4112: The Arc de Triomphe went to the super filly Zarkava: SUPER ZAR WINS THE ARC.

Update 4111: A nice and pleasant morning this morning at Woodbine. After yesterday's races and all the "pagentry" involved, it's pleasant to settled back into a more normal routine. I had seven sets for Steve. All went nicely, although my last horse, a nice 2yo, spooked away from some step ladders which were oddly lying by the outside rail at the wire, and jogged right into another horse jogging towards him. Luckily all was well. A set earlier the siren went off, a loose horse was galloping around at a good clip with his tail vertical, and a little later I learned that it was a friend who fell off and hurt her arm! Oh well, I think all will be well. My last horse was for Anita (Terry Jordan), and while he set off a little more settled (good) he did get kean towards the end as I needed to bring him close to the inside rail to pass a couple of horses. All fun.

Update 4110: A great day spent at the races yesterday. Our two stakes runners both ran very good races at long odds. Star of David finished third in the Grade 3 turf event for 2yos. He was the longest shot in the race. Storm Treasure, who I think ran in Barbaro's Derby, was a very fast closing fifth, beaten less than two lengths in the Neartic. Another sixteenth of a mile and who knows! Frankie Dettori did a masterful job of winning the EP Taylor on Folk Opera (Folk Opera Grabs Win in E.P. Taylor) and I am still amazed that Neil Drysdale can train such a longshot winner in the big one: Marsh Side Stuns International Stars.

There was also some great racing from Belmont where the 2yos were on display: Vineyard Haven Rolls; Unlikely For BC and Sky Diva Soars Past Frizette Foes.

Keeneland also had some good races including the Shadwell Turf Mile. Rahy's Attorney prompted the pace and looked good until close to the end, and was then headed by quite a few closers: Thorn Song Wire-to-Wire in Turf Mile.

From a historical perspective, the most important horse race though perhaps took place in New Mexico. Peppers' Pride won and has now become the only horse to have won seventeen straight races: Peppers Pride sets record with 17th straight.

Today the focus is on Paris, and the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp, which now may be without it's favorite due to soft turf conditions: ZARK ARC DOUBT.

Update 4109: Some great racing today, and a great day to be at Woodbine. I'll write a proper recap of events tomorrow. All I will add tonight is how shocked I am that Neil Drysdale can have a horse run at Woodbine at 30-1. Of course the horse then wins!

Update 4108: Off back to the races. We have four runners, two are in the stakes races. Hopefully a fun and busy afternoon. I would imagine there will be a big crowd on hand. ESPN is broadcasting from 4pm - 6pm.

Update 4107: Quite a busy morning this morning at Woodbine, and on top of a late night last night I am a little exhausted. I galloped six horses for Steve. One pulled quite hard, but the remainder all went nicely. I also galloped the one horse for Terry Jordan (Anita). He can also pull a little bit, but he did go nicely. He has a habit of stopping and looking on his way to the track. I guess if he gallops nicely I will just let him do what he wants to do!

Last night was a party at Woodbine ahead of the big races today. A fun evening spent with Jennifer (read her blog today for up to date news on today's races here at Woodbine INTERNATIONAL ACCLAIM) and Wendy (ABR co-moderator, photographer and Better Talk Now fan).

Update 4106: Another big day of racing. Woodbine will be hosting the Pattison Canadian International Stakes later this afternoon. Canadian International Field Loaded With Talent.

Woodbine horse, Rahy's Attorney will be running against Shakis in the Shadwell Turf Mile at Keenland: Shakis, Rahy's Attorney clash in Shadwell Turf Mile.

And Peppers Pride attempts to break the record for consecutive wins today in New Mexico: Baffert Says Record Counts For Peppers Pride, excerpt:

"I don't have the money to play with a lot of the big people", Allen said. "From a financial standpoint, this just makes more sense. We can get her beat. We know that. Our objective is to retire her sound."

ESPN will be covering the Lane's End Breeders Futurity, The Shadwell Turf Mile, the Neartic Stakes, the Canadian International, the E.P. Taylor Stakes and the Summer Stakes beginning at 4pm ET.

Posted by Alex at 10:07 AM | Comments (64)

Barbaro Updates: 700

Update 4105: Casino Drive, who impressed in only his second lifetime start by winning the Peter Pan Stakes, is now back in the US to make a bid for the Breeders' Cup Classic. The plan is to make a start within the next couple of weeks: Casino Drive arrives in California.

Off to the races!

Update 4104: A cool and crisp morning this morning at Woodbine. Horses love this weather. Riders perhaps not as much and we did have one loose horse this morning as Dominic parted company! I had eight to ride. A couple were a little tough galloping, but not too bad. I did take three to the gate for a little schooling. I saw Neil Drysdale a couple of times, and nearly ran him over coming home on one of my horses! The rider I noted yesterday who was taken off in an ambulance. She spent the day in hospital, was still there this morning but may be being discharged today. She suffered some kind of back injury I think, but I assume if she is leaving hospital so soon it's not critical. Fingers crossed!

Update from Penny today at timwoolleyracing.com:

What a nice crisp Friday morning. I have just a brief update today from a very short conversation with the trainer. Little Bubble Gum is doing fine and staying sound which is really great news. We are looking forward to getting her to the races. Tim is on his way to the Meadowlands tonight with Vicar's Tune. I'm not sure what sort of race it is but he is a tough bugger and hopefully he will run well. Tim also has Ms. M.V.P. who is a first time started making her debut in the last race at Laurel Park today. She has grown up so much since coming to our barn from the Two Year Old in Training Sale in May. We will get to see a little of what she's made of today. Now that the yearling sale is over hopefully I will get some more updates from Tim Woolley racing.

Update 4103: Keeneland's fall meet opens today with two Grade 1 stakes: Keeneland hoping to buck dipping handle trend.

I had a pleasant afternoon at the races. I met an anti-slaughter activist and we hung out for two to three hours swapping stories and information. We will plan on doing some work together. I then caught up with Jeannine Edwards, and we went out for an early dinner. Very cool to catch up!

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 (90)

Barbaro Updates: 699

Updates are now here

Update 4102: Off to the races. We have three runners this afternoon, and a couple of horses schooling in the second race. I am also meeting up with someone who is involved in the horse slaughter movement in Canada. Hopefully should be a fun afternoon!

Update 4101: The atmosphere here is building ahead of this weekend's major races. A studio has been built by the wire on the inside (standardbred track). Of course a few horses figured to spook at that! Woodbine's TV crew has been out most mornings this week taking footage of contenders. I saw a Godolphin horse out on the track. Not sure who it was. A few horses galloping around on the outside Turf track. All connected to the big stakes. Jen has all the coverage: THE CHALLENGE.

My horses all galloped nicely. I had seven sets for Steve, four before the break and three after the break, all of whom went to the gate. Given we had a long break between the break and the gate, I got on my extra horse in between for Anita (Terry Jordan). He was a little kean early in his gallop then settled down.

There is a lot of talk of where people are going this winter. It might have something to do with the cooler fall weather we are experiencing. One exercise rider seemed pretty excited about the prospect of going south. It would be the first time for her. About an hour later she had an accident and had to leave in an ambulance. I think she hurt her back. You just never know.

Update 4100: Last evening was spent at the races, for Wednesday night racing. We had two runners and one winner, so a good evening's work. A late night but fun night! This weekend is the big weekend for racing here at Woodbine and everything seems to be ramping up. It's the $2 million Canadian International. ESPN is coming and doing their Saturday telecast from here: Doctor Dino Leads Canadian International.

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 (30)

Barbaro Updates: 698

updates are now here.

Update 4099: While I remain extremely disappointed with the NTRAs position on horse slaughter (H.R. 6598) this might be interesting: NTRA: 'Safety' Train to Leave Station.

Update 4098: A pleasant morning this morning at Woodbine. We had seven sets, four before the break and three after the break, two of whom went to the gate. It was a bit drizzly, but warm enough. All my horses went nicely for an easy going morning. I then went over to Anita's (Terry Jordan) and got on my one horse there. He also went well. Just a very straightforward morning.

Jen writes a very cool story about a very cool young lady, the last story of her entry today: GIRL WANTS TO HELP HORSES. It begins:

Her name is Yael Gottesman.

She is just 17-years-old but she's determined to make a difference when it comes to eliminating the slaughtering of former racehorses in Canada.

Update 4097: My long range plan for this "project" was to finish it by the end of this year and return to England. I have decided, for a variety of reasons, to continue for one more year. The current plan is to return to Houston for the winter meet at Sam Houston Race Park and then to return to Woodbine for next year's meet.

In memory of John Hettinger please keep calling and writing.

For Canadians: Canadian Horse Defense Coalition Call to Action.

Posted by Alex at 9:53 AM | Comments (58)