Barbaro Updates: 800

Posted February 28, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4599: Midshipman, winner of last year's Breeders' Cup Juvenile, is off the Derby trail: Midshipman Injured, Out of Triple Crown.

Found on Paulick Report.

Update 4598: A day off this morning, of sorts. The track remained closed for training. I did go in. Helped clean some tack and then walked three horses.

Update 4597: It's 27 degrees here this morning so the Oaklawn track is opening late for training. Currently scheduled to open at 8 am.

It appears a couple of horses really stamped themselves yesterday as Derby contenders. Much of course will depend on how they perform in their next starts, and how about 100 other horses perform in the meantime, but Quality Road (QUALITY ROAD TAKES FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH) and Pamplemousse (SHAM WOW! PAMPLEMOUSSE DOMINATES ON WEST COAST) were both very impressive.

And Mine That Bird was only inched out in the Borderland Derby: Scorewithcater Captures Tight Borderland.

Update 4596: Quality Road eased into the Kentucky Derby picture by taking the Fountain of Youth by more than four lengths in only his third start: Quality Road Rolls in Fountain of Youth.

It was a frigid afternoon here today at Oaklawn Park at the races.

Update 4595: Some decent Derby preps today including the Fountain of Youth (Loaded Fountain of Youth Has it All) and the Sham Stakes (Sham: Can Anyone Stop The Pamplemousse?). I'll also be looking at the Borderland Derby and be rooting for Mine That Bird. We won that race last year with my pal Poni Colada.

And Da' Tara, who upset everybody in the Belmont last year, and not so since, is also running at Gulfstream: Da' Tara Included on FOY Undercard.

Update 4594: A bit of a damp and dreary morning this morning at Oaklawn Park. The donuts were good though! We had seven sets, five before the break and two after the break. One of my horses was in a bit of an obstinant mood this morning starting off. He had had a day off after his work, and I think he was feeling too good for himself! Anyway once we got started he went well. My first horse galloped beautifully, and as I was beginning to ease her down towards the end of the gallop OId Fashioned galloped by. At least I think it was him, Larry Jones seems to have a lot of grey horses here at Oaklawn! All my others went nicely, so not too bad a morning. We have two runners in the stake here this afternoon, so hopefully it should be a fun days racing: Mountain Valley Stakes, a Great End to a Successful February.

Update 4593: Better Talk Now has returned to training and posted his first turf work earlier this week. His "rabbit", Shake The Bank, has now retired and is embarking on a new career: Inside Track: Shake the Bank.

I went over to the races to watch the last couple yesterday. We won the last race, so donuts will be in the barn again this morning!

Posted by Alex at 11:39 AM | Comments (43)

Barbaro Updates: 799

Posted February 27, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4592: Railbird here, with your weekly update.

Lots of stakes action this weekend in California and Florida. Saturday at Santa Anita, San Rafael winner The Pamplemousse takes on 11 in the Sham Stakes, including Mr. Hot Stuff, a full-brother to Colonel John facing winners for the first time, and Take the Points, a sharp winner of a Gulfstream allowance last month. On Sunday, a "disappointing" Brother Keith leaves the Derby trail to try turf in the 6 1/2-furlong downhill Baldwin Stakes. Disappointed as he may be in Brother Keith, owner Ken Ramsey isn't without Derby hopes -- Notonthesamepage is among the 12 entered in the Fountain of Youth Stakes at Gulfstream on Saturday. The race, shortened this year to one mile from nine furlongs, looks like the strongest Derby prep to date, with a good mix of sprinters stretching out, one-turn milers right at home, and two-turn specialists cutting back. I'll be rooting for Capt. Candyman Can (high on my current top 10 list) and looking for strong performances from Taqarub, Break Water Edison, and lightly-raced (and very tall) Quality Road, who is not Triple Crown nominated but intrigues regardless. On Sunday, 3-year-old fillies take the spotlight at Gulfstream with the Davona Dale Stakes, a reprise of the Forward Gal Stakes last month, with three of the top four finishers in that race entered, including Frolic's Dream, making her first start for Lael Stables and trainer Barclay Tagg.

Prepping for return: Proud Spell worked five furlongs in a bullet :59.80 at Fair Grounds on Thursday. Trainer Larry Jones is readying the champion filly for a start in the Apple Blossom on April 4, but Proud Spell might get a prep before. "We're going to see," said Jones. "As far as her having to have one, no I don't think she would have to have. But I think it would make her trainer feel better if she had one" (TDN). Meanwhile, out on the West Coast, Zenyatta has been galloping for a month and is nearing her first workout of the year. Trainer John Shirreffs (who posts training videos featuring his star every few weeks on YouTube) said he expects Zenyatta to work this weekend; the quiet conditioner isn't letting on to any plans for the awesome mare's first 2009 start.

Coming up next weekend: The Santa Anita Handicap (Colonel John is more than ready, trainer Eoin Harty said after the 4-year-old colt worked seven furlongs in 1:25.40 yesterday); the Kilroe Mile (Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Sprint winner Ventura will take on open company over turf); the Santa Anita Oaks (Stardom Bound returns); and the Gotham Stakes (New York Kentucky Derby prospects vie for all-important stakes money and Classic credibility). See you next Friday!

Update 4591: A pleasant morning's work for Steve at Oaklawn Park. I had six sets. Five before the break and one after the break. And all went nicely. We had donuts in the barn this morning, thanks to a win in the last race yesterday here. We also won one at Delta last night that I had been galloping here. Sometimes it is tricky to keep up with our horses that move around!

Update 4590: Fairmount Park, has a summer meet, opening April 7. They are also one of the few racetracks to institute a zero tolerance for horse slaughter for its runners. In order to help support its horsemen in this endevour, Fairmont Park has launched Racehorse Alternative Choice Environment (RACE): Fairmount to Host RACE Fundraiser.

Other racetracks with a similar policy are: Beulah Park, Golden Gate Fields*, Gulfstream Park*, Hoosier Park, Laurel Park*, Lone Star Park*, Mountaineer Park, Penn National, Philadelphia Park, Pimlico*, Remington Park*, Santa Anita*, Suffolk Downs, and Thistledowns*. Tracks with a * are owned by Magna Entertainment and Magna has a universal policy for all its racetracks.

Please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:38 AM | Comments (32)

Barbaro Updates: 798

Posted February 26, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4589: Off back to Oaklawn Park for the races. We have a few runners this afternoon. And then there is a "Horseman's Appreciation Evening" in downtown Hot Springs. So I might also attend that.

Update 4588: A warm and cloudy morning this morning at Oaklawn Park. I had six sets, five of which went before the break. All galloped nicely. One of my horses was breezing in the seventh, and final set. I went up to the track and watched him work with his work partner. They both went nicely. Very cool. And one of our exercise riders has a birthday today. Happy birthday Mike June. Perhaps the only exercise rider working for Steve who is older than me!

Update 4587: Down The Stretch Newspaper (Canada) has a story on one of my visits to OLEX this past year: Son of Peteski is Slaughtered. The story also includes a picture of a couple of guys galloping at Woodbine. It looks cold up there!

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:34 AM | Comments (35)

Barbaro Updates: 797

Posted February 25, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4586: Mine That Bird, who was in our barn at Woodbine with trainer David Cotey before being sold to run in the Breeders' Cup, will return to the races in the Borderland Derby in New Mexico: Borderland Derby first up for Mine That Bird.

My favorite horse last winter while working at Sam Houston, Poni Colada, won this race last year!

Update 4585: Hall of Fame nominee finalists have been determined: Baffert Among 11 Hall of Fame Finalists, excerpt:

The finalists, in their respective categories, are:

Contemporary female horses: Open Mind, Silverbulletday, Sky Beauty.
Contemporary male horses: Best Pal, Point Given, Tiznow.
Jockeys: Eddie Maple, Randy Romero, Alex Solis.
Trainers: Bob Baffert, Robert Wheeler.

Update 4584: A dreary but warm morning this morning at Oaklawn Park. We had six sets at Steve's. All mine galloped nicely and quietely. One of our guys got dumped as soon as we got on the track. I was right behind. No names. Everyone appeared to be OK though! And here is a picture of me on one of my regular horses: Just starting off.

Update 4583: Paulick Report now has its own Derby list: PAULICK DERBY INDEX: THE ARRIVAL OF DUNKIRK.

And we have new pictures of Nicanor on our Facebook Group.

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:39 AM | Comments (28)

Barbaro Updates: 796

Posted February 24, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4582: Nicanor worked again this morning, his second work since his race. He went another half mile, this time in 49.85: Back to Routine.

Update 4581: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

Spring House took the San Luis Obispo for the second time over the weekend (I keep saying he's under-rated) and while it's fair to point out that heavy hitters Artiste Royal and Champs Elysees both scratched, his solid victory was nothing to sniff at. British invader Zambezi Sun didn't seem to love Santa Anita, but I was pleasantly surprised to see NZ-bred Bonjour get up for fourth. Trainer Julio Canani will point the gelding toward the San Luis Rey next (who needs an expensive trip to Dubai in this economy?) - it seems a sensible choice, given that Spring House has taken toCalifornia racing.

It's a bit of a shame Champs Elysees scratched (in favor of the Santa Anita Handicap) - he could have shown nephew Zambezi Sun how to turn left. While we'll get more into Big Cap news next week, it sounds like it's going to be a good one - Einstein and Tiago are both pointed toward the race. March 7th is going to be a big day at Santa Anita.

In other older horse news, Georgie Boy continues to prove that he's back and better than ever - clearly, sprinting agrees with him. Despite his success at shorter distances, conditioner Kathy Walsh wants to see how he does around two turns (and perhaps on grass) - it should be a fun experiment.

Of course, the 3-year-olds still steal the spotlight at this time of year; here at Superfecta HQ we were pleased to accept an invitation to contribute to the Paulick Derby Index. While it's entirely possible (indeed, likely) that this weekend's featured Derby trail races, the Fountain of Youth and the Sham, will shake things up, here is my list as of this week (and of course you are more than welcome to disagree with any of it):

1. Pioneerof the Nile
2. Old Fashioned
3. The Pamplemousse
4. Friesan Fire
5. Stardom Bound
6. Capt. Candyman Can
7. Papa Clem
8. Chocolate Candy
9. Patena
10. Hello Broadway

We'll have more on both races later in the week, but in the meantime I'll say I'm looking forward to seeing more of Capt. Candyman Can in the Fountain of Youth and The Pamplemousse in the Sham - I'm hoping to keep both horses on my list as we move inexorably toward the first Saturday in May.

Before we go, I urge you to check out Turf Luck (and a hat-tip to Brooklyn Backstretch for the link) this week for the story behind the Aaron Gryder bookmark which featured in last week's episode of 'Jockeys' - it's a good one!

Update 4580: Another quieter morning this morning at Oaklawn Park. We had five sets, all before the break. All my horses galloped nicely for a nice and easy morning's work. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are dark days here, so it gives me a little time to go exploring!

Update 4579: Below is a copy of the e-mail sent out to the ABR Facebook Group Robert Yates, By The Numbers: 0, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 15, 31, 1000, 1882, 15462, 70000, 133000, 1100000
:

This facebook group e-mails a general update once per week on Tuesdays. You will not receive any other e-mails from this group. This is our thirteenth e-mail message. A lucky e-mail! All e-mails are archived on the group page.

I wanted to start this week's e-mail by thanking Robert Yates for writing a very flattering article in the Arkansas Democrat Gazzette: http://www.nwanews.com/adg/Sports/252896/ Mike Jensen of the Philadelphia Inquirer and friend, alerted Robert I was at Oaklawn Park. Thanks for that. And thanks to Paulick Report ( http://www.paulickreport.com ) and Equidaily ( http://equidaily.com ) for picking up the story. I especially appreciated the story's placing on Paulick Report!

OK, the rest of this e-mail is "by the numbers"!

0, the number of "official" Derby preps this last week. Oddly though a Derby favorite may have emerged from an Allowance race at Gulfstream. Watch here for Dunkirk: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QdCb7C5JTU And it's likely Dunkirk will follow Big Brown's path last year and will head to the Florida Derby next.

2, the number of wins this year for Georgie Boy. Last year Georgie Boy was being pointed for the Kentucky Derby. Georgie Boy is galloped by Andy Durnin. Andy also galloped such stars as Fusaichi Pegasus, Labeeb, Manndar and the list goes on.

3, the number of thoroughbreds with race plates that were sold on Monday at New Holland Auction for slaughter.

4, the number of very watchable entries in the $1K ABR Horse Slaughter YouTube Contest. And they are good. Please watch, and consider producing your video for the contest: http://alexbrownracing.com/wiki/index.php/YouTube_Horse_Slaughter_Contest

5, Happy 5th Birthday to Street Sense: http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=34050

6, the number of horses I galloped for Steve Asmussen yesterday at Oaklawn Park. An easy morning.

7, the number of racetracks I have worked at since July, 2007. They are Penn National, Presque Isle, Keeneland, Churchill Downs, Sam Houston Race Park, Woodbine and Oaklawn Park.

11, the number of horses "missing" from Beulah Park: http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=33971

12, the number of States that are attempting to introduce pro-slaughter legislation. They are Arizona, Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, and Wyoming: http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=33952

15, the number of thoroughbred racetracks in the US with some form of no slaughter policy for it's horses. These tracks are, Beulah Park, Fairmount Park, Golden Gate Fields*, Gulfstream Park*, Hoosier Park, Laurel Park*, Lone Star Park*, Mountaineer Park, Penn National, Philadelphia Park, Pimlico*, Remington Park*, Santa Anita*, Suffolk Downs, and Thistledowns*. Tracks with a * are owned by Magna Entertainment and Magna has a universal policy for all its racetracks.

31, the number of followers we have on Twitter. We have just signed up: http://twitter.com/AlexBrownRacing

1000, the number of members of this ABR Facebook Group.

1882, the year Apollo won the Kentucky Derby. The last horse to do so which had not run as a 2yo.

15462, the number of people on hand at Oaklawn Park on Saturday to witness a $50,000 stake (in which we finished second with Rated Feisty). More than those at Santa Anita, where less than 11000 attended to watch Georgie Boy win the Grade 2 San Carlos.

70000, the number that witnessed Success Broken narrowly defeat Casino Drive at Tokyo Race Course: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/49324/success-brocken-surprises-casino-drive

133000, the number of horses sent from the United States to slaughter to Canada (77,000) and Mexico (56,000) in 2008: http://alexbrownracing.com/wiki/index.php/Horse_slaughter

1.1 million, the number of dollars raised by Fans of Barbaro to rescue horses from slaughter. So far.

OK, that's it for the thirteenth e-mail out to the Alex Brown Racing group.

Please visit the group. Please forward this to fellow horsemen and encourage others to join. We can make a difference, working together.

cheers, alex

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:33 AM | Comments (39)

Barbaro Updates: 795

Posted February 23, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4578: Kelly's Landing, who I was never allowed to ride during my stint working for Eddie Kenneally, is now retired and the plan is to bring him back to the track as a pony in the fall: Kelly's Landing Embarks on Second Career, excerpt:

"He's in wonderful health--he retired sound," said John Lally, who owns Summerplace with his wife, Louise. "We came to the conclusion that if he couldn't race at the top levels anymore, we didn't want to see something happen to him, because he's given us a lot of thrills."

Update 4577: Steve Haskin takes a detailed look at Dunkirk's performance last week and places him 5th in his Derby top 15: Ky. Derby Trail: Dunkirk Evacuation?.

Update 4576: A bit of a chilly morning this morning at Oaklawn Park. But nice sunshine. We had six sets, five before the break and one after the break. All mine galloped nicely for an easy morning's work.

Update 4575: Casino Drive, last year's Peter Pan winner, finished a close second over the weekend in a Grade 1 event in Japan: Success Brocken Surprises Casino Drive.

We now have our fourth entry in the ABR $1,000 YouTube Horse Slaughter Contest. Each entry is "PG 13", so please take a look and consider your own entry. Lots of time left.

And the Alex Brown Racing Facebook Group now has more than 1,000 members!

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:43 AM | Comments (34)

Barbaro Updates: 794

Posted February 21, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4574: ABR is now on Twitter: AlexBrownRacing. We also have a Flickr Group: Flickr: Alex Brown Racing.

Update 4573: A pleasant morning's work this morning at Oaklawn Park, despite the rather late night last night. We were celebrating my roommate's big 40th birthday, which is actually next weekend so we may have to do it again! And one thing I have realized as I work for Steve Asmussen. I am older than everyone I work for!

I had six sets, five before the break and one after the break. All went very nicely. It was a chilly start to the day, but we now have bright sunshine for a gorgeous looking day!

Update 4572: Georgie Boy won again as the favorite: San Carlos Too Easy for Georgie Boy. And a fun afternoon yesterday at the races here at Oaklawn Park. Rated Feisty ran a nice race in the stake, and looked like the winner at the eighth pole, but was headed inside the sixteenth pole to finish second: Spring Fever Rematch Goes to Palanka City.

Update 4571: Off to the races and then dinner!

Update 4570: A damp morning this morning at Oaklawn Park. I had six sets, so I did not have to suffer the wet weather for too long. All my horses galloped nicely for an easy morning's work. Now to get dry, and get ready for the races this afternoon. We have two in, including Rated Feisty in the stakes race: Spring Fever a Rematch of Palanka City vs. Rated Fiesty.

Update 4569: A look at Curlin's book of mares for his first breeding season: Curlin's Book Stacked With Major Mares.

There are no recognized Derby prep races this weekend. I will, however, be looking for the 4yo Goergie Boy to continue his good form later today in California: Georgie Boy Formidable for San Carlos H.. Georgie Boy is galloped by my buddy Andy Durnin.

Posted by Alex at 11:31 AM | Comments (31)

Barbaro Updates: 793

Posted February 20, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4568: Hello, all, Railbird here, with your weekly update.

Congratulations to John Velazquez, winner of the 2009 George Woolf Award, which is bestowed annually to a jockey of sterling career and character. Mention of the news gives me the perfect excuse to link to this portrait of the rider, taken by photographer Raymond Haddad, who has been building up an incredible series of jockey pictures.

Two sons of Unbridled's Song attracted much buzz this week. Old Fashioned confirmed his place atop most Derby polls by winning the Southwest Stakes on Monday in a time and style reminiscent of 2004 Kentucky Derby winner Smarty Jones. (Handicapper Jon White dissents, and not only puts Pioneerof the Nile first on his list, but predicts the Bob Baffert-trained colt can take the Triple Crown.) I've been on the Old Fashioned bandwagon since the Remsen Stakes (and I'm not about to leap off), but I do wonder about the strength of that race, which has so far returned no other winners. In the Sam F. Davis last weekend, Atomic Rain, runner-up to Old Fashioned in the Remsen, finished seventh at 5-2, while at Gulfstream yesterday, American Dance, third in the Remsen, finished sixth, more than 15 lengths behind 6-5 Dunkirk, the other hot Unbridled's Song colt now on the Derby trail (as mentioned below by Alex). There's no denying how impressive Dunkirk was in the allowance (replay), smoothly making his move into the far turn, then taking the lead at the top of the stretch and drawing away to win by 4 3/4 lengths (earning a 98 Beyer Speed Figure for those interested), but trainer Todd Pletcher plans no other starts before the March 28 Florida Derby, which would be Dunkirk's final prep for the Kentucky Derby. It's a similar approach to that taken by Rick Dutrow with Big Brown last year, and yet it reminds me more of Curlin in 2007, which is to say, Dunkirk, unraced as a juvenile, strikes me as a strong candidate for the Preakness, not the Derby.

The calendar is devoid of Derby preps this weekend; the Borderland Derby, Sham Stakes, Battaglia Memorial, and the Fountain of Youth are scheduled for February 28.

In other news: Dave, a hard-working NY-bred trained by Barclay Tagg, has been retired to Blue Stone Farm. The 8-year-old gelding, winner of the 2007 G2 Red Smith Handicap, ends his career with a record of 39-7-11-3 and earnings of $575,332. Also retired, 4-year-old G1 winner Country Star, to life as a Darley broodmare. Meanwhile, King of the Roxy, retired to stud with an injury last fall, returns to training this spring.

Update 4567: Phew. I am exhausted. It seemed each of my horses, before the break, was strong to gallop this morning. It must have been the cooler air. At least I stayed on. The buzzer was extra busy this morning signaling loose horses. One nearly ran flat into me. A close scare, I think I need to get perscription goggles so I can see better out there! After the break things were much easier. I had one left to ride, then I got on Charlie (our second pony) to watch a couple of our horses work. And they worked nicely. One was a horse I had been riding for a while so I was keen to see how he would go.

During break time I went over to David Vance's barn to show his daughter, Trish, photos of Easy Grades relaxing at Old Friends. She thought it was very cool. David Vance retired Easy Grades to Old Friends about a month ago.

And we got great coverage in the Arkansas Democrat Gazette today, thanks Robert Yates for covering the story: Saving horses a passion for Brown.

Update 4566: Dunkirk, now two for two, will likely follow the same path as Big Brown on his quest for the Kentucky Derby: Dunkirk Dominates Gulfstream Allowance.

Jockeys will be on Animal Planet tonight with its third episode.

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:33 AM | Comments (30)

Barbaro Updates: 792

Posted February 19, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4565: For me the most impressive performance of last weekend was that of Rachel Alexandra. The following is a Q and A with her trainer: Q & A With Rachel Alexandra Trainer Hal Wiggins.

Update 4564: Seven sets for me this morning at Oaklawn Park. Five before the break and two after the break. Three went to the gate for a little gate schooling. All did well, and all galloped nicely. Much chillier here this morning, but bright sunshine for sure.

We have a third entry in our YouTube Horse Slaughter Contest. Technical difficulties at my end and I have not seen it yet, but by all accounts it's another terrific entry: Another Chance: Saved from Horse Slaughter. Here is one of the comments posted:

I LOVE IT!! Excellent video, that shows one venue for horses that could have ended up being slaughtered - instead they were given a chance of a new life, and help serve the community. You can tell the police officers in this video really love their new partners - very cool commentary from the officers. Hope they can get the funds needed for their new barn & arena and to be able to give new homes and jobs to more recued horses!!

Update 4563: Gulfstream Park hosts an allowance race today (race 8) that may produce a couple of horses that will be considered for the Triple Crown: Future Is Now for Gulf Allowance Runners.

We now have our second entry in our $1,000 YouTube Horse Slaughter Contest. It is beautiful, simple and poignant. A video that anyone can watch, and should watch.

Enjoy: Please Stop Horse Slaughter.

There are several weeks to go for entries to be produced, so please consider entering the contest and helping to spread the message. And helping a rescue organization!

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:26 AM | Comments (34)

Barbaro Updates: 791

Posted February 18, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4562: No surprise here, but definitely worth recognizing: Peppers Pride Garner's NM-Bred Honors.

Update 4561: A gorgeous morning this morning at Oaklawn Park. And it looks like the temperatures are going to hit the 70s today! We had seven sets. Five before the break and two after the break. Two of mine did a little gate schooling. All galloped nicely for a very straightforward morning's work.

Update 4560: Steve Haskin assesses last week's Derby prep races and adjusts his Derby Dozen: Ky. Derby Trail: Southwest & Middle East.

More cool coverage of our $1,000 YouTube Horse Slaughter Contest: Teaching An Old Horse New Tricks.

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:36 AM | Comments (28)

Barbaro Updates: 790

Posted February 17, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4559: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update (birthday edition):

Old Fashioned lived up to his hype in the Southwest yesterday; his win was nothing short of thoroughly professional. He did not seem fazed by his layoff prior to the race nor the tougher competition - it's easy to see why he'll be the Derby favorite in the next future wager pool. Of course, there's always the concern lurking in the background that things did not turn out so well with owner Rick Porter's other two grey stars by Unbridled's Song (Rockport Harbor, who never really seemed to recover from the injury he sustained in his Remsen victory, and of course the ill-fated Eight Belles), but if he stays sound, this could be an exciting year.

Also yesterday, Evita Argentina beat the boys in the San Vincente in great style. She reminded me very much of Megahertz in her last-to-first move - I'd love to see her follow a similar career path (although as an aside, I wonder why Megahertz is being bred stallions who are nearly a good two hands taller than she is - she's already living proof that a tiny horse can be a strong, solid winner - but I digress). Evita Argentina was the first filly to win the race since 1947 - I'm hoping to see her in more sprints down the line, although it sounds as though her next start, possibly in the Fair Grounds Oaks, would aim for more distance.

Over the weekend, Chocolate Candy had no real trouble in the El Camino Real; the Jenny Craig-owned (and bred) son of Candy Ride will likely head to Santa Anita next, and trainer Jerry Hollendorfer seems to be taking a pleasingly old-school approach with him:

"We want to run in the Santa Anita Derby but we'll also look at the San Felipe Stakes," said Hollendorfer. "There are different approaches to the Kentucky Derby, but I think the fitter the horse, the better his chance to win. A lot of people go in there with fewer races but most horses that do well have a foundation under them."

Chocolate Candy's win earned him a Beyer of 90 (so he's got a ways to go to get into the Old Fashioned eschelon), but that was encouraging, given that now-4-year-old El Gato Malo only managed an 85 in his win in the McCann's Mojave on the same card.

Sticking with last weekend, Santa Teresita managed to defeat Leah's Secret and Visit in the Santa Maria Handicap - while there was some trouble in the gate when Country Star sat down in it (she was uninjured, but scratched) which may have thrown everyone else off their game, it's still nice to see Santa Teresita get a win in this sort of company.

Alas, the same cannot be said for poor Brass Hat, who finished eighth in the Dust Commander - perhaps it is time for retirement, but he's bounced back from down times before. I'd like to see him take another shot first if he's healthy and sound before heading out to pasture.

And with that, I'll head off to continue my birthday celebrations, which chiefly include searching for a 19th-century photo that may not exist and working on other reference requests - it's all good!

Update 4558: Five sets this morning at Oaklawn Park, so an easy morning's work. And all mine galloped nicely. Which was good after a long weekend of races. Today is a day to chill out and relax a little I think.

Update 4557: Media report of Old Fashioned's win yesterday here at Oaklawn Park: Southwest Suits Old Fashioned.

Here is the weekly e-mail sent out this morning to the ABR Facebook Group: Rachel Alexandra, Ballymore Lady, Old Fashioned, Voorhees Ballad, Gloriously, Sleuse, Stage Colony, Nicanor, Desert Honey Cup, Essay, YouTube Contest, and Easy Grades.

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:32 AM | Comments (25)

Barbaro Updates: 789

Posted February 14, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4556: A fun afternoon at the races. Old Fashioned won the Southwest Stakes, as expected. He is currently the leader among three year olds pointing to the Derby. My concern is his running style. Today was a flat mile, the Derby is an extra quarter of a mile. And he appears to like the lead. That is hard to do in the Kentucky Derby. They did set wicked early fractions, then slowed the race right down in the third quarter. That will not happen in the bigger races. And the filly yesterday ran a faster time, or so Lisa told me after the race. Anyway, the horse deserves to be at the head of the three year old crop, but I think he is vulnerable.

I also got a chance to say hello to Ramon. It would be awesome if he could win a Derby. All in all a fun afternoon, and of course the races were packed!

Update 4555: Nicanor had his fist work since his race this morning, going an easy half mile: Nicanor's Back to Work, excerpt:

"He worked very nicely this morning," said trainer Michael Matz. "This was just a maintenance work. We went very easy with him just to get him back on the track and make sure he did everything well. We stood him in the gate yesterday (Feb. 15), just to make sure everything was OK there, and he was fine."

Update 4554: We had a quiet morning this morning with only six sets, five before the break and one after the break. One of mine did a little gate schooling. Very relaxed. Brad Hennegan was out there taking film. All mine galloped nicely. We have a couple of runners in the Southwest Stakes later this afternoon, Retap and Professor Z. Should be a fun afternoon, but it looks like it will be a tough race to win: Southwest Starts Old Fashioned's Season.

Update 4553: A fun day at the races yesterday at Oaklawn Park. I went over for the later races. As I arrived I ran into Mary Rampellini of the Daily Racing Form. We watched the seventh together. I then went up to meet (FOB) Rhonda. We had met last year in Houston. She and her husband are here for the week for the racing and are from Dallas. Very cool. We watched the eighth and the feature ninth together. And what a race the stake was. Rachel Alexandra was incredible, winning by a widening margin under a hand ride from Calvin Borel. And in doing so she broke the stakes record. Leaving after that race I was on the backside and ran into Brad Hennegan. He was following (and filming) Larry Jones. We had a quick chat, but know I will have to find out what the Hennegan's are up to! All in all a very fun afternoon.

Update 4552: We have our first entry in our YouTube Horse Slaughter Vide Contest. It is listed under the "entries" section. Looking forward to more!

Now off back to the races at Oaklawn Park.

Update 4551: A pleasant morning's work this morning at Oaklawn Park. We had six sets, five before the break and one after the break. All bar one of mine galloped two miles, and they all galloped nicely. A little chilly out there, but not bad weather for galloping. We have three runners later today, so I will plan to head back to the track.

Update 4550: Here are the results of the two Derby preps held yesterday:

El Camino Real Derby (gr. III) at Golden Gate Fields: No Melting Chocolate Candy in El Camino
Sam F Davis Stakes (gr III) at Tampa Bay: General Quarters Pulls Sam Davis Upset

Update 4549: A fun afternoon spent at the races. The crowds here are amazing. Very refreshing when compared to many other racetracks. The highlight for me was actually watching a race from Tampa Bay Downs (from across the street at Crosswalks). Ballymore Lady, a filly I had galloped a few times when working for Eddie Kenneally, won a grade 3 race in a thrilling finish: Ballymore Lady Wins Thrilling Endeavour.

Update 4548: Eight sets this morning for Steve at Oaklawn Park. A chilly start but it looks to be turning into a pleasant day for the races, which I plan to attend. All my horses went nicely. My last one worked a little. And he went quite well in company with another horse. Likely one of the work riders will work him next as he continues to progress. Time for a nap, and then back for the races!

Update 4547: Stardom Bound's current plan is to run next in the Santa Anita Oaks, before taking on the boys on the Santa Anita Derby: Santa Anita Oaks next for Stardom Bound

Curlin has begun his new career by covering the mare Maggy Hawk: Curlin Begins New Career as Stallion.

On the Triple Crown front today, we have the El Camino Real at Golden Gate (Axel Foley Sold Before El Camino Real) and the Sam F Davis Stakes at Tampa Bay (Free Country Takes on 10 in Sam Davis).

Posted by Alex at 11:35 AM | Comments (85)

Barbaro Updates: 788

Posted February 13, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4546: Railbird here, with your weekly update.

This time of year is all about promise, whether we're talking about Kentucky Derby preps or veterans launching their latest campaign. It's worth taking a moment to consider potential unfulfilled, an unfortunate state well represented in the eighth at Gulfstream this afternoon (post-time 4:43 p.m. ET). Among the nine starters in the seven-furlong allowance for 4-year-olds and up who have never won two races is Lion Lord, a 5-year-old half-sibling to 2004 Horse of the Year Ghostzapper, who resembles his champion brother in fragility, if not speed. A winner first out at Gulfstream last February, Lion Lord is finally making his second career start after stringing together a set of six solid, if unspectacular, works. Also returning from a long layoff is The Roundhouse, a half to stakes winner Circular Quay. The Todd Pletcher- trainee, who briefly made several early 2008 Kentucky Derby lists, hasn't raced since finishing sixth in the 2007 Breeders' Futurity (this following a second-place finish to Kodiak Kowboy in the Saratoga Special).

Speaking of siblings, Life Is Sweet, a 4-year-old full-sister to champion Sweet Catomine, will try to follow up on her El Encino Stakes win last month with another in the La Canada at Santa Anita on Sunday.

I've been trying to work up more enthusiasm for the newly-graded Sam F. Davis Stakes and the El Camino Real Derby, but both have come up with fairly light fields (although, given the emerging consensus that this year's crop is proving more interesting and consistent than the 3-year-olds of 2008, I may be underestimating the talent gathered). At Tampa, Free Country meets up with Atomic Rain, a colt he beat by a neck last time out in a nine-furlong Gulfstream allowance. Atomic Rain, who also finished second to Old Fashioned in the Remsen, gets blinkers on for the first time. At Golden Gate, Chocolate Candy is not only the obvious Valentine's Day hunch bet, but a solid likely favorite, with a win in the California Derby and a strong third-place finish to Pioneerof the Nile and I Want Revenge in the CashCall Futurity last December in his past performances.

I have no trouble mustering excitement for the Southwest Stakes though, which is scheduled for Monday. Undefeated Old Fashioned makes his 2009 debut and apparently, is raring to go. "He acted like there was nothing to it," trainer Larry Jones said after the colt breezed a bullet five furlongs on Wednesday. "He came back to the barn and barely was blowing and didn't drink but a gallon of water." Entries are not yet up, but Hutcheson Stakes winner Captain Candyman Can is also among the expected starters.

Update 4545: I forgot to add to the last update. On my way back after work I stopped off at a gas station to get a coffee. The guy behind the counter asked me if that was all. I said yes. And he let me have the coffee for free. This is the third time this has happened to me in Arkansas, Twice at this gas station. Very cool.

Update 4544: Another very pleasant morning's work this morning at Oaklawn Park. Again we had nine sets, so were quite busy. We actually started ten minutes earlier which enabled us to get six sets out before break. All mine galloped nicely. However, one, going to the track, reared up twice, and quite high. Luckily I was attached to Poncho the pony, so managed to stay on board and not pull her over backwards, which is one of the biggest risks when a horse rears up. Anyway, she was feeling good!

Update 4543: For those so inclined, you can now wager on the Kentucky Derby with future pool 1. The pool is open for four days and there is no reason to make your wager until just before the close of the fourth day. The odds you get are those listed at the close of the pool: Field Pegged at 4-5 in Derby Future Bet. Entries are not yet up, but Hutcheson Stakes winner Captain Candyman Can is also among the expected starters.

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:35 AM | Comments (52)

Barbaro Updates: 787

Posted February 12, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4542: Vineyard Haven faded to fourth in his 2009 debut behind two other Godolphin runners: Godolphin Horses 1-2 in Dubai Prep.

Update 4542: Phew! A long morning this morning at Oaklawn Park. We had nine sets. The busiest morning's work we have had since I have been here. At least four of mine went to the gate. But I lost count. A couple of them galloped quite strongly, so I am now a tad tired. But all in all a good morning's work, and glorious galloping weather for sure!

Update 4541: Focus of racing today will be on Dubai and the UAE Two Thousand Guineas. Vineyard Haven, a comfortable winner of the Champagne Stakes at Belmont Park last fall, will make his 2009 debut: Vineyard Haven to start in UAE Guineas.

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:41 AM | Comments (37)

Barbaro Updates: 786

Posted February 11, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4540: A short essay about a long essay: The battle for mindshare on the horse slaughter issue.

Update 4539: A windy, yet sunny morning this morning at Oaklawn Park. And we were busy with eight sets. Two of mine also did a little gate schooling. All galloped nicely. Richard, a photographer, took some pictures of me. Later Robert Yates of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette called me for a phone interview. They are planning a story on what we are doing!

Very cool, a couple of blogs have covered our ABR YouTube Contest:

Videos To Stop Killing The Horse Racing Stars
Horse slaughter...Have your say

Update 4538: Steve Haskin assesses last weekend's 3yo performances: Ky. Derby Trail: Nile Flowing Fast.

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:41 AM | Comments (31)

Barbaro Updates: 785

Posted February 10, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4537: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

While on paper this past weekend's three-year-old races look like perfect examples of budding stars beating up on lesser competition, all three of those winning favorites (or near-favorites) got to face a little adversity - not a bad thing at this point in their respective careers.

Stardom Bound ran her usual come-from-behind race (demonstrating she didn't magically lose all her conditioning at the stroke of midnight on January 1st, which does seem to happen to some fillies), but she had more than a little traffic trouble coming through the stretch. Mike Smith (or Mr. Chantal Sutherland, to use the Green But Game Google Power Word of the Day) never seemed particularly concerned that she might be in trouble, and it looked as though he eased her through to victory once that opening appeared - she still looked quite fresh in the winner's circle. Whether we will see her against the boys next is still up in the air - Bobby Frankel suggests the Santa Anita Oaks is a more likely spot. I'd like to see her win both races, like a certain other grey filly from the California circuit. Stardom Bound's Beyer wasn't anything particularly exciting, but I like Alan's analysis of it and I know she's capable of posting a 100+ Beyer, so let's wait and see what the next move is (and let's hope it's not simply to the barn of Rick Dutrow as Bill Christie suggests).

Down in Louisiana, Friesan Fire demonstrated that he was quite capable of handling a large field in the Risen Star (more shades of 1988?) and that his Lecomte victory was no fluke. He's even making headlines in Australia, where his dam, Bollinger, was a Group 1 Classic winner trained by Gai Waterhouse, and his grand-dam, Bint Marscay, set one of the fastest winning times in the history of the Golden Slipper. Trainer Larry Jones is certainly loaded this year - consider that Friesan Fire is still considered his second Derby choice behind Old Fashioned, who makes his 2009 bow next Monday (and more on that later in the week).

Finally, we're going back to Cali - I may still be irked at Pioneerof the Nile's name (and I think his sire, Empire Maker, was incredibly over-rated as a racehorse - although the jury is still out on his stud abilities), but there was nothing to dislike in the way he handled himself in the Robert B. Lewis. I also liked what I saw of runner-up Papa Clem - I'm looking forward to seeing more of him as well as we wend our merry way to Kentucky in May.

On the whole, it seems this year's crop of three-year-olds has a lot more to like about it than last year's installment - here's hoping they stay healthy and sound and continue to keep the excitement coming.

Update 4536: The weather was a little damp this morning at Oaklawn Park. But still warm. We had a short morning, as we had quite a few workers yesterday. I had five sets. All mine galloped nicely. At one stage I was galloping by Larry Jones and I asked him about his opinion of Fair Hill. Positive for sure. After I had finished I met up with Mary Rampellini, who covers Oaklawn Park for the Daily Racing Form. She took me up to the press box where the clockers were busy overseeing the few horses that were working later this morning. A fun visit, and we talked about Clever Allemont. One of his major victories was the Southwest Stakes, which is coming up this weekend!

Update 4535: Alex Brown Racing is sponsoring a $1,000 YouTube contest, the details of which are here: YouTube Horse Slaughter Contest.
The hope is that many will take on the challenge of producing a short piece on their perspective of the horse slaughter issue. For background information we are asking contestants to read the essay: on Horse Slaughter that deconstructs the issue in detail. You can reinforce ideas from the essay, agree with them, disagree with them and so forth.

Please consider entering the contest. Ask your friends to enter. Ask your friends to help you with the video. And have fun contributing content for this very important issue.

Here is the eleventh e-mail sent out to the ABR Facebook Group: Jockeys, Tice, Smoke til Dawn, Siphon City, Codfather, Windofthestorm, Lucky Tamerlane Rising, Stardom Bound, ABR $1,000 YouTube Contest.

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:38 AM | Comments (35)

Barbaro Updates: 784

Posted February 9, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4534: Tomorrow we will be launching a YouTube contest. Please spread the word far and wide: YouTube Horse Slaughter Contest.

Update 4533: A quieter morning this morning with only five sets. Two of mine galloped quite strongly so it was still quite a work out! The track was also quieter this morning, which is becoming more usual for a Monday now the meet is in full swing. All in all a pleasant start to the day.

Update 4532: A brief update on La Ville Rouge, Barbaro's mother, who is in foal to Dynaformer again and due to foal within a couple of weeks: FYI on La Ville Rouge.

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:43 AM | Comments (44)

Barbaro Updates: 783

Posted February 7, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4531: A pretty busy morning this morning at Oaklawn Park. We had seven sets. Quite a few of mine galloped two miles. One of mine open galloped a half mile in company with another horse. All went nicely. Which was good as I was pretty tired from a late night last night at the auction!

Update 4530: Some decent racing yesterday, of which four races had Derby implications:

Friesan Fire Turns Back 12 in Risen Star
Pioneerof the Nile On Course in Lewis
Gotham Next for Romping Haynesfield
Stellar Comeback Win for Stardom Bound

I skipped the races yesterday to go to a horse auction in Glenwood, Arkansas. It is about 40 minutes south of Hot Springs Arkansas. The horse sale did not start until about 8 pm, and went on late. Horses sold very cheaply. There were a few dealers there but there did not appear to be any kill buyers there. There were a few thoroughbreds. One was blind in his right eye. An unraced 6yo called Windofthestorm. A very sweet horse. Sadly I was not able to wait around to see if he sold and for what. I did see a four year old Authenticat filly being sold, for $145. Not sure who bought her, but the auctioneer was pushing the idea she would be good for chuckwagon racing. Held Labor Day weekend in Clinton, Arkansas. She was sold with a gelding, and they would apparently make a good team!

Update 4529: A very pleasant morning's work this morning at Oaklawn Park. We had seven sets, so busy enough. A few of mine galloped two miles. All galloped nicely. We had donuts in the barn this morning thanks to yesterday's win. We have a couple of runners here today, but I am more interested in what will be happening at Fair Grounds. Not only do we have runners in the Risen Star, but two of my favorite horses from Woodbine, Jimmy Sims and Storm Treasure, are running. Lets hope they maintain their current form!

Update 4528: Steve Asmussen's Texas hearing has been pushed back: TEXAS ATTORNEY NOT READY FOR ASMUSSEN CASE.

Paul Moran provides a link to the essay / chapter I wrote on Horse Slaughter: From the rescue front.

And yesterday we had a winner and a second here at Oaklawn Park. I missed the racing and went to Texarkana and Fouke.

Posted by Alex at 11:45 AM | Comments (47)

Barbaro Updates: 782

Posted February 6, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4527: Hello, all! Jessica, aka Railbird, here. Alex has graciously asked me to join him and Superfecta in posting to this site. Like Superfecta, I'll be doing a weekly update, checking in each Friday with comments on upcoming weekend races and whatever else might be in the news. It's a pleasure and an honor to join this community as a guest blogger -- thanks, Alex!

Now, quickly, this weekend's Derby preps: At Aqueduct, likely favorite Haynesfield faces five, one of those the game Peace Town, shipping in for savvy Maryland trainer Mike Trombetta. Haynesfield had it rough winning the Count Fleet; a mild upset may be in store for him tomorrow. At Santa Anita, the Robert B. Lewis drew Futurity winner Pioneerof the Nile and runner-up I Want Revenge, as well as Brother Keith, who will be trying to prove that he's better than the San Rafael, a race in which the colt blew the first turn and finished poorly. At Fair Grounds, the Risen Star has shaped up as the most intriguing of the three preps with buzz-horses Friesan Fire, Giant Oak, and Indygo Mountain among the 13 starters (including three for trainer Steve Asmussen). Whoever wins this race could knock Old Fashioned from his place as leading early Kentucky Derby favorite.

Don't forget the fillies -- as if that were possible, with juvenile filly champion Stardom Bound making her 2009 debut in the Las Virgenes at Santa Anita, while at Fair Grounds, eight will start in the Silverbulletday, including Larry Jones' speedy Just Jenda. Asmussen has won the race twice in the past four years, though, and he has two promising entries here in Four Gifts and War Echo, a three-quarter sibling to 2008 Risen Star winner Pyro.

As commenter John mentioned below, "Jockeys" premieres tonight at 9:00 PM ET on Animal Planet. There's quite a bit of excitement about the show in the blogosphere -- I'll be watching, and hoping to discover that the show deals with the issues faced by riders with honesty and sensitivity and that the very important matter of horse safety isn't discounted or glossed over.

Update 4526: A very pleasant morning's work this morning at Oaklawn Park. We had eight sets, so were quite busy too. One of mine went to the gate. All mine galloped nicely. I finished up the morning taking Charlie, one of our ponies, out for a ride around the track. He had not been out for a couple of days, but went nicely. Someone was out there taking pictures, so I asked if she would e-mail them to me. I hope so!

Update 4525: I spent a very pleasant evening last night (after the races) at Racehorse Reclaim. Racehorse Reclaim is a rehab farm for racehorses, about five miles from Oaklawn Park. It is the only such place I have discovered since I have been to Oaklawn Park. Currently they have five horses in residence, all of which look terrific. And happy. Deborah, who runs the facility, has a strong background as a horsewoman, and they have room to grow. So very cool all around. We also had a terrific dinner, and Wayne is a wine collector!

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:48 AM | Comments (51)

Barbaro Updates: 781

Posted February 5, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4524: Square Eddie, who was runner up in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile and scheduled to run in the Southwest Stakes next weekend here at Oaklawn, has been sidelined: Square Eddie Sidelined With Sore Shin.

Update 4523: The track opened an hour late this morning due to the colder weather, but it is now warming up into a lovely day here at Oaklawn Park. We had seven sets. A couple of mine went to the gate for some gate schooling. All galloped nicely, although a couple of them did get rather strong. There was one loose horse on the track that seemed to take a long time for the outriders to catch. A long time! All in all a very pleasant way to start the day.

Update 4522: Stardom Bound, 2yo filly champion, will make her first start this weekend for her new connections: Stardom Bound Faces 8 in Las Virgenes.

On the same card on Saturday at Santa Anita is the Robert B. Lewis, which features the winner of the CashCall Futurity: All eyes on Pioneerof the Nile entering Robert B. Lewis.

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:46 AM | Comments (51)

Barbaro Updates: 780

Posted February 4, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4521: Phew! The track opened at noon time today! And it was actually very nice weather for galloping with bright sunshine! We had seven sets. There was no break. All mine galloped nicely, which was good as I was starving and likely would not have the energy for anything that was too strong! Now for breakfast.

Update 4520: A late start this morning. Not sure when the track will open, but likely not before 11 AM!

The Daily Pennsylvanian looks at Barbaro's influence on New Bolton and Laminitis Research: Barbaro's memory lives on in brother.

Update 4519: The Eddie Kenneally trained Saratoga Sinner, an upset winner of the Holy Bull Stakes, has now been sidelined through injury: Saratoga Sinner Injured; Off Derby Trail.

A twelve episode series titled "Jockeys" begins on Animal Planet this friday: Jockeys hope series boosts racing's exposure.

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:38 AM | Comments (42)

Barbaro Updates: 779

Posted February 3, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4518: A Nicanor update including Michael Matz quotes and photographs from Saturday: Nicanor...Doing Fine

Update 4517: A short video of me discussing the Finger Lakes Thoroughbred Adoption Program. I was interviewed at Woodbine last summer for this: Finger Lakes Thoroughbred Adoption Program.

Update 4516: Superfecta here, with your regular weekly update.

Last weekend's racing may have produced more questions that answers; Albertus Maximus was a worthy winner of the Donn (although Einstein overcame a terrible post position and a rough trip to hang on for third on his less-than-favorite surface, so at least he picked up a check) and is off to Dubai for the World Cup. I'm not ready to put him in Invasor's shoes just yet, but he does seem to be hitting his best stride now - and the more good older horses running, the better.

Kip Deville may also head to Dubai for the Duty Free after edging out Just as Well and Court Vision (who may be better suited to turf miles) in the Gulfstream Park Turf, but given that his last international outing (up the track in the Hong Kong Mile - given the Dutrow connection, I'm sure many draw their own conclusions about that, but equally he may just not like travel) was not so encouraging, he is just as likely to head to Kentucky next.

The three-year-olds were a mixed bag; I was impressed by Capt. Candyman Can's professional win in the Hutcheson over a slightly greener (but not unpromising) Hello Broadway - and as a gelding, there's every chance he'll stick around for a while. However, the Holy Bull was entirely confusing; while you can argue post position had a lot to do with the West Side Bernie and Beethoven finishing mid-pack behind longshot Saratoga Sinner, I still didn't see much to get terribly excited about from this field - yet.

The Derby trail horses I am most looking forward to following to have yet to start this season, but one should appear on Saturday: Stardom Bound makes her 2009 bow in the Las Virgenes. If she wins there, she is likely on to the Santa Anita Derby - and potentially the other one in Kentucky. Following in the footsteps of Winning Colors is no bad thing. Here's hoping she doesn't pull a Halfbridled and discover boys first.

I am still waiting for Old Fashioned to make his first start of the year as well - he's been working like crazy, but the plan to send him to Oaklawn for the Southwest had been up in the air after trainer Larry Jones had run afoul of stewards there in an unrelated situation - apparently everyone is friends again, and we should see Old Fashioned follow the Smarty Jones path in a few weeks.

Check back later in the week for more on the Las Virgenes, the Robert B. Lewis and the Risen Star as we start hitting the Derby trail proper...

Update 4515: Phew, I am knackered. A short morning's work but two of my horses pulled hard. It's been a while since I had so much exercise! A little overcast here this morning at Oaklawn Park, but not too bad. Now to recover.

Update 4514: Steve Haskin assesses the very murky Derby picture, provides his first top 30 list, and adds a few recent maiden winners: Ky. Derby Trail: Florida Follies.

Here is a copy of Tuesday's e-mail to the ABR Facebook Group: Nicanor, HRTV, CBS, Invited Guest, Easy Grades, Clever Allemont, Frazee's Folly, OLEX, Fort Erie, YouTube, and HR 503 and Horse Slaughter Essay.

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:35 AM | Comments (58)

Barbaro Updates: 778

Posted February 2, 2009

updates are now here.

Update 4513: I just spoke to Peter Brette. He said Nicanor is fine after his first race experience. He did grab his quarter pretty badly. They believe this happened coming out of the gate and as soon as Nicanor came off the bridle, Edgar did not persevere. But he is not lame and is eating well, which is a good sign. Peter will take him out and jog him tomorrow. He expects he will be a different horse next time he runs having had the first race experience. I reminded him that Chelokee was well beaten, when he was considered a very good horse, in his first start at Delaware Park!

This is a good assessment of Nicanor's first race: Horse Racing: Nicanor, Dust or Diamond in the Rough?. Found on Paulick Report.

Update 4512: A gorgeous morning this morning at Oaklawn Park. We had six sets, and all mine galloped nicely. A couple of them did a little open gallop. A little quicker, but not a breeze. The track was quiet this morning. Not sure if a lot of people had the day off, or if the SuperBowl impacted work! Anyway, a great way to start the day for sure.

Update 4511: The popular Kip Deville made his 2009 debut yesterday in the Gulfstream Park Handicap at nine furlongs. While he is considered a better miler he won: Distance No Problem for Kip Deville.

We have a challenging time ahead of us to try to gain legislation to finally end the practice of Horse Slaughter. To that end I have spent a lot of time developing my book chapter on the topic. It won't get published in the traditional sense, but here it is: Horse Slaughter. In it I deconstruct the issue and determine the real reasons we have horse slaughter versus the reasons put forth, quite successfully, by the pro-slaughter lobbies. And I discuss who they are. The chapter covers a lot more. I hope you read it and share it with others. And offer feedback.

And please keep calling.

Posted by Alex at 11:36 AM | Comments (54)