A Portrait in Charcoal
Although this column usually focuses on history and top horses and races, that is not the case this time. Sometimes we have to explore other stories that while not as glamorous still are part of the fabric of racing and help form the bond that has linked horses to humans for centuries. ~ Steve Haskin
A Portrait in Charcoal
By Steve Haskin
You won’t find any champions highlighted in this column. You won’t even find any graded stakes winners. You also won’t find any happy endings, but no sad endings either. What you will find is a story of perseverance, determination, and an unwavering faith in an aging horse by his small-time owner, who has never had a top horse and currently has only two horses in training. And finally, it is a story about missed opportunity, physical setbacks, and plain old bad luck, but in the end, feeling blessed to own and breed a horse like Charcoal.
This is a horse who couldn’t win in $15,000 claiming races and who after losing his first nine starts at Fair Grounds and Horseshoe Indianapolis, eight of them in cheap claiming races, finally had to go to Mountaineer Park to break his maiden.
So why is he the subject of this column? And how is he remotely connected to this year’s Breeders’ Cup, even though he didn’t participate in it? We are writing about him because his story in many ways represents what Thoroughbred racing stands for as much as any Grade I stakes and the fine line between virtual anonymity and appearing on racing’s biggest stage.
You have to wonder why would Ben Huffman, longtime racing secretary at Keeneland and Churchill Downs and now Vice President of Racing at Churchill, stop Charcoal’s owner and breeder Ron Dowdy in the tunnel at Keeneland after his second-place finish in last month’s Grade 2 Woodford Stakes and say to him, “I wanted you to win so badly. I was really pulling for you. Racing needs you; you’re a dying breed.”
Huffman has spent the main portion of his life as close to Kentucky Derby winners as anyone, but was outwardly excited about a second-place finish by a 29-1 shot in a 5 ½-furlong turf race. That in itself tells the story of Dowdy and his now 8-year-old gelding, who for a few days walked among the giants of the Turf, and in his owner’s opinion could very well have stood as tall as any of them.
But let’s start at the beginning, which is at the 2008 Ocala 2-year-old sale, when a daughter of Van Nistelrooy sold for $35,000 after having been purchased for $20,000 as a yearling. If you are not familiar with Van Nistelrooy he was Aidan O’Brien’s hotshot 2-year-old in 2002 after being purchased as a yearling at Keeneland by Coolmore for an outrageous $6.4 million.
Named Rose of Aran, in her eight career starts for trainer Vickie Foley she won three races, two of them claiming races. After chipping an ankle she was retired and when her majority owners said they had no interest in keeping her, Dowdy, a minority partner, said he would take her and breed her. Dowdy had just begun owning small shares in horses. Of Rose of Aran’s first four foals one was unraced and the other three won a combined 3 of 44 starts for total earnings of just over $57,000.
Because Rose of Aran was a large mare Dowdy decided to breed her to a smaller stallion and chose English Channel. In 2016, she produced a gray colt that Dowdy named Charcoal.
Dowdy turned him over to trainer Merrill Scherer at Fair Grounds and right from the start he showed exceptional speed, turning in one bullet work after another going three furlongs. They thought they might have something good on their hands, but then the horse began bleeding badly after his gallops. When he lumbered around the track in his debut on the grass, he was subsequently put on the dirt and given Lasix. But the bleeding continued as did the poor performances.
No one could pinpoint what was causing the bleeding. It was eventually discovered he was suffering from guttural pouch mycosis, a fungus that invades a carotid artery, causing it to weaken and rupture, and can result in fatal hemorrhaging in 50 percent of the cases. It also affects breathing, which no doubt was the cause of Charcoal’s poor performances. He was sent to a farm in Paris, Kentucky to be treated, but more than one person recommended that they put the horse down. But Dowdy was determined to do everything possible to keep him alive and find the proper treatment. As it turned out, the solution simply was the old reliable penicillin.
Charcoal responded to treatment, but his ordeal caused him to be sidelined for 17 months, returning in August of his 4-year-old campaign with new trainer Tracey Wisner at Horseshoe Indianapolis. Racing for $16,000 claiming tags, he was put back on the grass and managed a second, a third, and a fourth before getting beat 15 lengths in an off-the-turf race.
This was the year Covid hit and Charcoal then was moved to Shane Spiess at Mahoning Valley Race Course in Northeast Ohio. But Dowd had one major concern. He still had faith in the horse and firmly believed he had talent. He told Spiess. “I didn’t bring him back to run in $16,000 claiming races. I’ll retire him right now and not waste my money.” So Spiess sent him Mountaineer Park for a maiden special weight race and he won by five lengths before campaigning steadily at Mahoning Valley though June of 2021. He never saw another claiming race. Moving up to allowance company back on the dirt he followed up a third and a second with back-to-back victories. Now more established, it was time to return to Tracey Wisner at Horseshoe Indianapolis and that is where he would remain for the remainder of his career.
Charcoal won three of his next five starts from June to August 2021, culminating with a 2 ½-length victory in the William Garrett Stakes, earning a career-high 94 Beyer speed figure. He concluded his 5-year-old campaign by finishing last of seven in the Grade 2 Woodford Stakes at odds of 32-1, but was beaten only 4 ½ lengths by turf sprint sensation Golden Pal, winner of the previous year’s Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint and second in the Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot. Golden Pal would come off his Woodford score with a resounding victory in the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint.
So for the first time in his life, Charcoal found himself competing against top-class horses and certainly was not disgraced racing against the leading turf sprinter in the country.
Although he went winless in seven starts at age 6, five of those starts were in stakes and he managed three seconds and a third and was never beaten farther than 3 ½ lengths, and that was in his return match against Golden Pal in the Woodford Stakes at 40-1.
Although he had lost 12 straight races and was now 7 years old, he was actually more competitive than ever and would be pitted against the best turf sprinters in the country in 2023. In May he broke his winless streak in a five-furlong allowance victory at Horseshoe Indianapolis, defeating multiple stakes winner and 3-5 favorite Nobody Listens, who would go on to win his final four starts of the year, including the Brickyard Handicap, Parx Dash, and a three-length romp in the Grade 3 Turf Monster at Parx over five-time stakes winner and $800,000 earner Roses For Debra.
At the age of 7, Charcoal had beaten his first top-class stakes horse. Two races later he closed fast to finish second in the William Garrett, beaten 1 ¼ lengths by Twin Spires Turf Sprint winner Nobals, who would go on to win the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint later in the year.
Following a horrendous trip in the Kentucky Downs Preview Turf Sprint at Ellis Park, in which he was beaten only 2 ¾ lengths by five-time stakes winner and million-dollar earner One Timer, he chipped a bone in his ankle in an allowance race at Kentucky Downs and was out for eight months.
Dowdy had to decide whether to bring him back as an 8-year-old. He always found good homes for all his horses after their retirement and Charcoal had endured a lot in his career, cheating death and climbing out of the depths of cheap claiming races to compete with champions, millionaires, and Breeders’ Cup winners and never backing away from a fight.
Through the winter and early spring, Charcoal showed no signs of slowing down and convinced Dowdy and Wisner he still had more to give.
His first two starts in 2024 resulted in close fourth-place finishes, the second one in the five-furlong Mighty Beau Stakes at Churchill Downs, in which he was beaten two lengths by Nothing Better, two-time winner of the Aqueduct Turf Sprint Championship, who also held the six-furlong course record of 1:06 4/5 at Aqueduct.
Sent off at 26-1 in the Kentucky Downs Preview Turf Sprint at Ellis Park, he sat two to three lengths off a blistering :21 and :43 1/5 pace and closed relentlessly in the final furlong to run down Gulfstream Park Turf Sprint winner Coppola and then hold off the late charges of million-dollar earner Arrest Me Red, winner of the Aqueduct Turf Sprint, Belmont Turf Sprint, and Twin Spires Turf Sprint, and the Grade 3 Transylvania Stakes winner Mo Stash. With all of them right there at the wire it was Charcoal who had his head in front.
Charcoal wins the 2024 Kentucky Downs Preview Turf Sprint at odds of 26-1.
It was time to actually start thinking about the Breeders’ Cup. First he was slated for the Kentucky Downs Turf Sprint and the daunting presence of Cogburn, dubbed the fastest horse in the world after being the first horse to ever break the one-minute mark for 5 ½ furlongs when he won the Grade 1 Jaipur Stakes in a mind-blowing :59 4/5, earning a sensational 114 Beyer speed figure. But his presence didn’t scare off Dowdy and his 8-year-old.
Charcoal, despite his previous victory at Ellis Park four weeks earlier, was sent off at a whopping 95-1. Cogburn went to the front as expected, with Charcoal, who broke sharply, sitting back in fourth along the rail, two lengths off the pace. Just as Cogburn was about to open up on the field here came Charcoal with a big run on the inside to pull within a head of the world’s fastest horse. But he was stuck on his left lead and couldn’t keep up with Cogburn, who began to draw clear. He still ran hard to the wire and was beaten in a three-way photo for third. Dowdy said they had been going through a heat spell and the turf course was rock hard, and Charcoal’s feet were stinging him and sensitive after the race. If not for that Dowdy was confident the horse would have finished second.
While Cogburn was given two months off to prepare for the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint. Charcoal ran a month later in the Grade 2 Woodford Stakes at Keeneland, the race in which he had been beaten twice by Golden Pal.
This was the main prep for the Breeders’ Cup and it attracted a strong field that included the defending Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint winner Nobals, as well as Arzak, who was second to Cogburn in his record Jaipur victory; Our Shot, runner-up in the 2023 Woodford; five-time stakes winner and million-dollar earner One Shot; three-time stakes winner Coppola; and the speedy Souper Quest, in the money in all nine of his career starts.
Charcoal, ignored again at 29-1, took back after breaking sharply, tried to move up along the inside but was stuck behind horses. He made his move at the head of the stretch cutting the corner, but had to spend a good portion of the stretch run looking for an opening. He finally was able to move off the rail and split horses, but eventual winner Our Shot had already stormed to the lead on the outside. Charcoal kept coming and running hard, with a six-horse cavalry charge closing in. He dug in and held off the others by a neck, while finishing 1 ¾ lengths behind the winner.
With his second-place finish in a top-class Grade 2 stakes and finishing ahead of last year’s Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint winner and the Jaipur runner-up, and having held own against the brilliant Breeder’ Cup favorite Cogburn, it was hoped Charcoal would be selected to the Breeders’ Cup field.
But although Arzak, who had just finished behind him, was selected, he was only made the third also-eligible behind Howard Wolowitz and Nothing Better. When the Aidan O’ Brien-trained Aesop’s Fables, coming off two 10th-place finishes, didn’t make the trip it let Howard Wolowitz in the field. Then Nothing Better dropped out and just like that Dowdy’s dream of getting to see Charcoal on the world’s biggest stage was close to becoming a reality. Only one more defection and it could be Rich Strike all over again. Here he was on the track with the greatest horses in the world, just waiting for that last-minute miracle. It never came.
It had to be frustrating for Dowdy and Wisner and all those who helped Charcoal on his long journey to the top of the racing world, only to fall short by one horse. What made it even harder to take was that the temperamental English-trained filly Believing, who had refused to train during Breeders’ Cup week, making a spectacle of herself, acted up so badly going to the gate for the race she was scratched by the veterinarian. So the Turf Sprint ran one horse short with Charcoal in the barn.
And who wins the race? A 33-1 shot from Europe, with the first eight finishers separated by 1 ¾ lengths.
“I was so disappointed for him,” Dowdy said. “We couldn’t hold him, he was so ready to run. The race set up perfectly for him. This horse doesn’t shy away from anyone. He has so much heart and is very special to me. He makes racing fun.”
It was a tough break after so many miles to get there and coming so close, but it was time to move on. The decision now was whether to give him some time off and bring him back as a 9-year-old. But before a decision could be made, Dowdy received word from Ben Huffman informing him that there was a $100,000 allowance race in the books on November 24 going 5 ½ furlongs on the turf. It wasn’t he Breeders’ Cup, but it was still a good spot with a huge purse.
So Charcoal was off to Churchill Downs, but the race turned out to be a disaster. Sent off at 7-1 behind 8-5 favorite Run Carson and his old foe Coppola, Charcoal was hit in both eyes with clumps of turf and was taken to the outside, struggling home in last.
“The right eye was much worse than the left,” Dowdy said. “They were still getting junk out of there the following morning. When he got back back to Indiana, Tracey said in all her years she never saw so much gunk come out of an eye. They began treating him with antibiotics to prevent any infections.”
When told what happened, Ben Huffman said, “That certainly explains his performance. Hopefully he fully recovers.”
Huffman, whose life revolves around the Kentucky Derby, added, “I always root for the small-time trainer and an owner like Ron Dowdy who only has one or two horses. It would have been a great story had Charcoal been in the starting gate for the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint. But it was great to see him finish second in a Grade 2 at Keeneland. It is my hope that horses in modest-size stables with modest or small-size trainers that can perform on the Big Event days may inspire others to hang in there and not leave racing.
8-year-old Charcoal with jockey Alex Concepcion aboard.
“My point is this country has plenty of qualified horsemen that can get the job done but they are struggling to stay in business. When you see an 8-year-old like Charcoal performing at a high level, or Next or Three Technique, who both ran in the Breeders’ Cup, perhaps being in a small stable has something to do with their durability.
“I have a front row seat watching the constriction of horsemen in this country and it is bothersome. Small scale owners and trainers seem to be fading away, sort of like family owned businesses trying to compete with the giant companies. Perhaps writing about lesser known horses like Charcoal can be helpful.”
Charcoal’s story did not end the way one would have liked. In racing, fairy tales often collide with reality. In Charcoal’s case a promising year with so much hope ended in disappointment on so many levels. Who knows if this old warrior will ever come as close again to shine on racing’s brightest stage.
Because so few ever get that opportunity it doesn’t mean they don’t shine just as brightly in a place that can be in its own way equally as important – inside the heart and soul of those they touched.
Photos courtesy of Coady Media
Racing historian, author, and award-winning retired journalist for the Daily Racing Form and The Blood-Horse, Steve Haskin was inducted into the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame’s Media Roll of Honor in 2016. Known for his racing knowledge and insightful prose, he has been an exclusive contributor to Secretariat.com since 2020.
A wonderful story told beautifully, it brought a tear to my eye. These stories are the heartbeat of racing and all the small barns keep the machine of racing going. Thank you for telling me this story. I’m new to your site and am a forever fan!
Very nice article
Finally saw the Paco Lopez incident, horse was not running there was no danger of going over the fence, Lopez just hit him out of anger…..
He deserves a yr. suspension. Totally uncalled for. Has history of past anger problems.
I feel bd for The Jock, but I can understand
There are a couple of 2yr. old colts set to debut in a 6 furlong, 65K maiden race at Gulfstream Park, on Saturday 12-14 (R7), that have captured my interest.
Playa Del Mar, by Into Mischief, out of a Tiznow mare is a Godolphin homebred in the capable hands of William Mott, and will be ridden by Edgar Zayas Jr. His breeding suggests going long is in his future. However, first things first. Debuting at 6 furlongs, is a good start to test for speed.
The other colt in that same maiden race is Gosger, by Nyquist, out of a Tapit mare. His dam side, especially on his tail-female side, is inundated with class and stamina, IMO.
Gosger has fired four straight bullet works for Brendan Walch, which should indicate he’s ready for his first start. As is the case with Playa Del Mar, going long in future races should not be a problem for either colt.
Safe trips to all.
I neglected to mention that Gosger is a homebred as well, (Harvey A Clarke Racing).
Thanks for the reminder Bill… Indeed … it is an interesting race that 7th at Gulfstream this Saturday…
Playa del Mar and Gosger certainly got superior pedigrees as you said… Gosger’s dam is half sister to I’ll Have Another and he is bound to cherish the Classic distances for sure.
As for that particular race, I see Pletcher’s debutant Majorca (Volatile-Palma by Malibu Moon) as the one more favored at the 6 furlongs. Volatile has an impressive 21% of winners in their debuts…. working 1:01 at Palm Beach Downs is really outstanding… if Majorca breaks alertly he will be very tough.
As you said, it would be, nonetheless, a great starting point for the promising Playa del Mar and Gosger…
Commendatore (Twirling Candy-Bite the Stars by Flatter) is another sprinter who will be improving his speed figures (~85) by being agressive from PP1… he debuted with a promising second behind the highly regarded Grayscale a … Gustavo Delgado and Mage connection behind Commendatore is a plus when getting the foundation for better performances in the future…
I wouldn’t be surprised if Commendatore goes off as the post time favorite.
You’re welcome, Nelson, and thanks for the reply.
Anytime Todd Pletcher enters a colt in a maiden race, especially with Irad Ortiz Jr. in the saddle, that colt cannot be ignored. I’m looking forward to seeing the morning line odds, and which colt goes off as the favorite at post time.
Good luck if you bet Majorca.
David, per HRN, Bob has 5 nominated to the Los Alamitos Futurity. Apparently he’ll decide on who’s running after today’s works, but if Getaway Car and Bullard run, that is too hot a race
Rank is nominated, but I would pass in this case
Update:
Those are just possibles…and Bullard is not showing up on West Point’s site as running
Betsy, there is not much point in dodging them now, it’s only going to get harder. Either Rank is ready for an attempt at the Kentucky Derby or take your time for a summer/autumn campaign.
Can’t argue with that, David!
Sometimes blessing in disguise not making the Derby.
Thoroughbreds today are not as popular today as they once were in the days when true three day competitions included steeplechase, roads and tracks and cross country. That changed during the 1980’s.
Up until the ’80s, the Thoroughbred was dominant. They had the speed, stamina, endurance, precision and scope needed to dominate the sport. Another reason was that for decades the competitors were United States Calvary riders and the horses came from the Calvary remount breeding and training program. (My Dad received some of his military training before WW ll at Fort Riley, Kansas).
On December 05, Rodney Jenkins passed away at age 80. The tributes to him refer to him as being the “Master of the Horse”. In a 20 year period he won a record breaking total of 70 Grand Prix level championships.
His success can be attributed to several things. One was his riding style. He allowed his mounts to think for themselves with Rodney just guiding them over the courses. Another reason was the education he received in childhood caring for and riding in Hunts in his home state of Virginia. He paid attention to all aspects of the horses in his stable from their training, their care, safety and nutrition. He said one time that it did not matter how good a rider you were, it was the horse that makes the rider. He never failed to give full credit to his horses. He never tried to mold a horse to his standard as many trainers did and still do but gave the horses he rode the opportunity to tell him what they wanted to do.
Mr Jenkins breed of choice was the Thoroughbred and after retirement from competition, he trained racingThoroughbreds in Maryland.
His most well know and probably best eventing horse was Idle Dice, nicknamed “The Businessman”.
Idle Dice, a Thoroughbred (by Hay Hook out of D K Dor) was bred by J L Martin in Oklahoma. The colt, born in 1962, was registered in the Jockey Club under the name Jonlyle. He was unsuccessful as a race horse having never won a race and highest place was 4th. He had the needed speed to win races but was more interested in the crowd when asked to stretch out. He was claimed by Jack Kenney at what was is now called the Mountaineer Racetrack in West Virginia.
Kenney sold the 4 year old as a fox hunting prospect to Libby Slaughter who in turn sold the gelding to Bernie Trauberg for $3,500 who changed the gelding’s name to Idle Dice. In 1969 Bernie started entering Idle Dice in jumping competitions in Pennsylvania.
Bernie practically begged Rodney to take a look at the talented gelding. Finally Jenkins rode Idle Dice before the Sussex show and was so impressed he acquired the gelding for $12,000 for his sponsor Harry Gill.
With Rodney Jenkins in the saddle, Idle Dice went on to a lengthy career winning over $400,000 (1.7 million in today’s dollars) and 31 Grand Prix championships. He was retired at age 21 and lived the rest of his years at Harry Gill’s farm.
You can view a slide show of photos of Idle Dice on you tube posted by pshanaberg 11 years ago. If you research Idle Dice’s pedigree two names will probably jump out. Fair Play, the sire of Man ‘O War and Black Tonney.
As an individual Idle Dice, 17H, was beautifully and perfectly balanced at the walk, trot and canter and in the jump. He rarely touched the rail and was able to clear up to 7’2″ because he took off from his rear hocks rather than the forehand. He only became upset one time when housed at a race track in Florida. He was so anxious that he dug himself into a deep hole in his stall. Jenkins attributed his anxiety and fear to a probable bad experience in his race horse days that he never forgot.
Black Tonney was a foundation sire for Idle Hour Stock Farm in Kentucky that was owned by Colonel Edward R Bradley. The farm produced the legendary Blue Larkspur and acquired La Troienne from France. The La Troienne line produced Easy Goer and Buckpasser.
After the death of Colonel Bradley, Ogden Phipps acquired a majority of the Idle Hour bloodstock and became the basis for the legendary Phipps operation.
Thanks for your post, Lynda. I knew Rodney Jenkins only as a name in the racing form at Maryland tracks. He was clearly actrue horseman.
You are welcome Todd.
I realize it was off topic but hoping I could slide in.
Rodney trained a Thoroughbred named Pflash Phillips that won the Maryland Millions race twice in a row, a rarity.
Michael Matz ,who trained Barbaro, is also based in Maryland at Fair Hill. He too had a lucrative career in eventingbefore retiring to train Thoroughbreds.
Jenkins and Matz competed against each other and were on the same USET teams. ,at ride in the Oympics whereas Jenkins never did because a professional. It was his one regret in his career.
Edit: Matz rode in the Olympics and as I recall won a Silver Medal.
Not expecting a reply, Matz is one of the good guys in racing.
Mike, I would agree about Matz.
He and Rodney Jenkins had similar ideologies about training both eventing horses and Thoroughbreds.
Michael Matz won team Gold in the 1986 World Championships (show jumping) but no doubt his greatest feat was saving 4 children from the 1989 United Airlines Flight 232 crash; Matz was a passenger. Wonderful individual.
Wonderful story Lynda … thanks for taking the time to share it with us…
BTW Charcoal also descends from La Troienne … I always look for the family 1-x in the pedigrees of modern Thoroughbreds.
You are welcome Nelson and thank you for mentioning Charcoal’s connection to La Troienne.
Fierceness will miss the winter races due to a minor ankle surgery. More than likely will be out until spring.
Thanks for update.
Thanks for the update Zany… I won’t be surprised if they retire him in the coming months…!
I wrote my response before I saw yours, Nelson. We were thinking along the same lines.
Going to be back am betting.
I hope you’re right.
Unlike some believing they know everything, from what I’m hearing, very good chance of coming back.
I’m sorry to hear that. I’ve been looking forward to a big year for Fierceness. I hope he really will come back and that this will not be a reason to retire him.
No surprise!
His breeding rights have already been acquired. He was never going to be an outstanding 4Y0. Consequently, the regular routine of reporting an injury preceding retirement was expected.
Love him or hate him, Mike Repole is and continues to be heavily invested in Thoroughbred race horses and horse racingin the United States.
He recently made multiple acquisitions at the sales in Japan and is said to be thinking about obtaining an owner’s license to race his horses in Japan.
In the past few days he has acquired several fillies and one broodmare at the Argana sales in France.
One of acquisitions is a filly by Dibirsim (by Hat Trick by Sunday Silence).
Yes there was a breeding contract drawn up between Coolmore-Ashford and Repole after Fiereceness’ Juvenile.
Per Mr Repole the contract included racing Fierceness as a 4 year old provided he was healthy and Repole retaining a percentage of breeding rights when he does retire.
The surgery on Fierceness was elective, based on a complete physical while on 60 day turnout at Ashford.
Per Todd Pletcher, the colt will miss both the Pegasus and World Cup but is expected to return for the Met Handicap, The Whitney and the Breeder’s Cup.
To make the leap that the surgery was the result of an injury that will lead to a retirement and no 4 year old career is a bit of a stretch at the moment in my opinion.
With horses, as most know, things can go south in the drop of the hat however.
Adding…or as routine before retiring.
Counter Point, please share where you purchased your crystal ball that lead you to your conclusion that Fierceness was never going to be an outstanding 4 year old
Is it not so that no one can really predict how a colt or filly will transition from 2 to 3 to 4 or to 5 and beyond?
It would be nice to see him in the summer and fall races you mentioned. These new money stakes just don’t do it for me.
Todd and all, I am optimistic that Fierceness will return next summer and that he will be competitive.
The older division looks to be very nice next year and I will enjoy following each and every one, and the fillies too.
Fingers crossed for Mike Rapole being successful with the Siyouni and Churchill stock he bought at the Arqana sale recently.
Also, Peter Brant has an impressive European broodmare band as well along with his own stallions to mix with so there’s plenty more to come.
Davids I will be very curious to learn of his plans for the filly by Dibirism
Can’t find video of walk over for the Remsen.
Will keep the upright pastern comment in mind if I happen to see footage of the walk over or warm up of Poster in a future race.
You’re right, Lynda. The Saturday races aren’t there. Friday and Sunday are there. Perhaps NYRA doesn’t release the full Saturday card. Never noticed that before, rather odd.
Yes, I’ll be watching out as well, the heart/enthusiasm sunk quite a bit when Maggie Wolfendale pointed out the upright pasterns.
Some horses manage to perform at their best with truly upright pasterns but that is infrequent. I’ve only seen Poster on the turf and with an immediate start beforehand so it was a surprise.
I tried getting the America’s Day At the Races for December 7, 2024 video elsewhere but all you get is the same thing – black screen with ‘this video is private’ in white print.
And I consider that fortunate, for the horse….stay home and have a big year!
Won’t be going to Dubai, or Saudi Arabia—minor surgery, horse likes Del Mar–Repole bringing him back in attempt to win The Classic….
At this juncture on the Derby trail, I would rate Patch Adams as my top prospect.
By Into Mischief, out a Distorted Humor mare, this WinStar Farm homebred colt broke his maiden, at Churchill, going 7 furlongs in 1:20.77, drawing off by 10 1/2 lengths. His winning time was less than a second off Groupie Doll’s track record of 1:20.44.
Granted, he’s yet to route in a stakes race, but I suspect Brad Cox plans on stretching him out in an allowance, or a stakes race down the road in the near future.
He earned a very impressive 110 Equibase Speed figure of 110, and a 98 Beyer for his maiden winning effort.
Needless to say, I’m looking forward to Patch Adams next start
If there’s anyone out there that would like to share their thoughts on Patch Adams, please feel free to do so.
Thanks.
Way too early to know,with many top prospects injured having to drop out,etc. Also, still some flying under the radar……as always each year.
Very true, it is early.
However, at this juncture on the Derby trail, I see no harm in pointing out top Derby prospects, and let the chips fall where they may.
Agreed!
Hi Bill,
I agree with you re Patch Adams. At William Hill, the following horses have been bet, with their odds dropping from initial odds pretty substantially. In fact, I don’t remember so many lower-priced horses at this time of last year’s Derby trail. It may have something to do with Wm Hill having no competition from Circa this year!
Bullard, Journalism, Patch Adams all now 22-1; Barnes now 15-1, Citizen Bull current top choice at 11-1…
I am waiting for a Baffert horse, San Saba to be posted; want to jump on him early…
Thanks for the heads up on San Saba, I’ll be sure to follow his progress.
Now, it’s back to the Chargers/Chiefs game.
Under looking pretty good so far!
Yes indeed, I don’t see this game reaching 42 points.
The Chargers are finally showing some life on offense in the 2nd half.
It appears they made some necessary adjustments.
Patch can be compared to a runaway freight train. His recent win was ultra impressive.
How fast was the CD surface on the day he recorded the 1:20 plus for 7F? This has to be taken into consideration when evaluating his final time. Some of the fastest time for 7F are recorded at Belmont Park whose oval features a 1Turn for mile races and a 1Turn for 9F races. CD has a similar oval to Belmont Park
The Tiz the Law filly Book’em recorded a time of 1;34.34 for an 8F AOC for which she was assigned an Equibase figure of 103.
First Resort won the Kentucky Jockey Club in a time of 1:43.01. This time is the fastest since 2009, the year in which Super Saver established the Stake’s record of 1:42.83. Interestingly, he was only assigned an Equibase figure of 92. I suspect the slow internal fractions contribute to same.
PA’s stride turnover rate and overall stride mechanics suggests he is a sprinter/miler sort. But those sorts have been known to carry their speed over 10F. However, he hit the ground hard in full flight and this might be a negative over routing distances against the cream of the crop.
Despite PA’s impressiveness, I am of the opinion his stable mate Hot Property who looked ordinary winning on debut, will emerge the better router of the two. And I absolutely make this claim with no ill-will intended.
PA was returning $0.58 on the dollar and won in the manner an ultra-short price favorite should. He was the 4/5 favorite when making his debut. He led out of the gates and couldn’t repel his closest opponent whilst both were tagged late by the 22/1 shot David of Athens.
Nice colt who deserves the hype he is receiving. But the KD is the ultimate equalizer and the fast and flashy have often been humbled by a race that favors none.
Hey Counter Point
“PA’s stride turnover rate and overall stride mechanics suggests he is a sprinter/miler sort.”
Patch Adams has yet to be tested for class and distance beyond 7 furlongs, so for you to state that he is a “sprinter/miler sort, I would think that statement is a bit premature. In his maiden win on 11-30, the footnotes read, “was put to wraps late”.
His pedigree reflects class and stamina, on the top and bottom. I suggest you give Patch Adams an opportunity to stretch out at some time in the future to test his ability to carry his super impressive speed over a distance of ground.
From my perspective, PA has a bright future moving forward on the Derby trail.
Have a nice day, Counter Point.
Bill,
You requested opinions on the colt, and I provide mine. It appears you found my opinion unflattering despite my acknowledging the colt deserves the hype he has received.
I am no expert and could be wrong regarding my assessment of the colt. I just call it as I see it. A class test isn’t required for an opinion. The colt isn’t undefeated despite being the shot price favorite on debut. What kind of a test did he fail on debut?
Hot property hasn’t been class tested, and I have a very high opinion of that colt.
Calling Card was just as impressive as PA, and you do not have that colt in your most current list.
I can see why you like him, under 1:21 is rare, for a two year old …Spectacular Bid, Cave Rock, Patch Adams….I cannot recall any other, Churchill was on the fact side, this Fall….at least for sprints, lots of fast times, but 1:20.77 is booking….
Congratulations to all the winners yesterday and to all who had winning bets.
Hope you are having a pleasant Sunday.
Thanks Lynda…. good on all accounts !!!
Charcoal’s soulful story speaks to the giving heart, heroic courage & enduring spirit of the thoroughbred & all horses. Every good wish for beautiful Charcoal, another who’s now captured my heart. Your writing is a gift, as always. Thank you.
Thank you!
I appreciate your username. I saw Dance With Fate run at Golden Gate Fields. An extraordinarily beautiful horse.
David, Rank worked in 47 and change today at SA. I think if he were going to run in an MSW at FG, he’d have shipped already
I think he’s running in the Los Al Futurity
That would seem the most logical, Betsy. Why ship to the Fairgrounds for a MSW? Los Alamitos has that long stretch which should suit Rank.
Because running in a stakes race is difficult …especially if Gaming is running
At some point, he needs to win. Let’s say he runs well but doesn’t win the LA Futurity …where does it end? There are no races in CA more than 1 mile – so shipping would be the best option
It all depends on what they are intending to do next year. An attempt at the Kentucky Derby or slowly develop the colt for a summer/autumn campaign.
If it’s the Kentucky Derby then it’s points they need to get there in the first place.
Good point, David !
Well, first things first! He’s thriving now, so we’ll see. I don’t think they’ve settled on a perfect running style for him. He wants to run, but he’s tractable, so I’d like to see him settle a few lengths off the pace…last time, the jock was afraid of letting Bob’s horse go, and Rank got caught up in a duel
Betsy, until they start running past 8f it appears Rank is compromised to a certain extent. You will just have to restrain your impatience. Ha ha That’s racing, waiting, waiting, waiting and luck. Ha ha
😂😂😂😂 David!
I don’t know that I’d say he’s compromised – he’s got good tactical speed- but certainly he’ll be his best at 9F or more
So, I wait …and wait….😬
Doug has done this before, with Irap, who broke his maiden in the Blue Grass, and ran 3rd in The Travers….Rank belongs in the Los Al Futurity, but like Betty is worried about—getting beat cannot be good for the horse’s psyche—But that long stretch could be to his liking, provided they sit off of the pace, some….He should be a good price if he goes….
Matt, I’m not worried about Rank’s mental outlook – he was trounced in the Del Mar Futurity and has come back better than ever. I just think that they’d want to get him a win.
But….I just checked – Irap ran in many stakes as a maiden until the Blue Grass.
I guess Doug felt – maybe still feels- that if a horse is good enough, then one day he’ll break through. Now Irap ran in stakes as a 2 year old interspersed with MSW. We’ll see what happens with Rank
I think he’ll actually take money in the Futurity …
He’s big & strong – looking forward to it!
Matt W.. was a big fan of IRAP.. He showed so much promise
DTS, Irap was a very sad story.
His dam,Silken Cat, hemmoraged and died after his birth.
He suffered fractured sesamoids in the Penn Derby. Developed laminitis and was euthanized.
Yes, so much promise and so little time. It was devastating.
The quality of the Remsen remains to be seen, but I don’t think Poster is getting the credit he deserves. Yes, Aviator Gui had to wait, but few horses could make a sudden and sustained five wide run around the turn at 9 furloungs and hold off a relatively fresh horse who saved ground. Poster’s run was a huge energy expenditure.
Todd, what worried me observing Poster was that his front pasterns, they looked like a ballerina on pointe. Mind you, this was only an observation online. By the way, I’ve mentioned previously that I liked Poster as a promising 2 year old so I’m not knocking the colt.
Davids, based on the photo of Poster on BH after his win, I am not seeing what is usually considered to be upright pasterns on the front.
Based on that photo he does appear to have long sloping pasterns we see so much of today though not as long as some (as compared to Secretariat who is my go to standard for conformation).
It is hard to say about the backlegs from this photo but could be the way he is standing.
He is not standing square of course.
Lynda, not sure if you have access to “America’s Day at the Races” but if you have, you will be able to retrace the parade prior to the Remsen Stakes on YouTube just search for last Saturday’s card.
It was actually Maggie Wolfedale during the parade who pointed out how upright Poster’s front pasterns actually are. Of course, from that comment all can see are the upright pasterns.
I usually don’t comment on conformation faults I think I can see from still photographs or video as both can distort ‘reality’ extraordinarily to the viewer.
However, with Maggie Wolfendale being there on the spot what you think you are seeing was confirmed by Maggie’s comments about how upright Poster’s front pasterns were/are.
Hopefully, Poster is able to cope with this problem if, in fact, it is a problem for Poster.
Davids, I was looking at the photo in the winner’s circle after the Remsen.
Just not seeing upright pasterns on the front.
I will try to find that video.
There have been comments that Thorpedo Anna has glitch in her walk (pff in her hindquarters).
Let me rephrase that…I am not seeing it, that does not mean it’s not there.
Romantic Warrior!!!!
Now the richest race horse in the world, 22 million USD.
And they’re setting sail, to the Saudi Cup, vs American dirt horses!…Maybe Forever Young, as well.
RW is one of my favorite horses.
Ridden by the mercurial New Zealand born, Australian based, star jockey, James McDonald (J Mac). Crowned the world’s number one jockey last week.
Davids, yes I saw the announcement about James McDonald.
I am following a number of people on X that is keeping me updated on International racing.
May Day Ready finished 13th. She broke well. Was competitive until the stretch.
She prefers fast turf and the conditions were too “crumbly: for her.
Was also her first race in this direction, Frankie said she seemed to be confused by it.
She just fizzled.
Yes, Lynda, I was hoping that May Day Ready would overcome the 17 post, the different conditions, direction, and the travel but that was not to be.
Moreover, most runners seldom are at their best in their next race from an early exit from the Breeders’ Cup races.
The Japanese are the masters in being able to transport their horses around the world while having the least impact on the horse.
I really enjoyed today’s graded stakes races at Aqueduct, nicely packed into a two-hour window. I had overlooked Poster — who is now 3 for 3 — and believe he has a tremendous amount of potential. In a post-race interview, Eoin Harty actually said the horse needs to become a bit more confident. If he does, look out. It was great to see Locked come back with a wow performance, which is also how I would describe Muhimma’s run. Ballerina d’Oro came right to her in the stretch and Muhimma just outran her.
He’s also a homebred, as are four others in my top 12 list as of today: stablemate First Resort; East Avenue; Patch Adams; and Sovereignty. Since homebreds tend to do well in the Kentucky Derby, I will be following all five closely.
Hi Ms Blacktype
Did Bullard and Rated by Merit make your top 12 list? They’re both homebred.
Bullard, Three Chimneys Farm.
Rated by Merit, St. Elias Stable.
I have Bullard on my list, too. I see he went through the sales ring, but as you correctly say, he’s in partial ownership with his breeder, Three Chimneys Farm. I don’t have Rated By Merit in my top 15 since he’s only raced against Florida breds, but I’m looking forward to his debut in open company. After that. we can talk.
Ms Blacktype would have to agree with you. YESTERDAY was a great day of racing !!!
Thanks, Downy!
Could this be Godolphin’s year to win the Kentucky Derby? Asking for a friend.
We’ll see.
Hi Lynda
Playa Del Mar, by Into Mischief, out of a Tiznow mare, is another Godolphin homebred that could make some noise on the Derby trail. On Saturday, 12-14, he’s set to debut, at Gulfstream Park, in a 65K Maiden race, at 6 furlongs. He’s in the capable hands of William Mott, and Edgard Zayas Jr. will be in the saddle.
Top sire, Into Mischief, has produced several promising 2yr. old colts on this year’s Derby trail, Playa Del Mar could be yet another prospect moving forward. Stay tuned.
Thanks Bill.
Looked up the colt’s pedigree.
Will keep an out for him!
You’re welcome, Lynda
BTW, there’s another colt entered in that same maiden race by the name of Gosger, by Nyquist, out of Gloria S, by Tapit. He’s fired four straight bullet works at Palm Meadows. Based on Tapit’s success as a broodmare sire, I would think he could be special. When you get a chance check out his impressive pedigree which is inundated with class and stamina, top and bottom, IMO. In addition, he’s a Harvey A. Clarke Racing Stable homebred colt which is an additional attribute to consider.
Lynda, you never know but still think there maybe be a few more gems out there that haven’t been discovered yet … they may even own one.
Happy for Locked and Johnny V. in the Cigar! I was rooting for Post Time too, but Locked looked so good I cheered him on as well.
So much for the “Online Pundits” (Locked ended up being favorite) but in a way I should be grateful because if they had picked him (LOCKED) as their # 1 choice I probably wouldn’t have gotten $24 on my $2 exacta. I always like Locked and actually felt if he had stayed healthy he would have been Pletcher’s # 1 Kentucky Derby horse.
And yes Nelson next years older horses division right now looks very promising.
And congrats to Counter and KMI for your choices in the Remsen ( I didn’t bet the race). Shrewd handicapping there. And Bill Dawson better luck next time!!!
Thanks, Downthestretch
I need all the luck I can get.
The road to the Kentucky Derby is just starting. The 50/100 Derby prep races, in the spring, should provide a clearer picture on the top KD contenders.
As it stands now, my top ten prospects moving forward are the following:
Bullard
Sovereignty
Praetor
Citizen Bull
Patch Adams
Journalism
First Resort
Rated by Merit
Admiral Dennis
Showcase
It should be noted that those ten are not necessarily in preferential order.
Good luck to you as well, Downthestretch.
Nice list Bill but I notice you didn’t add Poster or Aviator Gui….. neither impressed you?
Not as much as the ten that I listed. Had my list consisted of 12, I probably would have added the two you mentioned.
Just for the record, I was more impressed with Aviator Gui than I was with Poster. 10 furlongs should be right up Aviator Gui’s alley.
Bill, my thoughts too on Aviator Gui. I have watched the race several times now and feel that he was the best horse in the race even though he did not win.
Aviator Gui had every opportunity to pass Poster. If he were the best horse in the race he would have.
Aviator Gui had two advantages over Poster.
1) He had two previous starts on dirt albeit one was an off the turf which he won.
2) The Remsen was his 3rd start at the Big A.
His best Equibase Figure before the Remsen was 81 compared to Poster’s 93.
He lost two of his 3 starts ahead of the Remsen. Poster was undefeated in 2 starts.
He was the 5th wagering choice in the field of 6. Poster was the 4th.
In every category Poster was ahead of AG and he finished ahead in the race.
Do not be fooled by the margin at the end. Poster in a May 20th foal making his dirt debut over 9F. When a very late foal wins over 9F in a good time of 1:50 plus. With more physical development said foal with it running style must be considered dangerous.
Only Citizen Bull, First Resort, Sovereignty and Rated By Merit have 2 turn stakes victories, along with Poster joining them. I would add East Avenue as well. The rest are a wait n see. Nice list nonetheless.
Wow!
No East Avenue
No Hil Road
No Hot Property
No Calling Card
What caused the exclusion of the above 4?
Hey Counter don’t take offense. I credited you for your handicapping of the . POSTER ran a powerful race and had a cleaner trip. While Aviator Gui jockey had him running behind horses and hesitated an instant at the top of the stretch and then the horse ran greenly throughout the stretch but even with all that he was closing in on him with every stride. Again in this race AG ran the better race. Just like in the Derby Mystik Dan won the race and I feel he ran the best race. Others feel it was Sierra Leone, while others felt it was Forever Young. Again these are opinions But in the end for yesterday’s race no is denying POSTER came in first.
DTS … Aviator Gui’s trouble is well noted on the race results line. In my opinion I view AG to have more upside going forward than Poster.
Thanks DTS .. that was fun and exciting.
For those who havent noticed, the first and second-place finishers in both the Remsen and Demoiselle are all out Tapit mares.
Must be a record for a broodmare sire… and both winners are sired by Munnings…
The pundits will now start talking about the successful nick …
Nelson, that die has already been cast.
Malibu Moon is the damsire of Cigar Mile winner Locked – today just adds to the legend of AP Indy and his sire
Poster won the Remsen Stakes but Tux is the colt that took the eye and I like both colts. Poster’s upright pasterns would worry me running on dirt, the future on the turf seems a safer bet. The cross of both colts looks very positive.
The Munnings X Tapit filly Muhimma wins the Demoiselle Stakes, as I said, very positive. Ha ha
Muhimma ran faster than the colts.
Yes Davids… I was about to post the times for Poster (1:50.37) slower than the 1:49.84 for Muhimma with faster fractional times for the fillies as well…
Let’s see how she fares against the likes of Immersive, Good Cheer, Vodka with Twist and Scottish Lassie next year…
Yes, Nelson, but Muhimma ran the 9f, smartly, which they are yet to do.
I liked Tux as well.
Yes, arlingtonfan, not many 2 year olds run their second race in a Grade 2, 9 furlong race, and perform admirably.
Congrats Counter Point! Your belief in Poster came through. He is definitely a player on the Road to Kentucky along with Aviator Gui.
Hats off to you and Counter Point, your respective picks in the Remsen were clearly the best. As I mentioned to Nelson and Counter Point, if Poster can transfer his turf form to dirt, he could be dangerous.
BTW, did you notice the pedigree similarities between Poster and Aviator Gui, on the dam side. Both have Tapit as their broodmare sire, and Quite American/Fappiano appear on their tail-female side.
From my perspective, with respect to stamina influence, I would think Aviator Gui is better suited for 10 furlongs.
Thanks Bill, and I recall reading you and Counter spoke of Poster in that respect. I had him figured in the money as well but not to beat Aviator. I think Chad has a real race horse in his hands, but we will see. Eoin Harty and Goldolphin have Poster and First Resort for they’re Run for the Roses journey.
With the Cigar Mile to be run in a little while I am a little perplexed at the lack of definitive support for “Locked”. I know this is a tough field but I expected a lot more support from the online pundits of handicapping So with that said I will do an EXACTA Key with him on top with 1, 5, 9,10,& 11. Will see what happens here. Hopefully with there lack of support I get better odds.
Have a Great Day !!!
Nice race in the Remsen between winner Poster and Aviator Gui. Both ran great races and both came from off the pace. From what I saw it looked like Aviator Gui was blocked at the top of the stretch and if not for that the finish might have been a little closer.
Locked is the favorite at 2 to 1 … so, there is a lot of support for the son of Gun Runner.
Interesting to see how Senor Buscador and Post Time would benefit from an impending hot pace… the way Flavien Prat is inspired today I would not be surprised in Mullikin runs the race of his life…
Oh sorry! … I had forgotten to press enter for this reply until the race was off…
Congrats to Locked… another brilliant runner enriching the handicap division next year…
Longshot Surfside Moon, (20-1), has scratched out of the Remsen, reducing the field to six horses. Post time for the G2 Remsen is 2:36 eastern time.
I noticed a comment by Counter Point that Studlydoright is not the class of the field.
Studlydoright has been class tested in five stakes races, the latest being the Nashua Stakes where he won going a mile in 1:37.23. He earned an impressive Equibase Speed Figure of 95, versus Poster’s 93 win in an allowance race on turf. Turf speed is usually a couple of seconds faster than dirt speed, so Poster’s finishing translates to 1:38.35.
From my perspective, the one horse that Studlydoright has to fear most is the speedy Keewaydin, not Poster. Furthermore, I would question Keewaydin’s ability to be competitive going 9 furlongs.
Safe trips to all.
Thanks for the update Bill…
After watching the replays of Keewaydin’s races I have to conclude that the morning line, current odds and Chad Brown are right… I believe he got great energy, stride extension and tactical speed.
I guess Keewaydin does not know his sire and damsire are sprinters he only knows to run as fast and as long as he can … given the small field I suspect he will have a lot of fight in him in the home stretch and will leave Studly , Poster and Tux behind ….
safe trips to all and
Good luck in all your bets today Bill…
Hey Nelson
It appears we were both wrong. I mentioned to Counter Point that if Poster can transfer his turf form to dirt, he could be dangerous.
That said, Aviator Gui was the horse that impressed me the most. Another few feet he would have caught Poster.
Studlydoright didn’t live up to my expectations. What can I say?
We were aware of Poster’s ability for the 9 furlongs but I was misguided by the odds on Keewaydin and overlooked the prowess and intelligence of Flavien Prat.
Anyway, it seems like many trainers are now resorting to turf races to get their horses in tip top shape…on that note, let’s see how Ballerina d’Oro runs against Muhimma in the Demoisel in a minute …
Well Bill .. you were right about Keewaydin’s inability to go farther… and congrats to kmi who had faith in the longshot Aviator Gui… well done!
Flavien Prat is having an incredible year breaking the record for Stakes wins. Godolphin is having one of its greatest years as well…
The double uncles Tux and Studlydoright finished 3rd and 4th…
Thanks, it was a exciting Remsen like last year. Time was good for these youngsters too.
The tale of Charcoal in the hands of his breeder and owner Ron Dowdy is a love story that will be celebrated thanks to the story telling gift of Steve Haskin.
In the November 10 column, “What Makes A Thoroughbred Tough?”, I wanted to post a comment about how tough are some old warriors of 2024 like Charcoal, Filo Di Arianna(BRZ), Tut’s Revenge, Smooth B (PA), Frosted Grace, Smithwick’s Spice (NJ); I also wanted to remember Ben’s Cat (MD) and his exploits 8 years ago on turf sprint Stakes every year from his 4-year-old to the age of 10.
Pink Lloyd(ON), Rated R Superstar, Domain’s Rap(IL) are brilliant geldings that are also worth mentioning as strong, durable and reliable runners.
And really tough are some resilient Steeplechase horses who were still winning hurdle Stakes at the ages ranging from 10 to even 15! which is equivalent to a 53-year-old human athlete keeping top form at track and field hurdling events… elite athletes are retired in their mid 30’s…
But at the last minute I declined to put those names along with the names of Damascus and Seattle Slew in that article and even name them with other great horses of the past in the comment section. So, I am glad that Steve has reminded us how patience, love and respect for a horse can make him flourish at old ages.
There is no official recognition of the top “gelded seniors” but their accomplishments elevate the sport and eleicit the fascination for a special example of the toughest athletes in the world.
Well said, Nelson.
One to watch this weekend is May Day Ready, the first American bred filly to run in the Grade 1 Hanshin Juvenile Fillies at the Kyoto Racetrack on Sunday.
By Tapit out of Nemoralia, she is trained by John Lee and Frankie Dettori is up.
May Day Ready has won 3 of her 4 starts and was second to Lake Victoria in the Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf Fillies.
She is a lovely silver bay who moves beautifully. Ears pricked and she flicks them back and forth as she listens to the exercise rider. Something I like to see, a horse who truly enjoys their “job” and is enthusiastic about training.
Just saw the neatest thing they do in Japan. They put little note cards on a rack that wish for safe racing for each horse.
I agree–that is neat!
What is a silver bay? I’ve never heard that term before, but it sounds beautiful.
Silver bays have strands of silver in their tails and manes and sometimes in the hair on their legs. Sometimes they also have black spots called ermine spots on their fetlocks on a leg that has a white sock.
I love that! I’ve noticed the ermine spots on some horses; next time I see them, I’ll look more closely at the horse to see if s/he has strands of silver as well. Thanks for explaining!
You are
You are welcome
Last race today at Los Al….a Cal bred stakes—homebred Hey Jessie won going away by three…in a sloqlt run race—but she’s a light grey with an onyx black mane!….oh, and a multi colored tail…..
(Slowly run race..)..
May Day Ready is such a courageous filly, I hope she wins but with an 18 horse field anything can happen. If anyone can weave a successful trip it’s Frankie Dettori. Fingers crossed.
May Day Ready performance tonight will give an idea of how difficult is to tavel thousands of miles to contest top level races.
The half sister to Forever Young, Brown Ratchet, will be tough in the exceptionally good field of the Group 1 Hanshin Juvenile Fillies Stakes.
Eleven of the 18 fillies are fast enough to win the mile so if May Day Ready is able to win it would be the greatest feat of an US based horse in Japan…
Go Frankie Go!
Pearl Secret, the last known Byerley Turk direct sire line standing in the world has been sold to Japan. Another direct descendant of the BT was acquired by Japan in 1963 named Partholon and was champion sire in 71, 76 and 84.
The Byerley Turk was the first of the 3 foundation sires imported to England for the development of the Thoroughbred bloodstock.
He was first the war horse for Colonel Robert Byerley of the Sixth Dragoon Guards during the King William Wars.
The horse was described as being dark brown or black in color, of unknown breeding but described as those descending from the Arabian or Persian because of his distinctive Arabian features. He was a long bodied, large in size and further described as being elegant, courageous (in battle) and very fast.
Though he bred relatively few mares and was primarily a broodmare sire he did sire several sons who influenced the breed. The real treasures though were his daughters who have been identified as the taproot for the Thoroughbred. If you go all the way back in the pedigrees of horses racing today you will see his daughters listed in many of the pedigrees.
The great Man O’War whose sireline went back to the Darley also had lineage to the stallion Jiggs (by the Byerely Turk) in the dam lines both top and bottom. I mentioned a short time ago that the direct sire line back to Man ‘O War is thinning out with very few breeding stallions today to carry on his legacy.
The gentleman who acquired Pearl Secret is planning to double up on the bloodlines going back to the Byerley Turk in hopes of preserving his legacy and influence on the Thoroughbred Horse.
This is something I would like to see happen here though I doubt it will. With each generation the American Thoroughbred is inching closer and closer to becoming a closed gene pool as a result of all the inbreeding and line breeding back to the Darley.
Closed gene pools have unsavory consequences such as genetic defects and diseases.
Recent research indicates that while the Thoroughbred has managed to avoid conditions like Lavender Foal Syndrome there is a higher rate of stillborn foals and late term miscarriages in Thoroughbred mares than any other breed. The consensus from the studies is that the more closely the sire and dam are related (inbred and line bred) the defective foals are being purged as stillborn or late term miscarriage.
Breed the best to the best and hope for the best may not be the best after all.
Take a look at the following:
Hot Property – Interesting single inbreeding -Tiznow
Tiztastic – Similar close inbreeding-_ Rich Strike
Not sure what you are talking about. Please advise. Thanks
My bad! I should have provided more information as a guide.
You referenced 3 foundation stallions in your 2nd paragraph. You seem to be into pedigree.
I just thought you might find the pedigrees of 2 reference colt interesting.
Hot Property –
His pedigree reflects a single inbreeding in the exact category and generation to Nearctic via two of his sons who were produced from Native Dancer mares i.e., Northern Dancer and Icecapade. Rarely is that type of single inbreeding to Nearctic seen in a pedigree.
His dam Milwaukee Appeal reflects no inbreeding in her first 5 generation. She won the Woodbine Oaks and was the Canadian Champion 3YO Filly.
Rich Strike’s dam Gold Strike also won the Woodbin Oaks and was also vote Champion 3YO filly,
Rich Strike finished last on debut whereas Hot Property won handily. He could be Brad Cox’s best routing colt.
Tiztastic –
His sire Tiz The Law is a grandson of Tapit. His dam was sired by Tapit. He is therefore closely inbred (3×2) to Tapit (.
The pedigree of the winner of the 2022 KD, Rich Strike reflects a (3×2) inbreeding to Smrt Strike. His sire Keen Ice is grandson of Smart Strike, and his dam was sired by Smart Strike.
Such close inbreeding’s are rare, and one has to wonder how impactful it can be to be so closely inbred to an influential stallion.
If you find the above uninteresting kindly disregard. I probably have too much time on my hands. This allows me to compile meaningless bit of information on various Thoroughbred Racing related issues.
Lynda King, I thought this was a fascinating story, and the horse is quite a looker!
Possibly a typo re: Man O’ War sireline? He was Godolphin Arabian, not Darley. Tiznow is the most recent – and possibly the final – successful Godolphin sire in the US, and goes back to Man O’ War through In Reality/Relaunch. This was why it was such a shame to lose Gemologist, Colonel John, and then Tourist (a good and durable runner) from the US gene pool.
The great American horse Lexington was Byerley Turk sireline by way of Sir Archy – Herod – the Byerley Turk horse.
Interestingly, there may be more quarter horses who can trace their sireline to the Byerley Turk than Thoroughbreds, as Peter McCue – a major AQHA foundation horse – was a descendant of Sir Archy through the influential horse Shiloh, all on the very top. The Peter McCue sireline produced Joe Hancock, and we are still alternately venerating and cursing the Hancock QHs to this day.
Most of the more modern TBs to influence the QH breed (Three Bars, Beduino, Top Deck) were Darley sireline horses by way of Eclipse.
The Remsen G2 was a very fun and challenging race to handicap. We have speed, stalkers, and the closers.
I see (the sprinters) Tux and Keewaydin breaking out on top around the 1st turn being closely followed by Poster (a 2x grass winner). Studlydoright filling in the 4th slot with Gun Trader sitting off Studly’s tail (stalkers). Bringing up the rear are Surfside Moon and Aviator Gui (closers). Positions remain the same on the back stretch.
Going around the 2nd turn, Keewaydin takes over the lead while Tux slips to 5th behind Poster and Studlydoright. Gun Trader and Surfside Moon are all done and slowly drop behind, being passed by Aviator Gui who sits 4th.
Into the stretch, Keewaydin begins to tire. Poster grabs a short lead, Studlydoright comes charging, he’s fighting past a stubborn Poster, Studlydoright has the wire in his sight, but here comes the late closer Aviator Gui, he passes Keewaydin, then Poster, he’s even with Studlydoright …. those 2 are neck n neck, they’re throwing down the gauntlet, heads bobbing to the wire … Jumping Jehoshaphats! … it’s close folks!
Photo sign flashes the 4 and 2. The stewards are reviewing. After 2 minutes, # 2 – Aviator Gui is put on top, second #4- Studlydoright, third, #3- Poster.
Final time for the 1-⅛ mile on a fast track, 151-⅖.
Sometimes, it hard to see the forest for the trees.
Studlydoright is the class of the Remsen field, and clearly the horse to beat.
Enough said.
I agree he is the class, but when NEW distances come into play, it can offset that advantage and be more favorable for other contestants thus evening out the playing field sort of speak.
Good luck with Aviator Gui.
Thanks, and ditto with Studly.
I contend no one is wrong before a race as results can vary. The reasons for landing on a particular entrant will also vary.
Studlydoright won his first two starts which were over 4 1/2F & 5 1/2F.
Poster likewise won his first two starts which were over 8F with both on turf.
Based on their foaling dates, Studlydoright is 2 months and 6 days older than Poster. Yet, the younger Poster was subject to a cumulative distance in 2 starts that almost doubled that of his older opponent. In short, the younger colt was given the greater challenge and overcame said challenge whilst recording fast times and authoritative wins.
Class can be assessed in many ways. A May 20th foal that wins two 8F race in 1:35 plus whilst displaying tactical speed and excellent late race pace, is usually considered classy albeit on the surface of its victories.
Studlydoright won the 1Turn, 8F Nashua by 1/2L in 1:37.23 fully extended and under immense pressure from opponents on both sides. Poster won a 2Turn, 8F Allowance by 3 1/2L in 1:35.35 albeit on turf.
Let’s assume turf is 2 second faster than dirt. Poster time for a 2Turn mile on dirt, assuming he can deliver an equivalent performance, would be in the region of 1:37 plus. That’s the time Studly is recording for a 1Trun mile.
Studly enters the Remsen with a cumulative win margin in 3 victories of 3 1/4L and cumulative margin in 3 defeats of 16 1/4L. He hasn’t been blowing away his competition in vicory.
How can he be considered the class of the field with such a win/loss record?
Studlydorigt enters the Remsen with a cumulative win margin in 3 victories of 3 1/4L and a cumulative margin in 3 defeats of 16 1/4L. He has not been dominating opponents in victory.
How can he be considered the class of the field with such a win/loss record?
How can Studly be considered the class of the field with his win/loss record?
Studly has 2 STAKES wins, his record of 3 wins-2 seconds, out of 6 races speaks for itself.
ZERO stake wins for the rest of the field.
3 wins by a combined margin of 3 1/4L
3 defeats by a combined margin of 16 3/4L
Average win margin just a little over 1L. He hasn’t been dominating opponents.
He won the 1Turn, 8F Nashua in 1:37 plus. Poster won a 2Turn 8F allowance in 1:35.35 on turf. His dirt time or 2Turn mile would have been 1;37 plus.
Despite Study’s record he isn’t the class of the field.
Ok, points well taken, Morning Line says Keewaydin as HEAVY favorite, how does that stack up against your UNDEFEATED pick Poster and class packing Studly ? Go figure.
I was sorry to hear of the passing of Richard Papiese of Midwest Thoroughbreds at age 65. He had Breeders’ Cup Sprint winner Work All Week and Arlington Million winner The Pizza Man. A nice guy.
Rodney Jenkins has also passed away.
He was the consumate horseman in the show ring jumping and eventing world. Cared deeply about every aspect of his horses, their health, safety, welfare even their nutritional needs.
I attended a jumping competition years ago and watched him on top horse, a beautiful gray named Idle Dice.
Sadly we seem to be losing many of these great horsemen and horsewomen like Mr Papiese and Mr Jenkins who truly cared.
Oh my god, I just remembered where I knew him from
There’s a book from my childhood called A Very Young Rider that takes us through the show jumping life of Vivi Malloy (daughter of NY breeder Vivian Malloy). Vivi’s older sister, Debbie, was a very prominent rider – and married to another prominent equestrian, Hans Gunter Winkler.
Anyway, there was a lot of Rodney Jenkins in the book – I always liked him., kind of had a crush on him, lol
Oh how sad….😢😢😢
Betsy, I remember Winkler.
Years ago I used to keep up with show ring, eventing and cross country.
By the way, Idle Dice, Rodney’s best horse was a Thoroughbred.
Lynda, I used to watch show jumping on ESPN….that’s where I knew Michael Matz from
I didn’t know that …wow
The Springboard Mile has a nice field.
I will be all over Coal Battle by Coal Front. I am sure Charcoal will approve.
Counter, many of your comments over the years are thought provoking- illustrating great knowledge of the game. However, regarding Lopez, he deserves a year suspension as a deterrent so maybe this never occurs again. If my horse, would be first one to meet him.
David and Nelson – I happened to see Jamie Osborne’s FB account and noticed he said that Heart of Honor was running today at Meydan. So I assumed they sent him there to get him on dirt
He won, and very nicely, too! They have the last furlong it so on Twitter – if you search Heart of Honor Meydan
I’d love to know what you think even if it’s only part of the race
Maybe an interesting potential Classic horse!
Also, full race is on You Tube
This was 1600 meters, so almost a mile.
He apparently broke a bit slow, but he was always forwardly placed, and wide throughout …
There’s a video on BH inside an article on Jamie Osborne at the Carnival – Heart is the 2nd horse
Betsy, I just watched the full race on Instagram, just search for Heart of Honor wins at Mayden. I’m not on instagram but they let you watch the race.
Had to determine who he beat but the commentator was impressed and thought Osborne has a good runner for the Meydan.
I checked Racing Post but there are no more entries there for Heart of Honor and no news comment either. Nonetheless, a win is a win. An early Christmas present. Haha keep the faith, Betsy. Good for Heart of Honor.
He was very impressive, David – I saw the full race on You Tube. I love that he was up close today, and still finished…first time on dirt, too
Well they hope for him to be a dirt horse, that’s why he’s in Dubai…so there wouldn’t be any entries in RP
In the BH interview, Osborne said he hoped he’d be the kind of horse for those 3 year old races, so today was a very good first step !
Rank’s stablemate, Dr Ruben M, is running in a RP stakes next Friday…I think that pretty much confirms Rank to Los Al Futurity unless Doug ships him for MSW
Betsy, Racing Post had/has the full card from Meydan. They would have had Heart of Honor racing at Meydan I just haven’t checked back there for a while. Keep checking there by looking up Heart of Honor, they will have his entries in Meydan.
David, thanks!
The funny thing is, I only found out he ran today, lol. Jamie Osborne’s posts were showing up on my Facebook feed – he posts what entries he has that day- and when I saw that he wrote that Heart of Honor was running, I was happily stunned, lol. That was 4 hours before I was on FB, so I assumed that he’d already run – and I got the good news!
I’ll always know when he’s running by these FB posts, but Racing Post entries are better because they’re in advance. We’ll see where he’ll be nominated now
Thanks for the reminder Betsy. You can watch all Meydan replays for free in the Emirates Racing Authority website (ERA). Heart of Honor was impressive winning with a lot in reserve… as expected he proved to be an excellent performer on dirt. The beautiful son of Honor A.P. won by 4.56 lengths in an excellent time of 1:37.96 for the track and for 2-year-olds. Most impressive was his last quarter of 24 seconds…
Aside from the second finisher, Estmrar, who debuted with a short head second at 7 furlongs in the AW of Chelmsford City, the field was not that strong… but still, the quality of Heart of Honor was in full display today.
I look forward to the next races of Heart of Honor … he could be a player in the preps for the UAE Derby.
It was curious to see that the third place Golden Vekoma also has a heart in his forehead like Heart of Honor but a bit smaller…
You’re welcome, Nelson! You can see that I was shocked he ran, never mind won, lol
So Heart ran a strong race, and his 24 second final furlong is extremely encouraging….not worried about who he beat as he did it the right way. Thanks for the info!
Please just let him stay healthy, lol
Oh that’s funny!
BH has a blurb on Heart in an article about the Carnival
Heart is being pointed to a race on January 10….if he does well, maybe UAE Derby?
Congratulations to Rajiv Maragh on his first win since he returned to riding. When he was with the Fox Sports team covering races at Saratoga last summer, I thought he was the best commentator there. I wish him well as a jockey and when he finishes riding, I hope he goes back to broadcasting. I missed him when the meeting ended.
Yes, Jiffy, I thought Rajiv Maragh was an excellent commentator as well.
Davids and Jiffy I agree about Ragiv as a commentator. He was excellent!
RE: G2 Remsen Stakes, Aqueduct, Dec. 7th, R7 (9 furlongs)
The morning line has been posted on referenced race, those odds are as follows:
1) Tux, 3-1
2) Aviator Gul, 6-1
3) Poster, 5-1
4) Studlydoright, 9/2
5) Keewaydin, 6/5
6) Surfside Moon, 20-1
7) Gun Trader, 30-1
I’m somewhat surprised that Keewaydin is the M/L favorite, and not Studlydoright.
Just goes to show you that my handicapping skills leave a lot to be desired.
Safe trips to all, and may the best horse win the Remsen.
Bill,
My wager will be on Poster with the hope he can replicate his excellent turf form on dirt.
When a May 20th foal wins both career starts over 8f with both final times being 1:35 and change. From my perspective that’s an indication of immense talent.
It has been reported that he ran on grass because of the distance of the races and not because of an affinity for the surface.
My takeaway from the report is the colt is viewed as a router despite being sired by Munnings.
His last start was on 12th October. His first breeze after that race was 9 days later. It appears the 1:35 plus recorded in that race had little impact on the energy recourses of the late foal.
Hid dam Pin Up is a daughter of Cara Rafaela the dam of Bernardini
On Steve’s previous article (Five Card Studs for Derby 151) I posted a comment to Nelson Mann stating pretty much the same thing. “If Poster can transfer his turf form over Aqueduct’s dirt track, he could be dangerous”. So we’re in agreement on that.
However, I remain convinced that Studlydoright is the horse to beat in the Remsen.
Bill, I saw that too. I doubt if Keewaydin (whom I like immensely) will actually go off at such a short price. He’s a son of Instagrand (whose only stakes win was at 6 furlongs) and I’d think serious bettors would question his ability to go 1 ⅛ miles as a 2YO. Aviator Gui might be the smart pick, since his trainer is Chad Brown and his dam is a half sister to Gun Runner. Should be an interesting race.
I will not remotely defend Paco, and amateur psychoanalysis is dangerous, but he seems to be a guy with a bit of an inferiority complex. Lots of wins and riding titles, but never recognized with that upper tier of jockeys. Maybe there is a reason trainers go to him to win a race, but not to handle their elite horses. Maybe knowing this makes him a little hard, or maybe that’s just his nature.
He has issued an apology and will be taking time off from racing. This was announced earlier today. I wish him the very best and an eventual return.
We (the sport) seems to be settling one situation when another one gets national attention.
CDI and the NYRA have filed a lawsuit against HISA over the methodology HISA uses to calculate the fees. Just another can of worms that has been opened. Comments have been ranging from an intense dislike for HISA and that it should be dissolved to an intense dislike for CDI.
The sport just cannot seem to get away from some sort of on going drama.
Personally do not have an opinion one way or the other on this latest dustup only that in the long run it hurts the sport.
According to statements from the DRF Paco Lopez ‘will take time off from riding’ “to seek appropriate couseling and work on myself”.
Mr. Lopez, I only hope for the best of you going forward.
Charlotte DuJardin has been fined 11,338 USD and suspended for one year (backdated to July 2024) from participating in FEI events and training events for the same time period. When she is eligible to return to the sport, any funding will be reviewed.
For those who may not know, DuJardin is a member of the British Equestrian team and won many awards in Dressage including Olympic gold, silver and bronze medals.
Prior to the start of the 2024 Olympics a video emerged of DuJardin hitting the legs of a trainee with a long whip (lunge whip). She immediately withdrew from the Olympics and was placed on provisional suspension pending a review by the FEI.
Researchers in England have discovered what they think is the cause of the fatal “grass sickness”. The same neuro toxin enzymes found in snake venom are the culprit. Scientists are hopeful this will lead to a treatment for the condition. Some of you might recall that grass sickness took the life of the stallion Dubai Millennium at age 5.
Sweet photos from Oz yesterday of Winx’s new foal. The sire of the colt is Snitzel. The new baby is a mini me of his sire complete with a blaze that is almost identical to that of his sire. Winx looks absolutely wonderful. Her coat is glowing with dapples and is in beautiful condition. She will be given next year off because the foal arrived at the end of the foaling season. One more thing about the baby, he has the cutest ears. The tips turn inward.
Creative Causeway (from last foal crop by Giant’s Causeway) seems to have disappeared. He was supposed to have stood at Crestwood for 2025. Stallion page has been removed off BH. He had been set to go through the Keeneland Auction in November but was withdrawn. Last reported to be at Magdalena Farm in Kentucky. Does anyone by chance know where he is?
Steve, I researched the fungal infection that Charcoal developed (it was new to me). He was fortunate to have survived it, most do not even with treatment which can include surgery). In looking at his photos he has such kind eyes. I hope you keep us updated on him. Horse like Charcoal touch my heart and is one reason I keep coming back to this sport.
Lynda, I think you are meaning Classic Causeway not Creative Causeway. The last crop of Giant’s Causeway were: Monaadah, Classic Causeway, and Giant Game.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t find anything about Classic Causeway. Good luck.
Thank you for the correction Davids.
Yes, it is Classic Causeway.
Have you seen the photos of Winx’s new foal?
Yes, Lynda, the colt reminds me a lot of Snitzel more than Winx but that may change.
Her filly, nickname Tiddlywinx, was Winx’s mini me.
Yes they do change but the basic bone structure, conformation and bling do not change.
Unless of course the foal is an Appaloosa. Never know what they are going to look like from one year until the next, LOL.
Yes Lynda, that’s correct. The Appaloosa comment made me laugh. Snitzel usually throws a lot of speed, his progeny are often very precocious with two Golden Slipper winners already.
I like this story, and I’m a fan of this handsome, striking horse. I love his back story! It is incredibly endearing when a horse can find success after pulling through an injury or illness.
I get so attached to these hard working geldings who we get to see year after year. Always interested to see what these “old” campaigners can do when they retire, too. I watched the post-race interview with Mr. Dowdy from the Turf Stakes Preview, and he was very emotional about Charcoal. If he doesn’t keep him, I think he will find someone who loves this horse to take him in retirement.
This story reminded me of a couple of other small-barn horses I have followed. General Quarters (claimed, owned and trained by Tom McCarthy) came to mind. Last I saw, he had been sent to Turkey to stand.
The current Turf Sprint division has some of my favorite geldings, so if youthful retirement makes you cringe, it’s a nice division to follow to get to know some horses. Nobals, Dancing Buck (no works since July), Witty, AG Bullet, and of course the titular character, Charcoal, are some of my current faves.
A few of those are also small-barn horses. What does Mike Relva say? A good horse can come from anywhere.
Thanks for another gem, Steve.
I wonder if the jock got spooked, when the horse started to veer towards the outer rail thinking he might jump over it. That could’ve gotten real ugly, just saying maybe it was enough for the jock to lose his cool. By no means does it excuse his post action, but intervention needs to take place.
Whilst I do not condone what Jockey Lopez did, I am not prepared to joint those calling for harsh penalties but rather forgive him for his moment of indiscretion and/or lapse in judgement.
Striking a horse with a crop after the post is abuse. But that kind of abuse is mild in comparison to other that owners, trainers and large % of the wagering public find acceptable.
If horses had the option to refuse being injected with Lasix and B12 Vitamin. Would they exercise this option? Horses run perfectly well without Lasix & B12. Yet, prior to some races they their bodies are penetrate with a needle and at the discretion of trainers and vets these liquids are deposited into the horse bloodstream. What part of this practice isn’t abuse?
Very often a horse is seen running with their tongue hanging out of its mouth. This is because it was forcible pulled from its mouth and tied. I cannot imagine the discomfort the animal must endure during the period it has no control over its tongue. What pat of said practice isn’t abusive?
The eyes of horses are not only globular organs in the head for seeing but also play an important role as an early warning means through which the animal can detect the presence of predators interested in the large quantity of meat comprising their bodies.
The addition of various sharp and size blinkers/visors, inhibit the full focus of a horse’s eyes. There must be some negative impact when a horse sight is impaired. Isn’t the used of this form of accessory abusive?
Figure 8 Bridle ensure that a horse mouth is kept closed. Again, this restraint is one horse would never sing off on. Isn’t the use of this form of accessory abusive?
In 2011 the Breeder Cup Board took the decision to ban RDM. Certain owner proposed lawsuits in light of the decision. One prominent NY owner declared that he wouldn’t run his horses in the BC Championships if Lasix was disallowed.
I found the proposed actions of prominent owners with a lot invested in the sport, interesting to say the least. They were in favor of the continued practice of racing American based horse with medication against international competition who emerged from jurisdiction where RDM isn’t allowed. The morality of these owner had to be in question.
One of the owners is calling for harsh penalties for jockey lopes but had no problem racing medicated horses. One the trainer that is also calling similar penalties had a BC Distaff favorite who broke from the gate and couldn’t get out jog. His horses are plagued with the MIA Syndrome.
Those who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones!
Counter Point, the concern with this jockey, beyond striking a two year colt with full force from the arm, hand and upper body on the neck and side of his face is the long list of repeated violations in the use of whip or racing crop.There is, in the eyes of many, a pattern that has developed over the course of the past year going back as far as 2022.
Whether one likes, dislikes or has no opinion about HISA, it’s goal is the health, safety and welfare of the horses and the jockeys who ride them.
When one strikes a horse in this manner, they never know what the reaction will be from the horse.
The colt could have quickly reacted in the blink of an eye by tossing the Jockey off, subjecting the Jockey to serious injury. The colt could have lashed out with his hindlegs which also could have caused serious injury to the Jockey.
The colt could have also reacted by taking the bit in his teeth and taking off at a high rate of speed.
A third possibility is that after unseating the Jockey, the colt could have gotten by the outrider and ran loose around the track.
Any three of these possible scenarios had the potential for serious injury for the colt and other horses and jockeys and riders on the track.
A terrified horse is a serious concern. Most any horseman or horse woman can tell you about their experiences with a frightened horse including myself.
Additionally this 2 year old colt learned nothing from this experience other than he would be hit harshly after winning a race. Horses have amazing memories with the elephant being the only land animal that has a better one. He will never forget this.
Jockeys are supposed to be professionals are they not?
Like many young girls, I got hooked on horse racing after reading The Black Stallion series by Walter Farley. Then came Damascus, Dr. Fager, Buckpasser, Secretariat, Ruffian, Affirmed, Alydar, and Personal Ensign, Rachel Alexandra, and Zenyatta to reaffirm my love of the sport. All greats.
I will now add Charcoal to my list. What a fabulous horse and thank you so much for introducing me to the unknowns. Please continue to add these gutsy thoroughbreds to your always excellent column. We need to know.
Just saw the replay of a recent race at Parx where Paco Lopez was on a horse that had a big lead in the stretch and narrowly won because he drifted badly to the outer rail as he crossed the finish line . Lopez struck the horse in the face with he riding crop after the horse crossed the finish line and was slowing down . Lopez has been suspended because of this incident. This is a clear instance of animal abuse and I’m glad Paco was suspended. This was a punk move by him and when he is allowed to ride again I’m hoping he will lose many mounts because of this.
Couldn’t agree more. Unwarranted, stupid, immature act by a senior jockey and to what benefit to the horse. Zero. Disgraceful.
Davids, from what I read this same jockey has had multiple violations of this nature.
Yes, Lynda. The sad thing is Paco Lopez is a gifted rider but often lets himself down. No excuse here, though.
The 2 year colt, National Law (Constitution) is owned by Colts Neck Farm and trained by Jorge Duarte.
At first Duarte defended Lopez’s actions but took the tweet down
The ownership condemned what Lopez did and Duarte’s comment.
The colt did go wide in the stretch, almost to the fence.
The violations happened after the finish line, the colt was under control, in a slow canter and outrider was about 8-10 feet away in the front.
It was described as a brutal hit with the crop on the right side of the colt’s neck and jaw and Lopez was pulling hard on the left rein.
The violations were hitting a horse after crossing the finish line and raising the hand holding the whip above his head before striking the colt.
Mike Repole and Todd Pletcher condemned the jockeys actions and contacted Gulfstream to pull Lopez off their entry this weekend.
In addition to the owners, Parx condemned the Jockey’s actions.
The provisional suspension applies only to the HISA tracks.
As of this writing the final disposition of the suspension have not been announced pending a review by HISA and an interview of Lopez by HISA.
There are multiple posts of the gallop out and Lopez hitting the colt on various media, X and FB.
As a horseowner I cringed when I watched the video.
Yes, Lynda, I hope the punishment fits the crime and not just a slap on the hand.
If I owned that horse, I would never let Lopez ride one of my horses again. His actions could totally have destroyed the moral of the horse, and therefore his potential.
Morale, that is. Horses do not have morals as far as I know.
Morale.
He also could have blinded this beautiful colt, not to mention creating long-lasting behavioral problems for the people who work with him on a daily basis. He would never work for me again if I was an owner or trainer.
Looking at this from many miles away (the great Northwest) jockey Paco Lopez appears to have severe anger, rage and fury problems. HISA is doing the correct thing and the best course is let the process take its course.
Meanwhile, my guess is that perhaps Paco Lopez should seek help with a possible mental health problem.
John, you may recall the time when Irad Ortiz Jr was displeased with Paco Lopez’s antics in a race, not that the former is a saint in these matters, but from what I’ve seen over the past year or so Ortiz Jr appears to have amended most of his previous antics.
Note, I may be wrong here but just from what I have observed personally.
Yes, I think Irad has behaved extremely well this year. It’s ironic that this would be the year when he’s not going to get the Eclipse award.
Jiffy, throughout my life ‘irony’ has repeated itself so often that it’s ironic. lol. I thought so, thanks, and I agree with you he will probably just miss winning the Eclipse Award.
We have all had those moments where we ask the question. Did I do that?
To err is human to forgive is divine.
Let’s embark on the path of divinity and forgive the jockey and hope he embarks on a period of reflection and learn from his lapse in judgement.
He who is without sin let him cast the first stone.
That’s all well & good what you just said Counter Point but tell that to the poor horse that got beaten. He is repeat offender, how much forgiveness should we render. There is a thing called animal cruelty in the U.S. Maybe the
authorities should be called & then arrest Mr. Lopez. I have no respect for those who beat animals. They should be prosecuted. Animals can’t defend themselves.
He should never be allowed to ride again on U.S. race tracks , or anywhere for that matter,
Thank you Steve. What a heartwarming and inspiring story. The small stable owners and the Charcoals of the world touch my heart and their stories deserve to be told.
Thanks AK
Steve, another of your gems that just endears you, and racing in general, to all those that have the privilege to read your column every week. We never hear enough about the minor players in the racing game that depends so much in their involvement. Bravo to you and bravo to Charcoal and his connections.
John Stewart, from Resolute racing, made a poignant statement recently on his observation that could improve racing. Stewart believes that the prize money should be more evenly distributed with the entire field rather than giving most of the prize to the top three runners.
Unless all the runners get a better deal Stewart believes racing is doomed to become a minor sport with only the elites, who can afford to anticipate in the game, being present. The soul of racing vanishing to a mere shadow of it’s former glory. Some may say this has already happened in the US. Stewart wants to save racing from itself, good for him!!
Steve, you probably have limited knowledge of the great Dutch footballer Ruud van Nistelrooy whom the racehorse you mentioned above was named after but he has just become the new Manager for Leicester City last Friday and, low and behold, they won last night after being in a massive slump. There’s some trivia for everyone.
Thanks again, for all your hard work. I know I will never appreciate US racing in the same way should you ever give up your gift. All the best for the year to come, mon amie.
Thank you so much, David. Your kind words are always greatly appreciated. And thank for the info on Van Nistelrooy. You never know who Coolmore is going to name a horse after. As of now I am considering a column next week you and everyone else will find extremely strange, especially if youre not a fan of NFL football.I will take the plunge if I am desperate enough. Difficult this time of year t\o come with ideas
Sounds intriguing, Steve. My early childhood was living in Europe and Australia so European football(soccer) and Australian Rules so they are they are the ball games that remain constant. NFL never really had a chance but I can follow the game.
Coolmore have always been quite clever in naming their horses: the arts, philosophers, sports stars, geographical structures, statesmen et al add an extra dimension to the horse, metaphysically. Fairy Godmother is just a wonderful name for a filly.
Steve, every year you write an article or two about a 3 year old after said horse wins a major prep race, or the KD. Usually, the back story is full of information that the average handicapper is not privy to in the racing form, any TB publication, or past performances.
You’ve identified 5 horses in your previous article. I am certain one or two have a really interesting back story that you can share with us.
There was a guy who came to Los Al with a short-legged Quarter Horse named Patty’s Saint, a filly from the sticks, who was fast! His only horse, he traveled all over and won races, and he won a gr1 at Los Al, before selling her, and now–Patty’s Saint has won and won, and runs in the upcoming Champion of Champions, the BC Classic of Quarters, run at the Classic distance of 440 yards—where she’ll be a longshot!
I met Bill Hoburg in the Los Al parking lot, where I’d watch training (at the fence) with my dog Molly–Bill liked Molly, and we hit it off… he had a one horse barn, named BH Lisa’s Boy, a a Chestnut Gelding who would break slow but always come with a big kick—Bill retired his boy, he called him “My Retirement “, having win $960K…put him in his van, which had been Bill’s home, at Los Al—and they headed up to Washington, home—
So, a horse vets wanted to sentence to death for a nasty fungal infection only needed some penicillin! It shows how animals not lucky enough to break out as superstars can be seen as disposable. At least the owner said no. Missing the Breeders’ Cup cut is a small misfortune compared to barely cheating death by an industry vets.
I am always amazed how cynical, negative comments, whether justified or not, are always from people I have never seen comment on here. I would address any comment if I felt the slings and arrows came from a someone who doesnt pick and choose their rare moments to comment until they can find something negative to say. And to further demonstrate how negative people create their own narrative, there is no mention of any vet or even the word vet in the story.
Sarah Cole Rowe, guttural pouch mycosis IS a death sentence for most horses who have it. It is fairly uncommon, difficult to diagnose, and when it requires antifungals (not penicillin) to treat, those medications are not without risk in and of themselves. These medications are cytotoxic to mammalian cells, in addition to fungal cells, because fungi and animals are more closely related than bacteria and animals. For that matter, penicillin is not without risk in any animal that needs it: from the risk of hapten reaction, to causing major changes in the gut microflora with an antibiotic, drugs themselves can trigger anaphylaxis, fatal colitis, and/or laminitis in a horse. Additionally, because the initial sign of this disease is often uncontrollable and fatal epistaxis (nose bleed) when the carotid artery ruptures, a horse known to have the disease can be a dangerous animal to treat or handle. When a horse is bleeding out, it can experience a fight-or-flight response during which the horse – even the most well behaved and calm individual – will start to run blindly, and crash over or into anyone or anything that is in its path. To me, that would indicate the height of suffering and fear. Euthansia in this case – and cases like it – could have been a humane option, not just one of convenience.
This also highlights exactly a
Few symptoms of just what’s wrong with the horse racing industry. Pick any starting point. Because we want to believe in underdogs or just believe in an industry from a time whose relevance has l long ceased, doesn’t keep it healthy. I grew up on tales of Whirlaway , man O War , Lexington etc. I also became disillusioned with the realities. No amount of romantic wishes can change the truth. We can turn our heads from it. But it doesn’t change the truth. It’s an industry of many abuses. Despite being the owner of many a bright and amazing performance.
I loved this story, Steve. It says so much about how the patience of an owner and care of a trainer can transform a horse so many others would discard or let drop down to the claiming ranks into a graded stakes performer — and a happy, healthy horse! They never gave up on him, found a solution to his medical issues, and gave him time to recover from his setbacks. And he’s still a healthy, happy horse. God bless him and his connections — and you as well, for finding and telling this story that says so much about the good that’s in horse racing.
Hi Steve
Another great article, highlighting the grit and determination of Charcoal, and his connections. They are a credit to the sport of horse racing.
BTW, you may have noticed that I have posted several comments on the current top sire, Into Mischief, and the successful string of 2yr. old colts that look promising on the 2025 Derby trail. Namely, Barnes, Citizen Bull, Patch Adams, Donut God, Sovereignty, Praetor and Morning Glory.
Another Into Mischief colt to keep an eye on is Mischievous Intent, who sold for $1.4 million at auction. He’s entered in a $110K maiden race at Oaklawn Part on Saturday, 12-7, (R10).
He’s in the capable hands of Steve Asmussen, and will be ridden by his son, Erik.
I’d be interested to know your thoughts on Into Mischief, and the success of his current crop of 2yr. old colts.
Thanks, Steve.
Thank you Bill. Into Mischief has to be the b iggestt surprise of thhe last decade. He is amazing and my buddy Ned Toffey AT Spendthrift has hitt the proverbial mother lode, especially with this crop.. Mischievous Intent will have to improve off his debut and he wasnt bet in that race so we’ll see. Second race is always the important one.
You’re welcome, Steve.
Mischievous Intent is listed as the 2nd favorite on the morning line at 7/2, so it appears he’s getting more respect than he did in his debut race.
Dreaminblue is listed as the morning line favorite at 3-1, but didn’t draw well at P/P 12, so this should bode well for MI in P/P 5.
BTW, MI fired a bullet 5 furlongs, in 1:01.20 on Nov. 27th., so it appears Asmussen as him well cranked for his 2nd start.
You may have noticed that Into Mischief closed at 12-1, in KD Futures Sire Pool 2, at 12-1, which was the lowest odds of all the sires listed. All Other Sires closed at 12-1 as well. Based on the huge impact that Into Mischief’s current crop of 2yr. olds are having, it came as no surprise that he closed as the favorite sire.
On a side note, it was good to see your post, (and Leonard’s) clearing the air, so to speak, regarding disrespectful comments that have been appearing on this site of late. Hopefully, your words will be heeded.
So interesting that he has outperformed half-brother, Mendelssohn. I’d have bet on the Scat Daddy son (as a stallion) if you had asked me 4-5 years back. In this case, a pedigree free of Mr Prospector may be part of the “Trick” (as in, Tricky Creek). It’s a nice freedom to have.
What a family! Leslie’s Lady lives on and on.
In addition to Mendelssohn and Into Mischief, Leslie’s lady dropped Beholder, who earned over $6 million in her outstanding career.
Back to Mischievous Intent for a moment, it should be noted that his dam, Guarana, won the G1 Coaching Club American Oaks, and the G1 Acorn Stakes.
Her sire, Ghostzapper needs no introduction, so you would think Mischievous Intent is inundated with class and stamina, top and bottom.
I’m looking forward in seeing how Mischievous Intent performs on Saturday, at Oaklawn Park, (R10).
Bill, I’m with you on this up-and-comer! Hopefully, the lightbulb will be on for him after first out.
Katy, it’s good to see we are on the same page with Mischievous Intent moving forward. I believe he has a bright future, and with that last bullet work on Nov. 27th, (1:01.20, 1/12) it appears Asmussen has him ready for his 2nd start.
However, with respect to the favorite, Dreaminblue, (7/2), his latest work was also a built, going 4 furlongs in 46.80 on Nov. 24th.
He’ll be breaking far the far outside in P/P 12, so if he doesn’t break well, that could work against him. We’ll see.
Correct, Dreaminblue is 3/1 of the morning line.
Steve,
Thanks for sharing another fascinating story. Not all horses are made to be ” Champions ” but one’s that show great heart are champion’s in their own way.
Well said, Thank you.
Steve, I always look forward to your Tuesday column. I sit down with my coffee and anticipate a great story, and you outdid yourself today. The other commenters have said it all for me, so I really don’t have much to add except this was an uplifting story that makes me root even more for the little guy. My parents had a small “mom & pop” grocery store. They hung on as long as they could but were finally pushed out by the big guys, so these kinds of stories always resonate with me. Take nothing away from the Pletchers, the Asmussens, the Cos’s, etc., but you’ve shown us the true heart of the sport.
Cox, sorry – not Cos.
That was beautifully said, Beth. Thank you very much for your personal perspective.
Hi Steve – Great article about Charcoal. In these big races you have to be in it to win it. To be able to hang with a horse like Cogburn tells you that Charcoal was talented. I’m looking forward to your JAN Derby Dozen Steve. I was thrilled to get Journalism at 52-1 in KDFW2. I bet him to win and boxed him with the field. I know you are also high on Journalism and will be interested where he will land in your rankings. He’s already back on the worktab at SA. It will be interesting whether Journalism will run in an Alliow. next , or maybe train up to the Robert Lewis in FEB.
Thanks very much, Joe. Good luck with Journalism. We’ll know more when he faces winners. e still has improving to do but he’s off tto a good start,
Steve, it’s Tuesday morning and you leave me never disappointed by another of your tales. By Monday I feel like a child sitting around a campfire anticipating the troubadours performance. At my age “that’s wonderful”. Thanks Just thanks!
LOL. Thank you Derek. That is very descriptive. As long as its my words that sing. You dont want it to go any further than that.
You once told me you preferred using that southern sweet drawl of Shelby Foote’s
Oh I could listen to him all day. His voice was indeed music.
Good morning everyone.
Another frost on the pumpkin night here in Northeast Georgia.
Thank you Steve for the uplifting story about Charcoal.
I too thought it was going to be a story about a Thoroughbred artist (Discopartner’s comment below). You are the master of titles for your stories!
Charcoal is another horse who “horse gallops with his lungs, perseveres with his heart, and wins with his character”.
Never know, the racing gods might smile down on him one more time to “shine”. If not there are green pastures and a caring owner who will love him the rest of days.
Well said Lynda. Neve trust my heads. They need to be creative and lure the reader in.
Downthestretch, I saw your post about Rank in the other thread
Ideally, yes he would run in a MSW, but there are none longer than 1 mile in CA – & Rank needs much longer; at least the Los Al Futurity is 1 1/16. If they want to keep him in MSW, they’ll need to ship him
I don’t know if Gaming will run – obviously he’d be very tough. But, I think Rank is very talented
Betsy, I hope nothing but the best for him. I love your passion for him and his sire.
Down, thank you!
One reason I’m routing so hard for HAP is because Indy’s best sons are old or have passed on. HAP succeeding would help carry on his legacy !
Great story of small time owner who believed in and cares for his horse. Considering Charcoal’s career and near death says he is a champion in his own right. Appreciate your columns very much.
Secretariat.com struck gold when they got a Hall of Fame writer like you.
Also, thanks for addressing the matter of respect. We really do need to appreciate this site for allowing our freedom of posting our thoughts without personal attacks or name calling. Keep up the great work.
That is very kind of you annd much appreciated. Thank you.
Steve, these are my favorite types of stories. I was vaguely aware of a sprinter named Chatcoal, but i knew nothing of his background. As I read, I was hoping that nothing truly bad happened to the horse. As I developed my love for racing at Atlantic City, I felt I knew many of my favorite horses and the people who surrounded them. I tried a few times to become part of it myself, but never stuck. As I now enjoy racing almost exclusively from home, I definitely feel my distance from racing as a loss. I rationalize that by saying racing isn’t the same anyway, and it’s not, but this story reminds me there is still a beating heart there.
Thanks Todd. thats why I wrote in the opening graph there is no sad ending .
Thank you Steve for the uplifting story about Charcoal, who has done all you can ask of a racehorse. I thought you were going to profile a sketch artist who loved to draw race horses when I saw your headline. Churchill Downs turf hasn’t been very good, maybe Charcoal will come back next year but if not I hope he gets good pasture with the owner or trainer.
Glad you enjoyed it. The owner definitely will take good care of him. The headlines are to lure you in, and keep you guessing. Lol
Recently, we have noticed an uptick in inappropriate comments from a few viewers. We would like to take this opportunity to remind our followers of the Secretariat.com comment policy:
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Secretariat.com is proud to provide a platform for racing fans to share their thoughts and opinions, and to have built a blogging community that welcomes a variety of discourse, perspectives and opinions. However, when those opinions differ, as inevitably they do, we expect their associated exchanges and disagreements to remain respectful. Let this announcement serve as notification: those who post comments that may be construed as targeted, personal attacks, or simply mean-spirited in any manner will no longer be welcome here.
Leonard was more than fair in his comments. When we got home after Thanksgiving my wife pointed out some discourteous comments and obviously Leonard noticed them as well. While I have seen comments on other blogs that were far worse, it is still something that needs to be nipped in the bud. Those other blogs are long gone. . Other than the often free-for-all comments on one other website this is really the only remaiining blog that takes comments and I am proud that we have established a friendly community where everyone is respectful of others’ opinions. I firmly believe the people who comment here regularly are the most knowledegable and considerate and are some of the best researchers and observers of the sport I have ever seen. So in the future, to the few of you this applies to, feel free to disagree with others all you want, but keep it courteous and don’t let your dislike or distrust of certain trainers take you places you may regret going. We have no desire to ban anyone. We have many things to be thankful for and the comments section here is one of them.
It definitely is. Well said, Steve. And thank you for the tale of Charcoal, whom I hadn’t known about before. So many twists and turns in his journey! It’s a great idea to sometimes profile some of the lesser-known horses and horsepeople. You’ve reminded us that one doesn’t have to be in the limelight to be living a remarkable story.
Steve, did you or Leonard put “DownthestretchPP” or the other version of his moniker in charge of this blog while you are away?
It seems that if anyone disagrees with a post about a BB horse, he calls them names and tells them to take a hike. The same scenario unfolded last year with the same pro BB few that act like they control this site.
Basically, every time BB gets a maiden winner….according to the few drooling fans, said horse is the next KD winner. If anyone disagrees, apparently they are BB haters. This behavior is inappropriate and uncalled for.
Leonard is on top of things.
Thank you. That needed to be said.
Agreed!