Derby Recap: The Stuff of Dreams
Even a Bob Baffert victory in the Kentucky Derby, as common as it has become, occasionally has a back story to warm the soul. This is one of those stories. ~ Steve Haskin
Derby Recap: The Stuff of Dreams
By Steve Haskin
It was a scene that has become all too familiar. Yes, Bob Baffert won yet another Kentucky Derby. Yes, he won it with a horse on an unchallenged lead. No, none of the closers were ever in the race. We’ve seen this movie before, but if you happened to walk in at the end of this particular movie you missed the best part.
It would be like seeing Cinderella live happily ever after with Prince Charming without knowing how she got there. In the world of Thoroughbred racing, Cinderella usually never meets Prince Charming or attends the king’s ball. But there are those very rare occasions that the fairy tale does come true, and that is where the story of the 2021 Kentucky Derby begins.
For Christy Whitman and all those whose lives revolve around mostly cheaper horses, they are too busy trying to eke out a living to ever dream about blankets of roses draped around their horses or mingling in the same circles as Bob Baffert and racing’s nobility. If they ever do dare to dream of such things they are quickly jolted back to reality.
When Whitman attended the 2019 Ocala January mixed sale, she came with her usual small budget hoping to find a couple of cheap newly turned yearlings that she could one day pinhook and hopefully make a small profit. She can’t afford to look for horses at the larger sales later in the year, so she attends the bargain basement sale at the beginning of the year when young horses are still babies and it requires a keen eye to project what they will be like when it is time to breeze them in front of prospective buyers at the horses of racing age sales.
On this particular occasion, Whitman’s exercise rider Jose Gallego, who breezes her horses, asked her if she could pick up something inexpensive for him to pinhook. Whitman is a back ring buyer. Before the horses enter the sales pavilion they walk around the back ring. That is where Whitman watches them and tries to spot one that catches her eye, mainly how they walk and how correct they are. You rarely see a horse at these sales that is perfect so you have to learn when to forgive imperfections, which many horses will grow out of.
Being a back ring buyer Whitman doesn’t have enough time to send a vet to look at the X-rays or scope a horse. In addition it gets to be expensive to have multiple horses vetted. So she quickly checks the vet’s findings on the radiographs that the consignors bring to the sales ring with the horse. Having an unfinished degree in equine physiology at the College of Central Florida’s equine program, she took several classes and did a great deal of studying on how to read the vet reports and understand the terminology. This enables her to make snap decisions on whether a horse’s issues are something she can deal with and if she should take a chance or not. Decisions have to be made quickly before heading into the sales pavilion.
One horse that caught Whitman’s eye in the back ring was a smallish colt, almost black in color, who had a great walk, a good top line, and seemed very athletic. He did have a very mild case of sesamoiditis (pressure or stress on the sesamoid bone), but nothing she would consider an issue. She looked at his page in the catalog and saw that he was a son of Protonico, who she never heard of.
“I could picture him standing in someone’s backyard,” she said. Although she wasn’t familiar with Protonico or the broodmare sire Brilliant Speed, she liked what saw from a physical standpoint. The breeder of the colt, Gail Rice, was going through a divorce at the time and had to sell one of her two colts. She chose the Protonico colt and was so desperate she didn’t even put a reserve on him. She would take whatever she could get for him.
As it turned out nobody ever even looked at the colt and when the bidding opened at the bare minimum of $1,000, Whitman’s was the only bid. No one had even the slightest interest in this obscurely bred colt. “I guess nobody liked his catalog page,” Whitman said.
After the sale, Rice went over to Whitman and thanked her for buying the colt and asked her what she was going to do with him. Whitman told her she was going to send him to her farm and probably pinhook him the following year. The goal now was to make a decent profit for Gallego, which wouldn’t be difficult considering the rock-bottom price she paid for him.
At the farm, Whitman liked everything about the colt. “He was well-mannered, easy to ride, and very professional,” she said. Jose helped break him and began riding him and thought he was a good mover with a great temperament and liked what he felt under him. Although he was laid back he began to show something on the track. Maybe they actually had a runner on their hands. Whitman and Gallego were excited to get him into a 2-year-old sale.
“I really never get to sell anything halfway decent,” Whitman said. “With his pedigree and what we paid for him we couldn’t get in any of the big sales so we got stuck in the July sale.”
Whitman consigned the colt under the name Whitman Sales, agent, and did not charge Gallego any fee. At the breeze show, which is all about speed and how well a horse gets around the track, they put blinkers on the colt for his three-furlong breeze. Gallego mounted Hip No. 938 and at 10:30 a.m. with the temperatures already nearing 90 degrees, he broke off on a 33-second ride that would one day change his and Whitman’s life. The colt was smooth and responsive around the turn, cut the corner beautifully, and changed leads on cue after straightening into the stretch. Gallego drew his whip in his left hand just to show it to him and the colt began striding out, flicking his ears around. When Gallego pushed him nearing the wire the colt pinned his ears as if knowing it was time to let it all out. He cut the corner sharply on the gallop-out and then was pulled up after what looked to be an excellent work.
All Whitman and Gallego could hope for now was that someone watching was impressed enough to bid on the colt. That someone was professional clocker and bloodstock agent Gary Young, who purchased him for $35,000 for Zedan Racing Stables, a moderate price in the grand scheme of things, but still a hefty profit on the original $1,000.
Whitman was thrilled when she found out the colt was being sent to Bob Baffert. The colt, now named Medina Spirit, showed that same speed he displayed at the sale when he won his debut by three lengths in a swift 1:02 4/5 for the five and a half furlongs. Baffert felt he didn’t need the blinkers. If he was to become a Derby horse he had to harness some of that speed so he removed them for his next start, the one-mile Sham Stakes.
But at Baffert’s barn there usually is always someone faster, and he had a rocket named Life is Good who looked to be his main Kentucky Derby hopeful, and it was a bit of a surprise to see Medina Spirit gaining ground quickly on Life is the Good in the late stages of the Sham Stakes, although the winner was being eased down the stretch. There was another colt in the barn named Concert Tour who also was very fast and appeared to have a bright future after winning the Rebel Stakes at Oaklawn Park, so Medina Spirit was relegated to third best of Baffert’s Derby horses despite scoring a gutsy victory in the Robert B. Lewis Stakes, in which he refused to let the promising Roman Centurian and Breeders’ Cup Juvenile runner-up Hot Rod Charlie get by him, winning by a neck in three-horse blanket finish.
Medina Spirit continued to run hard every race but still couldn’t beat Life is Good, who finished seven lengths ahead of him the San Felipe Stakes. But Medina Spirit came out the race with a small ulcer in his throat and began showing signs of entrapping his epiglottis, so they performed a procedure to correct the problem and he didn’t get back on the work tab for another 16 days. He then was beaten 4 ¼ lengths by rising star Rock Your World in the Santa Anita Derby, but like in the San Felipe he battled back to finish second. In five starts, he had never finished worse than second.
Baffert had other promising colts in the barn, including grade 1 winner Spielberg and several well-bred youngsters who were fast but late getting started. However, when it was time for the Kentucky Derby, Baffert was down to one colt – Whitman’s $1,000 purchase. Life is Good had injured himself and Concert Tour suffered a surprising defeat in the Arkansas Derby and it was decided to skip the big race and possibly wait for the Preakness.
“I couldn’t believe it when he wound up with Baffert and was so thrilled he turned into such a good horse,” Whitman said.
On Derby morning, the excitement began to build and the scope of it all finally sunk in. “For this little colt to be the only one left to make the Derby is unbelievable,” she said.
All Whitman knew was that if he could get the lead he would be very hard to pass. “This horse has so much heart and guts and has so much fight in him I know they won’t have an easy time getting by him. In the Robert Lewis, the way he fought them off, I’ve never seen a horse fight like that.”
Whitman normally would watch the Derby at home with her two daughters, Ashley and Erica, ages 11 and 12, but with the new World Equestrian Center in Ocala having a Derby party she decided to watch it there. It had been a tough year for her and her daughters. Like Gail Rice, she had recently gone through a divorce and felt it would be good for all of them to get out and be with people and enjoy watching their horse on the big screens. That week her youngest daughter took her shopping to buy her a dress with the money she had earned from selling her show lamb at the local county fair. So they wound up getting matching dresses to wear at the party.
“They both have grown up at the barn and at the sales,” Whitman said. “I was on the pony horse and pregnant at the OBS June sale each year they were born, so they have been involved with the consignment through the years. They know this is huge for me and an important accomplishment, but I’m not sure they really grasp just how special and how once in a lifetime this moment is.”
It was as if Whitman had scripted the entire race out, as Medina Spirit went to the lead and dictated the pace. Just like in the Robert Lewis, they came at him in the stretch – Risen Star winner Mandaloun, Louisiana Derby winner Hot Rod Charlie, and the undefeated 2-year-old champion and favorite Essential Quality. Once again, the little black colt with the big heart wouldn’t let any of them get by him.
Sometimes you never know what is hidden behind a $1,000 sales slip. That pedigree no one was interested in more than two years earlier had once again come out in him. It was a pedigree inundated with horses who showed great courage and a willingness to fight. His sire that no one heard of won the 2015 Alysheba Stakes at Churchill Downs after a stretch-long battle in which he appeared to be beaten. But he lunged forward at the wire to stick his nose in front. Protonico is a son of Giant’s Causeway, arguably the gamest European horse in the past quarter of a century, winning five consecutive Group 1 stakes by under a length, including three by a head. In each race he refused to let the best horses in Europe get by him. And don’t forget his gutsy performance against the equally courageous Tiznow in the Breeders’ Cup Classic when his rider dropped the reins right before the wire, losing by a neck. Medina Spirit’s broodmare sire Brilliant Speed won the Blue Grass Stakes by the closest of noses; Brilliant Speed’s sire Dynaformer won two stakes by a nose and a half-length; and Dynaformer’s sire Roberto won the English Derby in the closest finish in the history of the race, outbattling eventual Arc de Triomphe winner Rheingold in a finish so close his rider Lester Piggott dismounted before it was official because he thought he has lost. Finally, in Medina Spirit’s tail-female family, his third dam is by Holy Bull, out of a Forty Niner mare. Holy Bull scored one of the gutsiest victories in the history of the Travers Stakes and Forty Niner was involved in nine photos, winning the Haskell and Travers by a nose, outgaming Seeking the Gold each time. That is the family you want in a street fight, and Medina Spirit has yet to let any horse pass him in the stretch.
And of course it doesn’t hurt having three doses of the legendary Secretariat in your pedigree through his three omnipotent daughters Weekend Surprise, Terlingua, and Secrettame. Has there ever been a wider chasm than the one between Secretariat and a $1,000 yearling purchase?
“It was surreal,” Whitman said. “At the top of the stretch I kept thinking here they come, here they come. I was waiting for him to get tired as they got closer down the lane. Then I started thinking that maybe, just maybe, he again would be able to hold them off like he had done in the past. Then it hit me. There was no way they were going to catch him. As they came to the wire we were all screaming and jumping up and down. I was in shock and started crying. And then I couldn’t stop shaking. It was all so overwhelming and emotional because I couldn’t believe what had just happened. I have never been able to get a break and the fairy tales always seemed to come true for other people, but not for us.”
Later that evening Whitman said, “I still can’t stop shaking. It hasn’t totally sunk in yet that I actually bought and sold a Kentucky Derby winner. I’m still trying to comprehend how this little colt won the Kentucky Derby, because I know what an accomplishment this is and all the odds this colt beat to even get there. He’s just an amazing, courageous horse. It was so special having my two daughters with me. They are my pride and joy. For Jose and me this is a dream come true. He called me after the race and thanked me again for picking out and buying the horse and consigning him to the 2-year-old sale. It was an incredible moment for everyone involved.
“This year has been hard on us and this definitely was a much-needed positive in our lives and I hope will be the turning point I needed in my business and my life. After the Derby we went out to eat and celebrate with some close friends and it was such a happy night that we needed so badly. It’s been particularly tough on my daughters with their father leaving and the circumstances surrounding it.”
But in the horse business, rejoicing is short-lived and one must quickly return to reality. The next morning it was business as usual for Whitman. She was up early and went out to the training center to check on her horses that that would be heading out to the Fasig-Tipton 2-year-old sale at Timonium the following day.
She also keeps several yearlings and a few mares at her house. One of the mares recently foaled and another is due soon so she has to keep a close eye on them.
“There are no holidays, sick days, or vacations with horses,” she said. “They always come first.”
So now the story of Bob Baffert’s seventh Kentucky Derby victory is complete. Cinderella had “met” Prince Charming and felt the exhilaration of attending the king’s ball. Although her real life has been hard this past year, because of a little $1,000 horse that no one but her wanted, she and her daughters can live happily ever after.
Photos courtesy of Louisville Courier Journal, Gail Rice, Benoit Photos, WDRB
Steve,
It is an honor to communicate with you as I’m a minor horse player (primarily Derby & Breeder’s Cup), but an ardent fan of horse racing since about the late 70’s. A few years ago I ran across the Steve Byk radio show and became a constant listener, primarily because of weekly guests like you and a couple of others that I liked and respected their opinions. Of all the guests you were always my favorite for your insight, knowledge and history of the game. I also loved your racing and personal stories, whether on radio or printed articles like this one. I’ve missed you on radio the last few weeks, so I assume, like Johnny D and Jon White, there is some issue with the radio show and you will no longer be part of the show – if so, that is a shame and loss. At least, I can still enjoy your articles on this Secretariat site. So thank you again for all you do to make horse racing such a great sport and such an enjoyable part of my life. I hope I will be lucky enough someday to meet you personally at one of your guided tours at the breeding & retirement farms in Kentucky!
A backside story that rivals the one you wrote about Maximum Security. Truly enjoyable read, Steve. Only you could have penned this one.
This may not get to many people as the blog has essentially stopped but for those of you who are interested in the facts on the drug controversy the interview with Mary Scollay in the Thoroughbreddailynews.com explains just about everything that you want to know from the ‘Picogram’ issue to the likelihood of ‘cross contamination’ without implicating anybody. for the ‘true’ horse fan it’s a must read
Hey Steve it looks like Brad Cox will get an unexpected headstart to his quest for multiple Derby victories. Inexcusable slip up by the Baffert team. Someone at the level needed to do better.
Bob said its cancel culture that is the problem with his horse and testing and the reaction. cancel culture…wtf? Bob time to hang it up you have tarnished so much in this amazing sport. nice little story about this colt however.
So, are you angry about the failed drug test where it most likely had no effect on the outcome or are you mad that BB may not be a Democrat after all…LOL
Hello Steve – you are a great story teller, beautiful writer and knowledgeable horse person. I am so sad with the news of Medina Spirit drug test. Please let it be known this was not a “performance enhancing drug” which would have changed the result of this courageous horse’s effort. The miniscule amount found would not have an effect on the results of the race. Regardless what my opinion of Bob Baffert is – I simply can’t imagine he would be that foolish to jeopardize his reputation and the results of this race. I hope I’m correct. I share my life w/a horse that I adore and cannot conceive of anyone that works with horses not to love and appreciate these magnificent animals. I have always had a sense that Bob Baffert cares for the well being of his horses and I pray my instincts are true.
OMG………there is someone with common sense on a horse racing blog?………….you’re like a Unicorn!……..is……is….is THIS HEAVEN?….
This ^
Too funny!
Heartbroken for Medina Spirit’s breeder, Protonico and all racing. I went from feel – good and optimistic to furious and sick feeling. Too much, Mr. Baffert. Like Sally, I’ll take it back if he’s proven innocent, but right now I’m heartsick.
Well, Gamine was DQ in the Oaks, Charlatan and Gamine were DQ on same day last year in Ark, Authentic couldn’t run 1 1/8 without stopping a the wire or having Honor AP run right past him, but come Derby day he was prime to go 10 furlongs. If it smells and quacks like a duck, usually is.
WELL……..you smell like S***……………….i like your science…..
And you’re exactly what is wrong with this sport and society in general. Thanks for the complement though.
I’m furious at Bob Baffert. What was he thinking? Is he some kind of sociopath? I’ll take it all back if he’s cleared but I mean COME ON!
Rather than take it back if he’s cleared, why not wait until he is or isn’t before posting?
21 picos……………no way…….you found the smoking grain of gunpowder……..well done Matlock!
Baffert has tarnished the horse racing industry and the media has accepted his tactics as acceptable. His “I did nothing wrong” comments are repeated again and again and he should be banned from every track in North America. Medina Spirit is a good horse who got better the wrong way on the first Saturday of May. Sad……
GOD……..am i going to HEAVEN? ….or……..the bad place?………you’re the judge……..
The meaning of this is what exactly…
Who are they to judge?
Steve, guess we now know why the Derby result that made no sense happened the way it did.
Uh oh!
A week out and it seems anti-climactic, and I wonder if last week’s incredible Derby Day card….all those fantastic finishes, one after another….Preakness follows one heckuva Derby Day—-it has the Derby Winner, and probably more early speed so……I hope to be doing the Rombauer all the was to the cashier’s window, little $25 winner!
Steve I’ve been looking for the Preakness contest but can’t find it
Answered you on Facebook. I mentioned that details will be announced next week.
Steve, a bit off topic, but thank you for the nice shout out on Facebook for Jackie’s Warrior and how impressive his cictory was. It seems “them milers don’t get no respect.” I couldn’t figure a way to comment to you on Fb.
Just send me a friend request. You can always contact me on Facebook through Messenger. Just send me private message
Will do, Steve. Thanks for reply.
Are you Michelle?
No, I’m Nicole, from El Paso, hence the pride & affection for Jackie’s Warrior. The owners, the Robisons, own a popular pizza chain here and are wonderful philanthropists here in EP. They run a nice string of horses (usually winners) at Sunland Park, using local trainers, and I’ve seen them there on numerous occasions. I was impressed to learn they hired Asmussen to train Jackie. I ‘follow’ you on fb, but I don’t believe we’re ‘friends’ on fb. I also follow Time’s Fool & love it. I’m a retired English teach & love all things Shakespeare. (loved your readings)
Protonico’s price is rising. Medina Spirit’s pedigree is pretty salty with Dynaformer, Roberto x2 and Forty Niner on the female tail side. His determination not to be passed is one thing, but these influences speak loudly in his ability to do so. Derby winners have great success in the Preakness historically and he may very well win. But the Belmont may be his best race.
Long range forecast for Baltimore is 76% chance rain on Friday with low 53 and high 78. Saturday 61% chance of rain, low 52 and high 73. Hope Medina Spirit like the possible slop!
Don’t forget the 90% chance that the 10-day forecast is WRONG! 😉
76% and 61%. Couldnt they be more precise than that?
HA HA!
This is my wrap Steve:
1) The best horse won. He didn’t set easy fractions. It was the fastest half (46.70) around 2 turns for the 2 day period and the final 1/2 in 25 is why they couldn’t pass him. In the Alysheba, Maxfield was a comfortable 3 lengths off a 47.48 pace. (By the way Maxfield has finally arrived)
2) The interviews before and after the Derby complete the picture of what we cant see reading the PPs. After winning with Gamine, Johnny V essentially confirmed that he was going to try for the lead. How could that be a bad thing after Jackie’s Warrior and Dream Shake dueled one two in a 21.75, 43.68 and nobody closed? Future Hall of Famer Chad Brown was concerned about HM’s ability to get the 10 furlongs in another interview
3)It’s always amazing to me how many handicappers complain about how wide trips and ground loss. Brad Cox had more to say about EQ trying to bear out in the stretch than anything else. They don’t run horse racing in staggered lanes like the Olympics. Furthermore even though the track was playing relatively fairly note how Johnny V didn’t hesitate to do what he had to do with Malathaat in the Oaks.
4)Going forward, I will not hesitate to bet a horse in the one hole who has positional speed. The new gate has helped tremendously
5) If you have to take anything with you going forward is Brad Cox’s answer to can you imagine winning 7? He answered without thinking an emphatic “YES” I will definitely be back
6) Like has happened very often in the past Pletcher will be a factor in the Belmont.
I cant argue with any of that. All good points
Good points, Ian. In particular, I agree about the wide-trip complaints. Wide trips may explain to some degree a loss, or they may even indicate why a horse’s win may look better than it seemed. But a wide trip in one race says very little about the next race.
Am I reading correctly? Cox was asked if he could imagine winning 7 Derbies? And he answered, “Yes, I will definitely be back”? Umm…
He certainly did Eddie. In the midst of his disappointment of not winning he did not hesitate on his reply. With Godolphin sending him horses not to mention all his other clients that he has won all those Grade 1’s for you can bet he will be back. Not to mention he is a relatively young 41
In a mile and quarter race……it is straight for over 3 furlongs…..so 1st 2 calls are fastter than not on the turn……..pace was NOT super fast for the fast track…..2 speeds didnt go…….it was a dream for a derby……
Another story from the heart of which you have no peer, Steve. Racing hits a home run when the low priced yearling manages to out dual the blue bloods. Gary Young certainly has a ‘golden eye’ purchasing Medina Spirit, it must be one of the best buys ever. Luck or no luck. Without that connection who knows where Medina Spirit may have ended up.
In England, the master trainer Jim Bolger not only trained the 2,000 Guineas winner, Poetic Flare, but also bred the colt. While the owner is none other than Jackie Bolger, Jim’s wife. The family connection doesn’t stop there either, winning jockey Kevin Manning is married to the Bolger’s daughter, Una.
If you think the above ‘connections’ seems unbelievably amazing well, Poetic Flare’s sire, Dawn Approach, with the same connections achieved the same feat in the 2013 2,000 Guineas. Genius upon genius.
Thanks very much. David. I didnt know that about Poetic Flare. That is pretty remarkable
Adding additional details on Steve’s moving account of Medina Spirits’ beginning…. the breeder, Gail Rice is the mother of former jockey Taylor Rice, the wife of jockey Jose Ortiz. Gail was expecting at least $10,000 from the sale of Medina Spirit but was reluctant to bid him up after the initial 1,000 bid from Christy Wittman. She did not set a reserve for him and was willing to unload him to save expenses for his upkeep.
While it was a bitter sweet moment for Gail to witness his Derby win, she does not benefit monetarily from it. However, if I’m not mistaken, doesn’t the breeder of a Breeders Cup winner receive a monetary award as the breeder of a BC winner? Hope this turns out to be true for her sake.
The breeder should definitely get a piece of the purse. As great as it is to have the satisfaction and pride of breeding a Derby winner, for the small-time breeder just trying to make a living, glory only takes you so far. They should be rewarded for their feat. I would at least love to see a wealthy winning owner give a portion of the winnings to the breeder, without whom they would not have won the Derby.
Totally agree Steve! That would be awesome.
I was thinking the same thing, Steve. The owner, Amr bin Fareed bin Mohammed bin Zedan, is a Saudi Arabian businessman and philanthropist who I’m sure can spare a few dollars as a gesture of appreciation to Gail Rice for breeding Medina Spirit, especially since he got him at a bargain price of $35,000. I hope someone shares Gail’s story with him.
I always thought breeders got 2% of the classics winners purses, don’t know why I thought that…
I would think they get something.
Don’t know for sure about the BC. But if breeders don’t receive something from those races, they need to change the name.
BAFFERT AND BRADY ONE AND THE SAME?
Bob Baffert emerges on the scene in 1997 and wins the Kentucky Derby three times in the next six years.
Tom Brady emerges on the scene in 2001 and win the Super Bowl three times in the next four years
Bob Baffert doesnt win another Kentucky Derby until 2015, but is second best in 2009
Tom Brady doesnt win another Super Bowl until 2015, but is second best in 2008 and 2011
Bob Baffert goes on to win the Kentucky Derby three more times (in four years) in 2018, 2020, and 2021
Tom Brady goes on to win the Super Bowl three more times (in five years) in 2017, 2018, and 2021
Bob Baffert wins his seventh Kentucky Derby in 2021 for a new owner
Tom Brady wins his seventh Super Bowl in 2021 for a new owner
GOATs
But Baffert is much better looking than Tom.
You think so? I’ll have to survey 100 females.
He’s pushing 70. lol
I’m only one female, but I don’t think we have to choose. They can both hold their own with looks as well as wins.
Wow, that’s crazy! Have you shared this with Mr. Baffert? He might become a bigger fan of Brady next season! 🙂 And vise versa!
I did. I sent it to him and Jill.
If you’re not doing what they’re doing, you’re not winning.
FYI, many great trainers in racing. I’m certain Shug, Mandella,etc takes backset to no one.
Rather, backseat.
Was referring to documented cheating. We all lose lifting these two guys up. Every game Tom plays in he gets the calls. Every race bob enters, the other trainers and owners get the shaft. I had mandaloun after the scratch of king fury. I’m upset. Tell me brad cox doesn’t want kick that guys tail. All you have to do is watch the horse Medina spirit going up and down the final eighth of the Santa Anita derby and then think to yourself, man he is going to get the mile and a quarter of the derby with no problems. You can’t.
Has anyone heard any news on PREVALENCE? His poor showing in the Pat Day Mile was disturbing. He was beaten by over 20 lengths and all the racing chart said was “done early”. There has to be something wrong with him? For a horse that burst on the scene with a lot of promise, he seems to have gone sour overnight.
Why do people think RYW would run in the belmont?………i wouldnt………Let him mentally ,and physically get over that horrible experience……he didnt show anything……an excuse only goes so far…..why didnt he make big move and quit?….Sadler is smarter than bringing him back right away……give him time….
Let’s have a wait see….horse did zero running, we dont yet know what Sadler has….breeding rights sold, I’m sure they want more than the one Gr1. …..they ran in the Derby, so it stands to reason they would like to run in the Belmont, otherwise why even try the Derby?….too early to say whats up…
I asked his owner and he said if his works prove him worthy of that race it would be something to shoot for.
I mean….if you’re going to Kentucky with such an animal, the hope is to win, then on to Pimlico….plan B would be Belmont….plan C—would mean the horse exited the race with issues, if a horse bleeds then I say major break….but if it was just the horrible trip, if the horse is ok…then why not, there’s only one Belmont Stakes, and Rock is a Belmont type horse.
If he came out of the race good and works well you want to get that bad taste out of your mouth as quickly as possible. The horse who won the SA Derby can win the Belmont by open lengths.
Belmont is a track that produces lots of 10 length winners, as did the 9 furlong Hollywood Park, when it was dirt…..a 10 length win by Rock Your World would help to do a lot of forgetting about the Derby….it would also propel him to the top of the class….
Kinda weird how your question about Prevalence turned immediately into a thread on RYW. I haven’t read anything about Prevalence since the race.
Yea, Eddie, thanks to our buddy, Pro Vet, my Prevalence question got detoured onto Rock Your World Blvd. LOL Thanks for your reply.
I do have Prevalence in my stable mail so if he has any workouts going forward, at least I’ll know he’s still in training for the next race. If there’s no activity, then we’ll know that something happened to him in the Pat Day. Hope he’s okay.
Prevalence……has no relevance…….
Maybe you’re right, PV. He was just a flash in the pan. Another precocious colt who teased us with his potential.
Without saying it it seemed Bob was thinking Rock was the best horse going in…he was surprised but then watched his break….several years ago I bet on a Cal-bred son of Beau Genius—do not remember his name—I liked him a lot, but joel took him back to 14th and last, in the SPRINT—1/4 pole still last, ends up a very good 4th—but Joel took him out of the running early—it always seemed to me he sits back at the break–I don’t want him on a front running type–he doesn’t attempt to utilize speed as a race tactic–likes to make that big late run…wonder if they make the Belmont who’ll be riding (hehe..)..
Bob was genuinely sad for John Sadler, said they are in shock—I got the impression he thought rock was going to win..
Thank you for the magical story of Medina Spirit ~ a beautiful & beautifully named colt, who conjured up all the courage & heart in his bloodlines & had early found that special someone to believe in him. Your engaging, passionate tales always stir an enduring love for the thoroughbred, ‘born to be admired’.
I really appreciate the kind words. And so beautifully stated. Thank you so much.
So glad to find you again after Bloodhorse Steve. A Kentucky Derby without you would be soulless.
That is so kind of you say, Noel, and so poetically. Thank you very much. I’m glad you found is and hope to see you back on a regular basis for the weekly columns and other interesting stuff.
It will be a long long time before I bet any Wood Memorial runner in the Kentucky Derby. Dynamic One fooled us all. I also hated the ride Irad gave Known Agenda. Seemed afraid to force him up into mid pack and ended up 3rd from the back into the first turn. Race was over then.
A disaster for both horses. I couldnt believe how badly Dynamic One ran. He sure fooled me. I couldnt believe how far back he was. I was watching him waiting for him to move and never picked up his feet. he Wood once again also was a total disaster.
Rombauer will be my Preakness play—they skipped the Derby and it turned out a good decision, the closers had no real chance Sat….at Pimlico–Medina will certainly go for the early lead, as I think they have decided he wants to be in front….I thought Rombauer’s Bluegrass–in where he found himself close to the early pace–close for him—and after seeming to lose his kick around the far turn, he re-rallied late—the price will be right!
Steve just another outstanding year of writing and bringing the stories out to the real life, just well done,OUTSTANDING!!
I can’t complain about the results I was fortunate to hit the PICK FIVE TWICE, absolutely with the help of your breakout thru the months, In the derby I took 8-9-14-15, In the eleventh I got slightly lucky because I used only two horses, 3-5 and we know what happen, and in the 8th since my mare is being bred to Macleans Music this Sunday, I signal Jackie’s Warrior and what a race that was !! Did you see the spilts, WOW!! Thank you again for another fantastic year!!
Thank you very much Dan. I really appreciate it. And congratulations on your betting. Well done!
Another great behind the scenes story of a Kentucky Derby champion. I don’t have the ability to write how this back story affected me. Tears of joy for these incredible women Mrs Rice, Mrs. Whitman. There are so many women who can empathize with their struggles and triumphs All the heart and grit that helped this beautiful spirited Thoroughbred on his path to the Derby..
I was there at the Santa Anita Derby down in the walking ring and thought with that “look”. he was a beautiful horse. On that day though ( after 2 years of non attendance). The horse that caught my eye was Rock Your World. Since I hadn’t followed the progress of any of these horses and knew little or nothing about any of them, I went with the horse that looked to be ready to rock and roll. The only bet I made that day at a very subdued Santa Anita Derby. I just felt good that he won and that Medina Spirit came in second. ….
I watched the derby coverage with much interest. But I must comment that with so many horses and trainers I do wish the coverage would include the lesser known individuals and horses. Imo any horse or trainer that is there deserves coverage. However little. O Besos has a great backstory as well. It’s not all Pletcher, Cox and Baffert, however so deserving. Others should get spoken about as well. Just my opinion.
Thank you Mr. Haskin for telling us all about Medina Spirit’s history and those folks who believed in him. I sincerely hope he stays healthy, happy and well and why not, a triple crown winner. I bet there are many calls being made for dates with Protonico!
and on to the Preakness perhaps…. MS will always be a grand story. You told it so brilliantly.
So glad you enjoyed the story Delrene, Thank you. Sometimes even when you think there is no story there turns out to be a great one.
Great story and writing. I was moved by your desire to bring out of the heart and passion of those who are a part of the racing world. We sometimes forget how emotionally involved people are with their horses, like parents sometimes. Great job showing us the world behind the races. Love your work and how well you write from your heart.
I really appreciate that, Bill. Thank you so much.
Thanks for sharing this wonderful story. You are the best at revealing the rest of the iceberg. Once again I found the best/worst losing bet of the day. 7,8,9/7,8,9/6,14,15,17 trifecta. I did box 7-9 for the $1 exacta.
Thanks very much. I appreciate it. Glad you at least hit a nice exacta.
I had the worst winning bet—6,7,8,9,14 tri box cost $30 paid $848 but that box would have won the $9K super and it would have won the $296K super-high five…
I have never responded to a forum before but I really appreciate your efforts, Steve.
I am a contemporary of yours having been born in the late 40’s in Brooklyn. I was raised in the Coney Island Houses project and came to love horse racing in early 1960. My favorite horses were Kelso and the trotter, Su Mac Lad. I have a burning racing question which I fear will never be answered-What was and who won the feature stakes race at Aqueduct on Saturday, June 15, 1963. I ask this because while watching the telecast on my 10″ black & white TV I was informed that my father had passed away. He died on his 23rd wedding anniversary and was buried on Father’s Day. I was fifteen years, eight days and forty five minutes old when he left me. I still miss him.
But life must go on and ten years later, right after Secretariat’s magnificent Belmont, I decided to quit my accounting job and move like a tremendous machine to Florida where I would earn my keep as a horse player. (Sing to the tune of “Young & Foolish”). Two months and $2000 later I promised my wife ( a promise I have kept) that I would never gamble again.
However, I still love horse racing and trying to pick winners. I was rooting for Medina Spirit for he is a blue collar and gritty horse.
Steve, I have read all of your books and most of your website essays and consider you to be the best turf writer since Joe H. Palmer and on a par with baseball’s Rogers-Angell and Kahn. You come across as a man of decency and compassion. This sad world could use more of your ilk.
I am not a writer but have had a bunch of poems published in newspapers. I would like to share one with you which I believe, from what you have written, that you can relate to. It is not about racing although you could say that it speaks of a favorite filly.
Twilight
Over four decades ago I first glanced your way
Enchanted by a wholesome visage and gentle sway
Unknowingly guided by heavens above
Dreams were meshed into a mosaic of our mellow love
We embraced the good Lord and grew in grace
The glow of His Spirit was etched on your face
Holding my hand when I was blind
Your walk was clear and your manner kind
Bearing our child and keeping the home
Placing our needs ahead of your own
With intuitive wisdom and words crystal pure
Your nurturing allowed us to become mature
Now that wrinkles sprout and the gait has slowed
I’m acutely grateful for the privilege of
Sharing my life with one so sublime
Until the hour glass sputters and runs out of time
Cliff, I dont know where to begin. First off, your poem really moved me and was so beautifully written. It reminded me so much of some of the poems I’ve written to my wife. I dont know if you read my column a few years back titled “A Love Letter to Joan.” If not I can email it to you (just email me your address at sehaskin@aol.com). There is poetry included. The story of your father’s death also moved me because it reminded me of my father’s death when I was 24 and he was such a great supporter of mine and I believe has been watching over me my whole life. My father also grew up in Coney Island. He went to Lincoln high school as I would guess you did. I’m so glad you reached out to me and cant thank you enough for all the kind words. Please stay in touch. I will try to find someone at Bloodhorse to look that up about the feature race from the old chart books. If I find out I will email it to. All the best.
The feature that day was the Bowling Green Handicap won by Pollingfold.
Cliff and Steve, thank you both for sharing your heartfelt thoughts! Very touching in deed. And what a beautiful way to put a close to Derby week!
Thanks Bruce
Thanks Bruce for your kind words.
Cliff: Your poem was very moving cathartic. I have been married to my gorgeous for 51 years, she is my daily light.
You write eloquently, you should consider writing more in the future.
Best of luck to you.
Both of you were married in 1970. We’re the babies, only 41 years for us come September.
Got you both beat. A mere 38 years for me and mine. I’ve written at least one poem for him too — too emotional to reprint here!
Thank you, Deacon. To bask in the glow of a loving spouse is a blessing. There is nothing more enchanting than the look of a woman in love.
May you have many more years of wedded bliss.
Good to see you Steve on this site. How fitting. You’re the best. I have followed your Derby Dozen for many years. So this year, I trusted my emotions rather than speed, pedigree, or what have you figures. I research the contenders based on their development from very young. Their personalities. For example, Justify. His breeder, Tanya Gunther, said that he had to be the first one out in the pasture. And he was tugging on her all of the way. Many discounted him because of the curse. Not me. Fast forward to Medina Spirit. He caught my eye early on because he reminded me of Shared Belief. His looks, demeanor and the way he ran. I became emotionally attached. Just as I had been to Justify and others. So, even though there were others more favored in this year’s Derby, I bet Medina. I knew he was a fighter as everyone said. But his win was special to me because my husband of 39 years lost his life to cancer on April 15. Despite the sorrow, I had the Derby to look forward to ease the pain. Thank God for horse racing. And Medina delivered! I cannot explain how elated I felt. I love Medina’s back story and all who have been involved with his development. The colt that no one wanted wins the Derby. I’m sure my hubby was chuckling all the way to finish line. Thank you for this opportunity to comment.
Thank you very much for sharing that and my deepest condolences on the loss of your husband. If Medina Spirit was able to ease the pain just a little then his victory was all the more gratifying. He does remind one of Shared Belief in color and size. I’m very glad you found us here and hope you keep returning,
Very sorry for your loss. Hope you continue moving forward.
Clue, I so appreciate you sharing your story with all of us that follow Steve’s blog. I too am sorry for your loss — glad to know Medina Spirit helped ease your pain. Best wishes to you.
Picked Charlie……….2 speed horses scratched……2 others had bad starts…….i did my job………….what a dream for Medina……..
I wish he would have come in second.
You should ask for a refund.
Medina Spirit is in the drivers seat for 3YO Champion, Derby winners usually win it. I think Essential Quality might need to win the Preakness if he is to become a back to back Champion.
Cox is passing on Preakness with EQ.
If Medina wins the Preakness, he’s the Champion.
No horse that runs good in derby should ever run in preakness……..only winner………..this is why we need to change the spacing…..
Why should the winner run in it?
ROFL!
Mandaloun crossfired for 10 strides jock pulled him back early in La derby….and he took off……….cross firing is not good……he actually did this 3 races……not in derby…………when a horse is in traffic…..things happen……….HRC was in traffic passing wire 1st time…..he steadied, thru head up……
Trips are important……if Rock didnt have trouble, Charlie might have won…..or EQ…….that’s racing
…or Rock…
Everyone has different perspectives on a race; maybe, from where they are coming from. Thank you for this one. Not speaking for anyone else, and despite some other things but I do think that some really needed this back story 🙂
I LIKE 20 horses, makes it a better wager, what happened the other day was some horses had bad starts, and the pace– over a FAST track—was not kind to the closers, on THAT track yhe pace was SOFT!
correct!
30 would be so cool!
Please, no. Maybe if it was on a straightaway. But our horses aren’t used to those.
Steve, sorry that this post isn’t about the Derby winner. It’s about Mandaloun, who before the Louisiana Derby was one of my two top choices for the KD. In the final ranking, you wrote this: “Well, at least he’s looked great on the track in the morning and is acting like a horse sitting on a big race.” You discussed the history of horses that have failed in the Derby after a poor effort in the final prep. I’ve also held to that seemingly powerful trend of the past 60+ years. But then you went on to say, “Six weeks might be just the right amount of time he needs to regroup, and he has shown all the signs of a horse who is doing just that.”
So…do you think that, whatever the issue was in the La Derby, he really benefitted from the 6 weeks, as opposed to 3, 4, or 5 weeks off? Or was it something we’ll never know that was in play? Also, considering the performances of the four La Derby horses, shouldn’t we more open in considering a horse with a 6-week layoff? I’ve softened my stance about the 6 weeks because I realize that, until Barbaro, 5 weeks was viewed the same way 6 weeks is viewed now.
3 from LA Derby finished top 5….
Boy, I am clever! LOL When I wrote that I believed it and I believe it a lot more now. I really think the extra distance changes everything around. I dont believe a horse can rebound in 3 or even 4 weeks after such a dreadful performance and be ready to run a race like that in the Derby. But the 6 weeks and getting the bottom needed from the 1 3/16 miles combines to allow him to do that. Whatever Mandaloun’s problem was that day his works before the Derby showed he was over it and ready to start fresh. I thought it would be tough for him to win but I felt he could run a big race. The 6 weeks actually rejuvenated him and gave him time to recharge the batteries.
Thanks, Steve. You made a persuasive case. So what about the La Derby in general for horses? Does the new 9.5f distance make up for the extra week off?
I think Hot Rod Charlie and O Besos, and of course Mandaloun answered that better than I can.
I agree!
There has probably never been four horses from the same prep finishing in the first six of the Ky Derby. I’d research that proposition, but I’m very tired.
This race really elevated the Louisiana Derby. Remember the final 3/16 fractions I quoted.
i told you Mandalouns excuse……above……i posted it 2 times before race….
Wow, what an article. This passion and devotion to horse racing is what critics will never understand.
Very well put, Doug
Thanks so much, Steve! I was quite taken with this colt in the paddock and going to the gate, and I liked what I saw in a quick look at his background. When he hit the front early, I thought, “Nobody is going to get by this little horse today.” And I am glad that no one did. This story is the icing on the cake.
I loved your story Steve. It was a thrilling race and, especially after reading this, I’m so glad the little guy won. We all need a fairy tale story this year.
Dont we ever, Helena. Thank you
Steve I was so hoping you would write an analysis of the Derby. This little horse embodies the stuff dreams are made of. I always love stories about bargain basement horses that beat the million dollar purchases. I loved your chronicling of the horses with great heart and courage behind this little horse. But you didn’t mention Mariah’s Storm dam of Giant’s Causeway. She goes back to my beloved Swaps and spent time in a sling because of a leg injury just like he did. But she raced again and I believe she won. Her courage inspired the movie Dreamer and surely contributed to the heart of that grand little black horse we saw on Saturday.
Thanks Carol, but the theme of that graph was horses who were game in a race and won close finishes. Horses like Mariah’s Storm and Paynter and Lady Eli who bounced back from serious injuries and illnesses are a totally different category.
Thanks, Steve, for your excellent recap and the backstory on this year’s Derby. I always look forward to the column following the Triple Crown races, almost as much as the races themselves, because I know I’ll learn a fascinating, little-known story. This one is incredible. Congratulations to Ms. Whitman and best of luck with her future breeding operations. Sounds like she deserves a break.
I loved this result! Couldn’t be happier, and now I’m eagerly anticipating a rematch with Life is Good later this year. Has Medina Spirit developed enough to now beat his stablemate? What pace tactics would be employed? Mike Smith and Johnny V. eyeing each other and angling for every edge in the race…Can’t wait to see them compete again.
Thank you very much Amy. In my opinion talking and texting with Baffert all year is that he believes Medina Spirit is not in the same class as Life is Good. Thats just my take knowing Baffert for 25 years.
It should be noted that the top price at the 2020 OBS 2yo sale (where Medina Spirit was sold for $35k) was $700,000 for a Distorted Humor colt. Dupuis has raced three times: 8th, then 4th, and most recently, DNF.
That is a great and very telling tidbit.As I keep saying there are no experts in this game.
Nobody can measure heart….
Thanks for the KD 147 Medina Spirit article. Many interesting points about intangibles in colt’s bloodlines, namely the intestinal fortitude. Story is filled with human interest. It was great reading
He was my pick from the beginning! What a wonderful Cinderella story!
Well, I had a feeling a speed horse would take it. Many said there was an abundance of speed but oftentimes some of that speed gets either taken out at the start or gets dampened by jockeys who don’t want to ruin their chances getting into a duel. They want to save horse and don’t want to be left wanting that last eigth of a mile that is the great unknown for all these colts, so they sit off the leader and wait and wait.
Unfortunately, I picked the wrong speed horse. I was convinced Midnight Bourbon would get the lead. But a slight hop and a squeeze ruined his chances. He did quite well to be sixth despite being taken completely out of his game.
We’ll get ’em next time.
“We’ll” lmao
Steve,
I read your posts, listen to you most Thursdays with Steve Byk and always learn something heart warming. This story you share reminds me of “The Fish.” Similar circumstances in the Baffert barn but much, much more gratifying because of the “back story” involving Ms. Rice and Ms. Whitman, Thank God these brave athletes can’t understand what is said of them, not to mention read the catalogs that have so much of an effect on their destinies. Thank God also for people in “the game” like Ms. Rice and Ms. Whitman who are in it for the “life,” not the “payout.”
Well said, Tom
Steve – Very moving article on gutsy Medina Spirit and Christy Whitman. You mentioned three doses of Secretariat in Spirit’s pedigree. But you may not be aware of the 27 appearances of the immortal Man ‘o War in his pedigree, more than any other horse in the derby except for Essential Quality with 32. All those horses you mentioned in his pedigree on both sides carried the fighting spirit and blood of the original Big Red! Thanks for your poignant story! Dave
Thanks Dave. That’s great about Man o’War, but on this website I have to focus on Secretariat. This wasnt about bloodlines, but the three does of Secretariat was something that fit in with the website.
Steve – totally understand. And no question that Secretariat’s doses are important factors in Spirit’s pedigree. The little guy’s refusal to let another horse pass him is also reminiscent of another all-time favorite of yours and mine, the mighty “Doc” whose mile record still stands after 53 years and whom you characterized as being able to beat any other horse you have ever seen in a match race! Dave
The Doc stands out when it comes to not letting a horse pass him.
My opinion is that Dr. Fager beats every horse who ever looked through a bridle in a match race.
He and Spectacular Bid are the 2 greatest horses I ever saw run.
No arguments from me about the Doc. Bid was the best horse I ever saw at 2, 3, and 4. Doc best horse I ever saw at 4 and Secretariat and Damascus the best horses I ever saw at 3.
I got no reason to doubt your expertise on this but I will only add that Secretariat never carried more then 126 lbs
Probably would not have mattered but it is a measuring stick.
Damascus ran arguably the greatest race in history. That 1967 Travers was a sight to behold. From 14 lengths (give or take) to 20 lengths in front (something like that. No horse beats him that day.
Secretariat hooked up with Cougar II, Kennedy Road and a few others when they were past their prime.
Doc beat Fort Marcy, Advocator & Tobin Bronze on those horses best surface. He carried over 130 lbs multiple times.
Long time ago, it doesn’t matter today.
In this crazy world of horse racing and handicapping Steve Haskin continues to be a breath of fresh air. Great back story Steve, very enjoyable to read. I had up until a week ago Medina Spirit in my exotics but there was just too many too chose from. Worked out fine as our governor shut down our state again due to a covid spike.
Sad to see Rock Your World & Essential Quality basically wipe each other out at the start.
I will always despise a 19 or 20 horse field. No point to it. Many horses run in the Derby every year with no chance to win.
Maybe it is a great thrill for the owners & trainers but one day (God forbid) there may be a bad accident. Two Derby’s ago they dodged a bullet on a very wet track. I thought however that Essential Quality ran a great race considering.
Baffert is amazing but if we stand back & assess this Medina Spirit has been a hard hitting gutsy horse, always in the money.
Congrats to the connections.
Thank you for writing this brilliant piece on such short notice. You are the maestro of writing.,,,,,
I really appreciate that Deacon. Thank you so much. You have to wonder what would have happened if RYW would have broken cleanly and challenged Medina for the lead. What are the odds of the two favorites bumping and costing each other the race?
Hi, Deacon. I agree that 20 is too many. But that number of horses, or a number close to it, isn’t why we see starts like the ones that RYW and EQ had. Those bad breaks happen in 6-horse fields. The only difference with the Derby is that, obviously, there will likely be more of them. Bad starts happen because horses don’t break straight out of the gate. The main problem with a 20-horse field is the greater chance of a horse being blocked, crowded, or interfered with at some point or points during the running of the race AFTER the start.
I think most of us knew that Medina was a gutsy and consistent horse. After all, he was 12-1, not a hopeless longshot. He had never been worse than second, he had good early speed and had never been passed in the stretch, his figures were competitive in the Derby field, and he won a graded stakes at Santa Anita. But a Derby winner? I wasn’t smart enough to see that.
Big difference breaking poorly in a 6 horse field. You can recover and quickly get back in position. If you break poorly in a 19 horse field there is simply too much traffic for you to recover and get position. Evryone talks about the two favorites, but a horse like Midnight Bourbon really suffered because he desperately needed to be on the pace and was swallowed up in the field. So Bob got lucky that the two horses who intended to be right on the pace never got in the race after bad breaks. Bob was as surprised as anyone because he never talked up Medina in our texts and he always tells me what he feels about his horses that you dont see in print. He had two horses he felt could win the Derby and the others including Medina were nice horses, although he respected him a lot for his guts. I know for a fact he wasnt expecting this. His only shot to win was to go to the lead and as usual with Bob everything worked out perfectly. Also Medina’s Thoro-Graph and Beyer numbers indicated he had not improved in his last three starts and wasnt quite fast enough to win the Derby. But Bob had him dead-fit and sharp and thats why he’s such a great trainer. His horses show up on the big days
Steve, I agree with your points as stated. However, the chance of a small field in the Derby is 0. If the maximum number is reduced to 16 (the most common suggestion), what you said about being able to recover and get in position is only a slightly more likely outcome than in a 19- or 20-horse field. Regardless of the size of the field, if you get knocked sideways out of the gate, you’re going to be at a distinct disadvantage. Those are quality horses that broke better and are now way out in front of you.
Really no disagreement about Medina being able to get to the lead without the challenge of MB (or RYW). Regarding the figures, I was looking at the Brisnet numbers. In the SA Derby, Medina improved 4 and 5 points over his Lewis and San Felipe efforts. In retrospect, the Brisnet numbers foresaw the result better than the others.
My comment had nothing to do with number of horses in the Derby or any limitation to its size but only why it is more difficult to recover in any large field. Sure any horse can break poorly in any size field but if you do in any large field youre more apt to be screwed.
Absolutely!
Well said Steve, I was going to respond to Eddie with something similar but your explanation was right on point.
Horses like humans have eyes, they can see 19 other horses loading in a starting gate. There is also that chain reaction that when 2 horses bump it could cause a chain reaction with other horses. A 6 or 7 horse field that is normally not the case.
Did his numbers for the Derby show improvement for Medina Spirit? That’s interesting that his numbers before the race didn’t show improvement. Sometimes you have to account for the heart/the intangibles that separate good horses from really good horses.
All the more reason to eliminate 20-horse Derby fields: No unworthy winners like Giacomo, Mine That Bird and that truly undeserving Country House! How awful!!!
Giacomo and Mine That Bird won the Kentucky Derby, fair and square. Worthy!
Mine That Bird UNWORTHY? He won by EIGHT lengths, then ran a STRONG 2nd in the Preakness, and a solid 3rd in the Belmont…..he wouldn’t have qualified into the Derby on points, he had zero.
Giacomo UNWORTHY? I think we know John Shirreffs by now, he does not enter unworthy horses, Giacomo ran many solid races.
I LIKE 20 horses, makes it a better wager, what happened the other day was some horses had bad starts, and the pace– over a FAST track—was not kind to the closers, on THAT track yhe pace was SOFT!
People kill me! No wonder have higher regard for animals than many people I know.
Previous comment was meant as tongue-in-cheek sarcasm. Without a 20-horse field Mine that Bird (18) and Country House (16) don’t even get into the race if the field was restricted to only 14 runners. Giacomo (14) ekes in, but that’s just the winners. More than a couple of those who finished in-the-money (Closing Argument comes to mind) were also outside the fourteen some of you are calling for. The other thing that sucks because of 20-horse fields, of course, are the trifectas and superfectas. They’re too hard to hit!
Flew to NM almost 3 yrs ago to visit MTB.
Visually, the most breathtaking Derby that I’ve ever seen and, based on his past performances, imo, the most unbelievable winner.
Agreed! Brave little horse.
I hope you called first.
Had appt.
BULL!
Any horse who prevails is deserving. Bird was a courageous little horse- vanned all way from NM to Kentucky,without advantage of air travel. UNREAL!!!
Mike, undoubtedly, that run of The Bird and Borel in the ‘09 Derby has to rank as one of the most exciting in the history of the race. We would never have seen it, however, if back then Churchill had limited the number of starters to only fourteen. Mine That Bird was 18th in the earnings standings. My earlier remark was not meant to be taken seriously. It was intended as a mild poke at those who oppose the 20-horse field, that’s all.
Breeding his own mares to Protronico…like Cee’s Tizzy—Medina and Tiznow have another thing in common–they keep their heads in front!
Had Mandaloun not been a strong 2nd….those two on outside, Hot Rod and Essential roll by Medina not gonna let him pass but his vision was blocked by Mandaloun, so Bob got lucky there, too.
When did you find the time to write this? Most amazing and heart felt. It would have taken most people days maybe weeks to come up with this. You never cease to amaze.
Thank you, once more for this and the ride on the yellow submarine.
Thanks so much. I have no patience. Once I start something I have to finish it. lol
A dog with a bone. My beagle Cosmo was like that too!
Fantastic story! All great Americans! Wonder if any kickback would go to Whitman? Hope she would get some $$ back to her….
Thanks again Steve!
Thanks Steve, for this wonderful tale of an underdog becoming a hero. These are the stories that inspire more people to participate in the fascinating world of horse racing.
According to Bob Baffert this Cinderella story was all possible because the optimism and enthusiasm of Medina Spirit’s owner.
Amr Zedan started his ownership operation in 2016 and has already felt the roller coaster and dichotomies of horse racing.
His highly regarded filly last year, Princess Noor, was retired after suffering a soft tissue injury as the 3 to 5 favorite in the Starlet Stakes. She was on her way to win the second Grade 1 of her 2-year-old campaign when she was pulled up by Victor Espinoza turning for home. It was a very hurtful experience but it could also be opening new exciting times with her offspring.
Princess Noor (named after Zedan’s wife) was a 1.35-Million-Dollar filly from the first crop of Not This Time a son Giant Causeway like Protonico, the sire of the newest Derby champion.
But it was Medina Spirit, a horse one million dollar cheaper, who provided the optimistic Zedan with the most coveted Derby Glory.
Zedan made headlines last March after paying $1.7 million for a colt by HOY Gun Runner at Fasig-Tipton Gulfstream. It seems like the Derby Fever will be blazing in Zedan’s heart for some time now.
And Protonico will be seriously improving his dating profile in the coming months …
Thank you for the owners story Nelson. I admit I didnt know anything about him.
Zedan comparing Baffert to Picasso is a little much.
Thank God Medina Spirit did not need any pep talk from his Trainer…The Black Warrior does not care about being an unfavored child at all… !
Nice post, Nelson. You’re the Picasso of Haskin blog commentary.
LOL … Thanks Eddie. You are the Michelangelo of all the Blogs in the World…!
Just hope that my posts are a bit more understandable than Picasso’s paintings … LOL
I thought he would compare him to Velazquez, who I actually did a term report and slide show on in high school. Who knew?
Degas or Gericault are closer comparisons. Did you do well with your report? Studying Architecture/Art helps you with the lines (conformation) when viewing a horse.
What a feel good story that brings tears of happiness! I think the racing gods smiled down on this colt and the fans.
He may be little but he is mighty…the little horse that could and did!
Thank you so much Steve. Once again you have added your own brand of magic to a magical story!
Thank you very much Lynda. I appreciate it
Steve, you continue to amaze with your ability to find the overlooked story. Would love to have seen a pic of Christy with her daughters (possibly screaming in front of the monitors broadcasting the race). And as for Medina Spirit’s pedigree, his fifth dam, Leap Lively, was a Grade 3 stakes winner in Great Britain and the dam of 1,000 Guineas winner Forest Flower. Just goes to show you it pays to look past the first couple of dams.
A correction to my previous comment: Forest Flower won the IRISH 1,000 Guineas, but was also 2YO champion filly in Great Britain.
Thank you so much. It really is a very good pedigree
Does the breeder get a cut?
Great story! Great writing!
What a wonderful, heartwarming story. A totally different and much appreciated view of Medina Spirit not known before. I am so happy for Christy Whitman. It is also people like her that should receive acknowledgement for all they do to get these beautiful creatures to the track to run their hearts out for us. Congratulations to all Medina Spirits connections on a gutsy win by a tough little horse.
How’s it going Paula?
Doing fine Mike! Thank you for asking. I hope you are good too. Nice to see you here too.
Always great saying hello to you. Planning to visit Old Friends again soon.
Whoops-that William Higgins is me.
I admit to being one of those that wasn’t rooting for another Baffert win. That said, who can’t love a gutsy colt and who can’t love this story?
Thank you Steve, for finding the story of Medina Spirit and retelling it to us. If the sport of kings is going to be democratized and become a sport of we the people, the living and the telling of stories like this will be a big reason for it. Love what you are doing here.
Thank you
Sounds like as the Derby Prayer says “The big man upstairs upstairs was with them All the way”
There are times that life is better than fiction. This years Derby Trail has now pointed us to Baltimore. HI HO PIMLICO
Ok, Steve!! This is a real life Disney movie if I ever heard one!! What an even happier ending for all that would be! This little colt with a big heart and all of his connections more than earned this to be told!! Derby dreams do come true! So many layers and who better than you to pen it out!
Thank you Steve!! Pass the tissues!!
Thank you very much, Kim. That is what’s so great about racing. There is always a story behind the story and it is very gratifying to uncover it and pay tribute to the lesser known people who work just as hard as the big names
Wow Steve. Thanks again for the complete back story. So glad for all these folks. Surprised that he got just one taker as a yearling. Was it because even though he has some greats on his page, they’re not the ‘curent greats’. I mean, Giant’s Causeway, Dynaformer, Roberto, Holy Bull and Forty Niner; I’m not a Thoroughbred pedigree analyst, but those are good horses (in my opnion).
Anyway, thanks again. You’re the best
Thank you Stephanie. Some people cant look past the sire and grandsire, But they are no different than the big-time buyers, which is why so many good horses sell cheaply and so many million dollar yearlings are busts.
I came within a hair of adding Medina Spirit to my final five. Next time I will listen to my gut. Thank you Steve for the background story. Really surprised with Midnight Bourbon and Rock Your World especially the latter.
May 3
You tell an absorbing tale, Mr. Haskin. I gave Medina Spirit’s pedigree a quick look after the Derby and the minute I saw Giant’s Causeway and Dynaformer and what flowed out from them I thought — and there it is. One very very good pedigree, which kicked in for this brave and gutsy colt yesterday. Hearing some of his back story was wonderful. I’m hoping that he continues to step up as he matures. His refusal to be headed reminded me also of Northern Dancer. He was such a macho colt. It seems to me that Medina Spirit has got the same sensibility. And that can’t be bad. Loved this piece Steve!
Thanks Abigail
Another wonderful tale from the master, and amazingly it is all true.
Tears for all those connected with this courageous colt.
I don’t think this could have been scripted better.
$1,000 for a Derby victor?
Definitely the stuff Derby dreams are made of!
Thanks for the back story, so wonderfully told, Steve!
I appreciate it Nancy. Thank you very much.
Excelente nota. Emocionante.
Gracias Fernando
Steve:
I see I am not the only one who got a bit emotional reading that awesome story: That is what is so wonderful about this great sport. You don’t need million dollar breeding if you have heart. I plan to make a nice donation from the $4,800 I cashed on Medina Spirit in the futures to the retired horse organization.
Thanks again, Steve: on to Pimlico!
Thank you Biggy, that is very generous of you, and congratulations on your big hit
Thank you for the story. I love it when the little guy wins.
Steve, I don’t know how you do it, but, you’ve once again given us the story of how a horse arrived on the national stage that is the Kentucky Derby. A wonderful account of a small time figure, Christy Williams, who purchased Medina Spirit for a mere $1,000 and pinhooked him for $35,000. That this colt ended up in Bob Baffert’s hands makes this story all the more remarkable. This is indeed the stuff of dreams.
I did not have Medina Spirit on any of my Derby tickets, but his story leaves me with a good feeling about the results.
Thanks, Steve, for bringing this story to light.
I’m so glad to hear that, Dewey. Thank you.
Good for Gary Young, he knows his stuff! Millions being traded, everyone wants to win the Kentucky Derby….some spendy colts running down the stretch yesterday, including Mandaloun, who cost a bunch, and looks the part, but like Bob says you can measure hips, but you can’t measure heart, and Medina has heart, his Robert Lewis win…where he went out fast under pressure, but repelled the closers, while the other speed finished way up the track—thats why I bet him in futures, in fact the only two futures bets I had that were still live were Medina and Mandaloun!
Beautifully told story! All I knew was the “$1,000” part. Amazing. Thank you.
Some are saying that he had a perfect trip, as though the trip fell into his lap (If a horse had a lap). But Medina Spirit came out of the gate like a seasoned veteran, and he had the speed to outrun 18 Derby horses. Then he held them off in a stirring stretch drive and won in 2:01. I’m rooting for him to win the next one.
Seasoned veteran equals Bob Baffert. Thats what he sends out even when they are lightly raced
Never say never. It was a great race!
Ah, the humanity you bring to your stories. I’m teary eyed as I write this – all because you “fleshed out” the $1,000 and $35,000 purchases that the announcers alluded to yesterday on national television. Thank you for your heart for these kind of stories. You can’t ever stop writing!
That is very kind of you Wanda. That you so much. I knew of the purchase price a while ago but its always more of a story than you think it is.
Great story Steve, well done!!
Thanks Bruce
Real Quiet, Silver Charm, Authentic, Medina Spirit—-all ran 2nd in SA Derby.
1997/1998 and 2020/2021. Will we wait 22 years before it happens again? And will Baffert become the oldest Derby winning trainer ever at the ripe age of 90? 🙂
Hope so!…By the way, Medina Spirit has 4 Triple Crown winners in his lineage: Seattle Slew, Secretariat, War Admiral and Count Fleet…..we can dream of victory!