For Bernardini it was Jim Dandy to the Rescue
Bernardini, who made nine shuttle trips to Australia, died at age 18 last week just as he was emerging as the hottest young broodmare sire in the country, having sired the dams of Maxfield, Catholic Boy, Serengeti Empress, Dunbar Road and a number other top-class runners. As a racehorse, he had to constantly “wow” people to remove himself from the shadow of Barbaro, which he accomplished with a series of spectacular victories, the most important, in my opinion, being the Jim Dandy Stakes, which catapulted him to the threshold of greatness. ~ Steve Haskin
For Berdnardini it was Jim Dandy to the Rescue
By Steve Haskin
One of the most bittersweet comments one can hear in Thoroughbred racing is “Imagine what he could have done at 4.” It is bittersweet because on one hand it is used only when he have seen something extraordinary at 3 and on the other it envisions new amazing feats left only to the imagination. We heard it with Secretariat and we heard it with American Pharoah.
In 2006 we heard it with Bernardini, but with an added twist. Unlike with Big Red and Pharoah, who defeated every top horse they faced and departed on a high note, Benardini left behind the taste of defeat and then not being given the opportunity to rectify it. His departure enabled his lone conqueror Invasor to bask in further glory that eventually led him to the Hall of Fame while Bernardini was left with mainly “what ifs.”
When one looks back at the whirlwind career of this gifted colt they naturally think of his brilliant victories in the grade 1 Preakness (by 5 ¾ lengths), Travers (by 7 ½ lengths), and Jockey Club Gold Cup (by 6 ¾ lengths). But his most impressive and important victory was actually the Grade 2 Jim Dandy Stakes. Although his meteoric rise to stardom, winning the Withers Stakes by 3 ¾ lengths in 1:35 flat and the Preakness in a sharp 1:54 3/5 in only the third and fourth starts of his career, made people aware of this new sensation there was a shadow hanging over it by the name of Barbaro who was fighting for his life at New Bolton Medical Center after suffering at catastrophic injury shortly after the start of the Preakness.
As spectacular as Bernardini’s victory in the Preakness was, the rapidly growing legion of Barbaro fans and racing fans in general were far from convinced that he would have beaten their undefeated hero, who had just stunned the racing world with one of the most brilliant victories in the history of the Kentucky Derby, winning by 6 ½ lengths in a sharp 2:01 1/5.
Barbaro’s fight for life reached global proportions as the entire world waited for updates daily. From a personal standpoint, I was picked up at my home in New Jersey and driven to Manhattan to appear on ESPN’S popular morning show Cold Pizza to discuss Barbaro. While at the Preakness I went on National Public Radio (NPR) to provide perspective to their vast audience, most of whom were not familiar with Barbaro or horse racing, but were caught up in his struggle and his courage.
The longer Barbaro continued to fight gallantly to survive the larger the shadow he cast on Bernardini. Some felt the son of A.P. Indy’s victory at Pimlico was so impressive, visually and statistically, it would have taken a herculean performance by Barbaro to defeat him, but most felt either Barbaro would have repeated his Derby effort and that Bernardini merely took advantage of the situation or they simply were unsure what would have happened. In either case, the Preakness became more about Barbaro’s injury than Bernardini’s victory.
Trainer Tom Albertrani decided to bypass the Belmont Stakes and prepare Bernardini for a summer and fall campaign, targeting the Travers and then the big races against older horses
As for the possibility of dethroning Barbaro as the division leader, Albertrani said, “That definitely is a major goal, and we know it’s not going to be easy. If he wins the Jim Dandy and Travers and beats older horses I would hope he would get some consideration for champion 3-year-old and perhaps Horse of the Year, who knows?
“This horse has shown me that he is as talented as any horse I’ve seen. He stacks right up there with the best horses I’ve been around, like Cigar, Dubai Millennium, and Street Cry, and those kinds of horses. A horse like him doesn’t come around too often. I just think this is a special horse; I’ve been saying that all along.”
And I can attest to that. As Bernardini continued to go from strength to strength, I kept thinking back to a morning at Belmont Park the previous fall. It was Breeders’ Cup week, with the event being held in New York for what would prove to be the last time.
I was at the gap when Tom Albertrani came by on his pony. Tom was one of the most low-keyed and understated people I knew, so when, despite the number of promising stars in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, he said to me, “The best 2-year-old in the country isn’t running in the race,” I was stunned. That comment was so out of character for him, and it was followed by a sly smirk on his face, as if he wanted the world to know who the best 2-year-old was, but felt compelled to keep it under wraps.
“You can’t say that and leave it at that. Who is he?” I replied. But Tom refused to budge, “I’m not saying because he hasn’t run yet.” What? Tom Albertrani has a horse who hasn’t run yet and he tells me he’s the best 2-year-old in the country? I kept after him for the next few months. Who was this mystery sensation of his and when will he be revealed? But all he kept telling me was, “You’ll know him when you see him run.”
When I was at Gulfstream Park the following winter with my wife, we stood on the grandstand steps and watched a colt trained by Tom work, and as he went by us he blew me away. What a stride! What action! What a physical presence! 
I turned to my wife and said, “Wow! that has to be the colt Tom told me about.” His name was Bernardini, owned by Darley Stable, and I knew right then he was special. Needless to say it was no surprise when he broke his maiden on March 4 by nearly eight lengths in 1:35 2/5 and then romped in the Withers Stakes.
Following his maiden victory, Albertrani, despite the presence of rising stars Barbaro, Brother Derek, and Lawyer Ron, said, “I told you back in the fall you haven’t seen the best one and I still mean that. One day you’ll get to write a story on this horse. He just has a presence about him. Everyone who’s ever had him said there’s something special about him. He’s got that look in his eye.”
Even with Bernardini having only three career starts and never having gone two turns I knew Barbaro would have to run another scorcher in the Preakness to beat him. The morning of the race Albertrani said to me, “We’re this close to telling the story,” holding his thumb and forefinger close together. “I feel very confident. I believe he’s going to peak today.”
Of course we’ll never know what would have happened at Pimlico. Despite his impressive victory, Bernardini, two months after the Preakness, was still a horse looking for recognition and overshadowed by Barbaro and his well-publicized battle. With the Jim Dandy Stakes approaching, this would be Bernardini’s chance to finally show the world he was something special and not just a horse who backed into his Preakness victory because of Barbaro’s misfortune. He would have the daunting task of turning the eyes of the racing world away from Barbaro and toward him, focusing now on the sport’s newest superstar. Despite the 10-week layoff, Bernardini did not have the luxury of simply winning the race, whether he was fully cranked for it or not. He needed to do something spectacular with the entire racing world watching.
On July 17, Bernardini struck his first blow by breezing five furlongs in a bullet :58 4/5, coming home his final quarter in :23 2/5 and galloping out six furlongs in 1:12 1/5. He followed that up with a strong maintenance breeze in 1:00 4/5 while in a common gallop.
The Jim Dandy would be far from a walk in the park with the presence of Todd Pletcher’s Peter Pan winner and Belmont Stakes third-place finisher Sunriver, the undefeated Minister’s Bid, the Nick Zito-trained Hemingway’s Key, third in the Preakness, and Cowdin Stakes runner-up Dr. Pleasure, all of whom would be getting eight pounds from Bernardini.
In addition, Bernardini would have to wow the racing world running on a heavy, sticky track that was turned sloppy by an afternoon deluge.
Javier Castelano sent the 1-2 Bernardini to the lead, stalked by Minister’s Bid, who chased him through fractions of :23.89, :47.36, and 1:11.33. Sunriver, who had been battling with Minister’s Bid for second, quickly dropped out of it, and when Edgar Prado began showing Minister’s Bid the whip and gave him a left-handed crack leaving the five-sixteenths pole, it was obvious the race was all but over. Castellano had barely moved on Bernardini. He looked over his left shoulder and then his right at the top of the stretch, while keeping his colt about four paths off the rail. Dr. Pleasure made what appeared to be a threatening move on the far outside, but when Castellano remained motionless on Bernardini and looked over his right shoulder again at the three-sixteenths pole, everyone knew it was just a matter of how many lengths he would win by.
We have seen many top-class horses win eased up in the final sixteenth, but I cannot recall a horse being eased up the entire length of the stretch. After one little flick of his wrist as soon as he turned for home, Castellano’s hands never moved an inch the rest of the way. It was truly a sight to behold.
Despite never coming out of a gallop, Bernardini drew off with every stride and just coasted home the easiest of winners, covering the 1 1/8 miles in 1:50.50 over the bog-like track. Not only was this as dominant a performance as anyone had seen in years, Bernardini’s action and stride were so flawless it was as if his feet barely touched the ground. It was pure poetry watching him glide over the ground.
So effortless was his performance, racecaller Tom Durkin seemed stunned when he bellowed, “Javier Castellano like a statue in the stirrups as they glide past the eighth pole with a five-length lead. An effortless performance by Bernardini. Look at this! He didn’t raise a sweat and it’s 90 degrees.”
The following morning, noted veterinarian Mark Cheney went over to Albertrani and said, “Hey listen, if you need a jock, holler. Even I could have ridden that sonofagun.”
Jimmy Bell, president of Darley USA, added, “He just makes it look so easy, and that stride down the lane was unbelievable. All I can say is we’re very lucky to have a horse like this.”
Even the Equibase chart-caller got caught up in the ease of the victory, with the redundant comment: “galloped under wraps.”
Judging by the cheers that poured out of the grandstand following the colt’s spectacular victory and the accolades that followed, it looked as if even the cynics finally were intent on paying tribute to racing’s newest phenom and removing him forever form the shadow of Barbaro.
What started out as a quest for respect turned into a quest for greatness. Benardini obviously still had a ways to go before entering the realm of the greats, but there were few people at Saratoga Race Course on July 29 who didn’t have that word pass through their mind, even for a brief moment.
The morning after the race, Bernardini seemed happy and content as he devoured a large batch of clover. “He came back in great shape, as if he’d never even run,” Albertrani said. “I think this put a lot of doubts to rest about his Preakness performance. Maybe now he can pick up where Barbaro left off. There’s been a lot of anticipation from the Preakness to the Jim Dandy for him to show everybody just what a talented horse he really is.”
The Jim Dandy was just the beginning as Bernardini continued to demolish every opponent he faced, romping in the Travers and Jockey Club Gold Cup. Not only had he won his last four starts by an average margin of 7 ¼ lengths, his Beyer speed figures went from 113 to 114 to 116 to 117. 
It was rare for a 3-year-old to keep increasing his speed figures at that high a level and doing while coasting home by huge margins. I couldn’t help but think of a line from the classic movie Kentucky when a young trainer sees a magnificent horse in the paddock and says to a groom, “He’s beautiful, who’s he by?” And the groom answers, “By himself, usually.”
I covered all four of those races, from the Preakness to the Gold Cup, and finally the Breeders’ Cup Classic, and saw plenty of him in the morning. Although he didnt have a shred of white on him you could spot Bernardini a hundred yards away. He had a presence about him that was rare. No other horse looked like him; he stood out in a crowd and simply was spectacular to look at; a man among boys. In short, he took your breath away.
Unfortunately, in the Classic, his powerful strides and flawless action were missing over the cuppy Churchill Downs surface. Facing one of the strongest and deepest Classic fields ever assembled that included Grade 1 horses Lava Man, Invasor, Lawyer Ron, Premium Tap, Giacomo, Flower Alley, Sun King, Brother Derek, Perfect Drift, and European stars George Washington and David Junior, who between them had won seven Group 1 stakes, Bernardini still was able to make an electrifying, but premature, move on the far turn after appearing to be struggling to keep up down the backstretch. Even race caller Trevor Denman noticed that “Bernardini is back in fifth and might be asking to pick it up from here.” For the first time it looked as if the colt was not firing.
Then in the blink of an eye, he kicked into another gear and accelerated so quickly, blowing by horses, Denman’s voice rose several octaves, as in disbelief. “Now, Bernardini has kicked it in!” he bellowed. “It looked like he might have been battling (to keep up).” Then his voice reached a crescendo: “Bernardini with a magnificent rush! And Bernardini strikes the front.”
Whether it was the cuppy surface that saw Lava Man and others fade badly, Bernardini began to shorten stride in midstretch, as the Uruguayan Triple Crown winner Invasor came charging up on his outside. Bernardini continued to battle to the wire, but he fell 1 ¼ lengths short of the older Invasor, who would extend his consecutive winning streak of Grade 1 victories (that included the Pimlico Special, Suburban Handicap, and Whitney Stakes) to six the following year with wins in the Donn Handicap and Dubai World Cup before an injury ended his career.
It was no disgrace to get beat by a future Hall of Famer and older horse who would win Grade 1 stakes on three continents, but Castellano was blamed for making such a dramatic move so early, and over a track Bernardini appeared not to be handling. The first inclination was to look ahead to 2007 and imagine the amazing feats he was going to accomplish as a 4-year-old. But that was short-lived when it was decided to retire him to boost the new Darley at Jonabell Farm. Sheikh Mohammed had purchased Jonabell Farm in 2001 and then consolidated Gainsborough and Jonabell into one stallion operation in 2005. What could be bigger than to showcase his new farm with a stallion like Bernardini, who had the pedigree to go along with his looks and talent? So that was the end of the brief but spectacular career of one of the most exciting horses seen in years.
We won’t remember Bernardini for his Preakness victory or his big margins or his lofty speed ratings. What we will remember is the impact he made on people from the mere sight of him. Whether he was running, walking, or standing still, he filled the eye with his magnificence.
Perhaps Jimmy Bell spoke for everyone when he said following the Jim Dandy, “It’s a privilege and a thrill to watch him run.”
Photos courtesy of Adam Coglianese, New York Racing Association, Darley America
Would love to see Knicks Go try the Classic….like Gun Runner, who had not won at the distance, but won the Classic, and at Del Mar—would spice up what might be a memorable Breeders Cup.
I hope so too. If there’s no classy speed to deal with (e.g., Charlatan in the Saudi Cup), KG could be dangerous. But it’s 3 months away and things change fast in horse racing. Speaking of Gun Runner, Pappacap became his first graded stakes winner yesterday at the Spa, and today Wicked Halo became his second.
Correction: Pappacap at Del Mar, Wicked Halo at the Spa.
Steve, I can’t post the link because I don’t believe they are allowed, but there is a wonderful tribute to Bernardini in the Racing Post. He was special on the track, but at least as special off it..,,
Michele MacDonald “A plain brown wrapper without a speck of white on him’ – remembering Bernardini” in the Racing Post?
Yes, that’s it !
It’s Whitney Day and for the last few days Fox has been showing Birdstone’s upset of Smarty Jones in The Belmont. Birdstone was owned by Mary Lou Whitney. After the race Mary Lou Whitney is leading Birdstone into the winner’s circle and who do see out on the track dressed in a nice shirt and tie with a black raincoat? None other than Steve Haskin. I’ve seen Steve several times on national broadcasts of some of our biggest races. Steve has been right in the middle of the action at some of the biggest racing moments over the last 30 years. Probably longer.
Steve is the Robert Latta of the horse racing scene.
Thank you Tommy. I try to be in the middle of the action to get the best story, Thats why many of the photographers still hate me. I always tried to be aware of their needs and baled out whenever I saw them. But sometimes I was trying to get quotes and diidnt notice them, But we all had jobs to do.
Like Gordie Howe in the corners…elbows flying.
Following up on the conversation about Bernardini bouncing from his big win in the JCGC 4 weeks prior to the BC Classic, it should be noted that Invasor had not raced for THREE months prior to the Classic. That was the longest layoff to that point for a BC Classic winner, and that “record” still stands. It’s a far cry from Proud Truth winning the 1985 Classic just 7 days after a win in Aqueduct’s Discovery Handicap.
And he was sick, which is why he missed the Gold Cup
Da Hoss only had one race in between winning the October 26, 1996 Breeders’ Cup Mile to winning the November 7, 1998 Breeders’ Cup Mile. There’s a record that will stand forever.
Mr. Dickinson graduated Search for Truth (Tourist) at Colonial on 8/10. The 3yo gelding looked a man amongst the boys.
Excellent tribute to the majestic Berdardini… one of the 12 champion runners by the great A.P. Indy and one of the best-looking as well.
Bernardini and Pulpit were two of the most accomplished sires by A.P. Indy and both unexpectedly died at the age of 18.
The justification behind retiring Bernardini so soon was the same for his legendary sire; it was not worth it taking the risk of losing a great sire prospect in the track. More so after a hard championship season.
Bernardini’s six-furlong debut with Jerry Bailey on January 7th was not ultra-promising as he finished fourth, beaten 5 1/4 by Exclusive Quality at Gulfstream after a very slow break. By the way, Exclusive Quality went on to establish a track record for the 7 furlongs (81 seconds flat) before taking the Spectacular Bid Stakes. This great sprinter trained by Tod Pletcher had to be retired after that first Stakes win though…
Bernardini took some time at Payson off his debut and after recording six public works (with the best being a five-furlong bullet in 1:03 on February 9th) he was made the 9-5 favorite for his second race at Gulfstream on March 6th. Running with Lasix for the first time the future champion hit the gate at the start but was much the best in that memorable mile race.
Curiously Edgar Prado was the jockey for Bernardini’s that impressive maiden victory depicted by Steve in this article. That performance made Bernardini a rising star in the eyes of a lot of people. But Prado had already picked Barbaro as his Derby horse which gave Javier Castellano the privilege of partnering with Bernardini for the rest of the 2006 season.
I agree that winning so easily the Jim Dandy Stakes was a breakthrough performance for Bernardini for all the reasons alluded by Steve. I think only Arts and Letters and Carr de Naskra won the Jim Dandy by wider margin, but Bernardini’s 9 lengths might be a record margin on a sloppy sealed track.
Going to the BCC I perceived that it was not precisely a super strong field that Bernardini had annihilated in the Jockey Cup Gold Cup but his speed ratings were above any other horse in that year. Invasor had a slight advantage in experience though.
Taking speed figures alone one can insinuate that Bernardini regressed in the Breeder’s Cup Classic.
At the end, the regally-bred Bernardini was not only overshadowed by Barbaro’s emotive story but also by the incredible power of the older Invasor. But it is always satisfactory to see a regal and dazzling horse proving himself in the track.
Rest in peace handsome Bernardini…! Your legacy will live forever.
Great stuff, Nelson. Thanks
So, I would have to strongly disagree that Bernardini’s debut wasn’t promising. With that pedigree, he could never expect to win sprinting; add in a slow start…there’s a reason he was a heavy favorite in his next outing.
Bernardini was facing the best horses he’d ever faced; for him to run so well against an excellent Invasor is no regression, regardless of the figures.
Please reread Nelson’s post, Betsy. He said that the debut was “not ultra-promising.” That’s a far cry from saying it “wasn’t promising.” Additionally, he clearly said that “Taking speed figures alone one can insinuate that Bernardini regressed in the Breeder’s Cup Classic.” Assuming that the figs show a regression, that statement would be accurate.
Sincerely,
EddieF
Publishing agent for NelsonM
Thanks Eddie… on top of that I hinted that Exclusive Quality was a very strong rival sprinting … so Betsy is right saying that Bernardini had no business sprinting…
Regarding Invasor … I just wanted to hint that I was partial to him winning the BCC … could not hide my South American bias there…LOL
Your check is already in the mail…
Much appreciated! LOL
Eddie, individual,in her mind is always on point.
Nelson, over the past 20 years outstanding wins in the Jockey Club Gold Cup has resulted in dull performances in the Breeders’ Cup Classic. Invasor had to withdraw from the Jockey Club Gold Cup which Bernardini won because of a slight fever. Many believe that having Bernardini competing in the Jockey Club Gold Cup while Invasor skipping the race led to the former’s downfall.
Luck is quite fickle in racing. Good post.
Thanks for the reply Davids… you got great memory indeed. I had forgotten that hiccup of Invasor preventing him from running in the 2006 Jockey Club Gold Cup. No wonder the Argentinian had a hiatus of 13 weeks from his Whitney win to the Breeder’s Cup Classic…So the showdown between Darley and Shadwell (Al Maktoum family) was finally staged in the climactic BCC at Churchill Downs.
I remember that the older division (of 2006) was drained due to Brass Hat getting injured, with Wilko, Funny Cide and Flower Alley out of form, and Lava Man’s “shippingfobia” (he was undefeated in California that year). Only decent horses like Sun King , Giacomo, Perfect Drift, Wanderin Boy, the late bloomer Premium Tap were left as second-rate rivals to the reigning champion Invasor.
And you are also right about the JCGC/BCC double … only Cigar, Skip Away and Curlin won both races in the 37 years of BC history.
Nice remembrance…
Recordar es vivir !
Speaking of remembering and living, I was really struck by Bobby Frankel’s response to Aptitude’s commanding performance in the Jockey Club Gold Cup. Instead of being overjoyed, Frankel was downcast stating that Aptitude had just blown all chance in the Breeders’ Cup Classic – bounce.
Frankel was unfortunately totally correct in his assumption.
Albetrani felt differently though when he commented Benradini’s romp in the JCGC: “He does things so easily, I don’t know if anyone can give him the kind of race where he was to fight. Look at the hold Javier had on him. It looked like he could take the lead at any time. It worked out very, very well. I’ve got a fresh horse for the Breeder’s Cup now”.
Even Nick Zito who trained Wanderin Boy and Andromeda’s Hero (2nd and 3rd respectively) also praised Bernardini generously: “It’s the first time I almost clapped for a horse that beat me. That was pretty cool. That was a tremendous horse.”
So, apparently bouncing in the BCC was not featuring notably in the risk matrix in his trainer’s mind… but, again, it likely happened for Bernardini if you strictly compute his speed-rating curve.
Thanks again Davids for your positive exchange here…!
Don’t forget ‘the secret weapon’ said that Bernardini was “spinning his wheels.” Moreover, it was the first time he had to ask Bernardini in a race.
I bet Dr. Pleasure. Doh!!!
Good memory! I have trouble remembering yesterday’s bets.
Blood Horse has a lovely tribute to Bernardini….the story about he “taught” newer studs how to do their job made me tear up. I tried posting the link, but it it needed to be approved by a moderator and apparently it wasn’t.
“A plain brown wrapper without a speck of white on him’ – remembering Bernardini” – Michele MacDonald, in the Racing Post.
When Bernardini walked across the dirt at Pimlico to the grass to get saddled for the Preakness I was in awe of him. I should of fell in love with right then and there but for the fact that I was smitten with what Invasor did in the Special. It’s a shame that he had to live in Barbaro’s shadow. Steve there’s one thing that always bothered me about that Preakness was when Barbaro broke threw his gate I wish that they had scratched him but being the Preakness that was never going to happen. I always thought that Barbaro probably weakened his bone breaking threw the gate and when the gate opened with the start he had so much strength and torque that he did to himself. just a nagging thought. I would of loved to see all 3 of them in the Classic
What an amazing horse. I will always remember him from his many victories, but mostly from being, Zenyatta’s first baby Daddy.
Really beautiful writing about a horse who was in the shadow of Barbaro and should not have been. He is gone way too soon. A magnificent horse taken down by a miserable disease. Maybe not in the Hall of Fame but he won’t be forgotten.
Maybe there should be a breeders’ hall of fame? Or criteria for induction into the HOF based on contributions to the sport at stud.
I was fond of and greatly admired beautiful Bernardini. That said, he was a better racehorse than he was a stallion.
Asmussen sends out a 2yo colt named Vodka Mardini in Saturday’s 5th race (mdn, 7f) at the Spa. Sire: BERNARDINI. He has a well-bred field with which to contend (What a surprise!). Colts by Tapit, Curlin, Union Rags, Malibu Moon, Street Sense, Flatter… and Arrogate.
The Tapit colt, Predicted, is a full to Grade 1 winner Sweet Loretta and 15 – 1…
Will definitely follow that one! Dutrow isn’t one to have a 2yo cranked up for the debut. But looking forward to seeing what Predicted does at a mile or longer.
Asmussen’s other colt, Stellar Tap (Tapit), won to give him the record. Stellar Tap gave a promising display so the future looks positive for this colt. Predicted gave a mild yelp but from there the colt appeared to get lost or became disinterested. More experience would bode well for Predicted.
Fantastic article,Steve!! Once again as always. I really enjoyed this! Oh Yes; I remember this only Too well.
>Speaking of “what if’s” after 3. To me, Man O’ War sure comes to mind~ Imagine that one~ heh..smh~
Thanks Bill, I was going to mention him and did, but crossed it out because times were so different then and he had done everything there was to do. I just wasnt sure the reason he was retired.
“It is generally regretted that racing conditions as they exist in the United States at the present offer no incentive to keep such a glorious type of the Thoroughbred in training for another season or two. The disappearance, or at any rate the diminution, of the weight-for-age contests to a point where there is no encouragement to carry a horse of superlative merit through a campaign is going to rob hundreds of thousands of the pleasure of ever seeing the greatest horse of all time on the turf.”
“Match Race to Be Man O’ War’s Last: Wonder Horse Will Be Retired to Stud After His Meeting with Sir Barton” — New York Times, October 3, 1920
Steve – Wonderful story Yes, Bernardini was a victim of the “let’s improve the stable now” rationale. And, there is no question that the most famous “what if” thoroughbred of all was indeed Man o’ War, the original Bid Red as I always remind the Secretariat fans. The reason Sam Riddle retired him was that the famous handicapper Walter Vosburgh told him that Man o’ War would have to carry 145-150 pounds as a four-year-old!!! Riddle couldn’t abide that! Dave
Steve – forgot to use my 100 lengths moniker! Dave
Lol. At least we know your name.
I am heading up to Saratoga tomorrow so I may be late in responding to comments. But I will get to all of them.
“The rapidly growing legion of Barbaro fans and racing fans in general were far from convinced that he would have beaten their undefeated hero.”
With Barbaro’s misfortune in the Preakness. There is really no way to assert which of the two would have emerge the victor. But there are available cold facts that if objectively analyzed could shed some light on which of the two was better.
Barbaro won the Holy Bull in his dirt debut by 3/4L over Great Post. He was fully extended in the FL Derby to prevail by 1/2L over Sharp Humor. Could either of the runner up in those two Derby Preps, get within 5L of Bernardini? Probably not!
The talented Bluegrass Cat finished 2nd by 6 12/ to Barabro in the KD. When he net Bernardini in the Travers be was beaten by7 1/2L with Bernardini’s rider employing the mercy rule in the last 1/2L. ( Motionless)
Barbaro was a turf horse who was proficient on dirt but not brilliant. His high knee action made the prospect of defeating the brilliantly fluent Bernardini, remote at best. . But fans with unbridled emotions will inevitably be blinded to cold facts.
California Chrome legion of fan will forever regard him as the best of his crop. The fact that Shared Belief easily defeated him whilst finishing in the San Antonio Invitational in hand, doesn’t prove a thing.
It just goes to show. A man convinced against his will thinks the same way still.
Your facts speak this time! I agree with you, with some caveats. We don’t know how good Barbaro was, because he never got a chance to fully blossom and finish his 3YO campaign. And I thought Shared Belief was a truly great horse, while Chrome was brilliant in his own way. Belief was cursed by the racing gods (mugged by Bayern in the BC Classic, dead of colic before he was 5) and Chrome got all the glory over a long and distinguished career.
He also neglected to mention that Bluegrass Cat came out of the Travers with a fractured leg. Everything is not what it seems. Both had the potential to be all-time greats. Period.
Flew last Nov. to Reno to have dinner with Coburns. Having stated that, CC was in class of greatness. He prevailed in 2/3 of Triple Crown, 2nd in Dubai World Cup,next yr winning -including a host of other important races.
Coldfacts,
Scroll down.
Steve The Whitney is a stand alone classic! I’m still griping about not being able to get down on Ancient Title in 1975, when he held a neck on Group Plan for the entire 9 furlongs, I think he paid around $10……I can’t think of another race that has always held it’s chops like The Whitney has, not including the Triple Crown races, or Breeders Cup…..The Big Cap— no……Woodward—-no…..Met Mile? 50-50, it has lost something, because of the timing of those middle eastern races, but The Whitney abides! The Pacific Classic has become our biggest race, out west…. The Whitney and Pacific Classic, with Country Grammar the 2021 Whitney would have been historically epic— even without him this looks like a great horse race! I wish the Pacific Classic will be epic, also, and if Cox sends Mandaloun out there, it would certainly juice things up, I want to see the 2021 three year olds vs their elders, it’s been a good year and the next four months hold much promise!
The Whitney doesn’t draw that many three year olds, but in 1978, after the most grueling of Tripke Crowns, 13 horses lined up for the Whitney, and a three year old named Alydar won by TEN.
Dont forget Easy Goer and Key to the Mint and several other 3yos who have won.
Yes, Easy Goer was the last one in 1989. Java Gold, 1987. Alydar, 1978. Nearly On Time (!!!), 1977. Along with Key to the Mint (1972), that’s it for the last 50 years. The Whitney was the only graded stakes win of Nearly On Time’s career. In 1973, a 3yo named Secretariat finished second to an onion. I guess those were his salad days.
Easy Goer WAS Alydar!
Today a 5 year old won the Whitney, he’s one of the fastest horses in recent times, Knicks Go, yet gets minimal respect and no liking. I like him, as I picked him to win his first big 2 yo race (forget the name, was at Keeneland), but only after watching his 4 previous 2 yo races. He won on the 4th of July at some smaller midwestern track, there was something about him I liked. I decided he was it, in his next big race, he was 2nd to Game Winner. Then he lost until Brad Cox got him. To this day, KG seems to be regarded as a horse from the wrong side of the tracks, who cheats or is drugged.I disagree, he’s a throwback speed horse, deserving of much respect. The humidity got to all of them today, yet he persevered with a great win with fast fractions.
Bravo!
Bravissimo!
Correct!
Thats a long time to gripe. LOL. The Whitney can be stand alone classic unless Knicks Go, the only speed in the race, goes out there and steals it. Then it will be a bore. Swiss has early speed, but not like his, and it would be suicide to try and run with him. But you never know. If she beat this field off a layoff that would make it a classic
Knicks Go loved that super-fast Prairie track …but he ran a :23 opening quarter in the Met Mile, and ran out—the filly is fresh, and Irad doesn’t run for 2nd, I think he will make Knicks work for it…..
Knicks Go is a two turn horse
Well, he did finish 4th in those two one turn races….he didn’t get that backstretch breather in those races….I wonder if the filly is fresh enough to range up alongside…..Irad does not ride for 2nd place, I think he knows what happens when Knicks gets loose….
Thanks, Steve! Magnificent story about a spectacular horse! I was not up to snuff on Bernardini but I am now. Great, great story!
So happy you were able to learn about him
Bernardini’s career reminds me of Arrogate. Sudden and brief and without a happy ending, but at its peak….wow. Both are on the short list of the best horses I’ve seen over the last 30 years. The Hall of Fame just wouldn’t seem complete without both of them.
“Sudden and brief and without a happy ending,”
I am not sure of the of the accuracy of the above;
Both horses lost on debut.
Bernardini made 8 start whilst Arrogate made 11 .
Bernardini was retire as 3YO whilst Arrogate retired as 4YO.
Bernardini’s career ended with a 2nd place finish in the BCC whilst Arrogate’s ended with 3 consecutive
defeats with a last being a 5th place finish in the BCC.
Bernardini had several season at stud whilst Arrogate had approximately one.
Certainly a brilliant horse at stud that met its demise in either its 1st or 2nd season. Cannot be appropriately compared to one that had several seasons at stud in different hemispheres . There are tons of Bernardini progenies. As cited above his broodmares are now a precious commodity.
Without much research, Dubai Millennium and Arrogate might be a better pairing
There will be three crops by Arrogate, not one. Not so few as Dubai Millennium or, to take a home example, Effinex.
Flawless post about a flawless horse. Thank you.
Thanks Marlaine
I remember how “striking” Bernardini was. So much so that I could see it even on television. I think that the early retirement tends to let people forget what a terrific horse that he was. Thanks for reminding us. Tom Albertrani probably didn’t want to jinx the horse by giving you his name even though he was so excited about the horse that he couldn’t help himself from mentioning that he existed.
Bernardini was like a comet, speeding through the higher echelon of US racing with such sheer brilliance that spectators were struck dumb in awe of what had just passed them. The perfect thoroughbred racehorse. Charismatic, with an aura of true majesty. Once seen, never forgotten. A horrible shame that Bernardini should succome to that most dreadful of equine diseases.
Marvelous tribute Steve, Bernardini deserved the best.
Beautifully said Davids.
Thank you, Lynda. As you wrote below it’s been an extremely distressing year, reading that Malibu Moon, then Galileo, and now Bernardini have all passed within a few months. As they age you become more and more fearful of reading the next day’s racing/breeding news.
At least Malibu Moon was 24 and Galileo 23…you never want them to go, but I would say they loved long, good lives. Bernardini was a complete shock…and seemingly in his prime. I was crushed by MM’s passing, but this for me is completely different. That said, I commented below that :
Racing is a hard sport because we always have to suffer the loss of horses we love, even if it’s not on the track.
Here’s hoping Art Collector is now ready and able to satisfy the hopes for a fine racing career that he kindled last year and warrant a stand at stud. And that Stay Thirsty will be able to emerge from the long shadow cast by his sire and be properly valued on his merits.
The move to California for Stay Thirsty is showing promise which is good to see. Hopefully, Bill Mott can reignite Art Collector’s desire. The Alydar Stakes has the potential to be crackerjack. Jesus’ Team’s return is worth a look as well, among others.
Don’t like to seem to cast shade on Tom Drury, but one must hope that the change of barns proves good for the horse.
In the Alydar, maybe we’ll see that Saffie Joseph has finally solved the equation of Math Wizard too. He’s been a puzzle for a long time now. It’ll also be good to have Jesus’ Team back and see what his break has done for his development. He’s certainly proven a good earner, but you hope that he can get wins too.
He doesn’t have an entry in the Alydar, but I try to take every opportunity to say that I can’t think enough good thoughts about Jack Sisterson.
I don’t have much faith in AC now. I think that if he doesn’t run well that Bill should put him back in the turf; AC started his career on the lawn, and he showed promise there.
Do not be so discouraged “O ye, of little faith.” Ha ha
Faith in the son of Bernardini rewarded keeping in the Alydar, though the reward is not well measured in pieces of silver.
Yes, good confidence win for Bernardini and Betsy I’d wager. The Cigar Mile could be an ideal race to grab the Grade 1.
You lose that wager. Betsy’s in a state of mind I am at a loss to fairly represent, so I am copying her own first post on Art Collector’s page. Later, in another post, she made clear she is additionally miffed because the commentators on Day of the Races “over praised” Art Collector and did not mention Bernardini:
“I’m happy, especially after losing Bernardini, but he didn’t look that good late in the race, running on his wrong lead. I’d have to see a lot more before saying he’s a graded stakes contender.
The Cigar seems to occupy an interesting place in the scheme of opportunities. Is your idea based on a theory of Art Collector’s best distance(s) or on campaign strategy? I know Art Collector has speed, but am not sure he wouldn’t be burned out by a natural sprinter stretching out to a mile, like True Timber burned out Mr Buff last year — though Art Collector probably is better than Mr. Buff over a mile.
We’ve reached the bottom, or top, of the permitted nesting of replies, so we’ll have to continue elsewise.
True Timber would have innate stamina, has a Classic pedigree, but was not effective beyond a mile, turning into a plodder. However, True Timber can run a really strong mile. Sprinters, usually, extending to a mile are gasping to get the extra distance.
Art Collector, taking the lead in a mile would have an advantage to go full throttle with the innate stamina keeping him going to the wire. Corinthian’s Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile triumph is a prime example.
As for Betsy, she is a hard taskmaster, Mott has only had Art Collector for 6 weeks. Ha ha The jockey was just trying to conserve for a bigger race.
Do you have faith now? SMH
Did you notice in the Del Mar Graduation Stakes on Sunday that of the 6 colts competing in the race 4 were sired by Stay Thirsty. That’s influence.
I hadn’t, thanks! That’s influence, indeed. Oh ye, of great faith.
One of those Stay Thirsty quartet (Thirsty Always) may instead be running in the Best Pal Stakes on Saturday at Del Mar but don’t fear that Thirsty Always will be alone in the Best Pal in representing Stay Thirsty. Finneus will also represent Stay Thirsty in the Best Pal Stakes. Moreover, Stay Thirsty is the only sire in the Best Pal Stakes with multiple representation.
Stay Thirsty’s move to the Golden State has been a Midas Touch.
Very punny. Haha. If Stay Thirsty does “too” well, he’s liable to be haled back to Kentucky.
I’ll catch the replay of the Best Pal and watch the Graduation Stakes later today.
Your point about True Timber’s staying power is well made, but Corinthian would have been all over him. I’d like to see what Art Collector can do at a mile, but I think Knicks Go beats him from 8 to 9f.
Why Corinthian failed as a sire is a mystery, it appeared all the right indicators were there as well as the looks. Damn shame.
The last thing you would want to do now is destroy Art Collector’s confidence by running him against a horse like Knicks Go.
The Graduation Stakes was quite the Stay Thirsty showcase. Still, Rock n Rye clearly separated himself from the others. Looking forward to seeing how they all mature.
Yes, I am puzzled too, by Corinthian’s record as a sire.
Good that Pulpit had one son who has done okay at stud. I think his name is Tapit? 😉 Lord Nelson’s get are looking good so far, says the scuttlebutt.
I do not want to destroy Art Collector’s confidence, but if he is a top talent, I think he’ll best prove it by running against Knicks Go sooner or later, over some route of ground. Art Collector should have the benefit of time to establish his confidence. So should Knicks Go, but I don’t think he needs that time at this moment.
You’re forgetting Sky Masa (Pulpit) with over 70 black type performers and Mr Speaker looks promising. Lucky Pulpit was going ok, Pyro gets the occasional good runner in Japan and a handful of others have had some descent runners.
However, Tapit is such an influence that the breeder can go to his sons before going to other sons of Pulpit. Lord Nelson has been getting high praise thus far.
My apparent forgetfulness of Sky Mesa and Lucky Pulpit and Mr. Speaker was entirely due to the presence of my tongue in my cheek. (Grin.) I have to limit my study of the sport and industry somewhat, so I leave Japan pretty much out, for the moment. I have been watching Constitution’s successes with pleasure nonetheless. And Paynter’s. It was nice to see Harper’s First Ride return to winning ways as well as the Whitney winner.
Did you watch the Saratoga Sales yesterday? Two fillies I liked were Hip 37 a Lord Nelson filly and the Tapit filliy Hip 61 along with a slew of Construction progeny.
Betsy, you never fully recover part of your heart goes with them.
So true!
So true, David…
Totally off topic but Congratulations to the Equestrian team from Great Britain for their accomplishments at the Tokyo Olympics.
Thank you, David
Thanks Steve. I’ve been horse crazy since I was 2 and met a rental horse named Brownie, but following Barbaro’s story is what got me following the races and meant I was ‘there’ for Z’s career etc. Like others distracted by Barbaro, I overlooked most of Bernardini’s story, plus, at the time, was not particularly aware of races other than the Triple Crown, mostly because that is all that I knew of that was on broadcast TV. I still mostly watch just to see the pretty horses run. Now to go find video of his races and watch…
I wonder what will come of Bernardini’s adventures in Oz – is there a chance his genes will mix with those from Winx or Black Caviar? dreams…
Thanks again Steve. As always, your columns that I appreciate the most are the ones that help me process some of the griefs (and major joys) that are the inevitable result of loving these magnificent animals.
Writing about racing its all about stirring the emotions while entertaining and informing the readers of things they didnt know or enjoy recalling.
Thanks for a great article. I was lucky enough to have seen Bernardini that day at Gulfstream. I was walking into the track just as he was coming off the turn and I remember thinking “whoa.” I wasn’t expecting anything like that in a race of that level. I thought to keep an eye on him and then cashed a nice bet in the Preakness.
I don’t understand why Bernardini isn’t in the Hall of Fame. I would rate him as highly as other lightly-raced HOF horses like Point Given (who I don’t think ever ran against older horses), Ghostzapper, Invasor, Majestic Prince (no older horses) and even AP Indy. Winning the Preakness, the Travers, the Jockey Club Gold Cup, and finishing a close second in the Classic to an older HOF horse who had everything his way that day is a pretty good resume, without even considering the style in which Bernardini did it. I believe Bernardini ran a 112 Beyer in just his third race, the Withers, and then won the Preakness in just his fourth. That is rare talent. I’m also not sure I’ve ever seen a better-looking horse.
Maybe the “whoa” factor should be an important consideration for the Hall of Fame. A lot of HOF horses never made me feel that way. But Bernardini did, in spades.
I was so saddened by watching Barbaro break down in the Preakness I did not watch horse racing for about a year so I missed out on the rest of Bernardini’s races. I remember too that a number of fans somehow tried to blame him for what happened to Barbaro and there were even threats made against him. And there was a huge outcry when it was announced that Bernardini would be the first stallion to cover Zenyatta. Really never came to understand why so many people had ill feelings against such a beautiful and talented Thoroughbred.
This afternoon I watched Darley’s tribute video to him and I of course had tears pouring down my face.
The quote at the end of your piece, “Perhaps Jimmy Bell spoke for everyone when he said following the Jim Dandy, “It’s a privilege and a thrill to watch him run.” has been comforting for me today.
These magnificent creatures are. in the scheme of things, live very short lives. It has been a hard few months for many of us. Mailbu Moon, Galileo, Bernardini and the Swedish eventing horse, Jet Set.
Heartfelt hanks once again Steve for writing the words that so many of us feel in our hearts.
Do you have a link to the Darley tribute? Thanks.
I follow Darley on Facebook.
Hi Linda, There’s a nice video up on you tube (Darby + Kate Galvin + Bernardini should get you there).
It’s a beautiful video…I teared up. Darley loved Bernardini and took such good care of him…that’s the only solace I have, that and that I’m sure they didn’t allow him to suffer.
Thanks everybody! wow. I also looked at videos of his races, but the image quality is really bad for all the ones I could find. But the gap between him and second place was still obvious. 😉
Imagine if the best human athletes “retired” after one or two seasons in the NFL, NBA, MLB, etc. The leagues, even with gambling, would be where horse racing is now.
It’s like if Monet painted a masterpiece, then before people had a chance to appreciate it, he painted over it trying to get one just as good. You breed for greatness and then try to get another just as good before they have a chance to be great.
That’s a very powerful analogy, Steve. Thank you for being so thoughtful, whether in the column proper or in the comments. It’s always worth having your thoughts in my mind.
Thanks, Steve, for such a wonderful telling of Bernardini’s story. I too have memories of that Preakness. While I was concerned for Barbaro — and disappointed that he couldn’t race —Bernardini blew me away. He was clearly a superstar in my opinion. I don’t remember seeing the Jim Dandy, but I will look that one up.
Rest in peace, you two greats of 2006.
You will be amazed by it.
Steve you are the E.F. Hutton of writing. It is mostly impossible to read a narrative like this one without reading it twice with a big gulp in my throat.
I to was a big Barbaro fan. What happened that day is still hard to digest. That day brought back memories of Ruffian & Go For Wand plus Eight Belles.
Bernardini was a very nice colt but that BCC loss to Invasor costs him some prestige. I agree that if he had run at age 4 he probably would have become a racing legend.
Being from the west coast I was also a big Lava Man fan. I don’t believe he to liked the Churchill Downs surface.
It is a shame that we see so many of our stars retire early, it is probably the biggest reason why horse racing has lost and is still losing its fan base.
Thank you for bringing alive & remembering a very good race horse
That is very kind of you, Deacon. Thank you so much. Not running him at 4 I believe cost him all-time great status and induction into the Hall of Fame and deprived him the chance of avenging that loss.
Great narrative on the career of the late Bernardini, Steve. I like the way you bring to light the attributes of past stars who may not have received the full measure of appreciation for their outstanding performances during their careers.
If Barbaro had not gotten injured, the 2006 Preakness could have been one of the most memorable editions of that classic. Then, if Bernardini still prevailed, he would have gotten full credit and acclaim for a victory over a great opponent. Nevertheless, Bernardini would go on to prove that he was very talented in his own right.
The recounting of the 2006 Breeders Cup Classic was poignant for me. It was one of four Breeders Cups I attended with my two best racing buddies, Chet and Perry. Sadly, Chet passed away in June and I lost a kindred spirit with whom I shared many happy times at the races. I remember Chet favored Bernardini in the Classic while I supported Invasor. Fortunately we each played a $20 exacta box on them. The dinner that night was special needless to say.
Chet, I’ll see you on the other side. Reserve me a seat at the big racetrack in the sky. Of course, I’m assuming that there is a racetrack in heaven for all of us horseracing fans. What’s it called…. Paradise Park?
So sorry for your loss, Dewey, but thank you for sharing such a special moment with a special friend.
Thank you Steve. Chet’s friendship was a gift that kept on giving.
Thanks, Steve, for giving those of us who were not tuned into horses at the time this marvelous look at his career! Bravo!
So glad you enjoyed it Alexandra. Thank you
This was a lovely read, Steve, about a great thoroughbred who never really got his due during his short career on the track. It was important to situate Bernardini in time and place the way you did with your usual flair, I feel. Because he really was enormously talented. I was shocked and so so sad when I read that he had been humanely euthanized. I really had no idea. I loved this column even more because it allowed me some purchase on giving him the immortality he deserves by allowing me to celebrate a magnificent champion as he dhould be remembered. Thank you.
Very well said Abigail. Thank you.
This was a privilege to read and it brought tears to my eye. I was one of those who ignored Bernardini, caught up in Barbero’s brave battle. Thank you for bringing Bernardini’s magnificence to my awareness.
Thank you very much. I know its hard for the Barbaro fans, so glad you can appreciate Bernardini.
How fortunate you were, Steve, to have a front row seat for Bernardini’s Jim Dandy. And how fortunate your readers are to have the pleasure of your narrative. What a year that was: Bernardini, Barbaro, Invasor, Lava Man, and more. Thanks also for including those spectacular photos of the striking Bernardini.
You wrote that “Bernardini’s action and stride were so flawless it was as if his feet barely touched the ground.” I believe that the workout photo shows just that! What an animal!
Thanks Eddie. I appreciate it. I was fortunate enough to have a front row seat to all his stakes victories other than the Withers. People forget what a great Classic field that was from top top bottom.
Lava Man was riding a 7 race win streak, I think….Brother Derek hung in there until deep stretch….but Bernardini has a great year, and had to hold off Invasor—thosr two were something else
Buena la nota, tuve la suerte de ver la Breeder’s Cup 2006 como periodista Argentino, nunca, pero nunca escuche un rugido de las tribunas tan explosivo como cuando en esa carrera Bernardini en pleno codo final tomo la delantera..la magia del caballo de carrera que nunca se puede decir nada definitivo, Invasor que resulto el ganador fue discretisimo padrillo, Bernardini el derrotado, un magnifico semental..!!
Translation — Good note, I was lucky enough to see the 2006 Breeder’s Cup as an Argentine journalist, never, but never heard a roar from the stands as explosive as when in that race Bernardini in the final elbow took the lead … the magic of the racehorse that nothing definitive can ever be said, Invader who was the winner was a very discreet stallion, Bernardini the defeated, a magnificent stallion .. !!
Wonderful and eloquent tribute to a wonderful and dynamic runner.
Thank you Nicole.
Steve, thank you for this beautiful tribute…I’m tearing up. I’ve never forgotten or really forgiven Godolphin for retiring Bernardini – he would have been an epic 4 year old. Even so, shouldn’t he get some consideration for the Hall of Fame?
I remember that Jim Dandy, and Tom’s call – he somehow made a stroll in the park exciting. Watching Bernardini run was exciting – he was simply breathtaking, in action or standing still. Seeing photos of him at stud, I realize how much like Slew he was – pure dark bay what that incredible, famous eye. I loved seeing him at Belmont Park…that track was made for him….
Even in his passing, Bernardini hasn’t gotten the attention he deserved, but he leaves a wonderful legacy through his daughters. They are priceless now…
Thanks again, Steve….I think I’ll watch the Jim Dandy now…
Thanks Betsy. His retirement upset me more than any horse I can remember, At least with Secretariat we knew it from the beginning of the year.
Yep. I was very upset when AP Indy was retired, but it wasn’t completely unexpected and I was just glad his owner didn’t care about breeding and wasn’t going to stand him in Japan. Looking back, I’m sure he would have been a fantastic older horse, but with Bernardini, I felt there was soooooo much untapped potential; he would have been a scary older horse.
Totally agree.
This is such a hard sport because we always have to suffer the loss of horses we love, even if it’s not on the track. Even the longest lived horses only make it to 30 or so. Bernardini will have many daughters to carry on his line, and they will be like jewels. Not many horse leaves such a legacy, so that’s something that will ease the pain. Darley took wonderful care of him…he was lucky to have them and vice versa.