Horse Racing: Where Dreams Meet Reality
Horse Racing: Where Dreams Meet Reality
By Steve Haskin
Consider this a public service column. Just heed my words and you will live a joyous, fulfilling life.
Let’s start with the battle that plagues us all, especially when it comes to the world of Thoroughbred racing. It is a world like no other, comprised of two hemispheres. In one hemisphere exists the stark reality of practicality, if I may use a phrase I just concocted. In the other hemisphere exists the impracticality of romance. Or in other words, one hemisphere is guided by the brain and other by the heart.
As an example, Penny Tweedy had to decide whether or not to cross that bridge from one hemisphere to the other. Her practical side probably knew her family was right in wanting her to sell the struggling Meadow Stud following the death of her mother and father, Christopher Chenery, who had built the Virginia farm into one of the most successful racing and breeding operations in the country. But Penny knew how much the farm meant to her father and she decided to follow her heart. The beckoning romance of the sport had won out, and the legends of Riva Ridge and Secretariat were born.
I am, have always been, and always will be an incurable romantic, as you might have gathered if you read my column “A Love Letter to Joan” a couple of years ago. Or if you read the numerous poems I have written to Joan over the years. From the time I was in school I was never guided by my brain, hence my Shawshank Redemption-like miraculous escape from the clutches of high school prison. I believe it has been my romantic outlook on life that drew me to Thoroughbred racing, which then led me to the wonderful life with which I have been blessed.
My wife Joan, who many of you probably feel like you know, certainly has a romantic side to her, but she, unlike me, exists in good part in the hemisphere guided by practicality, thank goodness. For if it wasn’t for that I doubt our bills would ever get paid and our checkbook balanced. I’m still trying to figure out long division.
So, where am I going with all this? OK, I will tell you.
Here I was going along at my usual leisurely pace handicapping the Kentucky Derby, pretty sure in which direction I was going. It all looked pretty simple. I, like the vast majority of fans, felt Tiz the Law, Art Collector, and Honor A. P. dominated this field that I felt was subpar for a Kentucky Derby field. I had latched on to three longshots early in the year – Sole Volante, Major Fed, and Attachment Rate – and to a slightly lesser degree, Enforceable. So I was merely going to stick with them after eight agonizing long months of following the Derby that would never come. This long, meandering, and bizarre road was feeling more like the Run for the Woeses, as prominent horses kept dropping out, including the late withdrawal of Art Collector.
So, here I was gathering my wagers in my head and just waiting for Sept. 5. I didn’t know what I was waiting more for, the race itself or for it to be finally over. And then it happened. Unfortunately, I read a Facebook post from Patti Reeves, who owns Sole Volante with her husband Dean. The post read:
“I’m proud to be a part of AUTHENTIC (Post Position #18 at 8:1), along with my sister; my sister in law; several girlfriends; and even my financial advisor. (The husband’s not in on this one; it was a girls thing!) So if anyone got Covid Crazy like I did and wants to have some fun before the big race, you too can own a microshare of a Derby horse! Check out MyRacehorse.com and join in for the ride. Shares are still available. Heck, it’s 2020 and anything can happen.”
“Wow, that is awesome,” I thought, as my romantic side came skyrocketing to the surface. I checked the website and there he was in living color charging to the finish line in the San Felipe Stakes and heading straight to Churchill Downs. For $206 paltry dollars I could buy 0.001 or one one-thousandth of a Grade 1 winner who is trained by Bob Baffert and running in the Kentucky Derby.
That’s it! That will be my surprise present to Joan, just in time for our 40th anniversary on Sept. 28. Or I could buy it for my daughter Mandy, who grew up around many of the greatest Thoroughbreds of all time. But first and foremost, it would be a perfect anniversary present for Joan, who never wants jewelry and only wants books and more books, leaving me with nothing original to buy her other than a gift certificate at Barnes & Noble. I once bought her a star (yes, a real star) and named it Joanie’s Eyes, which is officially registered with the International Star Registry. We have a large framed certificate hanging on the wall to prove it. But since then, it’s been Barnes & Ho-Hum Noble every year, every holiday, as I watch Joan go through 500-page books like I went through comic books as a kid. Evelyn Woods couldn’t keep up with her.
So, I filled out all the information and was just about to push “Buy,” when I stopped and pondered the situation. Uh, oh, my practical side was beginning to engulf my romantic side. What would Joan say to me spending $206 the day after her big boss at the New Jersey Office of Legislative Services, where she has been a part-time resolution writer for the past 17 years, decided to cut costs by eliminating all part-time workers. She had been seriously contemplating retiring anyway, but hoping to still work a couple of days a week. So, here she was out of work and me also recently getting the boot from The Jockey Club (BloodHorse) for similar reasons after having a lucrative free-lance stint there for the past five years.
I had just cleared it with Joan to order Dr. Ho’s Circulation Promoter, which I saw on TV, for her bad back and my arthritic feet. The cost was $219 and 96 cents, almost the same price as a microshare in Authentic. And, who knows, maybe it will help. Heck, it helped all those people on the commercial and it was a 90-day free trial. Why not give it a shot.
But then I got hit by Patti Reeves’ lightning bolt. The heck with pain relief, the heck with seeing our income diminished. I can buy a Derby horse for Joan, even an infinitesimal share of a Derby horse. Do I dare do something so foolish, and for a horse who was not even included in a single bet of mine? After all, he didn’t have a mile and a quarter pedigree, he was a confirmed front-runner who needed an uncontentious lead, and he had a perfect trip on the lead in the Haskell Invitational and tried his best to give a three-length advantage away, barely lasting by a nose. And in the Derby, he had drawn post 18 in an 18-horse field filled with classy pace horses and stalkers, and the last time he had an outside post in the Santa Anita Derby, he ducked out badly at the start, costing him the lead and any chance of winning. In my Derby rankings, I had him ranked at No. 8 and No. 7, even though most people had him ranked No. 3. What did they know? He simply was not my kind of Derby horse. Yes, he was very talented and fast, but everyone knows Into Mischiefs can’t go 10 furlongs, or at least have never given any indication they can, and on the lead no less, being hounded by Tiz the Law, Honor A. P., Ny Traffic, King Guillermo, and his own stablemate Thousand Words. And breaking from post 18.
Oh no, my romantic side was quickly conceding defeat to a practical side I despised, but sadly had to acknowledge. Should I incur the wrath of Joan for spending $206 for a strand of a Derby horse’s tail, and one that I didn’t like to win the Derby? But he will still be a good horse after the Derby, and should be a popular stallion, and who knows what’s going to happen in a crazy year like this? Come on, what a neat anniversary gift, even if you throw away $206. You are part of something unique and special and there are owner’s perks that come with it. It’s romantic, it’s something from the heart, it’s me. It’s poetry. It’s all about owning a star a billion light years away, which is as impractical as you can get. This star at least I can see in Joanie’s Eyes, charging under the famed Twin Spires. After all, racing is for dreamers.
I sort of tested Joan out and was convinced that this was nothing more than folly, and I knew she did not want me indulging in such foolishness, especially at this time. She told me so. So I grabbed my finger and pulled it away from that siren-like “Buy” button that kept calling, “Hit me, hit me. Do it.”
I went back to the harsh reality of handicapping and trying to win some money, as we got ready to drive up to Saratoga to watch the race with our dear friends, the Freedbergs. Authentic was now a dimming dream and I dismissed him completely, as owning a piece of him faded from both heart and mind.
But the lure of the siren wasn’t about to give up that easily. The day before the Derby I received an email with the subject line, “Last Chance With Authentic.” They knew I had reached the precipice of owning a piece of the horse by all the info I had provided and were giving me one more chance. Just when I thought I was free they were pulling me back in; tempting me, teasing me by implanting the dream in my psyche once again. The email read: “Authentic runs tomorrow in the Kentucky Derby, this is your last chance to invest. Offering closes for good at Post Time. Reach for the Stars. Run for the Roses. Authentic couldn’t be coming into the race any better.”
Stars again. I can see Joanie’s Eyes and this time I don’t need a high-powered telescope. I can see Authentic running to glory and destroying all my handicapping. I can hear Joan saying after the race, “I was wrong, sweetheart. I own part of a Kentucky Derby winner. I’m so happy you followed your heart.”
Stop, you’re killing me. I know Joan would want me to be strong and not give in to this last-minute temptation. She told me so yet again, and deep down I knew she was right and being the wiser of the two, as she always is. So I closed the email and that officially ended the romantic aspect of this year’s Kentucky Derby and the unwritten poetry I was going to present to my wife.
Of course, what happens? After Art Collector dropped out, so did another strong pace presence in King Guillermo. And then another strong pace presence in stablemate Thousand Words, who flipped and fell backward in the walking ring, with assistant trainer Jimmy Barnes suffering a broken wrist. Authentic now is breaking from post 15 instead of post 18 and three of the horses who could challenge him are gone, as is Honor A. P. who gets sawed off at the start and drops back to last.
The day before, the horse who was Baffert’s main focus this weekend, the brilliant Gamine, also by the distance-challenged Into Mischief, suffered her first defeat when she was upset as the odds-one favorite in the Kentucky Oaks. And his big older horse McKinzie finished out of the money in the Alysheba Stakes. This was getting to be a typical Bob Baffert Shakespearean melodrama. After the Thousand Words incident I said to Joan, “Knowing Baffert, this can only end one way – Authentic wins the Derby.” Not only does he win, he sets fast fractions and battles back after being headed to defeat the mighty Tiz the Law, something he had never shown he was capable of doing. Leave it to Baffert to turn agony into ecstasy and get an Into Mischief to win at a mile and a quarter. That concluded the strangest and most convoluted Derby trail of all time. It could have only ended this way. All I kept thinking was that I shouldn’t have wavered in the first place. I shouldn’t have told Joan about my intention and my indecision.
I am writing all this to tell you all, you can be practical in all phases of your life, but not in horse racing, where you have to dream before a dream can come true. The dream of Authentic is gone forever and I am trying to come to terms with that, not for myself, but for a beautiful woman who has made my life beautiful in every way. I wish I could have given her this, but she still says the right decision was made and, unlike me, has no regrets at all.
All I can say is that Dr. Ho’s Circulation Promoter better work.
Photo courtesy of myracehorse.com
Steve, aside from the chemical components within the cranium, plus the myelin sheath, the fact that Authentic probably would not have been capable of defeating Tis the Law in May. The rapidity of change physically and mentally in the thoroughbred are uniquely independent in each animal for the purposes of fright or flight. In my opinion Authentic wasn’t as far along as Tis the Law in May and your handicapping skills would have prevailed under normal circumstances. A return match might add light to that assumption.
So Lauren Stich, who used to write about pedigrees at DRF is a huge HAP fan. She had a lot to say post-Derby:
“Oh, yeah, big-time Honor A. P. fan. Still am. Despite a poor start, it was so very obvious that Honor A. P. had tons of trouble with the surface. His action was so awful, it looked like he was going to fall down all around the track and I was sure Mike Smith would pull him up. But he perservered and still managed to finish fourth on sheer class. But like so many other notable Thoroughbreds in the past, he just didn’t handle the “cuppy” Churchill surface (ala, Snow Chief and so many others who returned to win big races). After all, he ran down Authentic so easily and authoritatively in the SA Derby at 1 1/8 miles, it was apparent he would be even more effective going 1 1/4 miles. Don’t know what Shirreffs’ plans are for Honor A. P., but even though Keeneland doesn’t seem like the best oval to run, I do hope he targets the BC Classic at 1 1/4 miles there. I still think he’s the best 3-y-o going this classic distance and hope he gets the chance to prove it.”
More:
“….I’m afraid, that even with Thousand Words in the race, it would have surely helped Tiz the Law and he most likely would have won because the two Bafferts would have been running 1-2 early. But Honor A. P. never had a chance over the surface. His action was sickening to watch. Again, how he even got fourth was amazing. KD — who knows what the heck happened there! But I do believe with Thousand Words in the race would have given Tiz the Law the victory. But I’m not upset about it. But seriously, anybody *really* believe Authentic is better than Honor A. P. after the way Honor A. P. blew right by him when he had things his own way in the SA Derby? And that was 1 1/8 miles. At 1 1/4 miles, there is no question, whatsoever, that Honor A. P. is the one. Unfortunately, he will ave to prove it another day (hopefully BC Classic) because he hated CD surface.”
Betsy, I hope Lauren’s assessment gives you some peace. It’s very validating, not in the least because it’s accurate and coherent.
Livewire, I agree about HAP’s athleticism. It bothers me when people assume that he’s clunky because he’s a big horse. People also say that he needs everything to go his own way, but…….Authentic is like that. Also, admittedly we haven’t seen HAP weave in and out or overcome being blocked, etc.. BUT in both the SB and the Derby, where he got slammed at the start and cut off……..and when he had some issues with the track (Derby) …he never quit. Hopefully he’ll prove to be as good or better than Authentic and Tiz……..
Thanks Betsy. In my opinion, HAP has already proved better than Authentic but now that he has lost two in a row he will have to do something big to get back to where he was in standing a couple months ago.
Livewire, well it’s 2-1 for Authentic………..but in any case, you’re right; losing two in a row has seriously eroded much of the high regard people held HAP in.
You know that Honor AP has shown himself to be classy and versatile, and doesn’t need to be set up in a particular way to contest a race. Don’t let yourself be bothered by others’ prejudices and confirmation bias.
Peri, that’s excellent advice……and actually some of those who were a little down on HAP before the Derby because of the Shared Belief were impressed with his performance. I don’t ever go out of my way to look at rankings – so in the future if I happen to run into them, I’ll just ignore them. They really don’t mean much.
Also, yes – Lauren’s comments made me feel better – or at least validated what we’d been saying. If HAP truly hated CD, that would explain why he lagged in last place and why Mike had to urge him. The fact that he was able to close (Livewire posted his internal fractions in HRN) despite that speaks volumes. I do think he might use more gate work, but other than that…….really, it’s just frustrating that he was primed for a peak performance and couldn’t really show his best.
Oh Steve! Are you kicking yourself like I am? I discovered MyRacehorse.com a few months ago and for $199.00 bought a share of 4 two year old fillies (they were offered as a package – all 4 for the one price). I have been tormenting myself about buying in Authentic since they bought into him before the Haskell. On Derby Day, I was still torn, but opted not to buy in! Then I watched him run thru the race and finish first wearing the MyRacehorse silks! I was soooooooo happy for all the owners but sooooooo bummed for me! I will say though that since I am a MyRacehorse owner, I did still feel “involved” watching “my” silks running thru the race! One thing for sure, if they ever offer another Derby prospect, I WILL be buying a share! (FYI, only one of my fillies has raced so far and finished second…. And the MyRacehorse people are awesome to deal with!)
Just a reminder, this column will come down shortly to be replaced by another post Derby column that will be posted later this afternoon. So come on back later.
Looking forward to reading it, Steve!
Oh did you spin that one out!!
**Will he. Won’t he. Will he. Won’t he.”
Damn. He didn’t.**
LOL
Just one question? Have you told Joan about this???
LOL. Tell her? After wavering I finally told her what I wanted to do and she said “No.” Thn I gave her a last chance on Friday after getting that email and she still said no. I didnt write that because I didnt want to throw her under the bus, and she still has no regrets, so neither do. I wouldnt want to give her something she didnt want. And besides, she knew I didnt think Authentic would win. It just wasnt the frugal thing to do under the circumstances. As I said, no regrets and I got a good column out of it.
Heh…smart man.
And yes. You did get a good column out of it.
Happy anniversary, btw. 🙂
Interesting thread on Twitter from Racing with Bruno, a workout expert…His tweets are protected, so I can’t copy and paste links to videos, but where Bruno mentions videos, I’ll point it out so anyone might go look for them.
So, we’ve discussed HAP’s issues wire breaking. I’m having a hard time seeing this stifle issue, but if there is one, I wonder if it can be fixed.
** Absolutely NOT, he broke the same way he did in the Shared Belief, and his physical issues don’t allow him to break better, learned a long time ago, ‘some horses break well enough to get pinched.’ Honor A P is one of them.
look at carefully behind in his works, his right hind seems to take longer with an exaggerated swing when turning for home changing leads, thus, not allowing him to fully quicken and accelerates. This also affect start when hind end is crucial at pushing off. video proof….
***This is where Bruno focuses on the 8/22 work, just after HAP makes the turn for home.***
This video of 8/22 work: there’s a hitch in his right switching leads – from possibly the right stifle – that would cause a momentary delay in lead change behind which con tributes to ability to accelerate in stretch –
Thats THE right hind – as he turns for home he needs to push off that right hind to able to extend through his stride … wonderful horse but picked that up on him for last few works – answers why he breaks a bit slow and gets pinched as well – the push from behind is everything***
Betsy, am I correct, that the implication of the quotes is that Honor AP breaks slowly, and has broken slowly since before the Shared Belief, because of “physical issues” diminishing his ability to propel himself on the right lead? And that this leaves him vulnerable to being sideswiped and squeezed out of the gate? I’m not seeing it.
On the evidence of the Derby alone, Honor AP and NY Traffic broke equally quickly and were ahead of both Tiz the Law and Authentic at three or four jumps out from the gate. Does Bruno hold all four to have broken as poorly as or worse than Honor AP, who he believes has “physical issues”?
In Honor AP’s Santa Anita workouts, when he’s in the three or four path coming out of the far turn, he’s had a relatively sharp-angled cornering motion at the moment of lead change the whole year, which corresponds in timing to what Bruno is pointing to. I haven’t checked farther back to see if he’s always done this. But when he is hugging the rail, he strongly cleaves to the arc.
I see where Honor AP’s right hind seems to hitch on one single stride on each of the 7/25, 8/15 and 8/22 Del Mar works, coming out of the turn, but I am positive that these are artifacts of technological glitches in the recordings. It looks to me like one frame of the video is repeated. The 7/25 “hitch” is a glitch occurring couple of strides after the lead change, even.
There is no visible hitch/glitch coming out of the corner in the 8/8 or the 8/29 works.
If Bruno can’t tell the difference between a video recording/playback defect and a gait anomaly, I would infer he has some conflicting investment in finding a problem with the horse and not waste my time (or money) with what he has to say.
As I told Betsy on HRN, a bunch of hooey, hope he has a day job. The first leg on a right lead to strike the ground is the left hind for one thing.
Sometimes, when you look for information everywhere, you’re going to come across garbage information.
“As I told Betsy on HRN, a bunch of hooey, hope he has a day job. The first leg on a right lead to strike the ground is the left hind for one thing.”
Eeezactly. Sorry, Livewire, I haven’t see what you’ve on HRN in a few days. I overdid it over the weekend and have been taking a mental health break from that site.
No problem, I have been absent from class for a few days too, :). This guy sounds like one of those hacks who somehow got a forum to display his lack of understanding.
I just feel sorry for John Shirreffs, you only get so many chances at this and to have the outcome it did. When you even shock the race caller enough to make a comment during the race of how the race is progressing, something has gone disastrously wrong.
“As I told Betsy on HRN, a bunch of hooey, hope he has a day job. The first leg on a right lead to strike the ground is the left hind for one thing.”
Eeezactly. Sorry, Livewire, I haven’t see what you’ve written on HRN in a few days. I overdid it over the weekend and have been taking a mental health break from that site.
And, I have seen this horse do some amazing things athletically for such a long striding horse, during one of his works, they were working on lead changes early on the turn and this horse performed it flawlessly. Not many horses are that athletic to alter the cantilever of balance while on a bend.
Livewire, there is no way for me to reply to your most recent comments in this thread, so I will just interject here that I didn’t see the impressive lead changes, but Honor AP’s athleticism, his balance, quickness and flexibility, so plainly shines through in his common movements that I’ve never had any doubt that he has uncommon ability — even if he’s not yet had need to display them on the track. While I continue to be amazed at how fast he ran despite his trouble getting a grip on the track, I too feel sad for his connections that they couldn’t be rewarded with a win in the Derby. I do hope they can and will campaign him in a manner befitting his talent before he retires.
Peri, I hope so,too. I love John, but I fear a limited, all-CA “plan” for next year….If John loves HAP the way he apparently does, let the colt run. I don’t mean that he should ship out constantly, but there are races out East – specifically at Belmont- that would be perfect for him. RUN him – he’s big and strong. Don’t have him be retired where you wonder “what if”…
Peri, yes – I think that’s what Bruno was saying. I mentioned this to Livewire on HRN, but I recall a work (I think before the SB) where Bruno raved about how HAP looked and didn’t mention any hitch.
I’m posting this again so it’s in the thread…
Livewire, I agree about HAP’s athleticism. It bothers me when people assume that he’s clunky because he’s a big horse. People also say that he needs everything to go his own way, but…….Authentic is like that. Also, admittedly we haven’t seen HAP weave in and out or overcome being blocked, etc.. BUT in both the SB and the Derby, where he got slammed at the start and cut off……..and when he had some issues with the track (Derby) …he never quit. Hopefully he’ll prove to be as good or better than Authentic and Tiz……..
This is the TDN summary for HAP….On the one hand, he says the race was better than it looked, on the other that it was too bad to be true. He certainly doesn’t think much of HAP’s sustained run.
“Honor A.P. was never in it to win it last Saturday. Yet considering how tactically adrift he was for the first mile of the race, his fourth-place effort is better than it might seem. “He spun out from the word go. Really did,” said jockey Mike Smith, who cited this $850,000 FTSAUG Honor Code ridgling’s inability to grab hold of the “deeper, cuppier” track as the chief obstacle to a better placing. He broke hesitantly and was allowed to lag near last for most of the trip before unwinding with a long-striding move through the far turn that left him parked way out in the 10 path for the home straight. But he didn’t pass a single horse in mid-stretch who was not already backing up. Honor A.P.’s Derby has a “too bad to be true” aura to it, and as the only horse to ever finish in front of Authentic (in the GI Santa Anita Derby), it’s reasonable to think he’s capable of a more spirited showing if and when they meet again.”
Betsy, would I be correct in inferring that you find this summary confused and contradictory?
Let’s revisit the thread over at HRN on the question of Honor AP’s break from the gate, when you hadn’t seen the entire race and wondered if he had “hesitated”, which is the word used in the Equibase chart to describe his break.
As can be seen on a close view of the head-on video, Honor A.P. and NY Traffic broke equally quickly, in that for the first three or four strides their legs are moving at the same time. In this aspect, if Honor A.P. hesitated at the bell, so did NY Traffic. But it is also clear from the view above the gate that, at strides three and four, Honor A.P. and NY Traffic were ahead of Tiz the Law and Authentic.
The head-on video shows that in between his first and second jump from the gate, NY Traffic dropped low and to his right – I infer because the ground broke out from under him – so that with his third jump he was squarely in Honor AP’s lane. The lane invasion was possible because, even though the two were striding at the same rate, Honor AP was holding his head high and was taking much shorter strides than NY Traffic, who therefore had empty space to veer into, instead of Honor APs body.
Honor AP doesn’t normally take short strides nor hold his head high coming out of the gate, and horses’ front ends go up when they brake with their rear legs. It seems impossible that he did not perceive NYTraffic’s trajectory, so it’s most likely he braked to avoid taking the full force of the other horse’s charge.
TDN’s use of “hesitantly” implies a good racehorse – one who is confident, focused and fast – would have done otherwise, would not have attempted to avoid being plowed into out of the gate. The point is arguable. The absence of any description of the facts, the lack of argument supporting the characterization, however, combines with the implication that Honor AP’s race was less “spirited” than it could have been, to diminish Honor AP’ effort and undermines TDNs suggestion that Honor APs race was “better than it might seem”.
Followers of Authentic would be quick to point out that Honor AP beat him in a race where Authentic’s break (not described by TDN at all, much less described as being his own fault) arguably cost him and easy lead and thus the race, and so to them it might well not seem reasonable to conclude, from a race where Honor AP’s break (described by TDN in a manner that suggests it was his own fault) arguably cost him the race, that Honor AP has the capacity to make “a more spirited showing if and when they meet again.”
The summary is not well grounded or well reasoned, and probably displeases fans of both Authentic and Honor AP.
Peri, I’m confused because I think TD Thornton (TDN guy) is confused, lol. How can he say that HAP’s effort was better than it seemed (which implies that, on first watching, it was a poor effort) and then say later on that his sustained run was essentially a mirage……..and then say after that the race was “too bad to be true”? If he thinks HAP made up ground only because horses in front of him were slowing down then he can’t say that this was a good effort.
That said, I didn’t take his use of “hesitantly” as a negative – the official chart says that (which is stupid, because it doesn’t mention NY Traffic crossing in front of him. Of course, that’s no surprise; the chart of the War Chant completely ignores all the trouble Bama Breeze had in that race).
I didn’t read TDN’s summary of Authentic……but before the race, they had him ranked below HAP and I don’t recall them ever stating that he lost the SAD because he broke poorly.
My guess is that TDN guy had the official chart in front of him and relied more on that than on the visual record in organizing his account. It’s the path of least resistance, but too often leads one astray, as you know. And the summary isn’t very coherent, as you perceive.. You’ve got enough information and reasoning ability to form your own opinions and end up with a better understanding of what you should think abut what happened than what you can get from reading the output of those who don’t think as hard or care as much as you do — even if they are accredited professionals.
Good point, Peri…….ultimately, horse racing is about opinions; we all have them, whether we’re $2 bettors, non-betting fans who just love the game or racing “experts”.
Steve, sometimes you just can’t win. It seemed a lovely thought to me but incurring “the wrath of Joan” was obviously too burdensome. Lol!! I was wondering, in Joan’s library does she have a copy of William Harrison Ainsworth’s “The Spendthrift” to remedy some earlier extravagances? In all seriousness, Dr. Ho’s charm will last longer and be more practical. Fun read.
LOL, Thanks David
Steve what a what a lovely tale. I can’t imagine the angst just looking at that button pulling you in. I would probably throw away the keyboard now. I love your coining the Derby” The Run for Woeses” it so fitting. I hope we all find our dreams
Thanks very much, Derek.
So funny and sweet, Steve! My personal reaction to Authentic’s win was, “Man! I can’t believe I’m so disappointed that a Baffert horse won!” And I was kicking myself when I realized it was all there in front of me: brilliant, quality horse gets loose on the lead. Baffert’s only done it with War Emblem, American Pharoah, and Justify previously. (This makes 4 of 6). At least I had him and Tiz in my boxed virtual exacta. Too bad I never placed the bet (I only play the horses at actual race tracks, which is not possible this year). Will be looking for your post-Derby wrap later this week. Who do you like in the Preakness? LOL.
Great read Steve, read it over twice. Pretty much hung on every word.
Weird race the Derby. Who knew that Authentic could set fractions like that and finish the race drawing in 2:00 plus.
I didn’t see 10 furlongs to his liking but I was sure wrong. I also mentioned that it is very difficult to win back to back 10 furlong Grade 1 races (Tiz the Law).
Tiz ran a winning race, he just happened to race against a monster on Saturday. I wanted Barclay Tagg to win this race. Oh well, 2020 has been such a crazy and unprecedented year why would I think we could get some normalcy.
I know it is a early to predict but I do not think Art Collector, if he runs in the Preakness will win it. Even with a minor injury he has lost some valuable training time and having the Derby under his belt.
Again Steve, thank you for a great Derby Dozen and all the back stories these past several months. I know its been a challenge for you. I wanted you to know how I appreciate all of your posts……….. stay safe.
Thanks so much, Deacon I really appreciate that. I still have one more post Derby column later in the week, probably late Wednesday or early Thursday.
Deacon, good to see you here! I agree with all you wrote. No one
saw that coming. Looking forward to the Preakness. Hope they
hold off on Tiz the Law until the BCC.
Paula, about 11% of the win pool was for Authentic. Folks on this site and elsewhere liked Authentic. Heck, I wound up not putting a dollar on him, but I defended his record and performance in the weeks preceding the Derby. This was not a Mine That Bird derby.
One thing I learned from this Derby and from this Haskin column is that I should buy a share of a nice runner on Myracehorse! I’m on their mailing list now.
I didn’t know about it either Eddie! Something to think about
going forward-buying a share. I do get your point about Authentic, I know you
were not disregarding him at all. But I sure did.
Hello Paula, hope all is well with you and family.
I know its premature but it is hard for me to think anyone can beat Maximum Security. He is razor sharp right now and all he does is win even if he gets DQ’s.
I have always believed that a good or great 4 year old will beat a good or great 3 year old. Of course unless your name is Secretariat, or a horse close to that.
Affirmed beat Spectacular Bid, Seattle Slew beat Affirmed and there have been others as well.
The 3 year old racing season has been upended. The older horses have fared much better with scheduling. I was very disappointed in the Woodward Stakes & Jim Dandy.I sure wish better horses would have showed up.
Where was Improbable for the Woodward, McKinzie should maybe have run int hat race as well.
Authentic should like the Keeneland racing surface but will Baffert run him against Maximum Security.
To me the Preakness feels like any other race, who knows anymore. Keep up the good posts, I do enjoy reading them. 🙂
Deacon, yes to all you said. I have very mixed feelings now about
the rest of the season. I don’t think Tiz is running again until the BCC
and my heart is with Max. I feel torn between both of them. I would
be surprised if Tiz goes to the Preakness even though I know Jack
Knowlton wants a rematch. Yes, this season has been upended tremendously.
I can;t wait for 2020 to be done and over and on to 2021.
Tiz the Law should want no part of Maximum Security. Baffert has Max wired and ready.
I said it before the Derby and I will mention it to you, Tiz has run 2 consecutive 10 furlong races, that is hard to do for a 3 year old. If he runs in the BBC then that will be 3 ten furlong races plus the Preakness which almost 10 furlongs. That is alot to ask for a 3 year old.
I love both Max and Tiz like you do but I think my heart is with Max.
Mostly because of the Derby DQ last year.
Yes, I agree with most of your argument. When Swiss Skydiver lost the Oaks I feared the same may happen to Tiz the Law, the 10f races prior to the Oaks, Derby no doubt dulled both runners for their next race. As for Gamine, the pedigree caught her out.
As for Authentic and 10f, the win reminded me of Haynesfield’s win in the Jockey Club Gold Cup. Haynesfield was 11th in his next race, the Breeders’ Cup Classic and never raced at 10f again. One swallow does not a summer make. We’ll see.
I’m more positive about Art Collector’s attempt for the Preakness Stakes than you feel but you do have a valid argument. Again, we’ll see.
Love the article! As someone who has been a part owner in a low level race horse that raced 15 times and actually won a couple at Delta Downs (Louisiana) and Sam Houston Race Park (Houston), it is really hard to describe how fun a race is to watch when you are an “owner”, even a micro owner. However, my horse had a lot more defeats than wins, so you have that too. I loved how you expressed your back and forth with yourself as I have been that way many times on gifts for my wife as well. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, Ethan. I’m glad you at least got experience of watching your horse run and win.
I bet on three horses in the furures—$40 on Anneau d’Or and Honor A P…and when he started running poorly I got an outregeous price on Thousand Words, so I bet $20 on him—my brother was saying I had done very well to have two in there, alas TW came out—and I was left with one—with the defections of Art Collector, King G and Thousand Words Authentic was left with nobody applying pressure—when a horse has nobody alongside–despite the fast splits they can and do get brave—and the track WAS fast, Churchill tightened it up, for sure….that said—I thought the best horse won….would I bet on Honor A P again vs Authentic? You bet I would, and John has another big long-framed colt named Express Train, he’s got a huge stride and a proud head on him, don’t feel sorry for John Shirreffs!
Peri, this from the previous blog post – I didn’t see it until today:
“I think I would be unhappy – to say the least – as Honor APs trainer, if Mike misjudged and Honor AP finished the Derby with gas left in his tank. If he’d been able to start accelerating and picking off the others earlier in the backstretch, he wins. Amazing how he fast he ran, despite his usual gait being unavailing. On HRN, another commenter said they were expecting an Arrogate-at-Meydan move. “Why not?” is a reasonable question. It seems the horse has it in him.”
Steve did say that he heard that John was unhappy with Mike’s ride – whether it’s because of what you’re saying, I don’t know. Was it possible for Mike to move earlier ? I’m not sure – but given that HAP made his big, sustained move while still not comfortable, I have to concede it’s possible. When I mentioned that you – “a friend”- had noticed his odd stride and head carriage, Dorothy Ours – author of a Man o’War bio- said she also thought HAP wasn’t “striding well”. The fact that the colt was awkward at he start and at best uncomfortable throughout the race speaks volumes about his ability and gumption.
I’ll answer that—it WAS possible to move Honor A P earlier….but from THAT far back—if he had put him into the bit at the 3/4 pole they couldn’t have kept it up—Thoroughbreds have a 3/8 mile kick, on the average, Zenyatta had more but who is Zenyatta? I bet on Honor A P, was blown away when I saw him angling outside in last place down the backside, I thought he was being eased out of the race for a second, I took my eyes off him and focused on the leader, who was looking like the winner, even when Tiz came alongside I thought he was going to finish first or a close 2nd—but then I saw Honor A P, and believe me—he ran lights out—I don’t know if John will point him towards the Classic but I do know he belongs!
Matthew, I truly intend nothing but praise for what Honor AP was able to accomplish under the conditions. (See my forthcoming reply to Betsy above). And the average kick of a thoroughbred being 3/8 mile I won’t dispute.
A question I posed by implication in my quoted comment is whether anyone knows whether Honor AP isn’t more like Zenyatta or Arrogate than the average. Given how Mike has talked about his stamina and cruising speed in his works, saying that HAP seems to want to go around again at the end of his fast works. We don’t know for sure what a horse has got unless he is asked the question, and it seems like the Derby was the time to ask it — unless John Shirreffs and Mike Smith already know the answer. And if the answer is “yes,” Mike probably had some ‘splaining to do….
Peri, good point. HAP has only run 6 times….we really have no idea what he is; as talented as he is, he’s still kind of a work in progress. The Derby was THE time for him to show his stuff, but for numerous reasons, he didn’t get to do that. I don’t want to blame this all on Mike…I’m just all over the place on this. Someone on HRN wonders if John is the right trainer for HAP, that maybe HAP needs a more aggressive trainer. I can’t buy that as John has handled him brilliantly……but I do hope that he does start working the colt more aggressively.
Honor AP may be one of those versatile talents that never settles into a particular running style, and won’t ever be “finished.” Other than being (recently) unwilling to muscle other horses invading his space out of the gate, he breaks well. I’d like to see him race more, and be more aggressive in his races, but I don’t know whether “aggressive” training – whatever that means – will have the desired result.
If he were a human runner, I might suggest “fartlek,” but I don’t know if the benefits would equally apply to horses, given biomechanical and cardiopulmonary differences, nor if it would be more likely to cause confusion than not.
Matt, I didn’t mean that Mike should have “moved” HAP like a real move, just sort of gradually get him in a better position so that when he started his “move” he actually had a shot.
If HAP is doing well, he should be pointed for the Classic. I wasn’t sure at some point yesterday if I would have done so……but, you never know what next year will bring; who’s to say HAP will make it to the race? I think HAP needs to learn to break better, and he has some maturing to do – but assuming he’s himself, he would be competitive. I DO think that it would behoove John to get the colt a work over the track (whether for BC or the JCGC)……
Betsy, I am truly honored that you referred to me as a friend to Dorothy Ours, and that she confirms our observations. The observations also are consistent with what Mike Smith said after the race, about Honor AP not getting a good hold on the track.
If you watch the head on view of the stretch run carefully, you can also see that Tiz the Law seems to be paddling. This is not normal for him. Later, when Barclay Tagg was interviewed, he referred to it as “swimming,” and he’s concluded Tiz just doesn’t relate well to the track.
I did read the hearsay about JS’ unhappiness with MS’s ride and, like you, have no more particular information. Mike seems a straight shooter, and if he’s asked about it in the future, I imagine he will explain, unless to do so would violate some confidence. John strikes me as the type who may very well prefer to keep the matter private, especially while feelings remain raw. If the team makes some changes, I guess we will know the depth and implacability of the displeasure, even if not its exact cause.
Peri, of course you are!
I’ll take a look at Tiz when I get a chance ..Tagg doesn’t strike me as the type to make excuses, so likely something was going on.
John is right to keep any matters private. Like you said, if a change is made, it will be obvious that HAP’s connections were very unhappy. Sometimes a talk is enough. I don’t need to be privy to that kind of stuff.
I’m more than a bit annoyed that HAP is still rated behind Art Collector in the new poll. I’ve always believed HAP was better anyway, but more to the point, I guess most of the racing media weren’t impressed with HAP’s performance. It shouldn’t bother me, but it does. Yes, I know be finished 4th, but it was a very good ace from him.
Explanations, not excuses. (Grin.)
Barclay also said he didn’t want to be making excuses, and said they got beat, is all. He was sounding like he’d prefer to plan to go to the Breeders Cup and skip the Preakness, but Jack Knowlton clearly wants another shot at Authentic and to try to assure Tiz wins the Eclipse, and so wants to go to the Preakness. I imagine they’ll talk and evaluate Tiz in about two weeks and decide then.
MAYBE if Tiz were fresher he could have won, but if he wasn’t grabbing the track properly, that’s probably all the explanation we need for his performance. His time doesn’t scream that he was still feeling the Travers, as it was about equally as fast.
I thought he was paddling too. I wonder if quite a few favorites were
having issues with grabbing ahold of the track.
It does seem likely, Paula, doesn’t it? The race footage doesn’t make it easy or even possible to look at every one’s action, and then we’d have to compare with their usual working action, which also may not be possible. I would be particularly interested in knowing if colts who were at the track early and trained over it made adjustments to compensate.
If youre referring to the Derby I never said John was unhappy with Mike’s ride. I said he was unhappy with what Paco Lopez did at the start.
From the previous rankings post:
Steve Haskin says:
September 7, 2020 at 8:58 am
Havnt spoken to him yet bu I am hearing from someone who was next to him that he was not happy with Smith’s ride
Steve, did you mistype “Smith’s” when you meant “Lopez”?
We are talking about the Derby.
I couldn’t reply to you on the other post, but…by aggressive training I mean working HAP faster occasionally. Then again, I can’t use the training for the Shared Belief as an example of normal training since John was working on behavioral issues. Before the San Felipe and SA Derby, he did give HAP some stiff works.
I’m not a fan of owners overruling trainers…I think if they do that with Tiz it might come back to haunt them
I doubt Jack Knowlton will overrule Barclay Tagg, if he doesn’t think Tiz is fit to do his best in the Preakness. From what Barclay said, he wasn’t going to settle on his own view until after they got home and could evaluate how Tiz came out of the Derby.
I couldn’t reply to you on the other post, but…by aggressive training I mean working HAP faster occasionally. Then again, I can’t use the training for the Shared Belief as an example of normal training since John was working on behavioral issues. Before the San Felipe and SA Derby, he did give HAP some stiff works.
I’m not a fan of owners overruling trainers…I think if they do that with Tiz it might come back to haunt them ….l
FYI…
Steve Haskin says:
September 7, 2020 at 8:58 am
Havnt spoken to him yet bu I am hearing from someone who was next to him that he was not happy with Smith’s ride
Yes, you are correct, I did hear that indirectly. I was just referring to what John told me and he only mentioned Lopez. Watching the race I’m not sure what Smith could have done differently except ty to get him in the race earlier. It’s all immaterial. Its not going to change anything. This thread really should be in the previous column, as it has nothing to do with this column. There will be another post Derby column probably Thursday morning.
I agree it should be in the previous thread, but I don’t think anyone is visiting or posting there now..
I suppose it is immaterial, but for some of us I guess it feels better to talk about it…….there’s a lot to unpack there, even though the race is over and done with.
Thanks for clarifying!
Steve, this is not about a life fulfilled or arthritis remedies but…
Authentic’s 6f time was 1:10.23. Did you know that the only horse that had a faster lead time at 6f and won the Derby was Spend A Buck at 1:09.60?
I hadnt thought about, but I did know Spend A Buck had the fastest 6f time by the winner, so it doesnt surprise me that Authentic would be right behind him
I’m sorry you didn’t follow your romantic instincts, Steve. Would have been a heck of an anniversary present that you both would have enjoyed. But it really is the thought that counts, and I’m sure Joan knows how much you agonized over this decision. I’m inspired to fulfill my lifetime dream of owning a racehorse (at least one, in my childhood dreams!) and buy a microshare through Myracehorse as a Christmas gift to myself. Why not? I can always postpone the bills another few months.
And BTW, I was thrilled that Authentic won. I honestly didn’t think he would get the distance, but he had been my Derby favorite since early in the year, so this result was very satisfying for this unabashed Baffert fan.
I really didnt agonize over it at all. You cant give someone a gift they say they dont want. She has no regrets, so neither do I.
“You cant give someone a gift they say they dont want.”
Oh Steve,
Still young and naive,
If every man followed the letter of your law,
Then the world then would be better for all.
Hi Steve…what a great article…I love your writing style! I was lucky enough to get in on Authentic in the spring and have enjoyed this Derby ride, for sure…even if, as I tell people and you mentioned in your article, I only own a strand of his tail! I was really thinking that you were going to end with that you did buy a share…so, I do hope that Dr. Ho comes through for you and Joan!! Hopefully, we will see you at some Secretariat events once those get going again!! Stay well!
Thank you, Lori. Congrats on your big purchase, especially being in from the beginning. Well, I did get a fun column out of it, which I wouldnt have had I pressed that Buy button. Maybe somone is willing to trade their share for Dr. Ho’s wondrous miracle machine.
Awwe Steve, do it next time; if you need funds to live on I’m sure all your fans (me included) will donate to a gofund me for you and Joan. Great read, as always.
Oh, geez, I hope we never have to resort to that. I dont like taking charity. And we’re still a long way off from sleeping in a cardboard box Lol.
The kids will take you , in exchange for babysitting services, though.
Babysitting services definitely desired. Us moving in with them definitly not desired by any of us. What was it that Norton said when Ralph got stuck between a basement pipe and the ceiling — Like trying to stuff 10 pounds of bologna in a 5-pound bag? That would ne us in their house. It will be condo-looking time next year.
As a writer, Steve, you never put a foot wrong. You find the most important things, and you made me feel that I was talking to your and your wife about the race. I love to watch the races, but afterwards, I always turn to you to make sense of it all.
Maggy
I, too, hesitated for those same “practical” reasons. However, my reason was that I had already bought into a MyRaceHorse prospect. He is a son of Quality Road, based in California and training in the Bob Baffert barn. He, like so many horses this year, has had just a few opportunities to race. He wasn’t a Derby Horse but I know I’ll be proud to cheer him on as an owner. A micro owner but, atlast, an owner!
Well, good luck with him.
I bought an Authentic microshare on Friday when they finally became available in my state. So it was awesome to see “my” horse win the Derby. But I sure wish I had put him on top in some of my exacta and trifecta boxes….
Steve, this was so sweet and funny! The last line had me laughing out loud!! “All I
can say is that Dr. Ho’s Circulation Promoter better work”. But, I think as others have said,
the fact that you wanted to buy her the ownership percentage, probably meant a lot to
Joan. I think most husband and wives have that financial ying and yang thing going.
Imagine if you didn’t want to buy her anything or didn’t care what it was. There are people
out there like that. So, I think you get double props for not only wanting to buy her something,
but something meaningful too. My husband will do that every once in a while but most of the
time he says “What did I buy you for our anniversary?”
You know, who knew Authentic would turn out to be so strong on the lead? I sure didn’t. Plus,
John Velazquez gave him a great ride and that didn’t hurt at all. I don’t think any of us should
feel that we were totally clueless. Very few had him winning the Derby. I will be interested to
see if he can repeat it at the Preakness.
Glad Jimmie Barnes and Thousand Words are doing o.k. I was very worried after seeing that
incident.
About Joan’s back pain- I use Thermacare back wraps and leave them on for 12-24 hours.
They help a lot. Also, Myoflex cream. It also helps. Then there are lidocaine patches (over the
counter), Advil and if none of that helps, Robaxin muscle relaxant (prescription only).
I hope Dr. Ho’s promoter works on you circulation. Not fun dealing with that at all.
Thank you, Paula. As ho hum as I said Barnes and Noble gift cerificate is, there is nothing she enjoys getting more. Going to B&N and picking out books is what makes her most happy. As for Thermocare she uses it all the time and all kinds of pain relief.
I love books too. All of our bookstores in my area have gone out of business
except for a secondhand bookstore that I can browse in for hours. They also get new
books that don’t sell every now and then. Otherwise, it’s Amazon.com.
Paula, the mentioning of lidocaine gave me a wry smile.
I know lol but Joan isn’t training horses so she’s good.
You are so On point. The agony . The highs and the lows. All rolled up into one Derby Day. Great read. He really ran an incredible race. I’m grateful all came out of it ok. And I hope the late scratches are all ok too. So many dreams make it to the Derby. And some are shattered. Thankfully we had a Derby albeit no fans. Hoping for a better 2021.
I dunno; I think you already gave your lovely wife a heck of a good gift by agonizing for so many hours over what to get her. I imagine there are many, many spouses that cannot say the same of their own beloved. I think, in the end, that’s what people want most- to know that the person who loves them is paying attention. And what a beautiful piece of writing came out of it!
I laughed reading this story, because your back-and-forth anxiety over the decision reminded me of what I tell friends about the gambling aspect of horse racing- very seldom is wagering a totally satisfying experience. After all the back-and-forthing, and careful sorting out and structuring of a wager, if you bet wrong, you think, “Ugh, why did I make that bet?” and if you bet right, you think, “Ugh, why didn’t I bet MORE?” Truly, there is no sport more suited to the worries and the second-guessers than horse racing. No wonder its fans are so devoted.
(I didn’t have Authentic, either. I guessed Gamine was going to show her distance limitations on Friday and so was feeling very smart about not wagering on an Into Mischief colt to run 10 furlongs. Le sigh.)
That is very kind of you to say. Thank you! And BTW, Joan absolutely loves otters. She has otters in all forms on our dresser shelves. and we were both avid birdwatchers, so Otterbird describes us to a T.
Ha, I said pretty much the same thing-pretty funny.
Great read, Steve. I wasn’t aware of the Authentic party and I’m sure I would have been tempted to buy into that dream. However, my car is in need of something to help it start so tomorrow will be car-repair day and I’m pretty sure I would have quelled my desire to own part of a race horse to keep the $200 for my car. When I saw the sub 47 second time at the half, I just knew he’d fold and someone would come to get him at the end … much like I’ll Have Another bested Bodemeister before he could get to the wire. Good luck with the Dr Ho purchase … I just wish there was a Dr Ho product for my ailing car!
Well its supposed to be for circulation and it sounds like you are out of circulation. Good you saved the money for the car. It will thank you later.
Just to let everyone know there will be another post Derby column later in the week.
Would you be able to get to the bottom of the Money Moves Wagering Phenomenon by press time?
LOL, Yes I can right now, People are nuts.
🙂 Yes. That is the likely explanation. Occam’s razor.
Not just that MM was taking tons of money, but that HAP was freaking ice cold. AS the saying goes, you can’t go wrong underestimating the intelligence of the American people, lol
In a year where anything seemed possible, why not be dreamers right? Great Story! My husband knew who myself our 2 daughters liked and we love those horses with all of our hearts…he knew better then to buy that share…I would have been mad at him…l told him Authentic has no chance of winning, he is by Into Mischief, will finish 3rd or after…lol well it is 2020…anything was possible…right Mr. Big news?
Steve Haskins is a huge loss to Bloodhorse. But their loss is secretariat.com’s GAIN.
Thank you, Ki. That is very kind of you
Steve, that was both lovely and quieting. Cathartic, even.
When you begin by exhorting us to heed your words to live a joyous, fulfilling life, I begin to suspect you of misdirection in your offering me to bet yesterday evening. Gentlemen’s wager.
No misdirection intended. I didnt want anyone to thnk this was going to be your standard type of recap.
Ah, but what you write is always heartening, because you are a truth-speaker no matter what you say. Thanks are inadequate.
That is very kind of you. Thank you!
Oh Man! I’m reading this and yelling to you in my head…Press BUY! I had not known of this possible minute ownership of a racehorse … wish I had… classy pedigree, Bob Baffert, AND Johnny V in the Derby. Wow…. next time follow your heart. Life is too short not to.
I would have Judi if it was just my money I was spending, but it’s Joan’s money too and under the circumstances she was right in not wanting to do it. And if she wasnt thrilled about it I would never even consider it. Also remember I did not like Authentic at all in the race. I never thought of him as a Derby horse.
What a great article, Steve! For fans and owners alike, much of horse racing is based on dreams and luck. It’s so fulfilling when the dreams come true, but so often they don’t. My dream for this Derby was for Honor AP and John Shirreffs to sweep the glory, but look what happened there. That said, I’m happy for Bob Baffert and his team. With all of the mishaps they’ve had on the Derby trail this year, it seems only fitting that he’d pull out a win in a crazy year like 2020!
So now we can watch the 2 year olds and start dreaming about next year’s Derby, and possible Triple Crown, winner. Maybe we should start putting aside our $200 for the next ownership opportunity (but don’t tell Joan). In the meantime, follow Dr. Ho’s advice and get some good use of that Circulation Promoter. I hope it works!
LOL, thank you Jane. As for next year, I will repeat what I said before, as the handicapper’s used to say, “If you didnt attend the wedding dont go to the funeral.” In other words if you missed out the first time dont try to make up for it. Youre just going to lose your money.
Hi Steve, man I can relate. I have a share in a MyRacehorse named Cairo Kiss who’s PP’s and health are rocky at best but I was sorely tempted to invest in Authentic since I already love the horse, but practicality won out. I have no regrets and it help’s that I bet no. 18 on the nose.
There ya go, Dale. Better than nothing.
Yep, I love the game, win or lose!
Great article Steve! If it makes you feel any better, it was not possible to buy shares as a gift for someone else due to the SEC regulations, So that wouldn’t have worked (And you’re still on the hook for an anniversary present!)
It was a lot of fun, although I did feel a little guilty leaving Dean and going to the winner circle with my girlfriend, but he was a true sport.
Thank you for all your support of Sole Volante. I think we’ll see some exciting races from him on the turf.
Hi Patti. I’m kind of glad to hear that, but I guess I could have bought it in my name and given it to her, but it wouldnt have been the same. I wanted her to be the owner and in her name. I am happy for you to get in the winner’s circle even if you are a traitor LOL. If Deam said he was happy for you, he was lying. Only kidding I’m sure he was. As for Sole he was just too far back and maybe it was just long not to have had a meaningful race. I’m sure he will get back in form. Seriously, congrats for getting in on authentic, who I did not like at all, and thank you for providing me and the readers with this column.
Imagine having to explain that the share in Authentic was really your wife’s share as a gift even though it was in your name. I think you dodged a bullet by passing on that idea, Steve.
Oh gosh, Steve, I’m so sorry for the disappointment! But I’m glad Joan isn’t mad at you. I totally get that mental wrestling match, believe me. It happens a lot with “horse anything!” Can I really afford my lease horse? No. I should be saving for retirement. But my heart tells me, do it NOW, while you can. So I do it… and I love every moment. My friend Jane (as in Jane Heart Jewelry, you know her) has an Authentic share and yes, she’s pretty darn tickled right now. When she told me about it I looked into it, but on my budget and with the realization that investors won’t see a dime of their money back for years, if ever, I decided paying for my horse show last weekend was more important. Now I’m sorry… I’m pretty certain I’ll never be able to say in my life, “I own a Derby winner!” and not be lying through my teeth! But, it was a strange race in a strange Derby season in the strangest year of our lives. Just one more thing to make us hate 2020, haha. One last comment: during the stretch run I was absolutely agog at the difference in running style between Authentic and Honor A.P. The latter runs like a normal horse, stretched out, low to the ground, smooth strides. Authentic was upright and all over the place! Head in the air, legs flailing and churning. It looked like Johnny V was having a heck of a time just keeping him straight. So how in the heck was he FAST?!? Because he really was, that was a fast time overall, I know! Would love to hear your perspective on this.
Made at me? Hey, I’m mad at her for not wanting me to do it LOL. Not really, totally undrstandable, and as I said I didnt like Authentic at all in the race. You shouldnt have any regrets. Wait, did I just say that? I’m just trying to make you feel good. LOL
Great article as always! I’m a firm believer in dreaming in a dream! They really do come true sometimes’
Thats what its all about, Pam.
I felt your angst throughout the entire post. I, being romantic, with a partner who is practical, can relate entirely. What a shame Joan has missed out!
She has no right to be upset and she isn’t. I’m more upset han she is. I’m the one who wanted throw away $206 so she could say she owned a Derby winner. She was the practical one.
This is delicious, Steve! I agonized with you every step of the way, and identified with your dilemma completely. It can be applied to so many of life’s decisions! I like the MyRacehorse people, and would recommend them to anyone. Last year, I pushed the “buy” button on a beautiful Fast Anna colt, but after many months of waiting and hoping and rehab, he sustained a career-ending injury just weeks out from his first start. Fresh from this disappointment, I passed on the Authentic offering. Besides, my heart was too heavily invested in HAP to consider putting my money into a horse who is one of his rivals. No regrets. But I have jumped in again on a nice Medaglia D’oro colt! Forget that feathery thing. “Hope” at the racetrack is defined as tomorrow.
Good for you, Cynthia for jumping back in. I understand youre big rooting interest in HAP. You didnt want to have to root for another horse. In my case I simply did not like Authentic, who went against every handicapping tool I use. But racing has changed and it seems pedigree and running style mean little anymore.
Great article, Steve – not least because Joanie and I could be twins. My mother used to get frustrated when I said that I wanted books for my birthday – she said I could have those anytime, lol. What can I say? Born a bookworm, die a bookworm!
Everything did seem to fall into place for Authentic, but he still had to have the talent and guts to pull it off. I feared this, I feared him on an easy lead………though admittedly he didn’t break great. I was certain Honor A.P. would run a huge race, though I never predicted he’d win. You just never know with horses- they will break your heart sometimes.
And youre both blonde, right, from what I saw on your little thumbnail photo on Bloodhorse. As for HAP I truly feel he would have either won or been right there at the wire had he gotten away cleanly and been able to stalk the pace. John had him primed to run a winning race and I think he might have been a lock to win the Preakness. I wish he was going there but it doesnt look like it. While he was fresh for this race perhaps Tiz the Law peaked in the Travers and wasnt used to coming back in four weeks and coming off a mile and a quarter race.
LOL oh no, that’s not me in the photo – that’s a shot of my favorite actor and actress, who happen to be best friends; it was taken behind the scenes at a fan convention ! I’m brunette with glasses, lol – and not nearly as gorgeous as that actress!
You could be right Steve, take a look at the below. Absolutely HAP would have been closer – very possibly have won. That’s what has to frustrate John – knowing that the horse had one shot to win a Derby, and he didn’t really ever have a chance. He said before the race that this was HAP’s opportunity. Sigh. If HAP just didn’t have any run and simply ran poorly, it would have been one thing – go home and regroup. Losing all chance at the start must have left him with so many “what if’s”. I’m ok with no Preakness because the track doesn’t suit him – though, I think he’d be fine on it. What I won’t be ok with is if they decide to point for the Classic and take the boring CA route – or train up to the Classic. I want to see him in the JCGC, though I acknowledge issues with back to back 1 1/4 issues. John has done a brilliant job with HAP, but I wish he wasn’t so conservative – I fear that he will never run this horse. HAP is big and strong, and he loves to run. Give him a chance to do so.
With Tiz, he ran well…nothing to be ashamed of. I think the back to back 1 1/4 efforts must have token their toll on him, as did his other big efforts. I wish his owners would listen to Tagg and not force him to run in the Preakness.
* Who ran fastest in the Derby accounting for ground loss? Honor A. P. ran 49 more feet than Authentic. He traveled a total of 6712 feet in 121.16 seconds for an avg of 55.40 ft/sec. His adjusted time for 1 1/4 (6600 ft) is 1:59.14. Fastest in the race. Ground loss from Trakus.
https://twitter.com/truxtonstables/status/1302971486110732290?s=21
He ran awesome. Cant wait to see his Thoro-Graph figure. I agree about the Gold Cup. with his stride he would love Belmont Park’s big turns.
If you find out what it is, please let us know!
Well, I’ve made it obvious – but very nicely – to his owners in Twitter that I’d love to see him in NY. I’m hoping that the fact they also own Midcourt will help make up their minds; there’s no reason to run both horses in the Awesome Again…
Running in the Awesome Again just seems boring to me. And remember, Maximum Security has to run somewhere, likely the Gold Cup or the Awesome Again.
Hah, it’s boring to me, too ! In fact, that’s exactly what I said to a friend…”boring, boring, boring”! Oh, I haven’t forgotten a Maximum Security…well, initially I did. I guess it depends on where BB wants to send Improbable. Either horse would be tough. In any case, no matter which race, we will know about HAP’s capabilities vs his elders before other 3 year olds….
Another great read, Steve. I know all of those thousands of Authentic owners are just over the moon (but it’s a big crowd!). Authentic was actually my early choice, and then I met Honor A.P. Talk about one’s romantic side – I was SURE he would win (and have the losing bets to prove it), but alas the racing gods were elsewhere on Saturday . And MY horse via My Racehorse (a lovely American Pharoah filly) has had one issue after another and is still in Florida rather than showing what she can do as a trainee of Uncle Todd P. See? It could be worse! Thanks for brightening up a truly awful day here n the Midwest.
Thank you, Alexandra. I’m sorry it didnt work out for you, but in racing there is always tomorrow
Although I rarely bet, I picked 5 horses for the Derby and boxed 4. I had Thousand Words in the box and when he scratched, I moved Attachment Rate into his slot. Authentic was still on the list along with Tiz the Law, Honor A.P., and South Bend. Last time I try and pick the longshot. think I had a senior moment. Great story Mr. Haskin. Thank you.
Steve, I feel your pain. I am right there with you. I had that opportunity and also, for once in my life, listened to my practical side. Daughter’s wedding or Authentic??? Funny thing is she probably would have told me go for the horse. I do own shares with My Racehorse in a Tapit colt (Solar Strike) which I bought last year as a birthday present to myself, but, as is typical with the racing gods, he looks to be such a Tapit head case he may never make the track.
Well wedding vs Authentic is a no brainer, Sheila. Hopefully your Tapit filly will mature. Thy often do
You know I thought the exact same thing when Thousand Words was scratched…oh no Bob hasn’t won this weekend and this is surely an omen that he takes the Derby. I don’t know what angel he has sitting on his shoulder but it always seems to work. As a huge Tiz the Law fan (and anything descending from Tiznow) I was extremely disappointed – but he did have every chance to win. Trying to figure out why jockeys continue to let Bob’s horses loose on the lead without challenge…it never seems to work for anyone but Bob.
Hi Steve!
Wonderful essay! I had watched horse-racing for many years before I met Secretariat, received a piece of his mane, and lost the rest of my heart to the horses! I bought my share in Authentic before The Haskell and even wrote a thank you note to Mr. Hughes for the opportunity. I am so very sorry both you and Joan lost your positions before you were ready. The same thing happened to me when my position was eliminated, and it broke my heart. I am so happy you have found a new home here. If Dr. Ho’s Circulation Promoter does not work, I recommend CBD oil! Take care, Mary in Boone PS I think it is really neat Joan has a star!!!
I’m happy for you, Mary. But dont feel badly for me. I at least got a fun column out of it.
Yes, you put smiles on lots of faces: quite an accomplishment in 2020!!!!!
Steve, I’m sorry that I took such pleasure from your story of The Great Regret. (YOUR regret, not the 1915 Derby winner)
Now it’s time to wipe clear from your mind the emotion of the entire 2020 Derby trail, archive the necessary dry facts from which to learn, and look forward to watching the future Derby hopefuls.
Good luck with Dr. Ho’s Circulation Promoter. How can a product with a name like that not be better than owning a small piece of a Derby horse?
LOL, right, Eddie. If it werent for the Authentic rejection I wouldnt be writing a post-Derby column . I hated the race because of HAP and Thounsand Words and no one doing much running. The bottom line is I didnt like Authentic at all. He went against every handicapping tool I use. But its time to realize any horse with any pedigree with any running style can win the Derby, even if goes against everything you believe.
Instant Classic, Steve! I’ve been there in my life with my wife so many times, and I’m laughing all the way thru your story. Decisions, Decisions not always easy… and your last line was a total classic thought! Thank you for sharing, made my day, knowing I’m not alone in those predicaments.
Thank you very much, Geoffrey. I appreciate that. You have to have fun with things like this
I am surprised … although I probably shouldn’t be … at all the ‘neigh’ sayers on Twitter. People having a good time seems to tick some other people off. Wish I’d known about buying in. Knowing me I probably would have talked myself out of the purchase, but what a cool story to be able to tell.
Neigh sayers about what?
Thanks to Steve Byk, Steve Haskin has come into my life via the radio and FB. I have luckily owned my “dream horse.” She never saw the track, but with me she saw lots of deer, butterflies, owls, blue herons and even a beaver during one of our many treks upon the C&O canal. I lost my dream horse about a year ago. Now it’s up to guys like Steve Haskin to fulfill my love of horses via his stories augmented by a few hours each week at Xpressbet. And yes, Secretariat won the TC the year I graduated from HS, making him my all-time favorite. Thank you Steve Haskin for keeping me connected through your writing.
Wow, Tom. That was beautiful. Thank you so much and I am sorry about you losing your dream horse, but what memorable moments she gave you. You cant put a price on that. Thanks so much again.
Thank you for writing and sharing your story. I’m just now coming out of a regretful weekend. I looked at my notes and I had Mr. Big News in a trifecta box with Tiz the Law and Honor A P. Then I noticed that I crossed out Authentic’s name and number a bunch of times. After King G scratched out of the race, I mentioned to my daughter that I should rethink my bets, realizing that there was no real speed to run with #18 and that he would have the lead all to himself. I didn’t change anything and I spent Sunday in regret. Anyway, my daughter hit the show bet with Mr. Big News. I’m still trying to figure out this race and the season that lead up to it. No more regrets and please let us know about the Circulation Promotor. Looking forward to the BC Classic.
LOL, I will, Mary Lou. I can feel what you went through. Happened to me many times. Congrats at least for having Mr. Big News. I never once gave him a thought.
Love it, love it. Being a hopelessly and incurable romantic I can so identify with this. I too had an opportunity to buy a small share in a racehorse and was just about to hit enter for the payment when that “practical” guardian angel popped up on my other shoulder and stopped me. It feels good to be able to laugh these days. Thank you!
Glad I was able to provide you an outlet to laugh about it, Lynda. You have to. And as I have said, I didnt think he could win, so I really dont feel that badly…Well, maybe a little…well, maybe a little more than a litlle…well…..
You made my day, Steve. You put a smile on my face as I read of your dilemma on making the right decision for Joan’s anniversary gift. Your brilliant column covering the practical and romantic sides of horse racing is spot on. I share those emotions and consider myself a dreamer, at heart. What I really like about your story telling is your honesty in expressing the feelings that most of us have but are reluctant to share openly. I’ve been in similar situations and have hedged back and forth on whether to push the “buy” button or not. I needed a boost and you came through with a most enjoyable tale. Thanks! I hope Dr. Ho’s Circulation Promoter eases your pain.
Thank you very much, Dewey. I appreciate that. Knowing me I’m not even sure I will buy Dr. Ho. Maybe now I better. If it helps it will relieve more than my foot pain.
So I looked at buying one of those shares but also decided not to. A friend and I have our birthdays close together and I will probably buy a share in another horse as a birthday present to us both. It was a tough decision for sure, and I’m glad your wife is onside with where you ended up, Steve. As a retired person with her own issues, please let us know how the Dr. Ho’s thing works out!
LOL, I will. As for now buying into another horse after not buying into Authentic, there is an old handicapper’s line that goes, “If you missed the wedding, dont go to the funeral.”
What a wonderful read. I had the same temptation when I saw the info about myracehorse.com. I would have been tempted more if it wasn’t Baffert… But I wasn’t tempted enough near enough to actually spend the money. Having once been part of a partnership, and losing my ass, the temptation wasn’t THAT great.
Good for you, Karen for resisting tempatation. Stay with what you believe. Did I really just say that?
And he’s out of a Mr. Greeley mare for crying out loud. Baffert’s a master!
Man, he sure is, Tim. Only he could have pulled this off.
Steve, this is just an extraordinary story put together at an intoxicating pace. It was all I could do not to skip ahead to the finish line to find out how it all ended. But I knew what I would be missing along the way. Thanks so much for this beautiful, bracing ride.
Thanks so much. o be honest, if I had bought into him I wouldnt have written th column and sounded like I was beating my own drum. Too self-serving. People relate more your losses than your wins. And more fun this way.
I was just thinking something along those very lines. If you had picked Authentic at or near the top of your Derby list, we would have never seen this delightful column.
Steve, I love your comments! Just remember – there’s always next year to buy!
I came across My Racehorse on Facebook near Mother’s Day. My husband agreed that it was a good idea for a gift, so I’m now one of the owners of the Filly Four at a cost of $180 for all. It has been fun getting updates and videos from the various trainers. Unfortunately, two are not ready to race yet (need time to grow and mature), but one netted me $2.10 so far!
I have been a crazy horse lover all of my almost 67 years, and am happy to say I’ve passed that on to our daughter. I’m looking forward to seeing my fillies compete at a track when and if this crazy time allows us.
LOVE “Askin’ Haskin” installments!
Thank you, Anna, and good luck with your filly. I hope you have a lot of fun with her.
That is an awesome story and I wish I had known about the Authentic website because I would probably, maybe.. might have pushed that button. Practicality is prime, but it sure tastes better with a dash of romance.
Thanks very much, Kathryn.
Steve – I bought one of those microshares! I became a horse racing fan on that day in 1973 when this beautiful red horse was walking in the paddock – I was yelling at the TV about this horse should be in the show ring as a Hunter or Jumper and why was he going to run on a track. Well – he showed me and my interest was born! I knew nothing of him before then but later knew of his 2 yr old Eclipse award. On to your article – after meeting you and Joan at several of the Secretariat get together events I think you blew it!! Joan would have had a giggle over your spending that $206. But now I can say that I own a tail hair of a Kentucky Derby winner! But he will never replace that Big Red horse in my heart.
That’s right, Leslie, rub it in :). Just kidding, congrats on your purchase.
LOL! Nicely done with that last line. Laughter is the only remedy in some situations. Sorry you had to go through all that. Isn’t it enough that you have put your reputation on the line every derby, but to have this going on in the background? These horses, this race, it takes it out of us every year, but we come back to it don’t we? Thanks for this Steve, whenever you include Joan in on the story, I know it’s going to be a classic.
Next year it will surely be different.
Thanks very much, I have to put my muse in my columns now and then. I owe her too much not to