Secretariat Through My Eyes and Lens – Part 2
I conclude my Secretariat scrapbook with more photos from the racetrack and my favorite shots of Big Red at Claiborne Farm, along with several additional photos of his stablemate Riva Ridge, and a 1970s version of yours truly walking alongside Secretariat as an added attraction ~ Steve Haskin
Secretariat Through My Eyes and Lens – Part 2
By Steve Haskin
The photos, the stories, and the memories continue, as I again attempt to bring Secretariat to life to those who never saw him and back to life to those who did and were fortunate enough to experience that unforgettable time. If you want to know why I didn’t take more photos, having been to many of his races, I must explain that running the library at the Daily Racing Form, Saturday was an important working day for me, whether researching or getting photos of the stakes winners for the Monday edition.
I did take several Saturdays off to see the Bay Shore, Preakness, Whitney, Marlboro Cup, Woodward and Man o’War, but photography was just a new backstretch hobby for me back then while I preferred watching Secretariat’s races through my eyes more than through a lens. I do admit, however, that watching the Preakness from the Pimlico roof, I regret not shooting Big Red’s spectacular move on the first turn, as it took me and everyone else by surprise and left me in awe at what I was seeing.
ON THE TRACK
What better place to start Big Red’s 3-year-old season than the Bay Shore Stakes. I wrote a column about the headline photo above and its highly unusual resurrection last summer, but here is the condensed version. This was the last photo I found when we moved in 2022. It was only a 3 ½” x 5” print, and I never enlarged it because it wasn’t sharp enough. Standing by the rail, I had planned on Ron Turcotte galloping by out in the middle of the track following the post parade as most jockeys do and had my focus set for that spot. But Ron came by closer to the rail than I anticipated at a good clip and I managed to get one shot. I was upset because it turned out to be a great photo that I felt showed Secretariat off in all his magnificence. Nearly 50 years later I decided to post the photo on Facebook and surprisingly it got a tremendous response, and it was ultimately made into 5” x 7” prints for purchase on Secretariat.com.
Skipping through the next series of events, which is chronicled in detail in last summer’s column , the photo drew the attention of noted Saratoga artist Celeste Susany, who has had her popular stand at the racetrack for years. Always wanting to paint Secretariat, Celeste had been searching for the one photo she felt embodied the horse.
“I looked for inspiration in books, watching videos, going online, but I saw nothing that inspired me,” she said. “With the 50th anniversary coming up I was doing research for the painting and went on Google images and there it was. It stopped me dead. Nothing I had seen moved me like this. I needed something that embodied Secretariat and after all these years I had found it. It was the feeling you get when you meet your future companion. You just know it. The photo was the perfect combination of strength and elegance. Nothing compared over the years. I searched for the photo credit. There was none. I could have researched further, but the race meet was just beginning, so I put off the project. I eventually decided to do a small study of it and when Leonard saw it he recognized it from the photo. He told me he knew the photographer.”
And so from my little 3 ½” x 5” print hidden in my basement for almost half a century came its image as a full-sized framed original painting that hung on the wall at the entrance to the Secretariat exhibit at the National Museum of Racing. And I later learned that Celeste sold her small study for $2,800 and the large painting for $15,000. To say this was a surreal experience is putting it mildly.
Original Painting by Celeste Susany
In addition to the two shots shown in Part 1 that were taken in the Preakness saddling area I like this close-up study of Secretariat and groom Eddie Sweat. Little did we know that in a few minutes, Big Red, who already has his game face on, was going to turn in arguably the most startling and electrifying early move ever seen on an American racetrack.
This next photo is another morning at Belmont with Ray Woolfe when Secretariat again gave us that perfect statuesque pose before his work. Never underestimate Red’s willingness to pose regardless of where he was. It’s like “the work can wait, I see a couple of cameras.”
The next three photos are from Secretariat’s farewell party at Aqueduct. Once again, he eyes all the people and the cameras, but no doubt wondering, “Where are the other horses? Why haven’t I trained for a race? What is there for me at Aqueduct in November? Why am I saddled with Ronnie on my back; is this a walkover?”
Finally he steps on the track and he gets it. “There are photographers on the track and Penny and Lucien are standing on the rail – It must be a party for me! If it’s a party they want I’ll put on one final show for everybody and give them my dressage look with my finest show horse trot.”
As the greatest showman P.T. Barnum said, “No one ever made a difference by being like everyone else.” And as anyone who ever laid eyes on Secretariat will tell you, the greatest equine showman was never like anyone else. He emphasized that in this final photo before exiting the stage for the last time.
NEW HOME AT CLAIBORNE FARM
I have to begin with my favorite photo of Secretariat, taken around 1979 with my wife-to-be, Joan. We walked around his paddock until we were close enough to him. I was just hoping to get a classic head shot and was thrilled when he started walking toward us. Then came the totally unexpected. He picked up a fairly large branch and brought it over, with the branch sticking out of his mouth like a lollipop and looking for some fun.
When he stuck his head over the fence I realized what he was doing. He was daring me to pull it out of his mouth. I humored him by grabbing the other end and when I pulled slightly it quickly became apparent he was playing this game to win. I pulled harder. Nothing. I pulled even harder. He would not let go. I felt like I was back home playing fetch with my beagle Rusty. I pulled as hard as I could but it felt as if he was laughing at my feeble attempt to out-muscle him. Then it dawned on me. I was actually playing tug-o-war with the famed Secretariat. What started out as an opportunity to get a good head shot of perhaps the greatest horse of all time turned into a moment to cherish for a lifetime. In the end the spirited contest turned out to be another triumph for Big Red, but as you can see, Secretariat was gracious in victory and gave me my classic head shot (see title photo).
I would visit Secretariat several more times over the years, even introducing him to our daughter Mandy. He did have one more show to put on. One time I went to his paddock only to find him sprawled out on the ground, either having been rolling or just taking a mid-day snooze. Just as I aimed my camera, he rose like the Phoenix, his coat shimmering in the sunlight, and I was able to get him in a somewhat different pose.
My final, and more conventional, shot is of him simply grazing, but still showing off that powerful frame. I still miss him when I visit Claiborne and look out at his paddock just outside the stallion barn, remembering all the memorable moments spent there.
NOT TO FORGET RIVA RIDGE
Although Riva Ridge will forever live in the shadow of Secretariat, he will always be one of my favorites in over 50 years of photographing horses and the first champion I ever photographed after graduating from my little Kodak Instamatic to my Canon FTB and zoom lens, beginning the day he broke his maiden and seeing him and those loppy ears walk into the Aqueduct paddock.
My next big moment with Riva was his much publicized showdown with Ogden Phipps’ super filly Numbered Account in the 1971 Garden State Stakes. The track even made up buttons to be given out to the fans that read “I Like the King in the Garden State Stakes” and “I like the Queen in the Garden State Stakes.” In this photo, here is Riva, all dressed up in the striking blue and white Meadow Stable colors, with groom Eddie Sweat in the paddock before his authoritative victory. On this day, with a yearling Secretariat romping about in his paddock, Riva Ridge was indeed The King.
What we can’t forget is what he accomplished on the racetrack, including being the only 2-Year-old champion (and non-Triple Crown winner) since Needles in 1956 to win the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes. And he continued his success at 4. So here are a few more photos without Secretariat to remember him by.
The shedrow photo below, another of my all-time favorite shots, was taken the morning after Riva set a world record in the Brooklyn Handicap. I stopped by the barn and there he was grazing by the fence. As I got there, Riva was brought up to the fence, and sitting on one of the posts was a beautiful black and white kitten just staring up in wonderment at the horse, who seemed just as intrigued by this tiny visitor.
Sometimes Riva Ridge would have a stately appearance and other times it would be almost comical. Just to demonstrate Riva’s different looks, I have posted two photos of him in retirement at Claiborne, one in traditional pose and one with his customary floppy ears that became his trademark as a racehorse and made him so easy to identify.
To this day Riva is still one of the kindest horses I have ever been around, even as a stallion.
THE PHOTOGRAPHER
Yes I was once young. So I thought I would end on a humorous note by showing me captured in a NYRA photo alongside Secretariat with my trusty cameras sporting that “Welcome Back Kotter” look. I must admit, very ‘70s cool.
The second photo was taken by Ray Woolfe the morning of the aforementioned Wood Memorial workout that was to help inspire the statue. What you must know is that the reason Turcotte is looking back, as is Eddie Sweat, is that Ray, who could be quite volatile at times, is yelling at me to get out of the picture. I told him I had no place to go and to just crop me out, as I was trying to separate myself from the horse and Penny and Lucien as much as I could. And there was an unidentified couple walking behind.
When we got back to the office, Ray called me into his dark room and told me he liked me in the photo, as I gave the impression of Secretariat’s entourage, as he put it. Not only did he make up an 8” x 10” print for me, he used the photo in his book. That’s Ray, one off the most complex and interesting people I’ve ever known. But sharing an office and with him showing me his prints after developing them and me working on his book with him it made for some great times.
I hope you enjoyed my look back at the many faces of the great Secretariat and the stories behind the photos. It took them a long time to get here.
Click Here to read Secretariat Through My Eyes and Lens – Part 1
View photos available for purchase in the Steve Haskin Collection
Racing historian, author, and award-winning retired journalist for the Daily Racing Form and The Blood-Horse, Steve Haskin was inducted into the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame’s Media Roll of Honor in 2016. Known for his racing knowledge and insightful prose, he has been an exclusive contributor to Secretariat.com since 2020.
Thank you for these lovely photos of our once in a lifetime horse. How lucky you were to have been so close to beautiful Secretariat.His personality shines through here as vivid as his beautiful copper coat. So unique and beloved by all. Never be another like him. I saw him twice at Belmont and his farewell at Aqueduct. 53 years later he still thrills.
Steve, thanks for sharing the photo of Secretariat and his Aqueduct farewell, and for showing my dad, Harry Kaplan, and Bob Coglianese in the photo. Do you have any other photos with my dad in it by chance? He passed away in 2010 at the age of 82– after he left NYRA, he became the track photographer at Beulah Park, OH for a good 20+ yrs– doing his craft up until the very end. Beulah closed not long after that (2012). They were supposed to name a race after him. They didn’t.
What a wonderful read. This is just fascinating ro read and see these all. These photos with the backstory are just incredible. Thankyou. !! What a piece of history.
Steve, few ever find the compassion in their vocation as is so obvious in your work..
I take pleasure in knowing that maybe you liked the same fried chicken recipe from Louie’s in Paris as I did….
Your appreciative friend,
Clarence
Obviously, it’s very early to gage this year’s crop of 2yr. olds, but I’ve listed the following ten colts in preferential order, that have caught my interest early on.
Getaway Car
Ferocious
Showcase
McKinzie Street
Owen Almighty
Uncaged
Gaming
R. Heisman
Studlydoright
Under Who’s Radar
Edit
It took six starts before Banned For Life broke his maiden, but he did it in impressive fashion going 6 1/2 furlongs in 1:16.05, drawing off by 4 lengths, at Saratoga, on Saturday August 10th. He earned an Equibase Speed Figure of 102, so keep an eye on this Maximus Mischief colt moving forward. His pedigree reflects speed on top and stamina on the bottom.
Steve, this is a great tribute to a great horse(s). It all brought many memories and your photos are special (playing the “pull game” is my fav, too).
Thank you very much Bonnie. So glad you enjoyed them.
David, I wasn’t able to reply below…
No, it’s no good at ALL. I’m surprised trainers aren’t complaining
Betsy, Del Mar’s track is extremely biased, demonstrably affected by it’s closeness to, and fluctuations of, the Pacific Ocean, the fog, tidal movement etc so it can be speed favoring then completely different day in, day out.
Matthew et al, may have a more complete explanation for you but the above aspects have constantly impacted Del Mar over the years i’ve known the track. So, weather is going to be a high priority in how the track plays over the first two days in November, 2024.
Fingers crossed for a fair surface in November.
David, wow – that’s stuff I never considered. It’s incredibly frustrating now, but come BC time. If it’s like this, it’s going to get noticed
My brother used to say—better horses run at bigger tracks, and better horses are usually faster horses, thus less closers….Adare Manor closed from fifth—she was the better horse…..Arabian Knight didn’t win on the front—a better horse beat him…..I’m not buying into its all speed, they have had two Breeders Cups …WHOM should’ve won, that didn’t, on the dirt?….We’re Gun Runner and Knicks Go benefit of speed bias, was there a better horse than those two?
The only Del Mar bias I have ever heard of is a rail bias, sometimes the rail is like quicksand, every Summer there’s a weekend where the rail is terrible—that has not happened yet this season but it likely will…..but I’m not inclined to say speed has an advantage, because of TRACK—rather, faster horses have an advantage because they are faster—when they roll down a tracks cushion THAT helps a front runner, for sure. . .but I would not run my horse over a rolled wet-fast surface!..
Everyone has been noting the crazy speed bias at DM this year, that horses who shouldn’t hold on are, and it’s impossible to close. Are you saying that you think DM is playing fair?
Yes I think Del Mar is playing fair….I cited two prominent horses, Arabian Knight was 2/5 and he ran 4th….Adare Manor was in 5th, with a half mile to go and she won by 3 lengths….and that’s off the top of my head…..”bias” is a term that creates anxiety, about upcoming races, do you not agree with me that the better horses on dirt tend to have more speed? I can think of hundreds of top horses that had speed, and stalking ability—but I can name only a few top horses that were closers….
That said…I think Arthur’s Ride is the Classic favorite…and he—like Gun Runner and Knicks Go is a front runner….DOESN’T mean if he wins it’s a track bias, he is big…he is fast….he has stamina!
I have also noticed Del Mar dirt–around two turns is tiring, so I’ll go out on a limb and predict the Pacific Classic will NOT be won on the front end, which according to you and “everyone” is already in the books, that speed will hold—I say three weeks out speed will not win The Pacific Classic!…
Matthew, Gun Runner won against the bias at Del Mar (BC Classic) that day. Most winners over the entire week or so were coming from off the rail and coming from behind. Which emphasizes your point but also ‘warns’ on how Del Mar is quite fickle with the track bias.
Conversely, at the same meet as the above in the BC Sprint Unique Bella put in her worst performance because she hated the surface that day. At another time at Del Mar, Unique Bella won the Clement L. Hirsch Stakes in July and a 6 1/2 f. Msw in late November.
Good luck with picking a winner. Ha ha
Per a report in the Bloodhorse Arabian Knight not a sure thing for the Pacific Classic. After his dismal performance in the San Diego Handicap I don’t think he is ready for a 1 1/4 mile race. If I were Bob I would be looking at the FOREGO stakes at Saratoga. It is 7 furlongs and AK has speed he can carry in that race, but with only 2 weeks to go for that race not sure if he would , though I think it would be a good spot for him. Earlier reports have Prince of Monaco and Muth going there for the Jerken’s and Travers. I think he would be pushing Parenting for the Pacific Classic. Although he won his last out I was not impressed. He still looks green and not focused. I would run him the Shared Belief. He has Reincarnate and possibly Newgate for the Pacific Classic.
Will see were he takes him.
Downthestretch, bad luck, Arabian Knight isn’t nominated for the Forego Stakes at Saratoga. It’s not a particular strong group either. I like the idea of Cagliostro getting his Grade 1 in this race.
Too bad, again I feel that would have been a better race for him… Wonder if he could be supplemented?
I like Parenting, he caught a virus and it showed in his 1:28 work….only two more works before beating older, by a diminishing neck—I think he will run well, in the Pacific Classic….also like Doug’s Ketonah….Dr Venkman will go, and Express Train, who has won at ten furlongs….Parenting looks like he will get ten furlongs, he should improve, after his latest win…
Carson’s Run wins the Saratoga Derby International with a wonderful ride by Dylan Davis timed to perfection. Grade 1s at 2 & 3 years. Breeders’ Cup Turf is not beyond him there’s nothing much to fear from Europe at this stage.
As much as I would like to catch Carson’s Run in person, a trip to Moonee Valley for the W. S. Cox Plate would be I big ask. The track has many pitfalls for the uninitiated. Especially a colt like Carson’s Run who has a history of sailing off course.
These photographs are even better than the ones in Part I. You can tell that Secretariat knew he was special. But my favorite is the one of the kitten with Riva Ridge. She seems to be wondering just what this animal is, but Riva Ridge doesn’t seem a bit concerned about her presence on his fencepost. A great picture.
Steve Coburn has new horse in training.
Look for Getaway Car to wire the field in the G3 Best Pal and move to be the top contender in the Del Mar Futurity.
Getaway Car checks a lot of boxes, IMO.
Hope your right Bill…. He is by Curlin… Mischief River is a tough little colt should be a good race.
BTW that McKinzie colt I mentioned in an earlier post trained by Tim Yakteen is named McKinzie Street…. He beat Emerald Bay pretty easy. Expect to see him again in the Del Mar Futurity ( 9/8/24 )
Hi Downthestretch
I agree, McKinzie Street looked very impressive winning his debut race.
His sire line leads directly to Mr. Prospector and broodmare sire line leads directly to Northern Dancer which has been a very successful cross.
As expected, Getaway Car wired the field in the Best Pal.
Yes he did Bill !!! The only thing missing in Getaway Car victory today was Bonnie and Clyde sitting on his back. Hope we get see him against McKinzie Street in the Del Mar Futurity.. that would be quite a show down!!!
Baffert’s Gaming looked equally as impressive in Race 7. at Del Mar over 6 1/2 f. and ran his 6f faster than Getaway Car did in the Best Pank.
Rank, by Honor A. P., who should enjoy extra distance ran well also in Race 7.
Hernandez had Getaway Car geared down at the end, otherwise I think it would have been under sub 1:10 for the 6 furlongs. But on that thought Gaming looked very impressive and moved very smooth. Wonder were he will show up next???
Now all Bob has to do is keep them “Happy and Healthy”.
Downthestretch, that is problem. All those promising 3 year old ‘stars’ haven’t returned yet which is truly disappointing.
Hopefully, Gaming gets his chance to run in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. Wait and see.
Agree, that Getaway Car was geared down but Gaming caught the eye for the future.
“Happy and healthy”? Good one! Lol That’s one of his many problems, he mostly fails in that regard.
David, Rank is a big, goofy colt who should thrive going longer. It’s to his credit that he’s run so well against fast, talented colts when he’s no sprinter
But Del Mar should be embarrassed by the disgraceful speed bias, which makes it impossible for anyone to close
Unless they fix it, I hope Rank doesn’t run again at DM
Betsy, precursor to the Breeders’ Cup races? Not good. I know, there is a speed bias but everyone hates merry go round races.
Anisette won again….she runs the same race, every time—around 91 Beyer every time…..not the top turf filly but she has class, watching her under Rispoli, they are a team, she dies not get whipped and goes thru a seam to hand rode history, coming back with her head up high, she KNOWS what she is doing out there! Watch her returning, holding head high— I was told to watch for how a horse holds their head, and to watch for the proud carriage—a sign of intelligence and confidence, Anisette and Rispoli are a team….
Some high priced baby girls going in the 6th at Saratoga today…
Mia’s Mom ($275,000)
Trading Strategy ($500,000
Quickick ($500,000)
Tejanita ($475,000)
among others….
Looks like a nice race John !!! Could be a real barn burner
La Cara, Tracy Farmer homebred, gave them a hiding. lol. Mark Casse is having a great weekend at Saratoga.
Best Pal (Gr3) Stakes tomorrow….fast filly skipped Nooni for a short against Bob’s fast colt Getaway Car, I am HOPING. ..that Cesar Ortega let’s JJ go for the lead, on Getaway Car, and try to get outside the early pace duel with White Sands the fleet filly and Getaway—trying to get an outside run from two back with Mischief River—who IF RIDDEN RIGHT can sit then blow past both! He has already beaten Bob (Privman) and can once again..
RE Best Pal….I always considered him overrated until he won The Swaps and paired that up eith a win in the inaugural Pacific Classic, off the top of my head that race featured Best Pal running down Twilight Agenda and Unbridled….with favored Farma Way out—one of strongest fields in Del Mar history, and a three year old Cal bred won it, a long framed horse who in approximately one third of his races he could compete with the very best older horses of my fifty plus years in Racing….John Maybee had zero expectations about the colt, until he saw how big and good he was. Horse had his physical ailments, but he showed up in big races, I think he won million dollar races four straight years (possibly five) he was good for a few years….he did not win an Eclipse, but to everyone that saw this long frame Bay with one of my favorite faces!….he was a first ballot Hall of Famer….
(Gelding!…he just looked and acted like a colt!…)….
Matthew,
I remember him well. Kent Des was his rider and he even had a jacket made up that he wore with the Mabee’s Golden Eagle wings on the back. Very tough competitor.
I used to adore General Meeting, Golden Eagles’ 2nd colt to Best Pal but was an excellent sire for the Mabees and California.
Not sure why he is choosing to run against the colts versus the fillies???
I mentioned below that I was on the lookout for the return of Knightbridge on the work tab. Well, lo and behold, I just read an article in the 8/7 Saratoga Special that Knightsbridge was seen jogging a couple of laps around the Oklahoma training track a couple of weeks ago. You’ll never guess who was in the saddle? Get ready…. none other than Julie Krone. Yes, Julie was jogging Knightsbridge while she was in Saratoga for the filming of a documentary on her life story for Sports Illustrated Studios and Spyglass Media Group. Julie was introducing the crew to Bill Mott and he asked her if she would like to jog Knightsbridge for him. Hopefully, this is a sign that Knightsbridge will have timed works soon.
I’m feeling some real good vibes this week. Now, if only Saratoga could stay dry for a while. Ha, ha!.
Dewey, the impressive 2 year Tapit colt, Sandman, winner of Race 1. at Saratoga on Saturday had an interesting article written about him in the latest Thoroughbred Daily Times. Mark Casse is very high on the colt. Definitely, one to follow.
I’ll have to check that out, Davids. I was very impressed with how Sandman broke through a hole at the top of the stretch and kept accelerating. I’ll be watching him for sure.
Oops, I was thinking of Showcase, but both colts impressed me. I see that Sandman is technically a homebred. Only sold because his owner/breeder died unexpectedly.
Ms Blacktype, Sandman is a stunning colt, hopefully, he stays healthy which is always a problem these days.
Dewey, after reading the TDN article on Sandman have you been reassured somewhat? The talent is there and I prefer a slow burn than a shooting star that fades too quickly.
I’ve read the TDN article on Sandman and no, I’m not reassured. I’ve witnessed his first two races and was not impressed. He doesn’t show me a fluid stride and appears to be a grinder type of runner. As far as looks, you know what they say …. “beauty is only skin deep”.
Nevertheless, with his breeding and potential improvement at a distance, I’ve included him in my Virtual Stable to monitor his progress. I’m keeping an open mind as I always root for the Tapit progeny..
Well, well, Dewey, we shall see in the near future. Sandman comes from a very accomplished family of two turn runners. He’ll be a much better 3 year old than a 2 year old. Remember, Music Note? Outstanding!!
Re: G2 Saratoga Special Stakes, 6 1/2 furlongs.
Showcase by Uncle Mo, out of an Indian Charlie mare, looked great winning his maiden at first asking, going 5 1/2 furlongs in 1:04.20, drawing off by 7 1/2 lengths.
Trained by Todd Pletcher, he offers good value at 6-1 on the morning line.
Once again, Irad Ortiz Jr. will be in the irons.
edit: Showcase by Uncle Mo, out of a Violence mare.
Showcase rated well to win the Saratoga Special by 3 1/4 lengths in a good time of 1:16.40. His odds dropped to 3-1 at post time and paid $8.70 for the win, earning an Equibase Speed figure of 96 in the process.
Keep an eye on Showcase moving forward for his connections.
Bill, I saw the results of his maiden win just this week, and he intrigued me enough to add him to my list of 2YOs for next year’s triple crown races. And then he up and won the Special! Didn’t manage to get it recorded, but will watch the replay tomorrow. He could be a good one.
Yes indeed Ms Blacktype, he could be good one.
So not only is Tyler riding Honor Marie, but the colt wore blinkers in his work today
🤨🤨🤨
Betsy, Rank by Honor A. P., looked impressive at Del Mar on Sunday. One to follow. I’m happy with Tyler Gaffalione on Honor Marie.
Tyler Gafflione to ride Honor Marie in the Travers
Karl Broberg is stepping back from trainer. A real ‘charmer’ ! Good riddance!
Loved the photos and stories, Steve! Thank you for sharing!!
Thanks Joanne
Ray Paulick wrote a nice article about Christine Jones, a stallion manager who talks of her teenage meetings, with Secretariat….when he came for his final race, (The Rothman’s?)…his canter in the Woodbine Turf….
Awesome Part Deux! I think that Secretariat WAS waking up from a snooze. Look at his face. That’s the same cranky look that I get when waking from a snooze.
That picture with the kitten is fantastic. If it wasn’t staged, you got very lucky there.
You have always been very generous in sharing your many pictures over the years. Thanks.
Thank you Tommy. that sure was not staged. As I mentioned in the column I was surprised to see him up there. Once in a lifetime shot.
It really was. Great job.
Riva had a special place in Penny’s heart. Not only was he the Chenery’s first Kentucky derby winner which is something her father had bred and longed for but he was also the one that never forgot her while he and Secretariat stood at Claiborne. She once commented that on visiting the two horses, Secretariat treated her with the same attention he gave to any of the other visitors. Not so with Riva, his ears would perk and he would approach her with animation. She was so pleased with that. She kept a special place in her heart for the horse that almost single handedly saved the Chenery ranch.
Great story, Russell! Thanks for sharing with us.
This truly warmed my heart. Thank you, Russell!
Returnee Alert!
Parchment Party has returned to the work tab. This morning, Parchment Party worked 3f in 36.66 (1/6) at Saratoga. He was taken off the Derby trail in early February. If you recall, he won two races in impressive fashion as a 2 yo. while displaying exceptional maturity to overcome traffic in both. Bill Mott has put him back in training and, with any luck, we may see him race at Keeneland or Churchill.
Welcome back, PP.
He was in my Top 10 early on. I loved him. Good to see him coming back
Steve, Bill Mott’s stable is really blossoming at the right time of the year.
I was just there. I wish I knew he was there. I would have lov ed to see him.
Yes, Dewey, at last!! I just checked Equibase I’ve been getting a little disheartened checking every week. Still no return of Born Noble, Maymun, or Nysos, alas.
Fingers crossed, Parchment Party picks up where he left off, he looked like a very serious racehorse.
I’m also hoping that the talented Knightsbridge, another one of Bill Mott’s charges, shows up on the work tab. In any event, he’s in good hands and when Bill decides he’s ready, then he’s ready.
Have to agree with you, Davids, that Bill Mott’s barn is really coming to hand now.
He seems to be hot every summer, ha, ha!
Yes Dewey, with Bill Mott you are more (most ha ha) probable to see a talented 4 + year old performing (on dirt) at the highest level than say a Pletcher, Baffert et al promising (star ha ha) 2 – 3 year old that has either gone to stud or is performing at a much lesser level.
Mind you, Pletcher has Tapit Trice this year who looks better than ever at 4 years. The greys have it!!
FTAPIT TRICE-
Returned at 4YO contested and won the 9F Monmouth Cup (G3) which featured the following fractions and final time: 24; 49; 1:13; 1:38 & 1:50.46
Haskell 9F (G1) – 5th by 8 3/4L – Final time (1:49.52)
Blue Grass 9F G1) 1st by NK – Final tF.ime (1:50.00)
The above cold facts reflect TT has contested three 9F stakes and won 2 without breaking 1:50. He was destroyed in the Haskell completed in 1:49.52.
How can TT’s win in his 4YO debut be viewed as looking better than ever, when he didn’t break 1:50 and recorded a time is slower than which he recorded in the Blue Grass?
TT has always been a slow 3YO and his win in the Monmouth Cup hasn’t indicated he is faster as a 4YO.
lol!! You seem to be all tied up about times. Good luck with that. The REAL facts are that Tapit Trice is a Grade 1 winner, has won over $1,400, 000 in prize money, as a yearling cost $1,300.000, has a sire’s pedigree, and won his 4 year old debut by over 5 lengths.
Tapit Trice has a future at stud and that’s all that interests me.
Counter Point, when going through the times of the Blue Grass Stakes did you actually notice that Tapit Trice’s time for the race was faster than the following winners of the Blue Grass Stakes since 2015 when the race returned to a dirt surface.
2024. Sierra Leone – 1.52.3
2022. Zandon – 1.50.35
2021. Vekoma – 1.50.93
2018. Good Magic – 1.50.18
2017. Irap – 1.50.39
2016. Brody’s Cause – 1.50.20
There’s the cold facts for you. Tapit Trice stacks up pretty well, doesn’t he? You defeat your own argument by neglecting to look at the facts!!
Tapit Trice should be making some noise the rest of the year. The Tapit progeny seem to develop late, showing their best form at 4+, but they sure are worth waiting for.
I wonder if Pletcher will run Tapit Trice in the Jockey Club Gold Cup?
A matchup with Arthur’s Ride (two sons of Tapit) would be delightful.
Have you watched any of the Olympics, Davids? I’ve most enjoyed the Gymnastics, track & field and equestrian events. I’m anxious to see the gold medal basketball game between USA and France today. Allez Bleu!
Dewey, Pletcher is a master at selecting races that best suit his runners. As much as a clash with Arthur’s Ride would be highly anticipated by racing fans I’m not sure he wants Tapit Trice to tangle with Arthur’s Ride before the Breeders’ Cup Classic but you never know.
The Charles Town Classic might be another option to avoid Arthur’s Ride then they have the Woodward Stakes, Clark Stakes, Pegasus World Cup and avoiding the Breeders’ Cup Classic if they wish.
Unfortunately, with the Olympics they are concentrating on only Australian competitors so, if there are no Australians competing you don’t see it apart from the blue ribbon events. Luckily Gymnastics is blue ribbon – majestic!!
By the way, Dewey, did you catch the first race at Saratoga on Saturday? Very nice win by the Tapit colt Sandman. A small down payment on his $1,200, 000 price tag. Ha ha
Mark Casse has been relatively quiet of late so good for him as well.
Yes, Davids, I did see Sandman’s race. Being a son of Tapit, I gave him close scrutiny. I thought his win was ordinary as he saved ground racing on the rail and had clear sailing in the stretch winning under strong urging. Visually, I was not impressed (Sandman put me to sleep, ha, ha) but his breeding suggests better days ahead with more distance.
I also saw his first race at Churchill when he ran as the even money favorite. He finished 5th beaten 11 1/2 lengths by Keep It Easy who had a disastrous start in the Saratoga Special and finished last to the impressive winner, Showcase.
I have added Sandman to my Virtual Stable to follow his progress. He is a good worker in the a.m. and with more distance should show improvement down the road.
Also added Showcase. He’s going to be a star. I was very impressed with his powerful move in the stretch after being hemmed in behind the leaders.
Got to love this time of year when the babies pop up and show promise as they’re learn what it means to be a racehorse.
OK! Tapit’s progenies seem to develop late.
Charge It (4YO) 8 Starts:
Two wins:
4YO debut -AOC 81/2F – 1st in 1:41.96
Suburban 10F, (G2) – 2:01.31
Six defeats:
GP Mile (G2) – 2nd by 1 1/2L
Oaklawn H (G2) – 5th by 4 1/2L
Met H (G1) – 4th by 5 1/2L
Whitney (G1) 4th by 10L
BC Dirt Mile (G1) 4th by 10 1/4/L
Woodward (G2) 4th by 5 1/2L
Six defeats as a 4YO by a combined 37L. His 3rd start as a 5YO was the 2024 renewal of the Whitney. He finished last by 43L.
it appears Charge It who won the Dwyer by 19L didn’t get the memo that he was supposed to be better as he matured. developer.
Tapwrit: (4YO) 4 Starts;
4YO debut – AOC – 3rd by 1 1/2L
Suburban (G2) – 5th by 9 3/4L
Whitney (G1) 4th by 10 1/4L
Woodward (G2) 8th by 5 3/4L
Four defeats as a 4YO by a combined 27L. Tapwrit a Belmont winner and 6th place finisher in the KD, likewise, didn’t get the late developer’s memo.
Intrepid Heart ($750K) was beaten by 11L in his 4YO debut in an AOC race. Two races later he was entered in a $50K claiming race.
Probably the Tapit progenies that have been subject to TP’s High-Tech Program are late decliners as opposed to late developers.
I saw him train. What a gorgeous classy looking horse
Knightsbridge is indeed a sight to behold. This well bred son of Nyquist has only raced twice but has shown brilliance in both his wins. I do hope he returns to the races, if not this year, then next.
Steve Coburn has new horse.
Your photos of Secretariat and Riva Ridge gave me a warm misty feeling. What we had back then was something really special. We may never see the likes of Secretariat again but that won’t stop us from searching for the next great talent. Thank you, Steve, for sharing your simple yet powerful photos. You help keep the flame alive.
Thank you very much Dewey
Is Arrogate comparable to Secretariat?
Steve, whenever you present your unique, wonderful photographs of the past greats I get a sense of mixed emotions – joy, wistfulness, and melancholy – along with a desire to return back to the golden years of horse racing. Simon & Garfunkel’s “ Bookends” plays in your mind. Thank you for sharing your private moments.
Have you been watching the Saratoga Sales? The yearling sales breath in new anticipation of high expectation. The Tapit – Mopotism, Constitution – Bixby Lou, and
Essential Quality – Summer Solo caught the eye among the raft of exquisite yearlings. Many dreams were born over the past two days.
Thank you David. We were at both nights of the sale. P:retty amazing. Boy, they love Not this Time and Charlatan!
Good for you, Steve. You miss so much not being there. The Not This Time topper was outstanding, Charlatan is stamping his colts but they are untested so I hope he succeeds to replace Speightstown.
Did you bid on any?
A 2 year old, who sold at that sale, is doing well. He needs a better jockey, I think, lost the Sanford by a length, because he was held too far back too long, imho. Check him out, Studlydoright!
Distance is definitely in the favor for Studlydoright, just bide your time. Do you remember Dudley Do-Right from “The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show”? Times go bye.
Ferocious by Flatter is the best 2 year old I’ve seen thus far. Good luck with Studlydoright.
Steve, I didn’t know before today but you probably did, that Barbara Howar and Charlsie Cantey – sisters. Of course they are! Both with a distinct and beautiful way of speaking.
Yes I knew that, Charlsie was a pioneer and so knowledgeable, and a wonderful person.
Charlsie was such positive influence for horse racing and a role model for all that followed her into the realm of horse racing broadcasting. She radiated class.
Charlsie Cantey and Frank Wright were always there in my early years of discovering racing.
Steve,
Once again thanks for sharing these photos and memories. You were blessed to there and able witness greatness. He still is one of a kind.
Thanks again Steve for clearing off the the fog and dust of time and bringing back our joys of our youth and the incredible things we saw. If you were Mr. Kotter we’re the Sweathogs and like Kotter your work opened our minds and you taught us well. As for as the PT Barnum quote it also applies to YOU!
That’s so kind of you Derek. Thank you very much.
I love that picture of Big Red…..who ran the greatest of Triple Crowns….having a personal moment with you—with his stick…..but of course, he wasn’t going to give that up, he was Secretariat!
That’s what I call a one on one experience.
Gosh Steve…I wrote my comment before reading your article, and you said what I thought! You’re playing with “a horse”. …the horse wanted you to “try”….but he was not going to allow you to win—-oh, and….his name was Secretariat!!!!..
Great photos!
The photo of Riva with the kitten just brings a feeling of peace and positivity to me. Kind of magic. You never know where you’ll find it.
So true Todd.
Wonderful!
These are all great shots, Steve but I find the one of Riva with his side-burned groom and the kitten truly remarkable. The beauty of his head, the liquid eye, and the composition are exceptional. Is this one you took with the Kodak?!
And the ones of Secretariat playing with the stick and getting up from his nap — I’ve never seen shots like that before. I look at beautiful photographs every day for work and am a whiz at downloading hi res images, so I’m seldom moved to actually buy a photograph, but these are very tempting!
Thanks Ms B. I was hoping people would find them different
I still say his Preakness was as, if not more, impressive than his Belmont.
Beagles are the best, Steve. Such funny dogs. We had 2 growing up. Is there anything in this world cuter than a beagle puppy?
Rusty as a puppy was as cute as it gets
…and I always say his best race was The Derby—THATS greatness….all three races were great..
Welcome Back Kotter and Secretariat. Only you, Steve, could put them in the same article. Love the photos of Big Red and Riva. My favorite is the prelude to the tug of war contest. He was long gone by the time I visited Claiborne in 2000. Through your photos I can see him in his paddock. Thanks for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed them Karren. Thank you
Love your writing as always Steve. Secretariat is my favorite horse of all time. I can feel your descriptions of him and Riva Ridge. Please keep on writing about horses. Love all your stories.
I appreciate it Su,zie. Thank you
Beautiful photos.
Riva, getting a casual and affectionate pat. Again, no chain. That kitten, white whiskers so crisp. Similar scenes play out at barns every day – but how often is the horse extraordinary to anyone but the person with the lead?
The striking difference in the look in Secretariat’s eyes when under tack and turned out or at the barn.
We are so spoiled now with fantastic cameras in our pockets all the time. It is easy to forget how difficult it was to take good photographs such a short time ago. It is so impressive how you captured the dynamic personalities of these horses, and I think it was truly important work. Thank you.
PS You also gave me a chuckle. I can’t stop singing “welcome back, welcome back, welcome back” to myself, and thinking of some of my unfortunate haircuts, which featured bangs. Everyone was doing it, man!
I really appreciate it Katy. Thank you!
Once again your words and pictures have moved waves of emotions on those whose still waters run deep. Thank you Steve.
Thanks very much Jerry.
Steve, this was great! After reading, I dug out my Secretariat book and found that last photo in your column. I especially loved the photo of Riva and the kitten–and the story of your tug-of-war with Secretariat!
All great memories. thank you
FOR THOSE OF YOU INFATUATED WITH GRASS RACING, DO HAVE A GANDER AT GOODWOOD RACECOURSE IN THE MAJESTIC HILLS OF SUSSEX ENGLAND.
WHAT A GEM OF A COURSE. THEIR GLORIOUS 5 DAY FESTIVAL MEET ENDED SATURDAY WITH COMPARISONS TO ROYAL ASCOT. WE WILL DEFINITELY SEE SOME PARTICIPANTS AT Del Mar FOR THE BREEDERS CUP.
AS ALWAYS STEVE….YOU ARE THAT SONG…..”SIMPLY THE BEST”
JOHN (EX BENSONHURST)…….
That first photo of Secretariat is my favorite, a beauty.
Good morning, Steve. I enjoyed Part 2 every bit as much as Part 1. I purchased a print of your slightly out of focus shot and I think it’s my favorite. It’s almost like you saw him move a split second before, but your brain just won’t register what your eyes saw, if that makes any sense. Truly a beautiful photo. And Riva – those ears! Great, great stuff!
Glad you enjoyed them Beth. Thank you!
Steve, thank you so much for the wonderful photos and memories. Secretariat and Riva Ridge were always my favorites. I’m as awestruck as that black & white kitten!