Smarty’s Solo Ride Into the Hall of Fame
It’s been a long road for Smarty Jones, but he has finally made it into the Hall of Fame. Although his overall record, especially number of lifetime starts, was not at the time typical of inductees, Smarty in many ways had carved his own niche on the sport as far as stamping his name in the history books and triggering an unprecedented love affair with one of the country’s major cities. ~ Steve Haskin
Smarty’s Solo Ride Into the Hall of Fame
By Steve Haskin
If there is one thing Smarty Jones has proven it is that he knows how to fight his way onto the big stage, and once there he knows how to capture the audience and become the star of the show. We saw that over 20 years ago when he overcame the murder of his owner’s longtime trainer and a traumatic injury that nearly cost him his eye to grow into a beloved national hero, and we saw it this year when he not only made it on the Hall of Fame ballot for the first time after years of rejection, he was the only one of the 16 horses and humans on the ballot to enter racing’s pantheon.
The average age of the last 10 previous modern day horses when elected to the Hall of Fame was 10.8. Smarty Jones was elected in his first try at the age of 24. As we said, Smarty still knows how to command a stage, even after taking more than two decades to get back up there. And now here he is in the spotlight once again, still breeding mares and going into the Hall of Fame several years after his biggest rivals on the racetrack have either died or been pensioned.
As the years passed with Smarty failing every year to get enough votes from the nominating committee to make the ballot, the nagging thought was that it would be a shame if the Hall of Fame voters never were given even one chance to cast a vote for a horse so revered by the public. And one who stamped his name in the history books in so many ways.
One of the main roadblocks that stood in his way with the committee was the fact that he raced only nine times and never ran after the Belmont stakes, his first career defeat, which many believe was one of his best performances considering the questionable tactics of the opposing jockeys.
But a precedent had already been established to dismiss that as a deterrent for putting him on the ballot and letting the voters decide. In 1969, Majestic Prince, like Smarty, was forced into retirement due to an injury following his first career defeat in the Belmont Stakes, having made only 10 career starts and having also won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness. Although Smarty made one less start, he won seven stakes compared to six for Majestic Prince. Considering that Majestic Prince was elected to the Hall of Fame with nearly the identical record and credentials there was no basis to use number of starts and losing the Belmont against Smarty Jones.
For a while, Smarty’s chances of making it on the ballot seemed hopeless as he never came close to receiving the necessary number of committee votes to qualify for a place on the ballot. This year he finally managed to squeak in by the narrowest of margins. Now it would be up to the main body of voters, who would be seeing his name on the ballot for the first time. It would be tough with 15 other names, all of whom you could make a case for. But no one could have imagined that Smarty would be the only one on the ballot to get enough votes to make it into the Hall of Fame. Even at age 24 he had that same flair for the dramatic and still was able to find his way into people’s hearts.
After all, he had once been a national hero with a fan following rarely seen before. And of course there were the indelible marks he left on the sport and the Triple Crown. They included having won the Preakness by a record margin of 11 lengths; having drawn a record crowd of 120,000 to Belmont Park for the Belmont Stakes, which led to the New York Racing Association limiting future crowds to 90,000; won the first ever $5 million bonus offered by Oaklawn Park on its 100th anniversary to any horse winning the Rebel Stakes, Arkansas Derby, and Kentucky Derby; drew 15,000 fans to Philadelphia Park on a Saturday morning, some waiting on line starting at 5 a.m., just to watch him gallop around the track; was given the first ever three-state police escort from Philadelphia Park to Belmont Park; and was credited by Pennsylvania governor Ed Rendell with playing a major role in the state getting slot machines, which helped racing not only survive, but flourish.
Smarty Jones surely was no ordinary horse who simply won the first two legs of the Triple Crown, as his opposers claimed. You cannot tell the history of the Triple Crown without including Smarty Jones and that magical spring of 2004 when he had the people of Philadelphia reveling for the first time in the exploits of an equine sports hero. One of the highlights that year for fans of the Philadelphia Phillies, who failed to make the playoffs, was Smarty Jones’ trainer John Servis getting a rousing ovation before throwing out the first pitch before a game against the Mets.
What was it about Smarty Jones that inspired racing fans of all ages to send literally hundreds of thousands of letters, poems, and drawings to Smarty Jones through owners Roy and Pat Chapman and John Servis, many of them from young children? There were songs written about him; he had his own bobblehead doll, several different Breyer models; and he appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated. There were even Smarty Jones billboard signs on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
Walt Disney once said the secret of Mickey Mouse’s popularity was that he was so human. Racing fans, even adults, in some ways looked at Smarty as human and could actually sympathize with him after he ran so gallantly in defeat at Belmont after being forced to run his third quarter in :22 4/5, unheard of in a mile and a half race, and his 1 ¼-mile fraction in 2:00 2/5, which would still be the fastest final time of 147 of the 151 Kentucky Derbys ever run.
That is why so many people still cannot bear to watch that Belmont Stakes. Here are some of the comments made, many on social media:
“I can’t think of a more heartbreaking defeat than Smarty Jones in the Belmont. Still unwatchable all these years later.”
“It broke my heart that he lost the Belmont. I’ll never forget the largest crowd in history suddenly silenced, and the little girl next to me who I comforted when she broke out in tears.”
“It was following Smarty that got me into horse racing – still love him so much!! That Belmont about killed me!! Talk about crying my eyes out!!!”
“It was like a balloon got suddenly deflated. The roar of that Belmont crowd becoming still as he got passed….you could physically feel it.”
“His story was so compelling, so heartwarming. The outcome of the 2004 Belmont Stakes was like the worst kind of cruelty joke.”
There were hundreds more just like these.
This wasn’t Ruffian breaking down. This was a horse losing a race. Yet it affected people to such a degree that the pain still lingers. Whether you want to call it anthropomorphism at a high level, Smarty Jones had taken on human qualities to the extent that his defeat would induce such strong emotions.
Smarty Jones was meant to reside forever in the hallowed halls of the National Museum of Racing. After all these years the voters finally were given the chance to make it happen and they showed that Smarty still possesses the power to captivate people on a large scale.
By being elected to the Hall of Fame, and by himself, after all these years, it should expose him to young racing fans, journalists, and handicapping experts who either weren’t born when he ran or were too young to remember him.
But they will never fully grasp the impact he had on people and the phenomenon known as Smartymania that swept the racing world and beyond in the spring of 2004.
On August 1 Pat Chapman no doubt will be thinking back to the days watching Smarty Jones grow up on her and Roy’s 100-acre farm in Pennsylvania, aptly named Someday Farm. With their small operation pretty much disbanded following the murder of their trainer and with Roy in bad health, their slim hopes rested on the two remaining babies they decided to keep. This coming Friday, one of those babies will be inducted into the Hall of Fame.
When Pat, who lost her husband in 2006, accepts Smarty’s Hall of Fame plaque I will think of Shakespeare’s words in this context: “How far that little candle throws its beams!”
This day will belong to Smarty Jones, and you can bet all his connections, whose lives he changed forever, will savor every minute of it. As well they should. They and Smarty have waited long enough to get here.
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Bridlewood Boys Look Unstoppable
If you have a top-quality 3-year-old who looks capable of winning a Grade 1 race you better start reserving your seats for the $1 million Pennsylvania Derby September 20 unless you truly believe your horse is better equipped to win the 1 ¼-mile Travers Stakes than Sovereignty, or you are willing to take a chance that the ghosts of Jim Dandy, Onion, and Keen Ice are going to be haunting Saratoga on August 23.
And we didn’t even mention Journalism who at this point appears more likely to stay in California and take his chances against up-and-coming star older horse Nysos in the Pacific Classic. But his plans are still uncertain.
As everyone knows well by now, Sovereignty and Journalism graduated at the top of their class at Bridlewood Farm Academy where they learned their early lessons from Meda Murphy, who has become the Mr. Chips of horse racing.
After Journalism somehow pulled another rabbit out of his hat to win the Haskell Invitational with his typical display of guts and toughness, and Sovereignty a week later steamrolled his competition once again in the Jim Dandy, one has to wonder why any 3-year-old would want to face one or both them going 10 furlongs in the Travers unless they are content with a placing.
Of course there is Bob Baffert who fears no one. He appears to be looking at the Travers for Haskell third-place finisher Goal Oriented, having already seen Arrogate go into the 2016 Travers a gecko and come out Godzilla. Could he actually knock off both these titans on opposite coasts a week apart?
As for Sovereignty, the Jim Dandy was basically a prep for the Travers, and despite being a bit lathered up, keen early, and racing very wide throughout, he still ran his third quarter in a quick :23 3/5 and came home is final eighth in :12 3/5 to beat a sharp and dead-fit Baeza, who finished 9 ¼ lengths ahead of the third horse, Peter Pan winner Hill Road, and two Derby winners, Mo Plex (Ohio Derby) and Sandman (Arkansas Derby). But give credit to Baeza who still had fight left in him and was able to make it close. Remember, he is a very late foal (May 13) and is just starting to reach his peak.
Here is an interesting stat regarding Sovereignty and Journalism, who still hasn’t found a way to beat his arch rival, at least going 1 ¼ miles. So far in his career, Journalism has run three negative Thoro-Graph numbers (negative ½ twice and negative ¾). Going into the Jim Dandy, Sovereignty hasn’t run any negative numbers, and despite soundly beating Journalism by three lengths in the Belmont, it was Journalism who ran a slightly faster number. But Sovereignty just has the ability to overwhelm his opponents in the stretch with that big bounding stride of his, and can do it coming from 15 lengths back or one-length back.
It would be interesting to see what Journalism could do if he was the one having to catch Sovereignty instead of the other way around, as he has shown the ability to lengthen his stride and find a sudden late burst of speed when he has to run down a horse, even after appearing to be beaten.
It appeared at one point in the Jim Dandy that Baeza would try those tactics when Sovereignty broke so sharply and outran him early, but Sovereignty was able to ease back in third, putting him in position to pounce on Baeza and front-running Mo Plex. And when the Godolphin Goliath pounces on you there is little hope for escape.
In short, both these extraordinary horses are all class, are tough as nails, know where the finish line is, have powerful closing kicks, and even have classy names and classy connections.
So wherever they meet next, whether back east or more likely on Journalism’s home turf this time, it promises to be the event of the year.
Photo courtesy of Steve Haskin
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.
Great story, Steve!! I attended the 2004 Kentucky Derby and will love Smarty Jones forever!
What a difference a week makes. After a fantastic card of racing on Whitney Day, the quality really drops off next Saturday. I don’t care. I’ll give it a shot.
I could play Arlington Million Day, but it just isn’t the same at Colonial. Just like it wasn’t the same at Churchill. They don’t attract the Europeans like they used to. Aidan O’Brien always supported the card at Arlington. Not so much anymore.
Even with big purses again, the Secretariat, Beverly D, and Arlington Million drew kind of smallish fields. I think that I saw 6 horses in one of those races and 8 horses in the other two. Not the quality of the old days. Where’s John Henry when you need him? I’m still pretty sure that The Bart won that day. Eddie D? I can’t trust my memory anymore. I think the placing judge at Arlington that day now works as a steward at Saratoga. Anyone that saw that DQ of Flavien Prat on Zulu Kingdom last week probably thought of the phrase “blind as a bat”. No offense.
Tommy that entire production is available on youtube—NBC declared The Bart winner—on the slo mo though, Ol John got it! Starting on the turn, from the 13 post—Shoe got John on the rail, and drove him past right o. The wire—after the race they asked Eddie, he said he thought Shie won….the British color man kept mentioning Lester Piggott’s 6 lbs overweight, on Madam Gay—finally her trainer told him Piggitt was best at any weight! The FIRST Arlington Million was the best! (John Henry, The Bart, Madam Gay)The first Marlboro Cup was the best! (Secretariat, Riva Ridge, Cougar II)…First Pacific Classic—(Best Pal, Twilight Agenda, Unbridled)…First Champion of Champuons Quarter Horse race (Mr Jet Moore, Kaweah Bar, Charger Bar three noses on wire)…
Per the HHOF website, these are the only criteria for consideration and induction into HHOF:
Contemporary Thoroughbreds
• Must be retired from racing for five calendar years before nomination.
• Remain eligible for induction for 20 years (between five and 25 calendar years after their final race).
• If retired for more than 25 years, they become eligible through the Historic Review Committee.
The core mission of HHOF is to “chronicle and promote the rich history of one of America’s most spectacular sporting pastimes through educational experiences – continue to inspire racing fans and to cultivate new ones”.
There are no rules that a horse must win x number of grade one stakes races, or raced x number of times or set speed record(s) or won any leg of the Triple Crown or won x amount of dollars or length of career or how many starts or how many wins or won an Eclipse or won by x number of lengths or time form rating.
Best comment I read on another social media site was that “fame” has many definitions including widespread reputation, especially of a favorable character; renown; public eminence; renowned; prestige; exceptional talent; popularity; notable.
Smarty is the only one who was voted in under the 20 year window out of the list of nominees.
The other two inductees came under the historical review.
Just not understanding why some are so strenuously objecting to Smarty Jones.
The other nominees for 2025 were Blind Luck, Harve de Grace, Game on Dude, Groupie Doll, Kona Gold, Lady Eli and Rags to Riches.
Why is it so hard to understand that I – and I know others – have a different opinion than those who think he belongs?
I’m done with this here because I refuse to have my opinions invalidated because I’m not part of the Smarty fan club. I’ve never disparaged him, either – I just don’t think he belongs in the HoF. This kind of discussion goes on in all sports – usually with much more tolerance for opposing POVs
But it doesn’t matter – he’s in the Hall and that’s that. Enjoy it
Betsy my comment was not specifically directed towards you and actually was a response to Davids comment below and certainly was not an attempt to invalidate your opinions.
Agreed Lynda! Reason Smarty is finally in is strictly on talent, not for some fan club of blue haired old ladies.
Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale August 4-5 sees the first yearlings of Flightline to be sold there. How high will they fly?
Davids, eight listed in catalog.
The best bred based on pedigree is the colt out of Hot Dixie Chick and the filly out of All American Dream (American Pharoah). Of the two I think the colt is the best. Both have somewhat long, sloping pasterns on the front as does Flightline. The filly does not have a particularly pretty head.
Honestly none of eight made an impression on me, but then what do I know!
Maybe the best are yet to come.
It’s August 3rd—we may have seen the best 2yo male last week—Brant—and we mayhave seen the best 2yo filly yesterday—Ornellaia—I know a good horse when I see one…I have been pretty good at identifying talent early—perhaps both are only one turn talents …but they are talented….
Or maybe, just maybe, Ewing is the best two year old colt.
Ewing was very impressive but he looks like a really nice sprinter to me. Brant was jaw dropping.
Matthew, Buetane impressed me this morning.
Todd Pletcher has a filly named Tommy Jo that looked big and beautiful. And she has a terrific name too.
I believe the best mare not in the HOF may be Glorious Song. Granted, many of her wins were in Canada, but she was dominant here against fillies and gave the likes of Spectacular Bid all they wanted when she faced males. Unlike most other top fillies, she was a great broodmare, dropping Rahy and Singspiel. Times have changed, but i think she was more horse than any of the top fillies of the last decade.
Well I agree, and am shocked that she is not in The Hall….for years I called Glorious Song the best filly I ever saw….I saw her in person, ib 1981 (I think it was(, where she passed Eleven Stitches at the top of the stretch, and Stitches battledback—it was my “Summer of Stitches”, he won four big stakes, all getting passed and coming back—paying good in all—a forgotten gem…speedy and could stay….
Todd, the US Hall of Fame list of who is in and who is out has confounded me for years. It appears as those who are on the committee pumping for their favorites.
What is the criteria? It’s certainly not the number of Grade 1s won, not how many races a horse wins or didn’t win as they contradict each other by the horses that are there. LOL
Maybe someday Barnes will enter HOF. Lol
Odd trip by Kopion yesterday, yet she got a 107 Beyer—winner got 110, Seismic Beauty….race two today, Del Mar—Mark Glatt returns Formula Rossa–who won her February debut, beating two of Bob’s, easily in 1:08 3/5….Glatt thinks she’s special….
Formula Rossa won strong, this afternoon, 1:09 flat… she’s 2 for 2 and might be special…
42,000 at Saratoga yesterday, Horse Racing is still a great sport!
Matthew, that’s the dilemma for US acing these days. Boom or bust, the marquee days sell out and become too expensive for many, as Lynda mentioned previously, but the run of the mill days have little to encourage anyone to attend.
Europe spreads their big races more evenly throughout the year while Australia has the luxury of creating new races with massive prize money attached to them which entices the racing fans to attend.
Mike, I responded to you below….
Should he alert the media?
Unlike some,never do I uplift one horse to disparage another. Not my style.
Well obviously it’s impossible to have a conversation with you. I have no patience for passive-aggressive BS.
Not once have I ever disparaged Smarty – you apparently believe in group think, and can’t deal with anyone having a difference of opinion.
No skin off my back …
Yet, you have gone out of your way to say that Smarty Jones does not deserve to be in the Hall Of Fame, which, I hate to tell you, IS disparaging because of the fact that he was just inducted. So, while you sit on your high horse, adjusting your little halo, please be advised that we aren’t fooled by your righteous indignation. You are certainly entitled to your opinion, but be aware that if you try to beat people over the head with it, they might push back. Glad to be of help!
I would say you woke up on the wrong side of the bed, but both sides of your bed are nasty – 🙄🙄🙄
You take yourself far too seriously. Pot calling kettle regarding unable to accept different opinions. Stated earlier Gulch and Bernardini deserve HOF.
For the record, I think you have at least one “nice side of the bed “(as a metaphor, of course)
Thanks Journalism.
Saratoga was not a fast dirt surface today…Saratoga Special was 1:18…..Test 1:23 2/5, and the :46 half had the speed STOPPING!—Take a look at race six, a debut maiden filly named Ornellaia—by Girvin/Broken Vow—they paid $1.1 million, as a 2yo—and she had a troubled start, was 15 lengths behind—and she blasted home in 1:11 2/5, which today was FAST! Very impressive filly….
(Test was 1:23 flat)
Down in flames with Johannes.
He was rank after being off for so long. Then got in all kinds of trouble going into and around that first hairpin turn on the inner turf course. Maybe the horse is not the same after the long layoff or maybe you can just the throw the race out. I don’t know. I’m too dispirited to think about it now.
Still a few solid plays to go. Maybe I can save the day.
He was bounced arounf repeatedly before the first turn: never stood a chance.
Tommy—Jon Hardoon said this AM–you can get in all kinds of trouble, getting stuck inside, on the Satatoga INNER course—toss that performance, but also—he has now had TWO casesof bone- bruising, which is a serious malady–I was not confident in his chances, yesterday—–he never picked up his feet….
The Saratoga Special is down to just 4 horses but really looks like a match race between Ewing and Obliterate.
I just read a stat about Tim Yakteen’s horrible record when shipping outside of California.
I still like Johannes.
Tim did ship a stakes winner at Jeeneland, one year…he also was the trainer of several of Bob’s shippers who won–whereby stayed back on Cali…
Mike Repole was talking about the poor economics of running Fierceness and Mindframe as 4 year olds. He was lamenting that the purses for top races weren’t big to justify the risk and lost stud fees. I applaud him for being sporting enough to keep them in training, but isn’t the real problem that each horse will start no more tnan 5 times this year?
While I, too, appreciate his keeping the horses in training and understand the concern about the risks of continuing to race, I have a hard time with his complaint that the BCC purse is “only” $7 million. He’s a billionaire, for crying out loud. If anyone can afford to lose a little money by running his horse at age 4 rather than sending him to stud, it’s a billionaire!
Agreed!
Wow.
That’s odd!
Someone on HRN said the exact same thing!
Huh …
Lol
Sovereignty gets on them quick. I’m looking forward to playing Travers Day.
I just saw a ridiculous DQ of Zulu Kingdom at Saratoga. Not playing today. Just watching. No dog in the fight. Interestingly, a steward came on to explain the DQ. But I don’t agree with anything he said. Just my opinion.
My usual gripe on Saturday at Saratoga. I’ll be playing tomorrow. Changing channels like crazy. Why can’t we have a home of our own?
Saturday 8-2-25
FS1: 12noon-2pm
FS2: 2pm-3pm
Fox: 3pm-6pm
FS2: 6pm-7pm
That’s just looney.
Even if you have FanDuel (which I do) you STILL get jacked around between Fox, FoxSports, NBC and occasionally Peacock. Terrifying to contemplate how much we’re spending for all the basic channels plus essentials. Close to luxury car payment every month.
Comcast dumped Fanduel, for which i already was paying extra. Bill is $300 a month and they’re stealing channelsl
My TVG account allows me to view the races from my phone/computer….
At least you can watch.
Must have cable to watch FS.
Do not have cable.
Speaking of Hall of Fame….Melair—a “legend”….Accelerate—a terrific training job…Flightline—a freak of nature—as well as a surprising number of good horses, along the way—please put John Sadler into the Hall, he belongs..
Matthew, I just read a really nice piece on DRF about the induction ceremony (the Smarty contingent was out in force) and saw that DECATHLON, a 1950s sprinter, was one of the new inductees. A very good horse, but not great in my estimation. But perhaps that’s an old prejudice I held against sprinters in my younger days. I certainly think they can achieve greatness now.
Ms B I read in the BH article that he stepped on a nail, got an infection that changed his running style.
Smarty deserves this! Je dominated, in every race—stamina challenged, inThe Belmont–Smarty ran his greatest race, not allowed to relax throughout, fighting, as he was tiring—Ive never been so angry, at a horse race, had ge won there would be no question, ofhis deservance—theres never been one, for me..-
Smarty was a shooting star….there was a sprinter in the mid 1980s, who had a similar career to Smarty–as a sprinter—I’m certain he did not make the Hall, but he was spectacular, winning 9 races and running 2nd, in his final race in which he suffered a bad injury early in the race and still got 2nd—Phone Trick, who would have beaten most of the sprinters in the Hall of Fame, if not all of them….
Steve and all the Breeders Cup Classic on November 01 could indeed be one for the ages with not only a showdown between Sovereignty and Journalism but a larger picture with the best 3 year olds against the best older horses.
As of today, August 01, the possible include Thorpedo Anna, Journalism, Sovereignty, Forever Young, Fierceness and Sierra Leone just to mention a few.
As a fan I would be hard pressed to settle on one favorite but Forever Young and Sovereignty will certainly be at the top of my list.
Not much chatter so far on the races on Saturday. Fierceness and White Abarrio at the top of my list for the Whitney.
Good luck everyone on your selections and safe racing for all.
Davids read this morning that Bill Mott is considering sending Patchment Party to the Melbourne Cup. He would become the first American trainer to enter a horse in the race.
Thanks Lynda, that would be fun for all the fans. Parchment Party appears the right horse for the Melbourne Cup. Has the stamina for the two miles plus some speed at the end to win. I hope he comes.
Did anyone see Chad Brown’s comment about Sierra Leone’s loss at Fair Grounds?
“a couple of gimmicky horses that needed Lasix finished ahead of him.” He was talking about Touchuponastar and Hall of Fame.
It made me chuckle a little bit.
Tough card at Saratoga on Saturday. Eleven wide open races. Obliteration or Ewing should win the 3rd race and I like Johannes in the 8th. But the rest of the races are very difficult. Going to need some luck to come out ahead on Whitney Day.
Speaking of Johannes, the 7+month layoff is a concern. But I like the looks of his workout pattern. Five and six furlong workouts should have him fit enough. Johannes is a five-year-old now and he could be getting set for another Breeders Cup run on November 1st after finishing 2nd last year. Pace could be a concern on Saturday. However, I just feel like Johannes is better than that bunch. We’ll see.
You have to take a stand somewhere on a card like that.
Chad’s comments reflected poorly on him, in my opinion. His horse seems to be a bit of an underachiever, except for one race.
I agree with you.
Mewonders…..Chad also said “IF Saratoga will give me a fair surface–Sierra Leone might win”—mewonders if his disqualification of Zulu Kingdom may have been a not-so-subtle message, from Saratoga …
I could be wrong but Saratoga appears more speed bias than usual and I can understand Brown’s frustration. It’s dreadful watching the Whitney turn into a farce with uncompetitive runners setting the race up for another horse.
Yes, I appreciate the fact that Brown threw in a runner to set up the race for his big horse, nonetheless.
Mindframe would have won the Whitney in his sleep. However, the test for Mindframe is 10f., so the Jockey Club Gold Cup will decide where he runs at Del Mar should he have the chance.
Davids…Saturday Saratoga was closer friendly! :46 flat half, for the gr1 Test, and the pace collapsed! MIden coming from 16 lengths back in a 6fur debut…and Sierra hand ridden home….
Which horses get into the US Hall of Fame and who are excluded has always been a mystery to me. My Juliet, as an example, who never won a Grade 1 race is in the Hall of Fame yet, Rags to Riches who won 4 Grade 1 races including the Kentucky Oaks and Belmont Stakes in that tally is not.
Smarty Jones, and best wishes to him, is in the Hall of Fame with just two Grade 1 races while Afleet Alex is not while winning 3 Grade 1 races and acclaimed as the World Champion Three Year Old at An Intermediate Distance which Smarty Jones was not.
I wonder how many Smarty Jones fans have parted this world without ever knowing he has now been entered into the US Hall of Fame. A bit sad isn’t it.
Smarty is most deserving. Undefeated if not for a terrible ride.
Smarty got surrounded by Bailey and Stevens who conspired to make him run too fast early.
Exactly Journalism.
And Bernardini, who won the Preakness, Travers & JCGC is not ….
Smarty Jones was terrific, but he’s in the HoF over far more deserving horses because she’s so popular
We might as well out every dual Classic winner in
And Gulch not being in is an absolute disgrace. I believe Jay Privman will be arguing again for him in 2026🙏🙏🙏🙏
Good point about dual classic winners. Kauai King anyone? He won his Derby and Preakness when he didn’t have to face Buckpasser or Graustark.
I wouldn’t even knock him for that – you beat who you beat, that’s all you can do.
I have nothing against Smarty, but he shouldn’t be in the HoF because he has a huge fanbase…
Hall of Fame, not Hall of the best or greatest. And actually the 3 year olds of 2004 were a pretty solid bunch, Tapit, Rock Hard Ten, Eddington, Cliffs Edge, Lion Heart, Action this Day, Imperialism, Pollards Vision, Read the Footnotes, Limestone, and Birdstone.
He’s in for his talent.
Betsy, while in full agreement Gulch and Bern deserve to be installed into HOF, because they aren’t doesn’t negate fact Smarty being there. He’s a blue collar courageous horse who isn’t in HOF by accident. He’s there on talent.
Mike, no it doesn’t I’m the sense that they don’t have anything to do with each other…:
But I honestly don’t think Smarty belongs – yes, he was talented, so were many other horses. I don’t believe 2 G1s should get you in – as I said above, then put every dual Classic winner
Rags to Riches belongs in the Hall more than Smarty….
Again, nothing personal against Smarty …
Undefeated and winning the Derby/Preakness is hard to do.
He deserves to be in the HOF. You keep repeating the same old complaint about this over and over: we all heard you the first time.
Rags To Riches does deserve to be in the HOF. If any horse is suspect, it is Justify, with only 6 races, starting in March and a controversy because of an undisclosed positive which would have precluded him from running in the Derby.
Bingo!
Smarty Jones was definitely an amazing horse, fun to watch and cheer for.
I’m glad to see that his jockey, Stewart Elliot, has fared well after some difficulties. His son, Christopher, looks to have a brilliant future.
Griffin Johnson social media influencer who owns a small percentage of Sandman, will be speaking at the Jockey Cub Roundtable today about his vision of the future of horse racing.
As much as anything Thoroughbred Horse Racing in the United States needs new ideas, young owners, trainers, jockeys (both male and female).
Griffin’s passion and enthusiasm for horse racing is contagious. I can really think of no one who would be a better spokesperson!
Passion, love of the sport and the horses, regardless if they win or lose is missing today.
Time for a changing of the guard. Out with the old and in with the new is the path for the future.
I am looking forward to reading what Griffin has to say.
I agree with many of your points, Lynda, with the possible exception of young owners. The “old guard” had more patience than today’s generation. The young people getting into racing now are expecting instant gratification and if they don’t get it, they drop out of ownership and pursue other interests that provide a steady diet of excitement.
One area that concerns me is the alarming drop in foal crops during the last 35 years. In 1990 the foal crop was 40,333 while in 2024 the number of live foals was down to 16,675. This is reflected in the continued reduction in field size for races across the country. I mean, really, is the average bettor satisfied with low mutuel returns for their wagers? There are too many short fields on race cards today and that does not bode well for attracting bettors. jmo.
Dewey the estimated registered foal crop for 2025 is estimated to be 700 fewer than the 2024 registered foal crop.
So it would appear that the downward trend is going to continue.
The full annual report of mares bred in 2025 has not yet been released but preliminary numbers from several of the farms indicate fewer mares were bred in 2025 for 2026 foals.
Lynda, in light of the reduced inventory of racehorses, the tracks may be forced to consider reducing the number of races that they offer in an effort to increase the fields. In any event, I think we can agree that the lower foal crops are having a negative effect on the sport.
p.s. I have empathy for the small breeders who give up trying as they find it hard to compete against the big farms.
Yes Dewey the registered foal crops are hurting the sport.
Shortages (economically speaking) boosts sale prices which in turn hurts the smaller buyers.
Very disappointed John Stewart selling Puca. Think he is expecting 1.5 to 15 million for her.
I agree with you Lynda and am looking forward to what Griffin Johnson has to say. Here in Australia, racing is booming and leads the word in prize money while also having the most Group 1 (Grade 1) races in the top 100 Group 1/Grade 1 races.
Back in the late 1960s early 70s Australia was an absolute backwash in racing compared to Europe and the US. Things can change for the better. Go Griffin and plaudits to West Point Thoroughbreds with their forward thinking.
The highlight at Glorious Goodwood on Thursday is the prestigious Group 1 Nassau Stakes for 3 yo+. I’m hoping that the adorable Whirl can further stamp herself as one of the best fillies in Europe.
Always a great race but rain is expected. Enjoy the day.
Congratulations Davids, she won in the pouring rain no less!
My weather here was exactly the same, coincidentally. Luckily I was neither a horse nor jockey on the course.
HA HA.
Glad you were not out on the course too!
Ms Blacktype, the weather was a good test for the championship races to be run in Autumn/Fall.
Whirl just puts her head down and defies them to pass her. Minnie Hauk better be prepared next time.
Yes Lynda, Whirl is such a genuine filly and by Wootton Bassett no less, they always try which is all you want in a racehorse. They are thinking about the Arc with Whirl now as she acts on any surface.
Later in the day, Aylin became St Mark’s Basilica fifth 2 year old winning impressively. St Mark’s Basilica’s Australian 2 year olds will be running here soon as well.
Tacitus got his first winner at Delaware today. That’s the great thing about racing, you can get so down at times but eventually things start coming up roses. Ha ha
Davids the acquisition of Wootten-Bassett by Coolmore is proving so far to be a very lucrative and successful one.
Watched a brief video clip on him. Mention was made of how well he crosses with the Galileo mares and that improves most every mare.
The foals also have great minds.
I did not realize that he is 17 this year. For some reason I was thinking he was younger.
Such a handsome stallion with no outstanding conformation faults that I could see from the video.
Yes Lynda, Wootton Bassett is beautiful. He stood 9 years in France in the shadow of Siyouni for a few years then his progeny really started to take off. Siyouni is 18 this year, another stunning individual.
Both sires cross so well with Galileo. Aidan O’Brian often says that both add speed to the Galileo determination. Perfect combination.
Interesting description from Aiden.
The description in the video the Wootton-Bassett “improves” the mare is one that I have not heard for a long time.
A dear friend of several decades who sadly now has Alzheimers and no longer knows me bred Arabians used that term “improves” to describe what she looked for in a stallion.
She felt each mare was an individual and that should be taken into consideration when selecting a stallion.
She described her technique as a visual image of overlaying a photo of the stallion over the photo of the mare to determine what the stallion had to offer.
Love those Wootton Bassetts! I’ll be rooting for her in the Arc!
Journalism, I’m responding up here to your responses to my comments below ..,
I don’t appreciate being called a negative Nellie – what, you can’t handle different opinions without hurling insults? Everyone here has to believe the same things? Smarty was a good horse – no, I don’t believe he belongs in the HoF. Are we putting in every dual Classic winner? Nope.
How on earth is Smarty Jones in and not Gulch? Take a look at his PPs & get back to me.
I could go into Bernardini, but I won’t
I’m fine with people loving Smarty, & thinking be deserves this – but I expect the same in return
Bernardini lost Breeders Classic. Won Preakness by default most likely. Totally get your fascination with AP Indy sire line.
Nope, Bernardini was brilliant- Barbaro would have had a very tough time with him.
He also ran great in the BCC, and of course you’re ignoring his wins in the Travers & JCGC
But since you think I’m unable to be objective, I’m not going to waste my time arguing. It’s funny – because you think I’m biased, but you’re clearly biased against Bernardini based on these comments.
You’re in a minority here regarding Smarty not deserving HOF.
And she just keeps repeating it over and over!
Wow. Yes, I call them as I see them. You would get a hall pass from me if you weren’t so vociferous and dogged in your vocalizing ( via a keyboard ) repeatedly about not thinking Smarty to be worthy.
Try giving it a rest, okay?
Thank you for the memories! Smarty Jones a handsome stead with a huge heart ❤️
I love your magnificent tribute!!🤗
Thanks for wonderful Hall of Fame Smarty Jones bio. You are the best.
In honor of Smarty Jones election to the Hall
of Fame, Equistar Farm is hosting an open house for Smarty and their other stallions and a barbecue on August 9th.
Equistar Farm is located on 30 Crooked Road in Antilles PA (near Harrisburg PA). The phone number is (302)236-3886.
Annville PA
That’s fantastic !
Congrats to Smarty and all of his connections! Why the hell did it take so long? He was a powerhouse and this is being said by Birdstone man. I always boxed them and keyed them in my bets. That’s respect! In the Belmont it certainly looked like they ganged up on him. Some people thought it unfair but that’s the “test of a champion” With Smarty running 2nd he gained more of my respect for him. I felt just like Marylou Whitney did in the winners circle!
As I peruse the comments below, there is talk of Fan favorites.
Horses that made fans show top and follow.
Smarty Jones
Rachel Alexandra
People loved them both.
However, California Chrome had a better following.
Zenyatta was in a league of her own.
Elsewhere, Frankel, Winx and Black Caviar were just as impressive with their followers.
The 3 year old “rivalry between Sovereignty and Journalism is trying to approach the Sunday Silence and Easy Goer rivalry. It will never reach it because of the chosen skip of the Preakness, and the 1 1/4 Belmont instead of the 1 1/2.
Nysos is starting to show the promise that he showed as an early Derby candidate. Most likely the 15 month layoff and mud hampered his return. He has a turn of foot that looks like a turf performer.
Brant could be anything, his next race will be the tell.
Any news on Forever Young? I follow Japan but have not read anything lately.
Hi Eric!—Brant really looked professional….Bob has an incredible record, in the Del Mar Futurity—Brant will be a prohibitive favorite.. I think Nysos will defeat Journalism, but he will need his best to do it—It’s a good three year rivalry—but this crop of four year olds might better—I think Sovereignty may be the best of them all, I hope to see them all in the Classic, if all show up—Forever Young could be 10-1—in a race that could rival the 200 Classic, where Tiznow and Giants Causeway were both close to 10-1….
Matthew, in the 2000 Breeders’ Cup Classic the odds on favorite was the Kentucky Derby winner Fusaichi Pegasus at 6-5. Tiznow was the fifth choice at 9-1.
There is a portent in those odds and result.
Oh, I certainly do remember people thinking that Cave Rock would dominate the Juvenile, ad Muth, too.
We still have the Blue and white Smarty Jones TEE-SHirt handed out at the track. My wife and I braved the crowds with our 3 young ones 2 in strollers and she was carrying the 4th. Very, very disappointed day. We tried with Silver Charm, Real Quiet, Smarty Jones and California Chrome. All great races and all disappointments. American Pharaoh finally broke the curse.
I am seriously thinking of blowing off work to witness the induction.
Go for it, Erik! I was also at the disappointing Belmonts for Silver Charm, Real Quiet and Charismatic. I must have been gun shy by Smarty’s year and for Chrome, but I did make it to Justify’s Belmont after missing American Pharoah because my husband wanted to go to an outdoor music festival. (I did leave in time to see the race on TV.) Smarty demonstrated true greatness, as did American Pharoah, and I’ve always had a soft spot for Silver Charm, who is 31 this year.
I visited with Silver Charm recently at Old Friends. Spent 10 minutes with him. He nuzzled me and let me pet him. The caretakers said he doesn’t usually do that. I was lucky. My wife took a video and I watch it every know and than. His derby painting near the line hangs in my living room. Along with the Silver Charm button.
The Group 1 Sussex Stakes mile today is not only the highlight of Glorious Goodwood but a major race in the European racing calendar.
Many are saying the beautiful Field of Gold is the best horse in Europe, which may be true, but he has to keep winning.
The Sussex Stakes has a great field and should be a cracking good race, not to be missed. Henri Matisse gets the nod from the heart. Enjoy the race.
Davids, Qirat wins in shocker.
I think Field of Gold was 4th.
Yes it was, Lynda! The British commentator, Jess Sheppard, said several jocks were going to face some grilling by trainers and owners. Apparently, the race did not unfold according to plan. Field of Gold looked amazing before going to the post, as did Carl Spackler. Sorry your sentimental pick, Henri Matisse, only got fourth, Davids. He’s certainly a good horse.
As I was watching the races, I looked up Goodwood and it is quite the party palace for well-off Britishers. There’s a dress code which would stump most Americans (no sportswear; cocktail attire, but not formal attire). It’s 65 pounds per person just to get a spot on the picnic grounds. Scads of “secret gardens” with buffet lunches and internal watering spots (with food). Very elegant. I enjoyed it all very much from the sofa.
One thing about the Bristish they do everything in style!
I was sure FOG was going to win! Shocked, just shocked!
The odds were 150 to 1 on Qirat!
Lynda, Field of Gold is much better than the result. Goodwood is one of those tracks that often defy logic. Makes it fun, though.
Davids, I agree, he is much better.
Ms Blacktype, you are correct about Glorious Goodwood it is a party for those with the funds to enjoy the frivolity. That’s the best thing about US racing everyone is welcome. There is snobbery in English and Australian racing but not in the main, most racing fans are there for the horses.
I have to admonish you, ha ha, with Henri Matisse he came in third which was a good result really, the race was like scrambled eggs. Ha ha Fun though, and all the best to Qirat.
Field of Gold is a stunning horse but tends to need everything going for him. Goodwood is a funny track for inexperienced runners which are used to running uphill. Glad you and Lynda are thoroughly enjoying the races at Goodwood soon you’ll both know all the quirkiness of the various racetracks in Europe.
Lynda, red faces for both Coolmore but particularly Juddmonte with the pacemaker Qirat running away with the Sussex Stakes.
Although a gelding Qirat is a full brother to the Arc winning Bluestocking. Never underestimate the bloodlines.
It was a grubby race but you always enjoy it when the poor old pacemaker makes a fool of glamour boy. Ha ha I’m not so sure Field of Gold is as good as some think he is, he seems to need everything going for him to win.
Henri Matisse keeps on improving and the ground may have been against him but he ran well, nonetheless.
Davids, I am slowly learning the tracks, the races etc in Europe.
It is a challenge because there are so many. You are always so helpful, I so appreciate that.
Have to disagree just a bit though about the British being “snobby”. They are just different and of course a much older country that the US. England is actually one of my daughter’s favorite destinations. Almost every time she travels to Europe she makes a stop in England.
We do not have a lot of traditions in America and many from my childhood have
disappeared.
Tickets for many of the races in the US are now outrageous.
About ten years ago I was trying to plan a trip to Louisville for the Derby with a dear friend who has since passed on.
The expenditures for the travel (driving, remember I do not fly) hotel accommodations, tickets, food were almost unbelievable and we were sharing the costs!
There is a lot of snobbery in the US as well across all social classes even in small towns.
(We call them cliques), old money versus new money and even in one’s ancestry.
Lynda, soon you’ll have them down to pat and how the weather impacts on each racetrack, which horses act on fast and heavy tracks etc.
With the snobbery I was only referring to the members stands, the cost to become a member is quite prohibiting to many and they do vet those who wish to join. You can have a look at becoming a member at Ascot to see how cost etc is exclusive by design.
Overall, the English people aren’t snobby at all.
I agree with you about the US cost for tickets these days compared to 20 or so years ago – outrageous- and yes, there is a lot more snobbery in the US compared to England in general.
On the BH website, the article “Hall of Fame Inductee Smarty Jones Still Going Strong” features a great three-minute video of him in his pasture–galloping around, grazing, looking at the camera curiously, vocalizing. He looks fabulous; you’d never guess he was 24.
Yay Smarty! Glad this quest had a happy ending.
Arlington fan, I just watched the video.
He looks amazing and as beautiful ahd muscular has ever.
Looks like he could run in a race tomorrow!
Thanks for the heads up, Arlington. Smarty looks fantastic at 24.
The BH article mentions how the foal crop had dropped to 16,675 in 2024. If this is so, that’s alarming. No wonder the fields for races are shrinking in size.
David, Congrats died today at 25 – good horse sjd really solid sire.
I have to say, the reporting on this has been terrible – how is it that none of the media has mentioned that he’s a full to Flatter?
Betsy, what an awful day. I’d just built up the strength to watch the Goodwood Cup then, watching Trueshan dropped back suddenly, I gave up watching.
Now Congrats has passed, a blow upon a bruise. Too many memories swirl and swirl.
I’m not familiar with that horse, but anytime one breaks down, it’s devastating – I’m so sorry for his connections, & that you had to watch it 😭😭
Congrats lived a long life, so that’s good, but his passing reminds me that Indy has few sons left…if any. It’s up to his daughters & grand”children” to continue his legacy
Constitution has been outstanding!
Absolutely!
Representing (Curlin X Beholder) colt that Mr Zedan purchased for 4 million. No works since February.
Last I heard, I think from Steve, that he had been taken out of training to grow up some.
Any updates?
Was wondering the same thing Lynda. That work in February actually looked pretty good.
Oh! What a shame! A Beholder already having issues? That’s aweful!
I saw QB One up close—he was enormous! Beholder was pretty large, she has thrown two stakes winning fillies, but they did not stay sound—and QB One was not fast…. l O wonder if they would try a smaller sire?…
Matthew W, Beholder is a larger than average mare, very much like Zenyatta and Rachel Alexandra.
Mares, as you know are limited in the number of years they are fertile and the number of foals they can produce in their lifetime. Rarely does a mare reproduce herself. These limitations often result in breedings to stallions based on the stallion’s success rather than the old way when breeders knew which bloodlines nicked.
Her 2025 foal is by Gun Runner who is a lighter frame stallion. Might be the combination that will be successful.
Good point…as you know—Beholder has the Inyo Mischief bloodlines, being by the same dam….I only saw her in person one time, and I bet on her and she won!
Steve,
It has been a busy past 3 weeks for me. Everything from having 8 mature trees ( 4 being 50 +years old with 2 being over 60 feet tall removed from my property , to playing a golf tournament with my youngest son, out of town visitors for a week and than an out of town trip; for both business and pleasure ) so the past day or two finally got around to reading the last 4 articles.
1st, the last installment of the Ruffian series. I was a little hesitant but you truly did a great job on writing it The way you wrote it had me sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to read the next paragraph. True to your word you spared us the gory details of her breakdown but gave us insight on what she meant to the racing world back then and still today.
I love the 2 pictures (one a portrait and the other a photograph )of her. She was real lady like as not being over muscled and looking more like a gazelle.
Good job here, Steve.
The next one on the “Female” jockeys was an interesting one. Although I respect female jockeys the 3 that come to mind the most with me are Robyn Smith, although as a jockey I knew she was very good but her marriage to Fred Astaire is what stood out most with me. Next is Julie Krone , her toughness was what really stood out with me and she could ride with the best of them. Her ride on Candy Ride in the Pacific Classic against Medaglia D’Oro I consider one of my top 5 races I have seen all time. and the 3rd was lady named Amy Rankin who used to ply her trade here at a track here in Phx AZ called Turf Paradise. All I could say was it was a soap opera with her around it was pretty entertaining and she was an OK jockey. Some days better than others.
Your article on Saratoga 1985 was a great change of pace for us. Great memories and I do remember Mom’s Command as she was quite a filly back then. Love the picture of your wife (Joan) and daughter (Mandy). Got to admit Joan was quite a “looker” back then (and probably still is today) and Mandy followed right along after her. (Sorry Steve, but ……good fortune for you … LOL !!!)
This last article starting with Smarty Jones and his induction to the HOF. (Well deserved I might add) is fitting epilogue from previous writings about him. I know you played a big part in his getting in there. Kudos to you Steve for that.
As far as the 3 year old races the last 2 weeks you got to hand it to Journalism and Sovereignty but …….. it could be tough times for them in their next race. I am expecting Journalism to stay in California for the PC at Del Mar were he looks like he may be facing Nysos, who looks to finally be coming into his own and what we were expecting from him. One positive for Journalism is he will probably getting a break in weights from Nysos. Sovereignty will be coming into the Travers with a shorter rest period than he normally gets how this will effect him we don’t know but one thing I did see him in his last 2 races is his versatility as he has proven he is just not a stone cold closer. As between the two I give Sovereignty a slight edge. But in the Travers he might have his “hooves” full with a horse named …. Magnitude !!!! Stay tune. Sherriffs needs to find an easy spot for Baeza as I feel he is just a notch below the above 2.
Have great rest of the week Steve and keep up the great work and enjoy Saratoga !!!
BTW …. My son and I finished first in our flight and get to represent our league in a statewide golf event later this year. Cheers all !!!
Also how about that ….. Brant !!! Possibly another Baffert monster !!!
Wow that was quite a wrap up. Great job covering every base. Thank you. Im glad you enjoyed them.
This Classic will be a Classic for the Ages. Aside from having the best three year olds anyone has seen together in years, they out perform any horses seen elsewhere. I cannot recall that happening before. They all will grow and develope as the year goes on and I pray they all stay sound and becomes the legends they are destined to be.
Maritime Traveler passed away on July 22nd he was a bit over 35 years ikd, and the last living horse sired by Secretariat..
I was really thrilled that Smarty got into the HOF – it’s so deserved because what he did for the sport is almost unheard of in the 21st century. I’m another one who finds it almost impossible to watch that Belmont. I couldn’t forgive Jerry Bailey for years.
Smarty was robbed at the Belmont. I saw when the other racehorses surrounded Smarty preventing him to pass on to winning. I have never looked at horse racing the same since. Smarty was the true triple crown winner. I love him so much.
Yes Betty. Smarty got a bad ride.
It was not fair how Bailey and Stevens conspired to make sure he didn’t win
Journalism, agree totally! Appreciate your on point comments.
Wait, what’s that roar I hear? Ah, yes, the collective cheering of Smarty’s adoring fans throughout the land (except Betsy, of course, lol) as we finally get to celebrate our champion with his induction into the Hall of Fame.
It is worth the wait thanks in part to Steve’s tireless efforts in support of Smarty’s nomination. Indeed, Smarty Jones might be one of the more popular choices to be inducted into the Hall in some time. He is the “peoples’ horse” winning over both hard core and casual fan alike with his determination, grit and heart. His only defeat in the Belmont may well have been his best race, displaying his big heart, never giving up despite a grueling pace under constant pressure.
On your feet, everyone. Our boy, the gallant Smarty Jones has entered the Hall. Hooray!
Well said Dewey. I couldn’t have helped without Dick Jerardi . His addition to the committee was important. But in the end it was all about Smarty and the Voters. He just needed that doorway to get out and reach them.
The drumbeat that Betsy marches to comes from some place very very hot and firey!
Great write up on smarty one the best horses ill never forget. TANK YOU ROGER
Scandinavia (Justify) wins Goodwood Cup.
9 year old gelding Trueshan suffered fatal breakdown, euthanized on the course.
Heartbreaking.
Tragic. It happens wherever thoroughbreds race.
On a more positive note, the winner has a remarkable pedigree. Scandinavia is a half brother to Group 1 winning filly Above the Curve (by another Triple Crown winner, American Pharoah) and his second dam is Mariah’s Storm, the mother of Giant’s Causeway and You’resoThirlling, a Group 2 winner in the U.K. and the dam of Gleneagles (a double Guineas winner), and French Oaks winner Joan of Arc — and five other stakes winners. I know, TMI!
Ms Blacktype, that’s the thing with Coolmore their broodmares are inevitably glittering with golden pedigrees, on or off the racetrack. Especially, the Galileo mares.
Yes, lots of Galileo and inbreeding to Urban Sea. Coolmore can afford the best.
Ms B, indeed an impressive pedigree for Scandinavia. And no, not TMI.
I think for now at least Justify’s success as a sire lies in turf not on dirt other than his fillies. Also, he seems to nick with Galileo daughters.
Unfortunately Scandinavia’s win was overshadowed by the tragic fracture of Trueshan’s rear hock mid-course and subsequent euthanasia on the course.
His regular ride, Holly Doyle was up and is reportedly devastated.
The 9 year old gelding was one of the most popular and beloved stayers. He raced 35 times, 16-6-3 with earnings passing 2 million pounds (2.7 million USD)
There is conversation on social media that he should have been retired last year, not having but one major win in two years and that there should be a restriction on what age they can race to. Others mentioned the turf conditions.
Perhaps Davids will comment on that.
I have mixed feelings about restrictions on the number of years a Thoroughbred can race. They are all individuals and each case is different.
John Henry raced to 8, Kelso to 9, Ben’s Cat to 11. A British steeplechase raced until 18, Paddy the Painter until 15, Time to Bid until 13. World traveler Romantic Warrior turned 7 in March.
These horses are exceptions of course.
Perhaps the requirement for ultra sounds, bone scans and X-rays before an older horse is cleared to race would be feasible.
Lynda, it was probably a freak accident and Trueshan had been placed in two Group 1 races last year which ‘tends’ to discount soundness issues but if a horse had earned me a fortune beforehand I wouldn’t be racing him at 9 years no matter how much the horse might like competing.
Justifies success is due to his sire, who has had no less than 22 sons sire stakes winners
Good point, Scat Daddy was on the verge of emulating Tapit’s success at stud. Moreover, had Scat Daddy lived longer than his 11 years the success of Into Mischief would not have been as widespread.
You can follow the rise of Into Mischief with the decline of Scat Daddy’s influence. I wish Justify had been grey though.
I’m with David. It’s not just the grand stakes winners that race till 9, 10, or 11 — plenty of unsung horses do and always have. It’s a rare thoroughbred that can withstand the rigors of racing more than a handful of times (and of course many don’t make it to the races at all). In reviewing pedigrees, I see many horses than place or even win stakes, only to drop into VERY cheap claiming ranks at the end of their careers, often breaking down. It’s wrong to push horses beyond their limits; they only know how to give it their all. The scans you mentioned might help, but I would think very expensive to do on a regular basis. Thank heaven there are so many organizations that take in retired racehorses and give them a second chance.
Ms B, I may be mistaken but I do not think European racing has a program like HiSA.
I might be in the minority on this forum but I do think HISA has contributed to the reduction in fractures and breakdowns.
A few days ago one of the racetracks (sorry forget which one) had a fatal injury in the first race and HISA canceled the rest of the races that day.
The Japanese do health checks including scans etc on a regular basis.
The major tracks that come under the JRA jurisdiction have in house clinics, vets and hospitals. Took a visual tour of their race tracks several years ago. It was fascinating!
Lynda, if you search for ‘Trot-ups and pre-race veterinary checks’ the Racehorse Owners Association website will come up with a complete explanation on the procedure.
In Australia, they even have competitive barrier trial races to help determine the fitness of a horse to run in a race. They are not compulsory though.
Davids, thank you for that information.
As I mentioned above I am still working on getting up to speed on European racing.
Steve….talking about beloved horses…out west we recently had The Chosen Vron, who as a Cal bred won two gr1s, and 4 gr3s…..as well as a pile of Cal bred stakes….we loved him—this weekend at The Spa—they card a hr1 turf mile….named for the beloved NY bred Fourstardave—who won races at Saratoga for 8 straight years, including graded stakes, usually displaying a never-say-die fighting style….there are good horses and there are great horses….but nobody can tell when the next beloved horse will come along….they have a certain “something”…..example: Sovereignty is the #1 horse in training, in my opinion, and there are lots of good horses right now…..I think he may be a “great” horse, and I also think the mare Sweet Azteca may be a great sprinter….but the current “beloved” horse–is Journalism, and I hear people talking about him—the Mommouth crowd gave him a rousing applause—Chrome got that live…Smarty would have been a star, had he continued on…but Flightline didn’t, he was “just” real good…..Fourstardave was beloved, by New Yorkers….and by me..
All good points Matthew
I didn’t understand why Eddington was taken to the pressing position—at least Mandella’s colt had speed, but why was Eddington…with Jerry Bailey up—why were they pushing Smarty, Eddington was a closer—but Bailey had called up Servis, wanting the Derby mount…..firstly…..I have a problem with THAT…..but Smarty Jones was beaten out of a Triple Crown by three things—1) Birdstone, who had true stamina…..2( winni g The Preakness by 13 lengths…..3) Jerry Bailey’s “punative” ride, in my opinion….–
Jerry is as good a rider as I’ve ever seen. But I won’t comment on his ride that day.
Bailey and Stevens obviously conspired to make the pace blazing to thwart Smarty and I think they both should have gotten days for what they did.
Yes, days at least.
we need a smarty baby to cheer for! where is he at stud now…if he is still at stud!?
At stud in Pennsylvania and still breeding
Another great column. Tell Smarty that Old Friends’ Birdstone congratulates him on this well-deserved honor.
Lol. Will do
Was in the crowd myself and such a Smarty fan. It was a magical time indeed. I became a racing fan starting with Seattle Slew (born the same year I was) and never left the sport, but Smarty was the first horse I followed in a long time that was a winner on the biggest stages. In addition, I had just recently been able to get my own horse who turned out to be my heart horse, a chestnut names Blue Blue Sea (an OTTB). Watching Smarty run was about beauty and hope and an indomitable spirit. I remember driving up to Belmont full of all of those and then the race played out. I was sad but never lost my love of Smarty. It wasn’t the most heartbreaking loss I ever watched, that came as a an almost 4 year old watching Alydar fight but come up just short each time (I was the child crying watching those races), but it was something at how quiet the world became as Smarty came in secnod.
Wonderful writing Steve!!
So happy he’s made it into the Hall of Fame. Long overdue!
Smarty was a wonder horse. I too am astounded it took so long to get him in the Hall of Fame — in spite of all your efforts, Steve. I know you must feel like a proud papa now that he’s in. Great work, and not just the column.
The addition of Dick Jerardi to the committee this year helped to finally get him over the edge
That is very true. Dick has been an unrelenting advocate for Smarty for years. And his main point was to simply get Smarty on the ballot and let voters consider his credentials – not necessarily that they HAD to vote for Smarty. Obviously, when voters gave careful consideration to his record, they did the right thing.
Steve, Jay Privman had gone to bat for Gulch and continues to – can you explain why he’s not in the HoF? He deserves it over so many others – he had a remarkable career.
A great horse deserving of HOF!
Steve and friends, Maritime Traveler last living progeny by Secretariat died yesterday at age 35 at Bridelewood.
Linda, past couple years called to check on him here and there. Last time, couple weeks ago.
He loved a long and productive life. Was used as a teaser stallion for 25 years
Bridlewood was so gracious to allow his fans to visit him and he certainly enjoyed them. Such a fine old gentleman.
His health had been good other than being nearly blind until this summer and kept a good appetite to the end. The heat this summer was just to much for him this year and displaying signs that he was ready to go so they decided to lay him down. He is buried there on the
farm close to My Gallant.
I kept up with him through a FB friend who kept up with all of Secretariat’s progeny.
Sadly an end to an era but thankful he had a long, happy and peaceful life. I think every horse deserves that.
Contacted farm this morning.
A shame it took them 16 years to even get him on the ballot. At least he is now where he belongs. How many years did it take Majestic Prince? I adored Smarty and always will! Was fortunate enough to be there when he won the Arkansas Derby.
100% agreed!
Oh happy day for Smarty!
A lot of the credit goes to you Steve, so a well deserved round of applause from this fan.
Your line from Shakespeare, ” How far that little candle throws its beams” brought to mind a little Sunday School song I used to sing growing up.
This little light of mine
I’m going to let it shine
Oh, this little light of mine
I’m going to let it shine
This little light of mine
I’m going to let it shine
Let it shine, all the time, let it shine
All around the neighborhood
I’m going to let it shine
All around the neighborhood
I’m going to let it shine
All around the neighborhood
I’m going to let it shine
Let it shine, all the time, let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel? No!
I’m going to let it shine
Hide it under a bushel? No!
I’m going to let it shine
Hide it under a bushel? No!
I’m going to let it shine
Let it shine, all the time, let it shine.
Your time to shine Smarty and you will shine forever in this heart of mine.
Thank you, Steve, for this article and all those before it. You’re a great writer and you bring the story of the horse home.
I am so fond of Smarty.
Right on Smarty!! and thank you Steve for a great story.
I’ll be honest, not a fan of Smarty in the HoF at all
Bernardini should be in
Rags to Riches should be in
And most disgracefully of all, Gulch should be in
Betsy, did you know there is a 2 year old Constitution filly named Betsy running at Ellis Park? Race 4, August 3 on the turf. She has post 13, unfortunately. Even so, someone to follow.
The dam, Another Broad by Include was a decent sort, lol, she was a stakes winner and Graded 2 Stakes placed twice. Moreover, she was bred to Flightline in 2024.
I didn’t, David, lol ….I assume post 13 is an AE, but I’ll definitely be following her !
You might not be a fan, however he deserves HOF without a doubt.
Well I don’t agree – certainly not above the horses mentioned, especially Bernardini & Gulch
Guess we see it differently. Bernardini only ran eight times.
There’s always some negative nellie … smh
So, because others aren’t in, and he is, you aren’t a fan?
Trying to understand your motivation ..
Without question he deserves HOF!!!
Team smarty jones ! What a ride ! Thanks Steve for all you do 🙏
Thanks for this article, Steve. Long-deserved and overdue honor for Smarty.