The Underrated Horse of Triple Crown 2025
This year’s Triple Crown is over, its place in history fully secured, but we’re not ready to close the book on it just yet. Like everything there are lesser known factors that many people might not be aware of, but they still may have played a part in the outcome, as far-reaching as it may seem. This story is about the final common bond our two heroes share. ~ Steve Haskin
The Underrated Horse of Triple Crown 2025
By Steve Haskin
If there is one thing we can say about this year’s Triple Crown, it’s that you have to go back a long way to find two horses as dominant as Sovereignty and Journalism, even with Sovereignty getting the best of his rival in the two races in which they faced each other.
But we have never seen two adversaries so similar in so many ways as these two magnificent colts, who as we are well aware of by now grew up together on the same farm. But it goes much deeper than that. Both are amazing physical specimens with long powerful strides who are extremely professional and intelligent, can handle any kind of track, can come home in sensational closing fractions, and as Sovereignty showed in the Belmont, can adapt to any pace. And both have shown that when they are on the track everyone knows it and can’t take their eyes off them.
So how is it that both these colts have so much in common and possess so many of the same talents and physical attributes?
Could it be that all the qualities mentioned above also belong to a very special horse named Bernardini, who just happens to be Sovereignty’s maternal grandsire and Journalism’s maternal great-grandsire?
I covered four of Bernardini’s races and to this day I can recall that despite having no distinguishing physical markings at all, you could recognize him immediately, even walking down a path 50 yards away. He had that special presence about him and I can see that same presence in Sovereignty and Journalism. You just know who they are the second you see them. And like Bernardini, both have done things on the track we rarely have seen before.
Has any horse ever done what Journalism in demonstrating the will to win in the final eighth of a mile in the Preakness? Have we ever seen a classic-winning horse (in this case Journalism) charge to the lead turning for home in this year’s Belmont Stakes run Saratoga at the 1 ¼-mile distance, and open a clear lead, closing his last quarter in :24 2/5 and have another horse (Sovereignty) blow by him and draw off to win by three lengths, coming home his last quarter in an insane :23 3/5 (23.69)? That is believed to be faster than any final quarter in the 161-year history of the Travers Stakes, the only race to which it can be compared.
Could it be they were able to accomplish such amazing feats thanks, at least in part, to their common second- and third- generation ancestor?
After all, Bernardini accomplished his own amazing feat of winning six consecutive stakes at 3 by an average margin of 6 ½ lengths, all triple-digit Beyer speed figures, with the last five ranging from 113 to 117. That kind of speed and consistency is rarely seen from a 3-year-old.
I will never forget the morning during Breeders’ Cup week of 2005 at Belmont Park. That is where this story begins for me. Trainer Tom Albertrani, who had spent several years in Dubai working as assistant for Godolphin’s trainer Saeed by Suroor, was back in America with his own string of horses, a number of them owned by Darley Stable’s Sheikh Mohammed, who had formed Godolphin Racing with his brothers in 1991. As he sat on his pony at the gap, we were discussing the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile when Albertrani, completely out of character, said with a slight smirk, “The best 2-year-old in the country isn’t in the race.”
Well, considering how low-keyed and conservative Albertrani was, that comment was so out of character it kind of floored me, especially with him realizing the reaction and follow-up it would bring. When pressed, all he would say was, “You’ll know him when he runs.”
The following winter, on March 4, I was at Gulfstream with my wife and we stood on the steps watching a 2-year-old maiden race at one mile when a Darley Stable-owned colt came flying past us in the upper stretch, opening up on the field with huge effortless strides and drawing off to a 7 ¾-length victory in a sharp 1:35 2/5. His name was Bernardini, and he was by A.P. Indy, out of four-time Grade 1 winner Cara Rafaela.
By then I had known his name because Albertrani had finally revealed the big secret, telling me he had run once, finishing fourth after a slow start and racing very greenly. His jockey Jerry Bailey had come back that day and told Albertrani the light just didn’t come on, but “you’ll hear from him soon enough.” After the maiden win, Albertrani doubled down saying “I told you back in the fall you haven’t seen the best one yet, and I’ll say now, one day you’ll get to write the story on this horse. He just has a presence about him, and he’s so agile and well balanced. When he works it looks like his feet never touch the ground. Everyone who has ever had him said there’s something about him. He’s got that look in his eye. He’s the best young horse I’ve ever been around.”
Hmm, what two young horses recently have I heard pretty much the same thing about? What two young horses have such a presence I can I recognize them the second I lay eyes on them?
The next time I spoke to Albertrani was at Pimlico on Preakness morning. Bernardini had come off his maiden score and easily won the one-mile Withers Stakes by almost four lengths in 1:35 flat despite jockey Javier Castellano losing whip in the stretch. Now he was trying to win the Preakness against the sensational Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro off only three lifetime starts.
Assistant trainer Andy Rehm thought Albertrani might be more inclined to take the conservative approach and run in the Peter Pan Stakes at Belmont the same day, But Albertrani had been waiting since that morning at Belmont Park the past Fall to show Bernardini off to the world, even if it meant taking on an undefeated budding superstar in Barbaro and the pride of California, five-time graded stakes winner Brother Derek, who was coming off a troubled fourth in the Kentucky Derby.
“Well, we’re this close to telling the story,” Albertrani said, holding his thumb and forefinger close together. “I’ve never had a horse of this caliber and I feel more confident in this horse going into a big race than any horse in the past. Believe me, we haven’t seen the best of him.”
Rehm said that Bernardini was Jimmy Bell’s (president of Darley USA) pick of all the yearlings. “He was always the Golden Child,” he said. He went into his first race a baby and came out a bear. When he moves he takes your breath away. I don’t know if he’s ready to beat Barbaro, but he’s put on weight, he’s dappled out, and if he doesn’t finish first or second I’ll be very disappointed.”
We all know what happened after that, but we will never know what would have happened if Barbaro hadn’t fractured his leg shortly after the start and pulled up. The record shows that Bernardini charged to the front turning for home and drew off to win by 5 ¼ lengths in a sharp 1:54 3/5, earning a huge 113 Beyer speed figure.
As impressive as his victory was it had a somber tone and still does nearly 20 years later. Bernardini’s stunning triumph deserved to be played out in front of cheering, appreciative fans instead of a grief stricken crowd jolted into stunned silence. It was and still is the toughest and most emotionally conflicting race I have ever covered.
Bernardini passed the Belmont Stakes and didn’t return to the races until the July 29 Jim Dandy Stakes. A spokesman for Darley Stable owner Sheikh Mohammed said that Bernardini “climbed the ladder of competition quite quickly and he deserves the break.” Did we see history repeat itself 19 years later following Sovereignty’s Kentucky Derby victory?
The question was, how would the fans react to the horse, and would he deliver a performance that would convince them he was worthy of becoming racing’s next big star?
With Barbaro recovering from surgery and battling for his life, this time the race would be just about Bernardini. And he delivered in a huge way.
Judging by the cheers that poured out of the Saratoga grandstand following the colt’s spectacular nine-length Jim Dandy victory and the accolades that followed, it looked as if even the cynics finally were intent on paying tribute to racing’s newest phenom and removing him forever from the shadow of Barbaro.
Bernardini had demolished his field off a 10-week layoff, giving eight pounds to the second-, third-, and fourth-place finishers, while running on a heavy, sticky track that was turned sloppy by an afternoon deluge. So effortless was his performance, racecaller Tom Durkin seemed stunned when he bellowed, “Look at this! He didn’t raise a sweat and it’s 90 degrees.”
And he still earned a career-high 114 Beyer figure. The following morning, veterinarian Mark Cheney went over to trainer Tom Albertrani and said, “Hey listen, if you need a jock, holler. Even I could have ridden that sonofagun.”
Even the Equibase chart-caller got caught up in the ease of the victory, with the redundant comment: “galloped under wraps.”
“A horse like him doesn’t come around too often,” Albertrani said, I just think this is a special horse; I’ve been saying that all along.”
It was obvious there was now no one who would be able to warm him up in the Travers Stakes other than Kentucky Derby runner-up. Bluegrass Cat, coming off a second in the Belmont Stakes and a victory in the Haskell Invitational. History shows Bernardini took complete control of the race and coasted to a 7 ½-length victory in 2:01 3/5, improving his Beyer figure again to 116.
His next start, the Jockey Club Gold Cup, was supposed to be a showdown with the top-class older horse Invasor, the runaway Uruguayan Triple Crown winner who came to America and won the Grade 1 Pimlico Special, Suburban, and Whitney Handicaps. Unfortunately Invasor came down with a fever and was forced to miss the race.
That allowed Bernardini to once again crush his field, romping to a 6 ¾-length victory over the hard-knocking Wanderin Boy and the previous year’s Belmont Stakes runner-up Andromeda’s Hero in 2:01 flat, earning yet another career-high Beyer figure of 117. By comparison, Invasor had yet to top a 113 Beyer, which was high even for an older horse. Bernardini’s figures were soaring into orbit.
Bernardini wins the 2006 Jockey Club Gold Cup at Belmont Park
Nick Zito, who trained the second- and third-place finishers, was so impressed with Bernardini, he said, “This is the first time I almost clapped for a horse that beat me. That is a tremendous horse who has superstar credentials.”
One person who was glad to have his horse stay in the barn was John Kimmel, trainer of Woodward winner Premium Tap and Brooklyn Handicap runner-up Awesome Twist, “I watched Bernardini at Payson Park this winter and I’ve admired him ever since,” he said. “You can spot him anywhere on the racetrack. He’s an awesome physical specimen, and because of his cardiovascular efficiency, things that other horses find difficult he does easily. He’s a special animal and I’ve been trying to stay out of his way.”
One indelible scene on Gold Cup Day was watching Andy Rehm standing by the rail shaking his head and stating emphatically, “He’s a freak!” while Bernardini was still coming down the stretch. “I’ve never been around a horse like him,” he continued. “Watch him when he comes back; he won’t even be tired.”
Sure enough, while walking back to the test barn, Bernardini was feeling so good and strong and was pulling so hard, his groom Jose Amezcua, who had been nursing a bad back, had to ask Rehm to grab the other rein, saying, “He’s going to run away from me.”
Now it was time to decide Horse of the Year in the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Churchill Downs in a race billed as a showdown between Bernardini and the indefatigable California warrior Lava Man. Fans of Invasor felt slighted for sure. For whatever reason, Bernardini seemed to be struggling with the track on the backstretch, as some horses will do at Churchill. As a result, Javier Castellano was forced to ask him for his run much earlier than usual. Bernardini kicked into gear shortly after entering the far turn and took off, making a bold move, passing the entire field. But that move no doubt took a lot out of him and he was unable to hold off a fresh Invasor, who won by a length. While Castellano mentioned how he was struggling with the track and why he had to ask him early, Albertrani offered no excuses. “Javier said he had to ask him more than normal,” he said. “He got banged around a little early, but he came with his run. We had a great year with him, but we were second best today.”
On December 6, it was announced that Bernardini was being retired to Darley at Jonabell Farm to help boost the roster at Darley’s relatively new stallion facility, One could only speculate what a fully mature Bernardini would have accomplished as a 4-year-old.
He wasted little time asserting himself at stud, siring back-to-back Travers winners (Stay Thirsty and Alpha) and Woodward winners (To Honor and Serve and Alpha) in 2011 and 2012. He was so popular he had the honor of being bred to both Zenyatta and Rachel Alexandra. The latter’s foal, Rachel’s Valentina, won the Grade 1 Spinaway Stakes in 2015.
But like many young stallions, Bernardini’s success tailed off following an auspicious start. However, he made a huge comeback in recent years through his daughters, and his name can now be found in the pedigrees of a number of top-class horses. You saw two of them dominate this year’s Triple Crown.
He also was the broodmare sire of last year’s Spinaway and Hopeful Stakes winners (Immersive and Chancer McPatrick), with Immersive adding the Alcibiades Stakes and Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies and Chancer McPatrick adding the Champagne Stakes. This year, his granddaughter La Cara won the Grade 1 Ashland and Acorn Stakes.
Bernardini as a stallion at Darley America.
Looking back, Bernardini was the broodmare sire of Catholic Boy, a Grade 1 winner on dirt and grass at 3 (Travers and Belmont Derby) in 2018, and his daughter, the multiple Grade 1-winning Cavorting, produced Clariere, a Grade 1 winner at 3, 4, and 5 from 2021-2023, just to name a few additional successes as a broodmare sire.
On July 30, 2021, Bernardini was euthanized at age 18 after suffering from laminitis, the same disease that ultimately claimed the life of Barbaro.
If you want to appreciate the legacy left by Bernardini, go back and re-read this column and count the number of superlatives describing him that can be applied to Sovereignty and Journalism. And like Bernardini, we haven’t seen the best of them.
Photos courtesy of Darley America, The Sporting Post
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.
Dear Mr. Haskins:
Thank you for this wonderful tribute to Bernardini. He was one of my all time favorites. I was so sad when he passed away.
Awful laminitis has taken so many; even our beloved Big Red. JB
Betsy just couple more comments, about Normandy and the bombing of Pearl Harbor.
Roy and Ray Stevens were in two different landing craft. Before they separated Ray wanted to shake Roy’s hand. Ray told his brother they could shake hands after the mission was complete. Roy’s landing craft sank before it made it to the beach and he almost drowned. As fate would have it I guess, Roy survived because his craft sank and his brother died because it did reach the shore.
The opening scene of “Band of Brothers” is based on the recollections of the Bedford Boys who survived.
When Pearl Harbor was bombed my Mother was working the switchboard for the Intermountain Telephone Company. The circuit lights we red, green and yellow. For days the switchboard was “lit up like a Christmas tree as my Mom described it. She worked a 24 hour shift that first day, just stopping long enough to eat and use the ladies room. She was 23 years old and before she and my Dad met and married.
My Mom had plans for college but her Father died unexpectedly when my Mom was 17. She was the oldest of 7 children, the youngest was 16 months old. She had to forego plans for college and get a job to support my Grandmother and her younger siblings.
The country was still in the throes of the Great Depression when my Grandfather died.
Indeed the Greatest Genetation.
Here’s an interesting fact about Mystik Dan as he gets ready to run in the Grade 1 Stephen Foster on Saturday. “Dan” ran in six straight Grade 1 races and only won the Kentucky Derby. With that great ride by Brian Hernandez to get through a hole on the rail that really wasn’t there. Mystik Dan was beaten decisively in those other five Grade 1 races. Second in the Preakness to Seize the Grey, but beaten by 2 1/4 lengths, in a less than stellar edition of the race. “Dan” is 3 for 4 at Churchill. So, he has that going for him.
Don’t get me wrong. I like Mystik Dan. I cashed on him at 3-1 in his Gr 3 Blame victory last time out. What’s my point? I think that there is a question of class. He meets much better than Antiquarian on Saturday. I’m talking about Mindframe and Sierra Leone. I see Mindframe as the horse to beat in the Stephen Foster.
Kenny McPeek apparently has Mystik Dan back on the beam on his comeback trail and he shows a bullet :59 workout two days ago. How “Dan” runs on Saturday will tell the story.
MD is ALL class!
So sorry to hear the news about Lukas. He’s been so important to sport for so many decades. Racing won’t be the same without him.
Lynda, I had np idea there was a travel ban – in our end or from the UK?
Thanks for your concern!
The ban was after 9/11.
One of my best friends was traveling in Scotland. It was her trip of a lifetime for which she saved for years.
Oh I’m sorry – I was in transit and read quickly
I can’t even imagine what your friend went through. When was she allowed to go back home?
I think the ban on all flights was lifted a few days later. However she had problems getting a flight booked as the result of so many Americans trying to get home.
She cut her trip short in Scotland and went to England. Luckily she had a close friend in England she stayed with until she got a flight about ten days later.
Yes, it was very frightening for her family and friends.
My Daughter and Grandaughter are now in Italy, they were in Belgium. Not sure how long they will be in Italy or their next destination. About three weeks left in Europe.
So far they have been to Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, Ireland, England, and Belgium. Probably have missed a country or two., maybe three.
My Daughter is well traveled and I am sure she is keeping up with current events. At the moment I am a bit less worried because she is in Italy. She loves Italy, one of her favorite destinations.
Wow, good for your daughter & granddaughter – that’s awesome!
I’ll be honest, unless I run across something on Twitter, I won’t know about it since I try to avoid .News….
I’m going type out a poem that D. Wayne wrote, that someone posted on Twitter
I swear I’m not crying…
*****
I woke up today with a troubled and uneasy mind
Only to realize in this wonderful life I was running out of time
Am I a poet with a verse that would not rhyme
Or a simple dancer a step and a half behind
I thought of all the ups and downs in a life so very real and strong, Knowing God has blessed me in every way as I struggle and work to move along
So today I will love each and every one as if they were truly mine as I realize and know
I’m running out of time !
D. Wayne Lukas is a credit to the sport, not only as a great trainer but also as a man who was an eternal optimist and tried to coach others to be upbeat every day.
Let us love one another each and every day as tomorrow is never guaranteed.
Well said, Dewey!
Well said, Dewey. Besides Wayne Lukas’ monumental influence over racing in general his mentoring skills in ‘fathering’ future successful trainers is unmatched.
Like them or not, all Lukas’ prodigy are exemplars of professional behaviour. The mark of the man.
Betsy, thank you for sharing the poem.
I read it last night, just heartbreaking.
Lynda, you’re welcome!
D Wayne has a wonderful attitude to life…not every legend is beloved, but he seems to be
On another board, we’re posting our favorite Lukas trainees
Mine are Landaluce (never saw her, sigh), Lady’s Secret, Slew City Slew, and the ridiculously underrated Gulch
Winning Colors.
Betsy, do you have a poem for some of the horses from his barn?
Prayers for D. Wayne Lucas who has announced his retirement today due to illness.
Yes Lynda, does not sound good for him. He is refusing treatment and wants to spend the remaining days with his family.
DTS0.01 it is my understanding that Mr Lucas is hospitalized in hospice.
Continued prayers for strength and peace.
That was a shock to read…….I wish D. Wayne nothing but happiness; the man is a legend
Yes it was a shock to read the news about Wayne Lucas. I hope it goes kindly for him and his family. I’m so glad he got a second act re his training career which gave him more time to really enjoy the both the horses and the people associated with the horses, something likely often hard to do in the midst of a high pressure first act, i.e. his earlier training days. He clearly, e.g., got a ‘kick’ out of having 2500 owners for Seize the Grey. Wayne Lucas provides a good reminder of the importance of taking the time to ‘smell the roses’, whether or not you win the Derby.
Good post, Dawn. He did seem to gain perspective through the years. I guess we all should. I liked that he was giving young jockeys opportunities the last several years.
Extremely sad news to read, you hope for the best.
I apologize for the incorrect spelling of Mr Lukas’ last name. I just noticed the mistake.
Lynda, I didn’t want this to get lost….
Not only were the Bedford Boys mentioned, we got to see photos of the Stevens’ and Hoback brothers …it was so poignant
We went to both Omaha and Utah Beach – so beautiful, both.
The American Cemetery was so peaceful, the crosses & stars of David do pure, clean white marble- so well tended.
Outside our first stop, I saw a group of poppies – very appropriate
Fun fact: the names of the Beaches have an interesting story
A General asked two officers where they were from – one said Omaha, the other Provo
The British/Canadian beaches were named after fish because one of the Operations under Overlord was called Operation Neptune. So, Gold was for Goldfish, Sword for Swordfish….the last one was going to be named Jelly, for Jellyfish, but that was decided to be ridiculous. Juno was named after an officer’s wife
Thank you Betsy.
I so appreciate your sharing your experience at Normandy.
Did not know the story behind the names of the beaches.
I cannot help but have tears reading this. I did not know these young men but my late Father did. He was a world away fighting in the South Pacific.
The Hoback Brothers had a younger sister named Lucille. She and my Dad were good friends. Lucille was Bedford County Commissioner of Revenue for many years.
My 4th grade teacher’s first husband was Mr Schenk who died that day.
I knew Roy Stevens very well (his brother died that day). His farm was not far from my Dad’s and his daughter rode horses. Spent many a Saturday morning riding on the Steven’s Farm.
Green’s Drug Store is still in Bedford. That is where all of the telegrams came in and then taken to the families. I think it was a Sunday morning when all the telegrams starting pouring in. Part of the Green’s Drug building is now a museum dedicated to the Bedford Boys.
My Daughter has been to Normandy. Just total silence on the beach and in the cemetary.
Again, thank you so, so much.
You’re very welcome, Lynda!
My uncle was lucky – I believe he was going to ship out to the Philippines when the war ended.
I just can’t imagine how these families managed to cope with losing one son…but two?
One of the photos the tour guide shared was of an elderly Roy Stevens at his brother’s gravesite. He apparently had tried to reach Ray, but was unable to before he was killed- the guide said something to the effect that hr had a hard time living with that. We also saw a photo of the twins when they were young boys -maybe 5 or 6?
I had hoped to see the grave of Theodore Roosevelt, Jr – who died not long after his advance on Utah Beach – of a heart attack. He was 56, way too old, but he insisted on doing his duty. His brother, Quentin, who died in WWI, is buried next to him – he was moved there to be beside his brother. Everyone else in the American Cemetery was killed in WWII
As an aside, Quentin was engaged to Flora Payne Whitney, daughter of Harry Payne Whitney
You’re very welcome!
Lynda and Betsy, these are wonderful stories about Normandy and what happened there. Thank you for sharing them. I’m glad these heroes are being honored and remembered.
Jiffy, you’re welcome! The Greatest Generation indeed…
Hi Betsy
Just to add to your comment, Juno was the name of the wife of Lt-Cmdr Dawney (a British Wing Commander i.e. RAF) and the name comes from the Roman goddess June, who was the daughter of Saturn and the mother of Mars and Vulcan, which makes the name particularly appropriate for a D-Day Beach.
Should have proofread better: ‘the Roman goddess Juno’
D
Dawn, thank you for that I information !
And you’re right – Juno is a very apropos name for the beach…
Bernardini whose brief but brilliant racing career, combined with his impact as a sire, left an indelible mark on the sport. Foaled on April 20, 2003 Bernardini’s pedigree, talent and presence made him one of the most significant racehorses of the early 21st century.
Sired by A. P. Indy, his dam was Cara Rafaela, a Grade 1 winner by Quiet American. This powerful pedigree foreshadowed greatness; and Bernardini lived up to expectations. Despite not racing as a two year old, he quickly ascended the ranks during his three year old season in 2006.
Making his racing debut in Januaryhe broke his maiden impressively at Gulfstream Park in his second start but it was in the Grade 3 Withers Stakes which he won decisively that heads were first turned. Nonetheless, it was in the Preakness Stakes where Bernardini etched his name into racing history; his performance was dominant by winning over five lengths, establishing himself as the leading three year old in the country.
Following the Preakness, Bernardini continued his winning streak with commanding victories in the Jim Dandy Stakes, Trvers Stakes, and Jockey Club Gold Cup. His Travers win was especially notable as he cruised to a 7 1/2 lengths victory, reaffirming his dominance over his generation. In each of these races, Bernardini displayed a rare combination of speed, stamina, and poise, characteristics that set him apart from his peers.
Upon retirement, Bernardini continued his legacy through numerous stakes winners including three Group 1 winners in Australasia passing on his athleticism and classy demeanour to his offspring on the racetrack and into the breeding shed.
Bernardini’s life ended prematurely but his legacy endures through both his progeny and his unforgettable performances on the racetrack. Bernardini exemplified excellence in every phase of his career and remains symbol of thoroughbred elegance and power. His contribution to the sport, both on and off the track, solidify his place among the greats of American horse racing.
Coal Battle it may be up to you to keep Bernardini’s sire line prominent, but as Steve Haskin has written above, Bernardini’s daughters could be this great thoroughbreds major contribution. Bernardini le magnifique!!
Coal Front is doing very well on that note, David – and I’m glad he’s in LA instead of lost at Spendthrift
Mind Control also has a chance to carry on Bernardini’s male line – he’s been very well received in NY.
I LOVED Stay Thirsty, so nothing would make be happier than to see his sons do well. Of course he’s also leaving a legacy as a BMS of Fierceness
Betsy, it was such a shame Bernardini didn’t have a major male winner in Europe, more importantly than What Biondetti, and the Australasian Group 1 winners were two fillies and a gelding so no luck with the sire line there either.
I had so hoped West Will Power would be given a chance in the US. Mind Control looks the best chance. Fingers crossed.
No surprise, David – Euros were not fans of the Slew line….they are mostly dirt. So go figure that Coolmore wastes Rags to Riches’ prone breeding years breeding her to grass sires…
I can’t believe West Will Power wasn’t given a shot – or perhaps his dumb *** owners decided to ship him out for the money
Well Coal Front IS doing very well, but I agree Mind Control could be his best shot …
Betsy, did you know that Digression was the winter favorite for the Epsom Derby his Royal Lodge Stakes win was so impressive. I was so hoping this would happen. Seattle Song was an excellent turf runner, if only Cudas hadn’t broken down…
Oh I haven’t thought of Digression in years – didn’t he end up in the states?
I don’t recall having seen Seattle Song personally, but I DO remember Cudas – he was very good. He broke down?
Seattle Song was a very good sire, ig i recall
Slew had some good turf runners – Tsunami Slew, and Slew the Dragom to name 2
One of the greatest what might have been is his son, Le Prince. He broke his maiden by 12 or so lengths in his debut, running faster than Carson City did that day in a stakes, defeating Rubiano. He was actually entered in the Gotham as a first time starter, but scratched. After his debut, he was entered & scratched from the Jim Dandy & Travers….that was the last anyone heard of him
Yes Betsy, Digression was the English Champion 2 year old, I was living in England at the time and saw all his races. Yes, he ended up in the US standing at Gainesway Farm, Providence Farm, shuttled to Argentina then to Blue Blood Farm in UT where he tragically died from getting into contact with a downed power line. Too sad.
Cudas broke down at Pimlico, breaks your heart.
Septieme Ciel was another Group 1 winner in France who came to the US and went to stud then went back to Europe for stud duty. He was 27 when he passed.
I’m still hoping for a Seattle Slew line will become a successful sire in Europe. Tapit’s sons look the best chance.
Betsy, with precautions just meld into the surroundings- no US flags, colours etc, if possible stay with a group. Some US tourists make it very obvious where they are from.
Just do the sensible things which are no doubt doing anyway.
Just on the news, Trump stated that there is a cease fire between Iran and Israel. Good news!!
Betsy, Mike Rutherford the owner/breeder of Lakeway had an Honor A. P. Colt win at Lone Star on Sunday, named Texian Devil. The colt is owned and was bred by Mike Rutherford.
Yeah, I saw earlier – by a nose, lol
APK maybe headed to the Jim Dandy – nothing definite. He’s nominate to the Belmont Derby next week – it will be interesting to see if he runs there, whether or not he wind up in the JD
Yeah I know. Several years ago Mike Rutherford invited me for a visit to his farm.
Evidently, standing up for our country is not permitted on this site. My comment to Downthestretch was removed a few minutes ago for adding a side note on what happened today. Time for me to move on elsewhere.
Adios.
Can you expand on that. I don’t know what you said in your comment that it was deleted.
Steve
Yesterday, I posted a thank you reply to Downthestretch for pointing out Brant, a 2yr. Gun Runner colt, trained by Bob Baffert who sold for $3 million. I went on to state that I was a big fan horses sired by Gun Runner, Into Mischief and Curlin.
In closing, I stated “hats off to Donald J. Trump” (for what he accomplished yesterday for the whole world to see). Apparently, I crossed the line for mentioning our president. In my opinion, it’s time to stand up and be counted.
I understand the policy on this site is to avoid political statements, but the deletion of my comment for stating “hats off to Donald J. Trump” is beyond belief.
As I mentioned, it’s time to move on.
Bill it was masterfully done…no leaks—pur leader pulled an end around–saying he would wait two weeks—and a rogue government that promised to demolish entire peoples….will not have the most terrifying weapon! Watching my President, Vice President, Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense—put a lump on my throat and a tear to my eye—you are correct—we all are safer now!…
Uh, no we’re not – and that comment should have been deleted because it didn’t belong there.
Betsy, I thought of you straight away. Please take extra precautions. When do you fly home?
The 26th…it didn’t occur to me that I should be nervous flying now. Great …
I appreciate your concern, but what precautions do you think I should take? I genuinely want to know – beyond the usual, I mean.
An update on my knee: it was bothering me on my D-Day tour, and one of the other guests suggested I get an MRI when I get home to be sure I haven’t torn anything. I’m going to do that – it’s a great idea
But right now, I’m getting hematomas – deep bruises that are spreading beyond the knee. My dad had that when he bruised his thigh, so I’m hoping it’s just that. It’s felt better tonight/last night/Sunday night, so maybe the worst is over?
Thank you!!!!
Betsy, my Daughter and youngest Grandaughter are still in Europe and expected to return mid July. They have been in Europe since the first Tuesday in May.
I have a dear friend who was traveling solo in Scotland on 9/11. It was absolute chaos at the London airport when the flight ban was lifted.
I am deeply concerned for my family and for you and all Americans who are abroad.
Prayers that your trip home is safe.
There’s a difference between disagreeing and being offended, although the difference is sometimes blurred or ignored. I’m not easily offended and I generally don’t believe in suppressing speech. I don’t have any problem with what Bill or Matthew said, and I don’t think there’s any danger of this becoming a political site. There are too many interesting things going on in racing and this is a perfect place to discuss them. If someone occasionally says something on a different subject, whether I agree or disagree, so be it. There are better things to worry about.
With you Matthew and Bill !!!
I have no idea why it was deleted. Ms y times the system does that automatically if some word triggers it off.
Bill, don’t feel like the Lone Ranger. I’m persona non grata on this site. Can’t even get my questions answered from the host-no matter cordial my attempts are . Your return will happen, you always come back.
So, it’s time to move on but only AFTER you got your say.
Typical.
Here we go!
Get back to me when you have carte blanche in deciding who goes.
Other sites are more appropriate for political views. Not here.
Bingo.
Totally agree. This site is for the pleasure of discussing thoroughbreds not expressing political opinion.
Perfectly stated. I agree wholeheartedly.
I agree.
I agree. Politics can be a very sensitive subject as there is a very divisive partisanship in the country today. This is one site that I return to as a means of escape from all the turmoil. Let’s keep Secretariat primarily for the enjoyment of the thoroughbred.
I agree as well. Like you, I come to this site to clear my mind of all the upheaval for a moment and think about racing instead.
Hang on.
That’s what a certain cult does (they silence people).
On this site I have not seen any official rules which show that you violated any rules.
It’s easy to spot who they are, just look up who are joining one party and who are abandoning the same one.
They want to silence free speech when it does not apply to them and allow it when it matches their agenda.
This isn’t Fox News.
St Petersburg racing greenly in his debut race, Punto Forty was much the best first out.
Just seven horses for next Saturday’s $1million Stephen Foster at Churchill Downs. But some good ones. First Mission, Hit Show, Sierra Leone, Mindframe, Mystik Dan, and the always popular Skippylongstocking.
Now that Derby winners are winning races after the Derby again, can Mystik Dan come right back with another one? He will be facing some tough customers. I think that it will be First Mission and Mindframe that “Dan” will have to beat.
A 12-race card with only three races featuring ten horses or more. Still, a pretty good card for the penultimate day of the meet. Thorpedo Anna will kick off the Derby City Six. Vixen, Mi Hermano Ramon, Dr. Venkman, and Bill Mott’s exciting …………..Excite are all entered to make appearances on the card.
I keep thinking about how well the California horses have performed when shipped East. How about a Fresu/Glatt daily double with Dr. Venkman and Mi Hermano Ramon?
Excited to be attending the OH Derby today at Thistledown. I like Chunk of Gold or Mcafee for the win. Here’s my TRI bet for the OH Derby : $24 TRI: 2,4/2,4/6.
Congratulations Rebel’s Romance!
What a champ!!
Final day of racing at Royal Ascot this Saturday with lots of racing to look forward to.For me, the hopes are high for:
Thesecretadversary by St Mark’s Basilica to take the Chesam Stakes (Agatha Christie fans note the colt’s name)
Rebel’s Romance too good in the Hardwicke Stakes
Storm Boy to upset the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes
Comanche Brave for the Jersey Stakes
The hard ground could help Valiant Force in the Wokingham Stakes for a boil over
Best Secret in the Golden Gates Stakes
Samui brings down the curtin in the Queen Alexandra Stakes
Then “The Carnival is Over” is over as we listen to the haunting tune by “The Seekers,” not a dry eye in the house.
Lynda, I just saw your comment now….I think cold compresses are my best bet since the hotel in Bayeux has limited ice. And – it’s not just here – I’ve found that several other hotels I’ve stayed in during my adventure have limited ice. I was recently asked by someone at the front desk why Americans always ask for ice, lol. I told him that- for me, I only drink (where possible) ice water. But in general, Americans are used to hotels having ice machines. In the UK and Europe, they hardly use ice, which is why the amount I can get in these hotels is limited
I’ll go to a pharmacy, get a good compress, & ask the hotel to store it for me since my room has no fridge. My knee is better, but it is still painfully swollen
Thank you!!
Hi Betsy, I really never thought about Americans having an obsession with ice.
LOL, as I type this at 8:25 AM I am drinking unsweetened ice tea.
Apparently Europeans don’t really use/need/care about ice, lol
Yum!!
It’s 90 plus here – all I want to do is gulp down a gallon of cold water and slap an ice pack on my knee !
We stayed at the Hotel Lion d’Or in Bayeux. One of our all time favorite hotels. Easy drive to Arromanches and the D-Day beaches. Make sure you go see the Tapestry in Bayeux.
I just passed it today, Steve! It’s very highly regarded, including their restaurant …I wish they didn’t have a special seafood buffet tonight, or I’d have dinner there (I like seafood, not so much buffets)
I just saw the Tapestry today – in fact, I did it twice because the people in front of me were soo slow, and the audio guide was fast, and so the audio ended up ahead of where I was on the Tapestry, lol
It’s extraordinary …everyone who can should see it. It’s closing in September for 2 years for repairs…
I’m taking a full D-Day tour tomorrow – it’s been a dream of mine for a long time, especially to see the American Cemetery. It’s going to be so incredibly moving…
Bayeux is so beautiful…
The.food at Lion d’or was indeed spectacular. The seafood buffet sounds amazing. My wife and I were there on our honeymoon and we both kept diaries and it was very emotional. I have a great photo of her standing on a windswept Omaha Beach. We were the only two people on the beach. Very surreal considering what happened there. You can walk down there from the cemetery. Other recomendations are Pont du Hoc..Great history . And the museum at St. Mere Ellglise. This was our final stop after a week in Paris and the Arc and then driving 1,000 miles from Toulouse up through the wine country and the Loire Valley chateaus. Have a great time.
I’d love it if our little group are the only ones on the beach – that photo of your wife sounds magnificent.
I remember going to the National WWII museum in New Orleans, and thinking – these were just boys….just kids.
We’re going to Pointe du Hoc, Sainte Mere-Eglise, Utah & Omaha beaches as well as others ….
Wow – what a vacation ….incredible!
Thank you!!!
Betsy the National D-Day Museum is in my hometown, Bedford, Virginia.
Bedford was chosen because per capita more young men from Bedford County died on D-Day than any other locality in the US.
There was a book written about them titled “The Bedford Boys”.
The two people most responsible for getting the funding for the Memorial were Charkes Schultz who drew the “Peanuts” comic strip and Steven Spielberg who produced “Saving Private Ryan”. Parts of the movie were based on the “Bedford Boys”. President George W Bush attended the dedication ceremony.
8 of the Bedford Boys are buried in the American section of the cemetery and there is cross dedicated to the memory dedicated to the 2 Bedford Boys whose bodies were never recovered.
One of the missing was named Hoback. His Bible was found on the beach and returned to his family in Bedford.
Lynda, that’s some story, I’ll try to look for the Bedford Boys…and that cross….
I’m glad that boy’s Bible was found at least…..something for his parents to hold onto …
A total of 19 died on Omaha Beach. A 20th soldier died on another beach that day. The population of Bedford County was 3200, mostly rural farms.
The 19 died on the Dog Green sector.They were part of Company A, 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division. The Dog Green sector was the far western end of Omaha Beach, near the town of Vierville-sur-Mer.
The Bedford Boys included three sets of brothers: twins Roy and Ray Stevens, with Ray killed during the landing while Roy survived; Clyde and Jack Powers, with Jack killed and Clyde wounded but surviving and Bedford (that is not a typo)and Raymond Hoback. Bedford is the one whose body was never found but per the above his Bible was.
Last names of all who died on Omaha Beach that day:
Abbott, Carter, Clifton, Draper, Fellers, Gillaspie, Hoback, Hoback, Lee, Parker, Powers, Rosazza, Reynolds, Schenk, Stevens, Wilkes, White, Wright, and Yopp.
Lynda, thanks for their stories – their names should never be forgotten
Oh no, two brothers …
Now THAT’S a honeymoon. I only had an extra couple of days from when I got married work so we went to Pawleys Isand, SC — in January! Last time we celebrated our anniversary with dinner at a local inn, all the other people in the restaurant commiserated with us on our poor choice of wedding date. LOL.
As an aside, after a week of viewing the races at Ascot I would love to spend time on any of the tracks in Ireland or GB. So beautiful, and the horses seem so relaxed. Not in January, though.
Only once since 2000 have the first four finishers of the Kentucky Derby all had subsequent G1 wins: Medina Spirit, Mandaloun, Hot Rod Charlie, and Essential Quality in 2021. I will bet that this year’s group (Sovereignty, Journalism, Baeza, Final Gambit) does the same.
There’s an amusing snippet on a site called “I Am Lave Man”—he’s digging in a puddle of water with his right fore leg–eventually getting tired, he “switches leads”–and uses his left….he’s 24 years young..
Matthew W, I saw that video. It was adorable!
That is SO cute! Thank you. He’s a mudder!
St Petersburg, by Constitution, out of Catherinethegreat, by Uncaptured, is set to debut tomorrow, at Los Alamitos, in race #1, MSW, at 5 furlongs. Trained by Bob Baffert, St Petersburg sold for $700K at auction, to Starlight Racing and is listed as the second favorite at 3-1, on the morning line. Keep an eye on this colt moving forward.
Thanks for the heads-up, Bill! I was a fan of Catherinethegreat so will be interested to see how St Petersburg fares.
You’re welcome arlingtonfan.
He could be yet another Baffert speed merchant. We’ll see.
Baffert has another 2 year old in training called “Brant” named after Peter Brant owned by Zedan. Paid $3 million and sired by Gun Runner. Will see if he is a runner or just another carousel horse for Baffert.
Oh dear–he was a wee bit green! Hopefully he’ll do better next time.
I was also there at Gulfstream on March 4, 2006. We were a little late getting to the track, not too interested in the maiden races, and as we were walking in they were coming off the turn in the second race, I believe. The horse leading the pack was Bernardini. It was just a maiden race but my thought was…oh my God, what a horse! I kept an eye on him after that, I think he ran a 112 Beyer in the Withers in just his third start, and then cashed in a nice one in the Preakness at 12-1.
I think Bernardini is still the most perfect-looking horse I have ever seen. Too bad he lost the BCC, or I think he would be considered one of the greats. Of the horses running this century, I would put him in a group with Flightline. Arrogate, Justify, and Point Given as the most talented horses I’ve seen. Bernardini was breathtaking.
I’m so happy his legacy will continue through his daughters, much like his great-granddaddy Secretariat.
Phil, that’s a great story – wow!
I agree – Bernardini was exquisitely stunning, and a brilliant racehorse
If you haven’t watched Trawlerman win the Ascot Gold Cup yet then you are in for a treat. Race of the meet thus far.
Day four at Royal Ascot is headed by the appearance of the star filly Zarigana in the Group 1 Coronation Stakes. Can the other Siyouni filly, Flight, match the French invader? Wait and see.
In the other Group 1, the Commonwealth Cup, Jonquil gets his chance for glory. We shall see soon. Should be another fabulous day of racing.
Thank you, David. That Gold Cup race at Ascot was most impressive. How often does a horse across the pond win a big race at that distance leading all the way?
Not that often, Roberta, but Kyprios was the out and out champion at a distance and defied them all to pass him. It’s worth searching for him on YouTube.
Kyprios won 17 of his 21 starts with 2 seconds with eight Group 1s.
It’s a pity Royal Ascot hasn’t had any rain as the going is becoming too hard for many of the better runners. Zarigana’s loss in the Coronation Stakes can be put down to the track. The French tracks are much kinder than what we have at Royal Ascot’s at present.
Many of the winners won’t be heard of when the Championship races are run in September/October but that’s racing.
Thank you, David. Checking out Kyprios is now on my to-do list for tomorrow.
That was a great race with Trawlerman, Davids. Today the favorites didn’t fair so well. I enjoyed every race, especially the Coronation, with the longshot winner Cercene (who descends from the great broodmare Plucky Leige).
Yes Ms Blacktype, there will probably be even more upsets tomorrow, with the lack of rain the going will probably be firm rather than good. Climate change is everywhere, most of the east of the US and Canada are expecting oppressive tropical humidity during summer.
Davids, thanks for the explanation on the turf. It seemed to me there were upsets on Friday.
There was a report that about 50 people were treated for heat related illness at the Royal Ascot on Thursday.
Yes Lynda, there were upsets throughout the carnival especially on Friday. On the last day the colour of the turf reminded me of Melbourne tracks during Spring but not as hard.
You want sunny days but not that hot and dry, I was really wanting to see White Birch run again but they scratched out because the ground was too firm.
The French contingent was grossly disadvantaged because their tracks are inevitably much kinder whatever the conditions.
Attn: Roberta Greevey
We have a mutual interest in Mischief Mania, by Into Mischief, out of Shadowing, by Tapit, set to debut in the 4th race at Horseshoe Indianapolis today. I noticed three entries have been scratched, leaving only five in the race. The Thoroughbred Database does not show his complete pedigree, which reflects only his sire side. I tried to edit the database to include the dam side as well, but to no avail.
Anyway, I’m looking forward to seeing how Mischief Mania performs at first asking. The race is set to go off at 12:43 pacific time.
BTW, keep an eye on Cost Effective, by Into Mischief, out of Lewis Bay, by Bernardine. His pedigree is similar to Sovereignty, (same sire and broodmare sire). Currently, he’s been working at Belmont.
Hi Bill !
I have edited Mischief Mania’s pedigree at pedigreequery… you can see it now in its entirety…
Thanks, Nelson.
Good job.
You are welcome Bill … anything for the best handicapper of 2025 !
Thank you for the kind words Nelson, but you must have me mixed up with someone else. Surely, there are much better handicappers on this site than I am. You for one, have forgotten more than I’ll ever know about the sport of horse racing.
Best of luck moving forward.
Hi, Bill. Thanks for the notice on Cost Effective. I see that his workout on the 16th was his first beyond 3f. I guess it could be a few weeks before his debut. I thought MM’s debut, despite being the odds-on favorite, was as nice of an even race as I could expect at 5f. The winner’s pedigree certainly suggests that this was to be his moment.
Bill, the Equineline pedigrees through Equibase always seem to be complete. Are they independent of each other? (i.e., Equibase & Thoroughbred Database’s Pedigree Query).
Thanks for the reply, Roberta
Yes, I believe the Equineline pedigrees and the Thoroughbred Database’s Pedigree Query are independent of each other. Nelson Mann took the time to edit Mischief Mania’s Thoroughbred Database Pedigree line, which is now complete.
Even though Mischief Mania finished 3rd debuting, I suspect he’ll show marked improvement moving forward. Keep in mind that Sovereignty (Into Mischief) finished 4th and 2nd in his first two starts, and didn’t break his maiden until his 3rd start, the G3 Street Sense.
I’ve been closely monitoring the workouts of two other Into Mischief colts that look promising, namely, Provenance out of Monomoy Girl ($4.7 million in earnings) and Dr. Agne, out of Lady Eli ($3.0 million in earnings).
BTW, I’ve been trying to find out who the trainer is for Cost Effective but couldn’t find any information relating to his current connections on Equibase.
Maybe you’ll have more luck finding his trainer from your sources.
Thanks Roberta.
Bill, I came up empty as well in finding a specific reference to the trainer for Cost Effective. But I will guess that it’s Chad Brown because he is the main trainer for Klaravich Stable, whose owner gives his horses names that are business-related.
That make sense, thanks for providing the info, Roberta.
Oh, I forgot to mention….Wow, the pedigrees for those two other Into Mischief colts! No guarantee they can run fast, but their parents have given them a reasonable chance. 🙂
Absolutely, a reasonable chance indeed.
In 1973…when Secretariat was winning The Triple Crown—there was this little bulldog Cal bred daughter od Windy Sea (?) Called Windy’s Daughter, she took the one turn Acord, and then she somehow got there first, in the Mother Goose—by her low slung nose (she ran with her head way down)…)…along comes the CCA Oaks–final leg at 12 furlongs, for the Cal bred SPRINTER—and nobody (includingme) gave her a chance—she came home far back—but that funky filly–with her funky style of running—was one of Secretariat’s first dates, in 1974!….
(Acorn)
Windy’s Daughter—17–12–1–1….$304K not too shabby for a 1970 foal…and my memory was correct she was by Windy Sea—not Windy Sands, who was the more successful sire…
Great memories !Windys daughter ! Love your 1970s memories !
Although O think thestrongest runs in the Derby in my lifetime were Secretariat, Bid and Soend A Buck—my favorite Derby is the Unbridled Derby—fir his spectacular kick–and of corse the Carl Nafzinger/Frances Gentee scene, ashe described everything to her….that wasmy favorite Derby—ot reminded me of this year—Unbridled rolling past Summer Squall (the favorite)—and Sovereignty rolling past Journalism (the favorite)…..I think Sovereignty is better than Unbridled—and Journalism is better than Summer Squall—Unbridled won The Classic—he was a stayer—I think Sovereignty is one of the best three year olds I have ever seen…
(Genter)
OMG! I cried so much when that Nafzger/Genter moment was played after the race. How wonderful it was!
Thursday, at Royal Ascot, is when the big race takes place. The 2 mile 3f and 210 yards prestigious Gold Cup is run and not to be missed.
I’m hoping that the gallant Trawlerman is finally able to discard the perennial bridesmaid image and run them off their feet. However, Candelari and Illinois looking extremely tough to beat while the ever present danger of James McDonald aboard Dubai Future, even at 33/1 can’t be discounted.
Don’t miss it!!
Hello Davids, been watching as much of the RA as I can.
Having to dodge heavy rains, heavy thunderstorms in the afternoons and get all outside chores done before 2 PM. We seem to be in a repeat cycle everyday.
So far my hero horse is the little filly Lennilu. So much heart and grit in such a tiny package. Quite a back story on her.
Yes Lynda, Lennilu was very courageous in defeat, she was coming back strongly on the line. Blackbeard’s full brother Charles Darwin looked even better in winning the Norfolk Stakes.
Nevertheless, Trawlerman, in the Ascot Gold Cup, stole the day and the meet thus far while replicating those famous words from “Chariots of Fire” in a visual display of defiance as he “ran them off their” while smashed the record in doing so.
Brilliant, sublime performance.
I just loved that! I had Trawlerman and my kid had Illinois. He was blowing, but still on his toes coming back in. He knew he was the man today! How much fun is the Godolphin team having this year?
Katy, Trawlerman showed the world what staying power is in a thoroughbred the stamina to run an odd 35 furlongs and then kick home while breaking the record will not be forgotten in a long, long time.
they run 2YO races in March?
“The Real Players”….puts outthese Horse Race stories, and the one by Robbie Davis—is beautiful….
Matthew, did you see James McDonald won the Duke of Cambridge Stakes Gr 2 on Crimson Advocate by Nyquist trained by the Gosdens.
Nice combination of ‘internationalism’ – New Zealand Jockey, English trainers, US sire and dam.
Plus she was originally campaigned in the US…she came home powerfully—after two nose wins, she has that winning habit!..
David, you won’t believe it! On the way back from a guided tour, I stepped in a hole in broken pavement, and fell on my hand and knee
My right ankle doesn’t bear much pressure, bug my left knee is the issue – it’s blown up like an orange. It must be just completely bruised and swollen – I doubt it’s broken because otherwise I don’t think I could walk on it at all …I’d have collapsed. As it is, I can barely walk – I’m off to the hospital!
Betsy, oh no, are you ok? I hope it’s just swelling. Good luck, fingers crossed.
I’ll be ok, thanks David! Luckily nothing was broken ….it’s just going to take some time, I think
Good to hear, Betsy. You’ll be right in a day or so. Must have been a shock when it happened.
Thanks!
Yea it was! Normally I always look down because I’m a klutz and I’m afraid of tripping…but I was in a good mood, and looking at my surroundings, and BOOM
I’m still doing things today, but taking taxis & avoiding a lot of waking
R I C E is good for your injury. Rest, ice, compression, elevation (when you are not out and about).
I usually apply chipped ice or ice cubes wrapped in a wash cloth to my injuries. It will help reduce swelling and bruising.
Last year I wore a knee brace to protect the knee. The elastic knee brace can also serve as compression. Just do not leave the brace on fir long periods of time.
Just think of yourself as a horse, LOL.
Seriously though first aid for horses can be used for humans as well.
Lynda, I don’t have any more ice (I could ask the guy at the front desk for more, but it’s after 2 am here….so I’ve got a wet towel around my knee. I’ll try to put more on tomorrow before I leave for Bayeux, but if not then, then when I get to the hotel
If the knee is still swollen when I get home, I’ll see a doctor – see if he thinks a brace is necessary.
LOL at least my injuries weren’t enough to out me out of my misery!
Betsy could not replay to your last comment so will have to leave it here.
Cold compresses in the absence of ice will help too.
Betsy, hope you recover quickly.
Had similar expetience last spring. Took awhile to heal.
Good to hear nothing broken.
Lynda, thanks!
My knee was much better today …still stiff, but not nearly as much…though it’s ugly as sin, lol
Oh no….so sorry to hear that!
I’ve never broken a bone, and I didn’t want Paris to be my first time, lol
I had brought Tylenol, Advil & Dual action Advil (like a combo of Tylenol & Advil), so I didn’t even need to fill the prescription the doctor had made for me!
Oh Betsy, so sorry to hear this! There is nothing sadder than getting hurt or sick while you’re on vacation. Hope you are on the mend, and will get well soon. At least you should have access to good and affordable care, right? Keeping a good thought!
Katy, thank you – so sweet!
I’ve traveled a lot, and this is the first time I’ve had an incident – I was surprisingly calm at the hospital, lol, though embarrassed at having to be lifted into the ambulance !
I’m lucky that I’m feeling a lot better – I think with a bruise there’s not much you can do except walk, even if it’s painful …walk the stiffness out of it.
The guys who brought me to the hospital in the ambulance were terrific, and so were the doctors.
It was HOT today in Paris – I thought I might die of heat stoke!
Yes, Betsy, that’s the best thing to do just walk off the injury by moving the blood flow. Sensible shoes.
The history of Bayeaux will help you forget. Did you catch Trawlerman in the Gold Cup?
Yep….!
I hope so – I’m so excited!
Oh no, I was out all day – and, I haven’t turned the tv on once, lol, as it’s naturally all French!
Is Royal Ascot over?
Betsy, Royal Ascot finishes on Saturday and none too soon really the ground is defining the winner not ability.No rain.
Too firm, David? Shame, but it’s the opposite in America – where horses who win on soft it yielding turf are looked at skeptically
But I imagine the course at Ascot is well beyond firm given the general total lack of rain, more like hoof rattling !
Beautiful and unexpected story, Steve. Bernardini was a wonderful horse, and you recapped his career perfectly.
Thanks very much. Just another amazing link in this years Triple Crown.
Thank you Steve.
Bernardini had the deepest eyes. Like Secretariat, his eyes seemed to grab hold of me and pulled my heart in.
Was wondering if you knew the origin of his name?
Blessed are the broodmares and the broodmare sires.
I believe it is an old Italian name with its own coat of arms signifying nobility .
I thought he was named after a race car driver?
Could be. I was just giving her the origin of the name Bernardini.
Ah, thanks! I like your version better!
You may be thinking of the famous Italian footballer/coach Fulvio Bernardini.
F-1 racecar driver Gabriel Forteleto dates Isabella Bernardini.
At any rate, guess we can agree the origin of his name is Italian.
Ha ha Gabriel Bortoleto, I only know this because a friend has become fascinated with Formula 1. I fear I may be asked to attend the Melbourne Grand Prix. A petrol head, I am not. lol.
Have you been watching Royal Ascot, Lynda?
In the Norfolk Stakes Gr 2, there is a 2 year old colt, Charles Darwin, who is a full brother to Blackbeard you liked a few years back. Charles Darwin is the hot favorite.
Thank you.
I believe Bernardini was named after the Renaissance Palazzo Bernardini erected for the Marchese Bernardini circa 1512 by the 16th Century architect Nicolao Civitali. The palace is located in the Piazza Bernardini in Lucca.
David, I don’t think so – I’ve never heard that. I’m pretty sure he was named after a racecar driver
Betsy, the racing driver you are thinking of is Lorenzo Bandini he was Italian driver in the Formula 1 from 1961 – 1967.
Never heard of a racing driver named Bernardini.
Bandini was a horse on the Triple Crown Trail in . . . wait for it . . . 2002.
Yes Ms Blacktype, one of the favourites after winning the Blue Grass Stakes very stylishly.
There’s a Patrick Bernardini…I might Tweet Darley to confirm…
Davids—I thought Field of Gold was absolutely CRACKERS, today at Royal Ascot!
Yes Matthew, Colin Keane got the jump on Ryan Moore on Henri Matisse and the margin stayed the same in the final furlong. Moore was shadowing Field of Gold behind but Keane accelerated at just the right time – game over.
Thank you for the Amazing story of Bernardini. I had forgotten him focusing on Barbaro’s recovery that year
Most people have forgotten just how good he was.
Hi Steve
Great back story on Bernardini’s racing career, and his success as an outstanding broodmare sire. I’ve been monitoring some of this year’s crop of 2yr. old colts, and came across Coat Effective, by Into Mischief, out of Lewis Bay, by Bernardini. He’s been working steadily at Bemont and should be close to his debut race.
Cost Effective’s dam, Lewis Bay, was a graded stakes winner, who could sprint and route, earning over $1 million in career earnings. Her sire, Summer Squall, won the Preakness, Blue Grass, Pa. Derby and the Hopeful. It appears Cost Effective could have inherited an excellent mix of speed, stamina and class. Could he be the second coming of Sovereignty? Time will tell.
I loved Lewis Bay…is this her first foal?
This was quite a walk down memory lane, Steve! I hope you are well – about time for another surgery, isn’t it? Hope it goes as well as #1!
I loved Bernardini. Any decent AP Indy horse was in my Virtual Stable at that time, and he was a cut above. He had those huge, amber Seattle Slew eyes. I thought he looked like a bigger and refined version of a foundation Morgan at full maturity. He was extraordinarily handsome.
Sadly, he also got the terrible propensity for laminitis. That pretty arched neck, such an appealing feature of his conformation, was likely an indication that he was genetically predisposed to endocrine disease and blood flow changes in his fleet feet. After living with horses for thousands of years, we still don’t understand this disease and all its causes. We cannot guarantee a decent outcome when treating it. No foot, no horse.
I was so excited when Art Collector got his Grade 1, and then devastated that his life was claimed by laminitis at such a young age. Your pieces this year revealed a similar story for Sovereignty’s dam.
I love to see Bernardini anywhere in a pedigree, just as I do Secretariat. I find the parallels in their stud careers interesting. I have to wonder if Bernardini’s offspring had predisposition for devastating hoof problems early on, and that was part of why his popularity at stud diminished. Obviously, they also carry some very special genetic traits that are highly desirable. I hope Bernardini’s remaining daughters and sons will be very carefully managed, and will live long and fruitful lives.
Great post, Katy. Interesting stuff on the possible connections between confirmation and laminitis. And I agree, it’s always great to find Bernardini in any pedigree.
Thanks for remembering Katy. It was yesterday and went well.
Katy, I’m hoping that Stay Thirsty, Mind Control, and West Will Power are able to sire sons that can continue on Bernardini’s line. The loss of Art Collector too regrettable and horrible.
Davids, I hope so, too!
Stay Thirsty has matured to favor his sire quite a bit, and I like his overall pedigree so much. Although we cannot fully explain it from the famous “X-Factor” standpoint (since he got a Y from Bernardini), he sure seems to have a blue hen in the making in daughter Nonna Bella! Nonna’s Love, the half sister to Fierceness and Mentee looks like a nice one! I think breeding Nonna Bella to Caravaggio was a stroke of genius: Holy Bull 3S x 4D = more Ta Wee!
Katy, we forgot Coal Front and the success of Coal Battle in this year’s Triple Crown preps. Mind you, the shift from Spendthrift to Red River Farms will not be ideal.
I was talking recently, to a guy about Bernardini—and he immediately said “Well–Barbaro was better”—and I realized how BOTH of them ate somewhat forgotten…and another forgotten horse is I’ll Have Another—who went 4 for 4 as a 3yo, before going wrong….his Preakness—making up 5 lengths on Bodimeister, in the last three furlongs—not many horses could do that—come to think of it…Bodimeister is a forgotten horse—Bernardini will stay in the public consciousness, Asa broodmare sire—I’ll Have Another will, too—as the exciting upstart of Old Friends!..
In the Eclipse Awards for Champion 3 year old male Bernardini received 210 votes compared to Barbaro’s 56.
Bernardini was also voted the World Champion 3 year old for the year.
He deservedit–no arguments, from mee….there aremany who think Barbaro was better—Nashia beat Swapsby from here to across the street—-there are 85 year olds today, who will tell you Swaps was better….
That’s the rub Matthew, lot’s of people didn’t think much of Seattle Slew either. Nothing better than serving up humble pie – chilled!! Ha ha
Invasor was such a cool horse.
Barbaro, oh what could’ve/ would’ve been.
Bernardini… meh. Definitely a studd stud.
Bernadini was a great horse but I was Invasor guy. Felt slighted yes! when walking out of the Meadowlands after the Distaff I bought the Racing Form with the front page Peb cartoon pushing the fight of the century. Bernadini vs. Lava Man. After that, bank withdrawal, window, wire, window and deposit! I paid our wedding with that. One question Steve. when Barbaro broke thru the gate and literally lifted it I believe that’s when the damage was done. These days do you think they would of scratched him! Thanks Steve for a wayback to one of my favorite years!
They would never scratch a Kentucky Derby winner in the Preakness for breaking thru the gate. Unless they wanted a riot.
It certainly would be a riot. I still have never seen such a powerful break crash thru.
Invasor was even more forgotten. He is very special to me and .my family. He took us on an unforgettable journey. I will have to write about that.
I was at Churchill for the 2006 Breeders’ Cup. As a fan of Invasor, I was eager to see the matchup with Bernadini. I placed a win bet on Invasor and an exacta box on Invasor and Bernadini. I was not disappointed with the result and thrilled for Invasor, but it was apparent to me that Bernadini wasn’t at his best that day.
Steve, thanks so much for giving due respect for the many thoroughbred stars who have given us so many thrills through the years. As a Hall of Fame scribe, your vivid writing helps to keep their legacies alive. I’m looking forward to your story with Invasor.
p.s. Glad to hear that your eye operations were successful.
Thanks very .much Dewey.
Dewey, Javier Castellano stated that Bernardini was ‘spinning his wheels’ at Churchill Downs in the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
Moreover, Invasor had to skip the Jockey Club Gold Cup while Bernardini ran and won the race. Running in the Jockey Club Gold Cup in it’s previous slot in the calendar has been quite detrimental to many runners going on to compete in the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
Davids, your point on Bernardini being somewhat compromised by running in the JCGC just prior to the BC is well taken and reminds us that not all horses are well suited to running in all three triple crown races. Taking nothing away from Journalism, but Bill Mott made the right move for Sovereignty by skipping the Preakness and having a rested horse with plenty of gas left in the tank for the Belmont.
Let’s hope that these two build on their rivalry by meeting up in the Travers.
Mr. Haskin, I also hold Invasor as very special- seeing him several times over the years. Shadwell personally told me in several instances his return would happen. It never did. Can you please update how’s he doing?
Coming right after Barbaro’s horrible breakdown—Bernardine–in my opinion never got the recognition he deserved, had he run another year he may have—that Classic gewas in….Lava Man was coming g in on a seven race win streak…Brother Derek was talented—and Invasor was a powerhouse—it took a powerhouse, to beat Bernardini that day, in one of our best fields of the 21st century…..Bernardini has finally got his recognition—as a broodmare sire. ..
No, he never did…….and I find it odd because he built a legacy above and beyond the tragic Preakness
Steve reminded me of Durkin’s awesome call in the Jim Dandy…I’m getting chills just thinking about it
Bernardini did everything so easily….
Steve, this is such a beautifully written and fascinating column. As so many of your contributions inspire me to look further at the scenes you’ve described, this one has brought me to YouTube for videos of Bernardini’s races.
I too was at GP, with my late husband, for Bernardini’s maiden win. We followed and enjoyed his exploits through to the BCC, but we were disappointed that he was retired to stud after a mere eight races. Thanks again for another gem!
Thanks Roberta. I was crushed when they retired him.
Definitely a standout on looks.
David, from previous post – yes, you did say that about Heart!
Chantilly is at the top of my list for next time!
I have the app – thank god, lol. I can’t watch tv because obviously it’s all French, so I’m depending on my apps to see me through!
Betsy, fingers crossed for Lennilu in the Queen Mary Stakes tomorrow it would be a real fillip for Leinster as a sire.
Steve, thank you so much for this beautiful tribute to Bernardini….
I don’t know if it’s because I was a fan of the Black Stallion movie and books, but in general I favor plain horses…or. I should say, unmarked, dark bay/brown/black horses. Outside of Man o’War, Slew is my favorite horse – and I think he was magnificent looking
Bernardini was stunning – just breathtaking – and looking back, a tremendously underrated horse. I wish he’d have been elected to the HoF ….and as I’ve said before, I will never forgive Godolphin/Darley for retiring him. I can only imagine how devastating he’d have been as a 4 year old
He’s making an extraordinary legacy for himself as a BMS….and I keep forgetting that he’s up close in Journalism’s pedigree.
If Mind Control does well at stud, Bernie still has a chance to have a male-line impact….but right now, his daughters are where it’s at
Thank you again!!
I still miss Bernie….
Imagine having Bernardini vs. Curlin in the Classic.
Oh wow….that would have been something. Kudos to Jess Jackson for keeping Curlin in training as a 4 year old..
I hope they keep Journalism running at 4—-he just may prove to be the second coming of Curlin, something I’ve been waiting for these years since Curlin’s retirement. Jess Jackson was the consummate sportsman. We know or at least strongly presume, that Godolphin will retire Sovreignity after his 3yo campaign, tho I’ve read speculation they may run him in Dubai, but who really knows?
Wow! I’d be rooting for Curlin……but Bernardini was also spectacular. Thank you Steve for this wonderful story, linked as only you can do, to a timely topic.
Nice story about a forgotten horse. The saga of Barbaro overshadowed everything else that year, which was understandable. Probably among the very best of his decade,
Agreed!