Seeing as it is almost 9:30, most of you would know by now Street Sense did not win the Preakness, thereby eliminating the chance of a Triple Crown winner in 2007. Curlin, third in the Derby, battled tough in the stretch and, after seeing Street Sense go by him, came back late to win by a head-bob. It was a thrilling race in front of a record crowd of 121,263 at Pimlico.
It certainly takes the luster off the Belmont in three weeks, but consider this: the top three finishers in the Derby were also the top three in the Preakness. Combine that with some of Pletcher's horses, who are bound to fare better this year than their disman Derbies indicate, and we've got the makings of a fantastic 3-year-old class. That means good things - very good things - for Saratoga.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Preakness picks
Two hours till race time, so I guess I should put my pick out there for all to see.
I picked Street Sense in the Derby and won't go away from him here. He looks ready for a repeat performance, and will have to do it against fewer horses. Trainer Carl Nafzger and jockey Calvin Borel have expressed such confidence, and I don't think it's lip-service. He's going to go for the Triple Crown in three weeks.
After that, it gets fuzzy. I loved Hard Spun's tenacity and effort in the Derby, but I wonder if he can get out front and stay there so strongly with just two weeks' rest. Curlin is expected to improve after his Derby, but by how much? He has talent, and he also now has some much-needed experience. Circular Quay was off eight weeks before the Derby. Now, it's just two weeks between races. He'll come from way out of it, but will he be too far back to hit the board? As for those who did not race in the Derby, I'll go with most of the handicappers who say they probably won't factor into the result. Still, each of them could get a dream trip and sneak into a top-four spot.
That said, I'll take Circular Quay and Hard Spun behind Street Sense. That's it. That's my top three. Time to find my way to the window...
I picked Street Sense in the Derby and won't go away from him here. He looks ready for a repeat performance, and will have to do it against fewer horses. Trainer Carl Nafzger and jockey Calvin Borel have expressed such confidence, and I don't think it's lip-service. He's going to go for the Triple Crown in three weeks.
After that, it gets fuzzy. I loved Hard Spun's tenacity and effort in the Derby, but I wonder if he can get out front and stay there so strongly with just two weeks' rest. Curlin is expected to improve after his Derby, but by how much? He has talent, and he also now has some much-needed experience. Circular Quay was off eight weeks before the Derby. Now, it's just two weeks between races. He'll come from way out of it, but will he be too far back to hit the board? As for those who did not race in the Derby, I'll go with most of the handicappers who say they probably won't factor into the result. Still, each of them could get a dream trip and sneak into a top-four spot.
That said, I'll take Circular Quay and Hard Spun behind Street Sense. That's it. That's my top three. Time to find my way to the window...
Matz wins Barbaro
It won't make up for what he lost a year ago, but Michael Matz did find his way to the Pimlico winners' circle on Preakness Day. Matz' trainee, Chelokee, cruised to a win in Saturday's ninth race, the Barbaro. The race was changed from the Sir Barton this year to honor Barbaro, who was critically injured early in last year's Preakness.
Barbaro was trained by Matz and owned by Roy and Gretchen Jackson, who were on-hand for the trophy presentation.
Chelokee went off at odds of 1-5, so the win was hardly unexpected, but it was a fitting result.
Barbaro was trained by Matz and owned by Roy and Gretchen Jackson, who were on-hand for the trophy presentation.
Chelokee went off at odds of 1-5, so the win was hardly unexpected, but it was a fitting result.
updated odds
As of 12:30, Street Sense has been bet down to a 3-2 favorite for the Preakness. He was given 7-5 odds at the post position draw, went up to 9-5 yesterday and has gone back down as the heavy favorite. Second choice right now is Curlin at 3-1.
Still sunny here, with a nice breeze blowing. Looking more and more like a fast track for the Preakness. Ramon Dominguez, rider of Xchanger in the Preakness, has two wins on the card through four races.
Still sunny here, with a nice breeze blowing. Looking more and more like a fast track for the Preakness. Ramon Dominguez, rider of Xchanger in the Preakness, has two wins on the card through four races.
beautiful morning
The sun is out at Pimlico and the gates have opened to the masses. Already, the infield is starting to fill up as revelers charge in carrying blankets, backpacks and enough beer to sink an ocean liner. I've heard the infield at the Preakness puts the one for the Derby to shame, if you're into that sort of thing (as most of us were back in the day).
The chance for rain has gone down slightly, meaning there's a better chance the race will be run over a dry, fast track. Hope for the best, that's all we can do. In 10 hours, we'll know if the Belmont Stakes is just another Grade I race or if it will in fact be part of history like it was when Funny Cide and Smarty Jones went there seeking a Triple Crown.
The chance for rain has gone down slightly, meaning there's a better chance the race will be run over a dry, fast track. Hope for the best, that's all we can do. In 10 hours, we'll know if the Belmont Stakes is just another Grade I race or if it will in fact be part of history like it was when Funny Cide and Smarty Jones went there seeking a Triple Crown.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Borel wins debut
Calvin Borel, who will ride Street Sense in Saturday's Preakness, won in his Pimlico debut aboard Unbridled Sidney in the Very One Stakes over the turf course.
In his second start, he finished out of the money.
He has several mounts prior to Saturday's Preakness, so he should have a pretty decent grasp of the track by post time.
In his second start, he finished out of the money.
He has several mounts prior to Saturday's Preakness, so he should have a pretty decent grasp of the track by post time.
The day before
It's been a busy day at Pimlico already and the feel of the big race is definitely here. Street Sense got his first taste of the track this morning, then mugged it up nice for a large crowd as he was bathed. Trainer Carl Nafzger sat patiently and confidently nearby, first watching his colt get cooled down and then taking questions from a large media contingent.
Jockey Calvin Borel made his appearance at Pimlico Friday morning and seems ready to rock for Saturday's race. He wasted little time telling everyone just how confident he is in his horse - "I think he's much the best horse," he said - and recalling the wild last two weeks of his life.
Borel, with his small town Louisiana background, hasn't been in the spotlight like this too often during his career, although he has been very successful. Still, he stood up there and answered all the questions and even threw out some funny lines to keep the media interested. An example: One of his best memories following the Derby win was getting out of the limo at the White House.
"It was dark out, and then we got out of the limo and all the paparazzi was there. It scared the you-know-what out of me."
Get ready, Calvin - another win Saturday will only make the lights brighter and the cameras more plentiful.
Jockey Calvin Borel made his appearance at Pimlico Friday morning and seems ready to rock for Saturday's race. He wasted little time telling everyone just how confident he is in his horse - "I think he's much the best horse," he said - and recalling the wild last two weeks of his life.
Borel, with his small town Louisiana background, hasn't been in the spotlight like this too often during his career, although he has been very successful. Still, he stood up there and answered all the questions and even threw out some funny lines to keep the media interested. An example: One of his best memories following the Derby win was getting out of the limo at the White House.
"It was dark out, and then we got out of the limo and all the paparazzi was there. It scared the you-know-what out of me."
Get ready, Calvin - another win Saturday will only make the lights brighter and the cameras more plentiful.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
pino the hometown hero
Mario Pino is the local favorite for Saturday's Preakness aboard Hard Spun. No rider has won more races in the state of Maryland and this is his first real good shot to win the state's biggest race.
Thursday afternoon, after a press conference in the press box overlooking the track, Pino jumped on the elevator and immediately said hello to several track workers who were also aboard.
One of them shook his hand and said, "You looked good in that big race."
Pino was quick to reply with a smile, "I hope I look good Saturday." That drew laughs from everyone in the elevator.
Pino plays the part of the hometown boy very well and I would guess he'll cause Hard Spun's odd to get real low by the time the post parade comes around. That said, don't let the low odds scare you off and send you looking for more value. This horse can really run.
Thursday afternoon, after a press conference in the press box overlooking the track, Pino jumped on the elevator and immediately said hello to several track workers who were also aboard.
One of them shook his hand and said, "You looked good in that big race."
Pino was quick to reply with a smile, "I hope I look good Saturday." That drew laughs from everyone in the elevator.
Pino plays the part of the hometown boy very well and I would guess he'll cause Hard Spun's odd to get real low by the time the post parade comes around. That said, don't let the low odds scare you off and send you looking for more value. This horse can really run.
Thursday morning
Just returned from the annual Alibi breakfast at Pimlico, where a number of awards were handed out. Not surprisingly, Barbaro's Preakness tragedy and the ensuing battle for his life were the major themes.
Dr. Dean Richardson and Edgar Prado were honored for their effort, while Sean Clancy won the award for the best Preakness 2006 story, a story for the Mid-Atlantic Thoroughbred that followed Barbaro's ordeal from the starting gate all the way to the New Bolton Center.
Carl Nafzger and Larry Jones, whose stalls are just a short ways away, were enjoying some playful banter near the stakes barn this morning, a continuation of when Larry Jones interrupted Nafzger's conversation with the media to hand the Derby-winning trainer a set of keys to his maroon pick-up truck. Nafzger already won the trophy and the money, does he really NEED a free truck, too??
Dr. Dean Richardson and Edgar Prado were honored for their effort, while Sean Clancy won the award for the best Preakness 2006 story, a story for the Mid-Atlantic Thoroughbred that followed Barbaro's ordeal from the starting gate all the way to the New Bolton Center.
Carl Nafzger and Larry Jones, whose stalls are just a short ways away, were enjoying some playful banter near the stakes barn this morning, a continuation of when Larry Jones interrupted Nafzger's conversation with the media to hand the Derby-winning trainer a set of keys to his maroon pick-up truck. Nafzger already won the trophy and the money, does he really NEED a free truck, too??
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
street sense favored
Got back from the ESPNZone at Baltimore's Inner Harbor a short time ago, where Kentuxky Derby winner Street Sense was made the 7-5 morning-line favorite for Saturday's Preakness. He will break from the eighth spot in the starting gate, between Derby runner-up Hard Spun and longshot C.P. West. Here is the starting gate order, starting with the inside position (with morning-line odds):
1. Mint Slewlep (30-1)
2. Xchanger (15-1)
3. Circular Quay (8-1)
4. Curlin (7-2)
5. King of the Roxy (12-1)
6. Flying First Class (20-1)
7. Hard Spun (5-2)
8. Street Sense (7-5)
9. C.P. West (20-1)
A good spread was put on by the folks at the ESPNZone, but there really wasn't a whole lot there to warrant an hour of television, given the horses were given post positions (as opposed to selecting them, like for the Derby). Still, I'm a big fan of ESPNZones, so I guess it's OK with me if they continue to host the draw each year.
Spent a few minutes with Hard Spun's jockey, Mario Pino, at the draw. Calvin Borel notwithstanding, he might be the best jockey you've never heard of. Look for more on him and his horse in Friday's Saratogian.
1. Mint Slewlep (30-1)
2. Xchanger (15-1)
3. Circular Quay (8-1)
4. Curlin (7-2)
5. King of the Roxy (12-1)
6. Flying First Class (20-1)
7. Hard Spun (5-2)
8. Street Sense (7-5)
9. C.P. West (20-1)
A good spread was put on by the folks at the ESPNZone, but there really wasn't a whole lot there to warrant an hour of television, given the horses were given post positions (as opposed to selecting them, like for the Derby). Still, I'm a big fan of ESPNZones, so I guess it's OK with me if they continue to host the draw each year.
Spent a few minutes with Hard Spun's jockey, Mario Pino, at the draw. Calvin Borel notwithstanding, he might be the best jockey you've never heard of. Look for more on him and his horse in Friday's Saratogian.
slowly but surely
It was a most quiet morning at Pimlico this morning. Until about 10:30, the stakes barn was empty. That's when Curlin and Flying First Class came in on vans and got settled in their stalls.
After that, D. Wayne Lukas held court with a group of media just waiting for some action. He obliged, throwing out some good lines and explaining why his speed horse is capable of going two turns and challenging the likes of Street Sense. We shall see...
Hard Spun and Street Sense are both due in later today, while Todd Pletcher will ship King of the Roxy and (yes, it's true) Circular Quay to Pimlico tomorrow.
Draw is scheduled for 4:30 today at the ESPNZone in the inner harbor.
After that, D. Wayne Lukas held court with a group of media just waiting for some action. He obliged, throwing out some good lines and explaining why his speed horse is capable of going two turns and challenging the likes of Street Sense. We shall see...
Hard Spun and Street Sense are both due in later today, while Todd Pletcher will ship King of the Roxy and (yes, it's true) Circular Quay to Pimlico tomorrow.
Draw is scheduled for 4:30 today at the ESPNZone in the inner harbor.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Baltimore it is!
Touched down in Baltimore earlier thisafternoon, then enjoyed quite a long trip along I-695 to get to my hotel. All went well and expect to be trackside tomorrow morning, though the top contenders for the Preakness aren't expected on the grounds until later in the day. Nonetheless, I'll be out there seeing what's up (namely, we'll see if Todd Pletcher really does plan to turn Circular Quay around the run him Saturday).
On a side note, had the chance to shake hands with a Hall of Famer this morning before I left Albany. Baseball great Tony Gwynn and his family were at the airport, flying home after their visit to the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. Asked him about the Hall (he liked it) and about the Brewers (he liked them, too - his son is on the team, after all). Rejoice, Brewers fans: Gwynn thinks they're for real!!!
Will return with a post sometime tomorrow as we count down the days to the Preakness.
On a side note, had the chance to shake hands with a Hall of Famer this morning before I left Albany. Baseball great Tony Gwynn and his family were at the airport, flying home after their visit to the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. Asked him about the Hall (he liked it) and about the Brewers (he liked them, too - his son is on the team, after all). Rejoice, Brewers fans: Gwynn thinks they're for real!!!
Will return with a post sometime tomorrow as we count down the days to the Preakness.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Preakness taking shape
It appears that the top three Kentucky Derby finishers - Street Sense, Hard Spun and Curlin - are all set to run in the Preakness Stakes next weekend. Trainer Steve Asmussen confirmed Curlin will go to Baltimore this afternoon, after watching his horse spend a couple of days on the track following the grueling Derby. At this point, it seems the field for the Preakness will be about half the size of the Derby field.
Wonder what celebrities that will attract... that's the most important thing, right? Who shows up?
Wonder what celebrities that will attract... that's the most important thing, right? Who shows up?
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Recovered and ready for more
Two days after my return from Louisville (including a two-plus hour wait at the airport to check my bags at the Continental Airlines counter - didn't they EXPECT a big rush the day after the biggest race of the year?) I am back in the office preparing for some late-season high school action. Tonight: Saratoga Springs boys lacrosse!
As for the Derby, it was an absolutely spectacular experience, and a fantastic show by Street Sense to boot. The crowd was electric and the weather was sensational. Now, we can look forward to the Preakness. Already, it seems Street Sense and second-place finisher Hard Spun are gos for the race at Pimlico Race Course. Also, third-place runner Curlin could go, as could Sedgefield, and Teuflesberg. None of the horses Todd Pletcher ran in the Derby are being pointed to the Preakness, but he does have King of the Roxy ready to go. Also, D. Wayne Lukas could get back into theTriple Crown racing scene with a horse or two, as could Nick Zito.
Plenty can happen between now and May 19, so don't start making those exotic bets just yet. One thing is for sure, though: don't worry about a 20-horse field.
As for the Derby, it was an absolutely spectacular experience, and a fantastic show by Street Sense to boot. The crowd was electric and the weather was sensational. Now, we can look forward to the Preakness. Already, it seems Street Sense and second-place finisher Hard Spun are gos for the race at Pimlico Race Course. Also, third-place runner Curlin could go, as could Sedgefield, and Teuflesberg. None of the horses Todd Pletcher ran in the Derby are being pointed to the Preakness, but he does have King of the Roxy ready to go. Also, D. Wayne Lukas could get back into theTriple Crown racing scene with a horse or two, as could Nick Zito.
Plenty can happen between now and May 19, so don't start making those exotic bets just yet. One thing is for sure, though: don't worry about a 20-horse field.
Saturday, May 5, 2007
street sense
Street Sense wins the Derby and eliminates the Juvenile Jinx...
With Calvin Borel up, Street Sense settled way back early, then moved easily through the pack before taking on the leaders off the final turn. No longer can it be said the a Breeders' CUp Juvenile winner has never won the Derby.
Hard Spun, the leader throughout, was second and Curlin finished third. Todd Pletcher's five entries struggled, finishing 6th, 8th, 9th, 18th and 20th.
With Calvin Borel up, Street Sense settled way back early, then moved easily through the pack before taking on the leaders off the final turn. No longer can it be said the a Breeders' CUp Juvenile winner has never won the Derby.
Hard Spun, the leader throughout, was second and Curlin finished third. Todd Pletcher's five entries struggled, finishing 6th, 8th, 9th, 18th and 20th.
counting down...
Less than two hours until the Derby is run. We have been getting updated odds every hour, and Street Sense remains the favorite at 5-1. Race 9 (in about 35 minutes) features Better Talk Now, who is running for the first time this year after finishing second in the Breeders' Cup Turf.
I hear the Queen has arrived. A few minutes later, the crowd of photographers on the track turned around and began snapping shots of the grandstand while spectators ooohed and aaahed. I wonder who her Derby horse is...
I hear the Queen has arrived. A few minutes later, the crowd of photographers on the track turned around and began snapping shots of the grandstand while spectators ooohed and aaahed. I wonder who her Derby horse is...
My picks
Seeing as it is less than five hours until the Derby, I suppose I'd better get my picks out there so I can be congratulated for my astute choices.
As one of the greener members of the media here this year, I have differed to several more veteran writers and handicappers, who have mentioned how wide open this field is. I agree, meaning there will be many choices and, hopefully, one heck of a great race.
Still, we've all got our opinions, so here are mine: I really, REALLY like Street Sense. I know, the Juvenile Jinx hangs over his head, but he was awesome here last year in the Breeders' Cup (albeit on the inside, where many horses were awesome) and he has been battle-tested. His races have been hard, but he has trained well. Plus, this jinx has to end sometime, right?
I also like Wood winner Nobiz Like Shobiz. He has been among the favorites since the start of the year and looked very good in the Wood. Barclay Tagg gushed about his horse early this year, and has continued to do so since arriving in Louisville Wednesday. This could be a big day for Nobiz.
Then it comes down to two: Circular Quay and Scat Daddy. Scat Daddy is always in the mix and has solid credentials. Circular Quay, meanwhile should come from out of the clouds (though it remains sunny right now) very late. Something many people have taken notice of is how Circular Quay has been on the exact same training schedule as Rags to Riches, the easy winner of yesterday's Oaks. Plus, he's the son of Thunder Gulch and his odds are higher, meaning better value. All those factors have forced me to go in his direction, though there is something about Scat Daddy's toughness (never been worse than fourth) that is impressive.
So mark it - Street Sense to break the jinx, Nobiz Like Shobiz and Circular Quay
As one of the greener members of the media here this year, I have differed to several more veteran writers and handicappers, who have mentioned how wide open this field is. I agree, meaning there will be many choices and, hopefully, one heck of a great race.
Still, we've all got our opinions, so here are mine: I really, REALLY like Street Sense. I know, the Juvenile Jinx hangs over his head, but he was awesome here last year in the Breeders' Cup (albeit on the inside, where many horses were awesome) and he has been battle-tested. His races have been hard, but he has trained well. Plus, this jinx has to end sometime, right?
I also like Wood winner Nobiz Like Shobiz. He has been among the favorites since the start of the year and looked very good in the Wood. Barclay Tagg gushed about his horse early this year, and has continued to do so since arriving in Louisville Wednesday. This could be a big day for Nobiz.
Then it comes down to two: Circular Quay and Scat Daddy. Scat Daddy is always in the mix and has solid credentials. Circular Quay, meanwhile should come from out of the clouds (though it remains sunny right now) very late. Something many people have taken notice of is how Circular Quay has been on the exact same training schedule as Rags to Riches, the easy winner of yesterday's Oaks. Plus, he's the son of Thunder Gulch and his odds are higher, meaning better value. All those factors have forced me to go in his direction, though there is something about Scat Daddy's toughness (never been worse than fourth) that is impressive.
So mark it - Street Sense to break the jinx, Nobiz Like Shobiz and Circular Quay
updated odds
Derby odds as of noon were brought up a little while ago, and Street Sense remains the betting favorite at 5-1. Second choices are Scat Daddy and mornin-line favorite Curlin at 6-1. Sedgefield, breaking from the far inside post position, is the longest shot at 56-1.
The sun has come out and things are getting real warm outside. Downstairs, it is pandemonium - not surprising. Just walked past Kenny Mayne of ESPN doing some work with a cameraman under the grandstand. They were filming a line of people withdrawing their life savings from the ATM with Mayne saying, "Don't look at the camera. Pretend it's Armageddon. Don't look at the camera!"
Maybe you had to be there.
The sun has come out and things are getting real warm outside. Downstairs, it is pandemonium - not surprising. Just walked past Kenny Mayne of ESPN doing some work with a cameraman under the grandstand. They were filming a line of people withdrawing their life savings from the ATM with Mayne saying, "Don't look at the camera. Pretend it's Armageddon. Don't look at the camera!"
Maybe you had to be there.
Good Derby morning!
For anyone who has been living under a rock the last two weeks, you need only TRY to get to Churchill Downs to realize today is Derby Day. Police and armed National Guard members are out in full force, seemingly at every intersection, entrance, loading dock, parking lot and port-o-potti within 3 miles of the track.
The skies are looking good - for now. Rain is forecast, and it is overcast, but there is no rain falling right now. The track is listed as "good," but a return of any rain would likely change that.
I got searched and checked over about a half-dozen times getting to my seat here in the press box, but I guess when you'e at one of the world's biggest sporting events, that's par for the course. hard to believe, with this kind of security, that anything terrible ever happens anywhere.
The Queen is due to be here today, and reports yesterday came out that "The King," NASCAR legend Richard Petty, is being flown in to meet her... Now THAT'S a picture worth 1,000 words!
As for me, the work is done until the race is run, so once I'm done making my picks, I'm going to spend some time walking around the grounds, soaking in the Derby Day craziness. Got a taste of that yesterday when I checked out the grandstand before the Oaks - I liken it to Travers Day on steroids. Today, there should be an additional 50,000. Yikes!
The skies are looking good - for now. Rain is forecast, and it is overcast, but there is no rain falling right now. The track is listed as "good," but a return of any rain would likely change that.
I got searched and checked over about a half-dozen times getting to my seat here in the press box, but I guess when you'e at one of the world's biggest sporting events, that's par for the course. hard to believe, with this kind of security, that anything terrible ever happens anywhere.
The Queen is due to be here today, and reports yesterday came out that "The King," NASCAR legend Richard Petty, is being flown in to meet her... Now THAT'S a picture worth 1,000 words!
As for me, the work is done until the race is run, so once I'm done making my picks, I'm going to spend some time walking around the grounds, soaking in the Derby Day craziness. Got a taste of that yesterday when I checked out the grandstand before the Oaks - I liken it to Travers Day on steroids. Today, there should be an additional 50,000. Yikes!
Friday, May 4, 2007
Rags to Riches takes the Oaks
Rags to Riches cleared her 14 rivals easily in the stretch Friday and won the 133rd Kentucky Oaks in front of a crowd of more than 100,000.
She was the heavy favorite and did not disappoint, as jockey Garrett Gomez moved her along the backstretch among horses, then got her rolling on the final turn.
She is now 4-for-4 in her career, three of those wins being Grade I wins. There was consideration to run her in the Derby rather than the Oaks. After Friday's race, owner Michael Tabor said it remains possible Rags to Riches would take on the boys at some point in the future.
Of note, Tabor and Derrick Smith also own Circular Quay, whom Pletcher will saddle in Saturday's Derby. Also, just minutes after the race ended, a heavy rain began fallin on Churchill Downs, turning the track into an even sloppier mess.
Octave, also trained by Pletcher, was second and High Heels finished third.
She was the heavy favorite and did not disappoint, as jockey Garrett Gomez moved her along the backstretch among horses, then got her rolling on the final turn.
She is now 4-for-4 in her career, three of those wins being Grade I wins. There was consideration to run her in the Derby rather than the Oaks. After Friday's race, owner Michael Tabor said it remains possible Rags to Riches would take on the boys at some point in the future.
Of note, Tabor and Derrick Smith also own Circular Quay, whom Pletcher will saddle in Saturday's Derby. Also, just minutes after the race ended, a heavy rain began fallin on Churchill Downs, turning the track into an even sloppier mess.
Octave, also trained by Pletcher, was second and High Heels finished third.
time?
Pay no attention to the times listed for these posts. I just realized the time posted in 3 hours behind eastern time. So no, they did not begin racing a 7 a.m. today even if it IS Oaks Day!
Racing is underway
The fourth race just went off at Churchill and the rain has been stopped for quite some time. It remains very wet, though, andthe track is still listed as sloppy.
In Friday’s first race, Mark Guidry rode Chippewa Trail to victory to kick off Oaks Day. It was Guidry’s 5,000 career win, as he did so for owner Briland Farm and trainer D. Wayne Lukas. The 6-year-old gelding paid $12.80 to win, and Guidry was congratulated by many of his competitors following the race. The 46-year-old Guidry, who began his career in 1974, will ride Imawildandcrazyguy in Saturday’s Derby.
Also today, the local paper, the Louisville Courier-Journal, reported that all 20 Derby horses were tested for Erythropoietin (EPO) Wednesday. EPO is apparently a drug that can be used as a performance-enhancer. The paper said John Veitch, chief steward for the Kentucky Horse Racing Authoroty, said this was the first time an entire Derby field was tested, but that no suspicions prompted the tests. Results may take up to a week. To read the entire story, including the reaction of some trainers, go to:
http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070504/SPORTS0801/705040364/1003/BUSINESS
In Friday’s first race, Mark Guidry rode Chippewa Trail to victory to kick off Oaks Day. It was Guidry’s 5,000 career win, as he did so for owner Briland Farm and trainer D. Wayne Lukas. The 6-year-old gelding paid $12.80 to win, and Guidry was congratulated by many of his competitors following the race. The 46-year-old Guidry, who began his career in 1974, will ride Imawildandcrazyguy in Saturday’s Derby.
Also today, the local paper, the Louisville Courier-Journal, reported that all 20 Derby horses were tested for Erythropoietin (EPO) Wednesday. EPO is apparently a drug that can be used as a performance-enhancer. The paper said John Veitch, chief steward for the Kentucky Horse Racing Authoroty, said this was the first time an entire Derby field was tested, but that no suspicions prompted the tests. Results may take up to a week. To read the entire story, including the reaction of some trainers, go to:
http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070504/SPORTS0801/705040364/1003/BUSINESS
oaks day is here
It appears the ladies will be running in the slop this afternoon.
Just after this reporter stepped off the shuttle bus Friday morning and began walking toward the entrance gate, a hard rain began to fall at Churchill Downs, followed by some claps of thunder. Weather maps indicate there is a pretty significant batch of rain over Louisville, so the track could get messy real quick.
The Oaks, the 1 1/8-mile race for 3-year-old fillies, is scheduled to go off at 5:45, the day's 10th race. Rags to Riches, the 5-2 morning-line favorite, should remain the favorite at post time.
Hopefully, the rain stops at some point during the day and I get to take in the surroundings of Derby weekend. So far, though, I'mn not that lucky (which does not bode well for my betting decisions).
One thing to take note of is how much the Derby odds are changing early. Within less than five minutes, Hard Spun (15-1 on the morning line) went from 29-1 back to 18-1. Not much has been bet, so these kinds of swings are normal, but it is still interesting to watch.
Just after this reporter stepped off the shuttle bus Friday morning and began walking toward the entrance gate, a hard rain began to fall at Churchill Downs, followed by some claps of thunder. Weather maps indicate there is a pretty significant batch of rain over Louisville, so the track could get messy real quick.
The Oaks, the 1 1/8-mile race for 3-year-old fillies, is scheduled to go off at 5:45, the day's 10th race. Rags to Riches, the 5-2 morning-line favorite, should remain the favorite at post time.
Hopefully, the rain stops at some point during the day and I get to take in the surroundings of Derby weekend. So far, though, I'mn not that lucky (which does not bode well for my betting decisions).
One thing to take note of is how much the Derby odds are changing early. Within less than five minutes, Hard Spun (15-1 on the morning line) went from 29-1 back to 18-1. Not much has been bet, so these kinds of swings are normal, but it is still interesting to watch.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
the rain has come
It was very wet at Churchill Downs this morning, and this Derby rookie left his raincoat in the back seat of his car... in Clifton Park, NY. I caught more than my share of grief from many more experienced, warmer, drier reporters.
Trainers don't seem overly worried about the conditions. All of the major prep work has been done for some time now, and it's all about stretching the horses' legs each day and then putting them right back in the stall to avoid the dreaded last-minute injury. Todd Pletcher, trainer of five Derby runners, said very few of the 20 horses have much experience on an off-track, so it is hard to tell how they would react should the track be wet Saturday. That said, he believes all five of his trainees took to the wet track relatively well during their gallops Thursday. John Shireffs, trainer of Tiago, said a light, but steady, rain, should do little to affect the racing surface too much.
Weather reports suggest Friday (Oaks Day) could be wet as well, but the chance of rain Saturday is just 3o percent. Fingers are crossed throughout Louisville.
As the Derby nears, the celebrities are starting to arrive. Myself, I found myself having a quick chat about Hard Spun and Curlin with former USC and Buffalo Bills great O.J. Simpson as Hard Spun was bathed outside his barn. For anyone interested, Simpson is sticking with his West Coast bias and likes Tiago to win Saturday.
Also, a Howard Cosell look-alike was wandering around the backstretch, complete with the big cigar and that spectacular yellow ABC Sports jacket from his Monday Night Football hey-dey.
Pletcher met with the media just after 10 a.m. and opened the press conference with the following statement: "Hi, my name's Todd Pletcher and I've never won the Kentucky Derby." That drew a good deal of laughter from the assembled media.
Trainers don't seem overly worried about the conditions. All of the major prep work has been done for some time now, and it's all about stretching the horses' legs each day and then putting them right back in the stall to avoid the dreaded last-minute injury. Todd Pletcher, trainer of five Derby runners, said very few of the 20 horses have much experience on an off-track, so it is hard to tell how they would react should the track be wet Saturday. That said, he believes all five of his trainees took to the wet track relatively well during their gallops Thursday. John Shireffs, trainer of Tiago, said a light, but steady, rain, should do little to affect the racing surface too much.
Weather reports suggest Friday (Oaks Day) could be wet as well, but the chance of rain Saturday is just 3o percent. Fingers are crossed throughout Louisville.
As the Derby nears, the celebrities are starting to arrive. Myself, I found myself having a quick chat about Hard Spun and Curlin with former USC and Buffalo Bills great O.J. Simpson as Hard Spun was bathed outside his barn. For anyone interested, Simpson is sticking with his West Coast bias and likes Tiago to win Saturday.
Also, a Howard Cosell look-alike was wandering around the backstretch, complete with the big cigar and that spectacular yellow ABC Sports jacket from his Monday Night Football hey-dey.
Pletcher met with the media just after 10 a.m. and opened the press conference with the following statement: "Hi, my name's Todd Pletcher and I've never won the Kentucky Derby." That drew a good deal of laughter from the assembled media.
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
post positions drawn
The post positions for Saturday's Kentucky Derby were drawn just after 5 p.m. Wednesday in downtown Louisville. Here is the starting order, starting from the rail and moving outward (morning-line odds are in parentheses):
1. Sedgefield (50-1)
2. Curlin (7-2)
3. Zanjero (30-1)
4. Storm in May 30-1)
5. Imawildandcrazyguy (50-1)
6. Cowtown Cat (20-1)
7. Street Sense (4-1)
8. Hard Spun (15-1)
9. Liquidity (30-1)
10. Teuflesberg (30-1)
11. Bwana Bull (50-1)
12. Nobiz Like Shobiz (8-1)
13. Sam P. (20-1)
14. Scat Daddy (10-1)
15. Tiago (15-1)
16. Circular Quay (8-1)
17. Stormello (30-1)
18. Any Given Saturday (12-1)
19. Dominican (20-1)
20. Great Hunter (15-1)
Curlin was made the morning-line favorite at 7-2, followed by Street Sense at 4-1. Nobiz Like Shobiz and Circular Quay are the third choices on the morning line at 8-1. The connections for Curlin were 16th in the choosing order, and was left with either the extreme two inside posts or the extreme three outside spots to decide between.
The longest shots on the morning line are Bwana Bull, Imawildandcrazyguy and Sedgefield, all at 50-1.
1. Sedgefield (50-1)
2. Curlin (7-2)
3. Zanjero (30-1)
4. Storm in May 30-1)
5. Imawildandcrazyguy (50-1)
6. Cowtown Cat (20-1)
7. Street Sense (4-1)
8. Hard Spun (15-1)
9. Liquidity (30-1)
10. Teuflesberg (30-1)
11. Bwana Bull (50-1)
12. Nobiz Like Shobiz (8-1)
13. Sam P. (20-1)
14. Scat Daddy (10-1)
15. Tiago (15-1)
16. Circular Quay (8-1)
17. Stormello (30-1)
18. Any Given Saturday (12-1)
19. Dominican (20-1)
20. Great Hunter (15-1)
Curlin was made the morning-line favorite at 7-2, followed by Street Sense at 4-1. Nobiz Like Shobiz and Circular Quay are the third choices on the morning line at 8-1. The connections for Curlin were 16th in the choosing order, and was left with either the extreme two inside posts or the extreme three outside spots to decide between.
The longest shots on the morning line are Bwana Bull, Imawildandcrazyguy and Sedgefield, all at 50-1.
busy morning
Spent the morning wandering around Churchill Downs' backstretch area. While I was there, Derby runners Hard Spun, Stormello and Dominican were getting some light work done on the main track.
Caught up with trainers Larry Jones (Hard Spun) and Bill Kaplan (Storm in May, Imawildandcrazyguy) and James Scatuorchio, owner of Scat Daddy. Kaplan's story might be the feel-good story of this year's Derby, as Storm in May is blind in the right eye and was purchased for a mere $16,000. Look for more in Thursday's paper.
The backstretch was crowded Wednesday, with radio stations and television morning shows airing live and Dale Jarrett's UPS car on display. He was supposed to be at the track to sign autographs for fans as well. Hundreds of writers and broadcasters scoured the grounds in groups as well, seeking out interviews to help build the hype for this year's Derby.
Hot and humid here, felt very much an August morning at Saratoga's Oklahoma track.
Caught up with trainers Larry Jones (Hard Spun) and Bill Kaplan (Storm in May, Imawildandcrazyguy) and James Scatuorchio, owner of Scat Daddy. Kaplan's story might be the feel-good story of this year's Derby, as Storm in May is blind in the right eye and was purchased for a mere $16,000. Look for more in Thursday's paper.
The backstretch was crowded Wednesday, with radio stations and television morning shows airing live and Dale Jarrett's UPS car on display. He was supposed to be at the track to sign autographs for fans as well. Hundreds of writers and broadcasters scoured the grounds in groups as well, seeking out interviews to help build the hype for this year's Derby.
Hot and humid here, felt very much an August morning at Saratoga's Oklahoma track.
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
safely down in Louisville
Got into Louisville earlier this afternoon, found my way around town to the track and then to my hotel (easy drive, which is good for me, a guy who tends to struggle with directions). Even days before the big event, there is a pretty cool buzz throughout the grandstand and preparations are in full swing on the famous infield (when I was there, the all-important portable toilets were being hauled in!)
Hot down here, 80-something they say... Those of you in the Northeast may not remember what that's like! Expecting a warm couple of days at Churchill this weekend.
Of note today was the strong work put in by Street Sense at Churchill Downs (five furlongs in 1:01) and the fact that both Cobalt Blue and Xchanger have been pulled form consideration. That means Teuflesburg - a horse that ran at Saratoga and I have continued to keep my eye on - will go to the gate in Saturday's main event.
The plan tomorrow is to track down trainers Todd Pletcher (along with everyone else), who will saddle five horses in the Derby, and Larry Jones. Jones' upbeat and charismatic personality struck me during his brief visits to Saratoga over the summer, so I want to give everyone a taste of how he is dealing with the hoopla of Derby week. Plenty to do, can't wait to meander throughout the barns in the early AM hours Wednesday.
Then it's a lot of writing before the draw goes at 5 p.m. After that, let the handicapping begin!
Hot down here, 80-something they say... Those of you in the Northeast may not remember what that's like! Expecting a warm couple of days at Churchill this weekend.
Of note today was the strong work put in by Street Sense at Churchill Downs (five furlongs in 1:01) and the fact that both Cobalt Blue and Xchanger have been pulled form consideration. That means Teuflesburg - a horse that ran at Saratoga and I have continued to keep my eye on - will go to the gate in Saturday's main event.
The plan tomorrow is to track down trainers Todd Pletcher (along with everyone else), who will saddle five horses in the Derby, and Larry Jones. Jones' upbeat and charismatic personality struck me during his brief visits to Saratoga over the summer, so I want to give everyone a taste of how he is dealing with the hoopla of Derby week. Plenty to do, can't wait to meander throughout the barns in the early AM hours Wednesday.
Then it's a lot of writing before the draw goes at 5 p.m. After that, let the handicapping begin!
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