Fantasy Kentucky Derby Contest Time (free)

[Horse with no Name]

You can create your own stable:
www.roadtotheroses.com

I have also created a "DU Horses" fantasy league.
If anyone is interested--please pm me.

[aaronbees]

1. It's such a fun contest

No matter how poorly I do ... I'm interested!

[two gun sid]

2. I'm game...

I'm always game for horse racing!

[TZ]

3. I love horse racing

So yes, I would be interested

[Horse with no Name]

4. Me too!

Send me your email addy and I will add you to our team.:toast:

[Horse with no Name]

5. I've sent activation emails to you guys

Make sure you activate it. There are some races today.
By the way...everyone look at Pyro--I'd sure add him to your stable if you haven't already.

[TZ]

6. Got it and yes,

That is a horse I have. I do remember him from last year.:)

[two gun sid]

7. Got it and activated, thanks HwnN

[aaronbees]

10. I'm starting to LOVE Pyro

Even though I really really dislike his trainer, Steve Asmussen. I'm set up ... thanks for creating the league!

[Horse with no Name]

11. Do you all think it might be fun to keep this thread going discussing the pro's and con's of each

horse individually?

[aaronbees]

13. I like the idea

If it gets too long, we can always start another thread.

[two gun sid]

14. Good idea.

[two gun sid]

8. Derby Preps preview and results

http://www.kentuckyderby.com/2008/preps

Good coverage of all the prep races with PP's, videos and results and pay outs.

Good Luck all you railbirds.

[LWolf]

9. I'm interested.

I love the races, even if I don't love the way the industry treats the horses. While I wish they would wait until the horses were 3.5 REAL years to run them, and that horses that can't race without meds were disqualified and not bred, I still love the races.

[Horse with no Name]

12. Steve Haskin's Derby Dozen

[Awsi Dooger]

15. I'm so far behind it's a joke

My mom was in the hospital for 48 days and I haven't followed racing at all since the Breeder's Cup.

The only guarantee is about 5 times per week I get email notice of comments on my YouTube videos, from Secretariat fans who are livid whenever myself or someone else implies Secretariat wasn't double digit lengths better than any horse in history. They are so defensive it's hysterical, like a tunnel vision cult. Obviously they get in touch with each other and notify whenever a less than awestruck comment about Secretariat is posted, because they arrive in tag team swarms to condemn whoever posted it. I'm tempted to post a similar comment in let's say a celebrity video on YouTube, or a cooking video, anything totally unrelated, just to see how long it would take them to locate it and frantically post about a dozen comments.

Let's see, Pyro was the deep closer and War Pass the front runner. War Pass was winning but Pyro could be argued as more impressive, particularly in the Breeder's Cup, and perhaps the better bet to go forward. That's about the extent of my memory from this crop as 2 year olds.

I'm not a fantasy guy. If that's what this is, I'll stay far removed until actual dollars are at issue. No way I'm skewing or jeopardizing my handicapping fundamentals by introducing flimsy fantasy garbage into the equation. Just my opinion, obviously. But fantasy players I know in Las Vegas have soon suffered at the actual betting windows and flushing the system is hardly a simple task.

[trumad]

16. I've never been a fantasy guy---especially in football.

I never wanted to find myself hoping that my fantasy player does well against my team.

[two gun sid]

17. I'm sorry about your mom being in hospital...

I hope everything turned out alright.

Pyro just ran a monster of a race on 2/11 at Fairgrounds in the Risen Star Stakes. He was last through some very soft early fractions and made a move at the head of the stretch and passed everybody to draw off by 2. It was impressive. He's everybody's Derby favorite now. War Pass has yet to make a start this year but he's supposed to run this month in an allowance at Gulfstream.

[Awsi Dooger]

23. Thanks sid, my mom was recently discharged and came home

Still uncertain recovery, physically and cognitively. I'm going to stay another month to help my dad out with her recovery, even if it's straining my job situation in Las Vegas.

Damn, I wanted to hit Gulfstream on Sunday but the family situation kept me tied up. I generally favor the speed horse and the fewer variables in a situation like this, catch me if you can. Pyro needs every break.

The Seattle Slew comparisons are interesting. Obviously it fits from a stylistic standpoint. But I haven't seen anything freakish, like Slew's Champagne or first two races at Hialeah at 3. Keep in mind that Andy Beyer was a vocal Slew knocker, particularly at 3, so no doubt he wouldn't mind a newer version, a vehicle to unleash speed figure comparisons and declare War Pass superior.

Doesn't it ever end? That's my frustration. The only two records I'd like to keep uniquely perfect in American sports are Slew as only undefeated Triple Crown winner, and the '72 Dolphins lonely in Perfectville. That last one sapped so much energy out of me I'm hardly prepared, mere weeks later, to root against a terrific colt like War Pass. Why didn't he stumble once along the line, an otherwise irrelevant defeat like Street Sense thoughtfully managed as a 2 year old?

[two gun sid]

24. Don't worry 'bout War Pass, he's gonna trip on his pedigree...

I think he can probably get 1 1/4m but the Belmont is gonna be hell for him.

Awsi, I really do hope everything turns out right for Mother.

[aaronbees]

18. Denis of Cork

Nice, powerful move to take the Southwest Stakes (G. III) at Oaklawn on Monday. Robby Albarado had him perfectly placed off of a wicked pace set by Sacred Journey. He a nice-moving, tough colt.

This is the latest I've gone without officially picking my "Derby horse" and I'm tempted to make it him. Small-stable background is a plus and I'll get to see him if he stays at Oaklawn for the Rebel/Arkansas Derby.

Or perhaps I'll choose Tomcito, the South American "mystery horse."


RIP, Winning Colors - what a great, gallant mare.

[aaronbees]

19. Fountain of Youth Stakes on Sunday

Looks like the lone Derby prep for the Road to the Roses contest this weekend is the Fountain of Youth Stakes with a nice field of 12. There are some real promising runners here so should be a fascinating race.

Here's the field:
$350,000 Fountain of Youth (gr. II, Race 9, 5:15 p.m.), Three-Year-Olds, 1 1/8 Miles
PP. Horse, Weight, Jockey
1. Cool Coal Man (KY), 118, Kent J. Desormeaux
2. Golden Spikes (KY), 116, Javier Castellano
3. Court Vision (KY), 122, Garrett K. Gomez
4. Kentucky Bear (KY), 116, Elvis Trujillo
5. Z Humor (KY), 120, Cornelio H. Velasquez
6. Ready Set (KY), 116, Jose Lezcano
7. Monba (KY), 116, Edgar S. Prado
8. Anak Nakal (KY), 120, Julien R. Leparoux
9. Elysium Fields (KY), 116, Eibar Coa
10. Halo Najib (FL), 120, Rene R. Douglas
11. Make the Point (KY), 116, John R. Velazquez
12. Adriano (KY), 116, Eddie Castro
Source and story: http://tcm.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=43745
PP's: http://www.kentuckyderby.com/2008/sites/kentuckyderby.com/files/pp_fountainofyouth.pdf

I'm liking Anak Nakal or Court Vision, but they're on my RTR list so I may be biased. ;) I loved how Court Vision gutted that Remsen out last year.

Then War Pass runs in an allowance a little later in the afternoon. We'll see if Andy Beyer jinxed him with the recently-rendered high praise (comparison to Seattle Slew). I think War Pass romps. Starting to think the great run by Pyro in the Risen Star will only serve to flatter Zito's champ.

Who do you like?

[two gun sid]

20. aaronbees, I know I've told you how much I like...

Anak Nakal. I think he is a horse with huge potential. I'm not sure he wins the FOY, though. I would like to see him really challenged in this race and see Anak pin those ears and really fight. I know Court Vision is a fighter but, he is not the most talented. Just a gutsy sonuvabitch. I've got those two in my RttR stable and I also have Z Humor. I need those horses to run 1-2-3 to catch up to you.

How about Cool Coal Man for the win in the FOY? He's another one that has 'The Look'.

Good Luck to all. Especially me!

[aaronbees]

21. Anak Nakal must've run to the beach and found a margarita...

because I didn't see him anywhere. Court Vision roused himself up for third but not sure I'm all that impressed. You were dead right to suggest Cool Coal Man - set up nicely for him and Zito has another good one. Elysium Fields showed some spunk to fight back and re-rally; glad Barclay Tagg has a nice one there. There's some chatter that the final time for this race was off, since the first quarter was supposedly an unbelievable 25 and change. No way were they going that slow.

As for War Pass, well, that was a paid public workout reminiscent of another superstar's first race (an easy allowance) at three ... but I ain't saying who. :) Anyone wanna argue War Pass can't get a 1 1/4 mile trip? I think he can, simply based on that strong hold Cornelio had on him today and how little he really ran. He is starting to be fun to watch and looks like he put on some muscle and heft over the Florida winter. War Pass might be something really special and if he is, they're all running for second.

[two gun sid]

22. Oh shit, Anak looked horrible....

he couldn't even beat Z Humor, who only had 8 days rest. I said Anak Nakal didn't have to win this race but, I didn't mean he could be so far up the track. I hope his jock packed a bag lunch and a flashlight. Cool Coal Man was the best horse in this race and he proved it. My 3 horses are also rans. I feel like Pletcher on Derby Day. 3 horses in the race and best I could do is a show.

I did lay a bet down on Cool Coal Man so, I ain't complaining. Anak fucked up my exacta, though.

[Justpat]

25. It is hard to go against War Pass right now.

He hasn't done anything wrong.

I haven't been to the roadtotheroses site yet. I'll check it out.


And Sid, I think Anak Natal was laboring under the weight of that stupid name. A great race horse
should have a good name. That one really stinks. It makes me think of something on the card at
Turfway in the winter.


I wasn't too impressed with the FOY. They went the last eighth 13.3. Not too thrilling.

[two gun sid]

26. LOL. I love that name!!!

I always wanted to name one of my horses a arabic or arabic sounding name but I don't have the guts. Maybe I'll go for it this year and name one Al Kida.

I'm glad you are back with the horse racing peeps on DU. You are loved and respected here and we need your input.

Peace, OB.

[Justpat]

27. Yeah, it is good to be back here.

:hi:

It will be interesting if you are able to get that name for a horse. Sometimes the people in the
Jockey Club office in KY are pretty dense about controversial or vulgar names. They seem to live
sheltered lives there in boot land.

[Justpat]

28. Anybody going to watch the Sham Stakes tomorrow at Santa Anita?

Grade III 1 1/8 200,000

1. El Gato Malo Craig Dollase

2. Success Fee Doug O'Neill

3. Coast Guard David Hoffmans

4. Trevor's Clever Ted West

5. Victory Pete Alexix Barba

6. Colonial John Eoin Harty

7. Reflect Times (JPN) John Sherriffs


I can't get too excited about this. It is on the Cushion Track and I don't know how
much it will mean.

[two gun sid]

29. I have to work tomorrow and will have to...

catch the race on replay. El Gato Malo looks like a nice Cali horse but I'm not sure about the track surface.

This is a little OT but, did anybody catch Curlin's Jaguar Cup race at Nad Al Sheba? It was impressive as hell. He is becoming a superstar.

[Justpat]

31. He won in a gallop.

If he stays healthy, I don't see how anyone can beat him.

[two gun sid]

33. I've got a pretty eye for horses (In my opinion, anyway)...

and I can't find anything to fault this guy for. I've only seen pictures of him and of course video, but, I'd like to know if OB has seen Curlin in the flesh and what she thinks of him. OB, is this the horse we've been waiting for? In your opinion, is Assmussen doing the right things to make this guy a superstar?

[Justpat]

34. I saw him when he was here for the Belmont.

He was pretty impressive then, but he looks more powerful now.

He has matured into a monster physically. And he seems to have the mind of
a great horse.

My husband thinks he's done a fantastic job with him. He raced him
lightly when he needed to be raced lightly and has spaced his races
so that he shows up to perform for the big ones.
That is straight from the horse's mouth, so to speak.

[two gun sid]

35. I have a pretty GOOD eye, not a purdy one....

That is high praise for Curlin. I hope he does well in Dubai. After he gets back to the States he'll get a little rest and we probably won't see him until summer. It's a shame, but the money is good over there and I don't blame the connections for wanting to cash in. At least they are still racing him as a 4YO.

[aaronbees]

30. I'm intrigued by this race

It's been hard to separate the West Coast horses and I like both Colonel John and El Gato Malo here. I pick the latter to win because CJ may need a race before tuning into top form. You're right about the Cushion Track, or whatever kind of track that is now after the Santa Anita debacle, but it's conceivable a good Derby horse will come out of there ... just hard to see it with the synthetic to dirt switch on the first Saturday in May. Both El Gato and the Colonel seem to be in my Road To the Roses stable so I'm hoping for some points.

Curlin's race was super impressive. But I'm still gonna root for Asiatic Boy or the horse formerly known as Premium Tap if they hook up in Dubai. May be a lost cause, though. ;)

[Justpat]

32. El Gato Malo is even money in the morning line

so he isn't a great betting interest.

I don't know anything about the others.

[aaronbees]

36. Nice win by Colonel John

He and El Gato both impressed me driving down the lane.

[Justpat]

37. I wasn't sure that El Gato Malo would like a mile and an eighth.

The final time was pretty slow, but I don't know how they have been running over that track
since they changed it. It was like a paved road before they changed it.

But I liked Colonial John's race. He was pretty determined.

[two gun sid]

38. I read the chart. It's a good win...

I just don't know what it means for the Derby. That surface has got me scratching my head.

Heatseeker(IRE) wins the Big Cap today. That race goes in 2:00 and a piece. So 1:50 flat does seem a little slow.

You picked up some big points today in the DU Horses league. All I can say is: My horses are gonna catch you, brother, and when we do I hope you got your goggles on. You've been out front since we started this thing. Let's see how you do when you get some dirt kicked in your face. LOL.

[aaronbees]

39. I think Colonel John will do well on dirt

He seems to have the class and his daddy, Tiznow, did just fine at Churchill. It's hard to be certain, though.

I liked the move Champs Elysees made to get up for third in the Big Cap. Heatseeker looked good, but I'm not sure that's a top flight crew out West in the older horse division.

And as for your crazy claim, you better start hoping the likes of Etched, Blackberry Road, Z Humor, and Into Mischief (who's having foot problems) start turning it around! We'll see on that, man! }( :P

[two gun sid]

41. Yeah, my stable is falling apart....

all I can do at this point is talk smack and hope for the best.

Into Mischief has really let me down. But I concede nothing.

[Justpat]

40. Good call on the Big Cap.

You even had the time right.

[Awsi Dooger]

42. I just realized I saw War Pass' maiden race

Last July 28th at Saratoga. I checked YouTube to look at some of the races among top 3 year olds and one of the best horse racing video uploaders, cf1970, posted War Pass' first race about 10 days ago.

When I was watching it tonight it seemed very familiar so I doubletaked at the date and sure enough I was at Saratoga that day. It was the first day of the Breeders Cup Challenge, a scorching day where rain was forecast but it held off. Lawyer Ron won the Whitney in track record time later in the card. A day later Street Sense returned after a long Triple Crown layoff to win the Jim Dandy.

It's weird because I absolutely remember what I was doing prior to this race (linked below). For anyone not familiar with Saratoga the main public parking is in a huge area across the street from the grandstand, near the old stalls. On a big racing date the parking fills up quickly and late arrivers have to drive to the far reaches of the parking area. That was me on July 28. I was annoyed I missed the first race so I was hustling to see the second, literally dashing off the shuttle bus and running toward the entrance gate. After paying admission I didn't have time to purchase the Form so I darted between fellow patrons just in time to watch the race. When one of the horses (Slew's Tiznow) had Slew in its name I instinctively rooted for him, then it was somewhat deflating that I had hustled all that way to watch a romp.

But now I'm damn glad I did. If War Pass goes on to greatness I can say I saw him live in his debut.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9kAsyF2mC4

[Justpat]

43. You were at Saratoga and you didn't come by to say hello??

:spank:

[Awsi Dooger]

92. Sorry about that, Old Broad

Actually I'm guilty maybe 8 of the past 10 years. I stay in Scotia for about a month and make the first two weeks of the track, along with plenty of golf. I love trading the Las Vegas furnace summer for places like the Ripe Tomato, and watching Anthony Mormino's analysis on the Saratoga ABC affiliate. He's a fellow USC alum, although last year he got off to an awful start, at least on the TV picks.

BTW, Georgie Boy has an owner with USC connections. Hence the USC silks, cardinal and gold. Plenty of joyful posts on USC websites the past few days.

I suppose I should be happy that War Pass lost early, no concern about matching Slew as unbeaten Triplers. But it didn't feel good at all.

Saratoga is iffy this year. Might have to travel to Miami due to my mom's health.

Besides, I'm not sure DUers are eager to meet me, at least based on responses in GD Primaries. :)

[Justpat]

93. Well, if you come this year,

try to come on Travers week. I hold and annual doo wop/barbecue party that is really fun.
You are probably too young for the music, but you will love the company.

[Justpat]

44. Both the Gotham and the LA Derby are tomorrow.

I'll post the entries when I get home from the track
later today.

The LA Derby is a good race.

Here in NY, Giant Moon tries to stay undefeated in the one mile Gotham for three year old colts.



Later...

[two gun sid]

45. Hey OB, wish I could come visit for the Gotham....

I'm hoping to make up some points on aaron this weekend.

How's the weather out your way?

[Justpat]

46. They are calling for rain tonight and early tomorrow morning.

I don't see where there will be much rain during the day. I was hoping it would
rain all day. My horse is in the second tomorrow and he loves the slop. If it is
heavy and drying out - forget it.

Gotham Grade III 1 1/16 inner track



1.Giant Moon Richard Schosberg 7/2

2. Laysh Laysh Laysh David Jacobson 15/1

3. Roman Emperor Steve Klesaris 6/1

4. Saratoga Russell Rick Violette 4/1

5. Southern Terminus Pletcher 8/1

6. Holidaze Pletcher 15/1

7.Texas Wildcatter Pletcher 12/1

8. Larry's Revenge Nick Zito 15/1

9. Ling Ling Qi Ken McPeek 12/1

10. Visionaire Michael Matz 3/1



Louisiana Derby Grade II $600,000 1 1/16 dirt



1. Stevil Nick Zito 15/1

2. My Pal Charlie Albert Stall, Jr. 20/1

3. Pyro S. Asmussen 7/5

4. J BE K S. Asmussen 12/1

5. Unbridled Vicar Greg Grier 20/1

6. Tale Of Ekati Barclay Tagg 7/2

7.Blackberry Road David Carroll 10/1

8. Yankee Bravo Patrick Gallagher 4/1

9. Majestic Warrior William Mott 9/2

[aaronbees]

48. Good luck with your horse...

and bring on the rain! I'd love to see that big boy get a win.

[Justpat]

49. So far it is very overcast, but no rain.

Thanks for the good wishes.

[two gun sid]

50. Good Luck, OB...

I'm gonna watch 'The House' on YouBet. Main track is listed as sloppy. The 8 horse is scratched out of your race.

Shit, my memory ain't what it used to be. I didn't know he was a Real Quiet.

[two gun sid]

51. Shit, I can't see a damn thing...

it looks bad at Big A. I have no idea who won the 1st and neither does the announcer.

[aaronbees]

52. Well, he looked good in the paddock

:)

Couldn't see a bloomin' thing on my feed of the race. He'll get 'em next time, Old Broad.

[two gun sid]

53. Somebody's gonna have a wreck in that shit...

I quit watching. No sense when I can't see a damn thing. I'm glad I ain't up visiting OB for the Gotham.

[Justpat]

54. His exercize rider kept telling us he loved the mud.

Yeah, right. The jock said he HATED it and basically didn't get out of a
gallop.


Thanks for rooting for him. He'll get it done next time.

[two gun sid]

58. We'll keep rooting for him...

and Good Luck with Zippy today.

We go tomorrow night in a claimer at Northville with Red. It looks like she has one horse to beat but, she drew the rail and she hates it on the inside.

Here's a picture of her from January. She'd just won 3 in a row.

[Justpat]

59. Wow, congrats on the three in a row.

And good luck tomorrow.


Did you breed this one?

[two gun sid]

61. Nope. Not the breeder on her....

she went to the sale and did not get one bid. Her breeder gave her to us and we took the breeders boyfriend on as a partner to help with the cost.

Hopefully she'll be claimed tomorrow night. One of the bigger outfits needs to have her.

[aaronbees]

47. There's also the El Camino Real Derby

Though I don't think it's much of a field. I'll take Nikki's in that one (the only graded Cali Derby prep on dirt):

$150,000 El Camino Real Derby (gr. III, Race 8, 4:15 p.m.), 1 1/16 Miles, 3-Year-Olds
PP, Horse, Weight, Jockey, Morning Line
1. Nikki'sgoldensteed, 117, Jon Court, 9-2
2. General Dan, 115, Kyle Kaenel, 20-1
3. Autism Awareness, 115, Luis Contreras, 30-1
4. Bamaha Breeze, 115, Luis Martinez, 8-1
5. Tres Borrachos, 115, Martin Garcia, 10-1
6. Pleasure Grounds, 115, Chad Schvaneveldt, 6-1
7. Behindatthebar, 115, Michael Baze, 7-2,
8. Coast Guard, 115, Aaron Gryder, 5-2
9. Dreamed Day, 115, Frank Alvarado, 30-1
10. Master Daniel, 115, Russell Baze, 6-1

Have you seen much of Giant Moon up there? If so, any thoughts? He's a bit of a buzz horse; I like this Gotham field and will take him and Saratoga Russell. This could be a sneaky good Derby prep. In Louisiana, I like Pyro (maybe J Be K will steal it); tough race for Majestic Warrior and Tale of Ekati to make a comeback.

Blood Horse put up HRTV's first edition of "Target Louisville": http://tcm.bloodhorse.com/hrtv_target_louisville_video.asp

Free PPs for Future Pool, Round Two: http://www.kentuckyderby.com/2008/sites/kentuckyderby.com/files/derby.pdf

[Justpat]

55. "The three year olds have disappeared", down the backside.

Visionaire by a head!!

Great race.

[Justpat]

56. Pyro in a game effort in the LA Derby.

He was pretty much boxed in past the quarter pole but squeezed through a small
opening and went on with it. Impressive.


My Pal Charlie second
Yankee Bravo third

[two gun sid]

57. Pyro looked good...

I like to see 3YO's that have the courage and heart to split horses or go through a small hole when a jock sends them. It shows some mental toughness.

I couldn't tell you how Visionaire looked. They said he won and I'll just have to take their word on that.

OB, I kept getting pop-up messages on YouBet telling me that this track and that track had cancelled due to weather. How bad was it at Aqueduct today? It looked dangerous to me.

[Justpat]

60. The track wasn't unsafe, you just couldn't see anything

because of the fog. I think the Big A is really pretty good in the slop.

We've won stakes in the past there in the slop.

[two gun sid]

62. OK. It's hard to tell on a computer screen....

I couldn't even make out what the surface looked like. My eye sight is shit anymore and I would have been scared to death to be on a TB traveling at speed.

[Justpat]

63. Well, we were there and you couldn't see a thing

You could hear the sound of the gate opening but couldn't see anything until
they got by the wire and then all you could see were shapes passing the finish line.
You couldn't even make out the saddle towel numbers.

I think the 3rd and 4th race cleared up a bit and you could actually see part
of the race, then it got bad later again.

The chart of Talkhouse's race said: lost in fog
That was the only comment.

[aaronbees]

65. Hey, congrats on a win today!

I'm not sure what to make of the Gotham, considering there's so little of it to see. Nice to see Matz get a winner, though.

The Wood should be an interesting race this year if War Pass makes it up there for it (as is the plan I think).

[Justpat]

71. Thanks. She is a fast little filly.

I like War Pass a lot so far. I agree that he simply runs faster than the others.
And he does it while appearing to be in a gallop.

I love Pyro's guts and his pedigree but War Pass might be like Slew and just
keep running no matter what the distance. We'll see pretty soon, I guess.

[aaronbees]

66. Pyro sure is tough

He's sure game and gutsy to plug through holes like that in the Fair Grounds stretch. Smart, tough horse and it's hard not to put him at the top of the contenders list.

I'm still a War Pass believer, though. I just think he's plain faster. Next month will tell us a lot! (And hey, I see some people in the contest got some points this weekend. Still plenty of time to catch me!)

[two gun sid]

68. He sure is tough...

I heard Assmussen talking about him today and how he wants to train him. To paraphrase: It will take more than a one run horse, like Pyro is now, to win the Derby. That is pretty astute, I think. The guy has really done well with the good stock he's had recently. I think he might be a pretty damn good trainer. But with his history of training his horses with a needle, I'll always wonder about him.

Speaking of chemists. We got some news out of Columbus about a race Red finished 4th in last year. The winner had a hot test and we get placed 3rd plus we've got some purse money coming. The offending trainer got a 6 month suspension.

[two gun sid]

64. OT but, in other racing news....

Nashoba's Key romps by 4 1/2 in the GI Santa Margarita with Gomez aboard. Looks like she's back on her game.

Hystericalady wins by 6+ in the Azeri at Oaklawn.

And Commentator blew away his competition in the GI Richter Scale at Gulfstream. Awesome performance by this nice old gelding.

[aaronbees]

67. Did you see the New Orleans Handicap?

Grasshopper and Circular Quay (who was actually close to the pace and being restrained) in a great stretch drive down the lane. I think Grasshopper is quickly becoming my favorite older male handicap horse. Give those two some beads and King Cake!

[two gun sid]

69. Goddamn it! I didn't watch it....

I love Grasshopper. That name alone makes me smile.

That's what they should do in all the stakes races in LA. Instead of a blanket, the winner should get a bunch of beads put around his/her/gelding neck. And King Cake!

[Justpat]

70. I forgot all about it.

I'll try to watch the replay on the computer. I love Grasshopper.
I watched him give Street Sense all he could handle in the Travers
last year. He is a beautiful mover.


And LOL about the beads and King Cake.

[two gun sid]

72. Blackberry Road to aim for Illinois Derby

From The Handicappers Edge:
Grade 2-placed BLACKBERRY ROAD (Gone West), who was fourth in Saturday's Louisiana Derby (G2) at Fair Grounds, will take the Illinois road to the Kentucky Derby (G1), by way of the $500,000 Illinois Derby (G2) at Hawthorne on April 5. In that event, the confirmed closer will stretch out to 1 1/8 miles for the first time.

"We still have a lot of confidence in Blackberry Road, especially as distances increase," Dogwood Stable President Cot Campbell said. "In the Louisiana Derby, Robby Albarado used him early, and he had to do some hard running all the way."

http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/editorial/news/article.cgi?id=10799


Well, shit. I had planned on visiting an old military buddy and his wife in SoCal that weekend. His wife wanted to go to the track for the first time and see the SA Derby. aaronbees makes fun of me about liking this horse, but man, I love blackberries. I don't know what I'm gonna do. I'm thinking of postponing my visit until the BC and going to Hawthorne. I go to the IL Derby almost every year. And I freeze my cojones off and vow I'll never go back to Chicago in early April. Yep, I got the horse racing bug, bad.

mmmmm, blackberries.

[aaronbees]

73. Go to SoCal, man

And bring some blackberries with ya. Santa Anita Derby should be good this year ... or at least interesting with El Gato and the Colonel. :D I remember Chicago in April .... why ya think I'm in the South now?

[aaronbees]

74. roadtotheroses contest....

Don't forget to add three horses between today and Friday to your stable for those in the game. My supplemental draft consisted of Tomcito (the Peruvian "mystery horse"), Visionaire, and Elysium Fields.

[Justpat]

75. I heard that Edgar Prado has said he'll ride the Peruvian horse

if he gets into the Derby.

He likes the horse and he knows the connections from Peru.

[Justpat]

76. Tampa Derby this Saturday. War Pass to run in seven horse field.

Here is the field:

1. Cigar Man 20/1

2. Gentleman James 20/1

3. War Pass 1/2

4. Make Me Zach 20/1

5. Dynamic Wayne 12/1

6. Big Truck 9/2

7. Atoned 5/1


I think this will be another public workout for War Pass. The only other horse I know
in this field is Big Truck, but he is over matched too. He's a decent horse, but not up
to knocking off War Pass.

http://tcm.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=44062

[two gun sid]

77. I like Atoned's chances here....

I like War Pass and I think he's a wonderful racehorse but I can see him stumbling on his way to the Derby. Atoned ran great in the Remsen and had a nice break in SC. He's rested and I think he is gonna put the champ to the test. Big Truck's a real handy horse. I'd love to have one like him.

Dreaming of Anna and Lear Princess are gonna hook-up on the same card at TB Downs. Good day of racing. I'm psyched.

In other news: Brother Derek is working and should make a start soon.

Hey, aaronbees, Anak Nakal to win the Rebel. Go, baby, go!

[aaronbees]

79. I was listening to Steve Byk's show...

and someone on there, I forget who, was praising Atoned to the high heavens. He may give War Pass a run but I think the champ should have no problem. I'd like someone to take a run at him in the first couple quarters, though, just to see what happens.

I think Anak will improve ... but I'll take Z Fortune. ;)

Georgie Boy in the San Felipe.

Gonna be a kickin' day of racing!

[two gun sid]

78. Liberty Bull favored in WinStar Derby

From The Handicapper's Edge:
Despite drawing the outside post position, Smarty Jones S. winner LIBERTY BULL (Holy Bull) has been installed as a lukewarm 3-1 favorite on the morning line for Sunday's lucrative $600,000 WinStar Derby at Sunland Park. Unlike many other Kentucky Derby (G1) preps with lesser purses, the WinStar Derby is not graded, so earnings in this 1 1/8-mile event will not help a horse's chances of getting into the Kentucky Derby if more than 20 are entered.

Trained by Tom Amoss, Liberty Bull gamely proved best in the inaugural running of the one-mile Smarty Jones on Martin Luther King Day at Oaklawn Park. The gray colt returned to finish in a dead-heat for third in the Southwest S. (G3) at the same track and trip in his most recent start on February 18. Eusebio Razo Jr., who rode Liberty Bull in both appearances in Hot Springs, returns in the saddle.

Trainer Steve Asmussen will be represented by PONI COLADA (Volponi) and ABLAZE WITH SPIRIT (American Spirit), who will be ridden by Alfredo Juarez Jr. and Garrett Gomez, respectively. Poni Colada rolled to an eight-length victory in the 1 1/16-mile Borderland Derby under Juarez in his last start, while Ablaze with Spirit most recently captured the restricted Jim's Orbit S. by a half-length at Sam Houston Park. Poni Colada and Ablaze with Spirit will be uncoupled in the wagering and are listed at 9-2 and 5-1, respectively, on the morning line.

Southern California shipper WINSOME CHARM (Silver Charm), who finished second to record-setter Bob Black Jack (Stormy Jack) in the Sunshine Millions Dash two back, is the 7-2 second choice on the morning line. The Jeff Mullins trainee will be ridden by Tyler Baze.

http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/editorial/news/article.cgi?id=10816

Poni Colada! Hahahah! What a great name!

[aaronbees]

80. Big Truck in the Tampa Bay

Wow ... a shocker, I think. War Pass? Last. Don't know what happened to him and I hope he's okay.

[Justpat]

81. I didn't see the race.

We're in a hotel in VA with a TV that gets NOTHING. I hope War Pass is OK.


Can't wait to see the chart.

[aaronbees]

83. He was pinched back at the start

... and jostled around a bit. Loomed in 3rd and 4th (a little wide) but never got a lead and looked uncomfortable. Bad enough finish that I think something went wrong but hope that's not the case; Tampa Bay is a funny track too, from what I've heard.

The race may be up on the ntra.com or calracing.com websites soon. Bah, bad start for me with today's 3-year-old races.

[two gun sid]

82. War Pass was last?....

that sucks. I hope he is OK. Chart's not posted yet.

Congrats to Mr. Tagg and his crew.

[aaronbees]

84. Yep

Way up the track.

[two gun sid]

85. I didn't expect that....

That really sucks.

Dreaming Of Anna won the Hillsborough and Lear Princess finishes 4th.

[aaronbees]

89. I was quite pleased with Dreaming of Anna's race

My sister is named Anna so I'll always be rooting for her.

Would be nice to see DofA make some more noise this year.

[Justpat]

86. I listened to the call of the race on the Tampa site.

It sounds like he was never really a factor. He loomed up there briefly, then fall back.
I'd like to see the replay.

Rats.

He has never been headed so I hope he didn't just fold up like a card table
when someone hooked him.

[aaronbees]

87. Vid's up at ntra.com

Click on the Tampa Bay Derby race page under featured races. I'm really curious what you guys think of the race.

Anak Nakal and Z Fortune nowhwere in the Rebel, which was won by Sierra Sunset. King's Silver Sun and Isabull rounded out the tri.

[Justpat]

88. OK,

I watched it a few times.

It looks to me like something was bothering him. Usually his head and neck don't move
up and down like a pump handle like it was today - everything usually goes straight
forward with very little action.

I hope he's OK. It doesn't look like he pulled up lame or anything from what I could see.
It looked like he was never comfortable at any point in the race.

Off his two year old form alone, he is still worth a fortune at stud.

[two gun sid]

90. My thoughts on War Pass and the Tampa Bay Derby...

I am glad that, so far, War Pass seems to be fine and came out of the race OK.

I think he has an excuse for his finish. I think the sandy track compromised him and he was bumped several times during the running of the race. Zito says that he had a fever earlier in the week but, he thought WP would be all right. But, that's a trainer trying to get a horse to the Derby talking so, I don't know how much faith I put in what Zito says right now. The race didn't seem like it was run in super fast time and the first 1/4 wasn't grueling but, for some reason, they all slowed down quite a bit after the 3/4 mark. I just think that that track is a little sandier than WP likes it.

I'm throwing this race out. If he gets hooked again in his next one and finishes poorly I'll draw a different conclusion.

Anak Nakal is a complete disappointment. I was wrong about him.

[Justpat]

91. I guess we should start a new thread next week?

This one is getting pretty long.