Better Talk Now retired

30 09 2009
Better Talk Now receives a bath

Better Talk Now receives a bath following a morning workout at Fair Hill, MD. (author's photo)

It’s never easy to write these posts, as I’m one who tends to struggle with goodbyes.  There’s never a simple way to come to grips with the retirement of one of your favorite horses.  It’s been said that bad news comes in droves.  Racing fans know this all too well.  In recent days we’ve had to stomach the losses of heroes such as Kona Gold and Summer Squall.  Now comes news that one of the most beloved horses in training, Better Talk Now (aka ”Blackie”) is injured and will race again no more. 

The 10-year-old and 2004 Breeders’ Cup Turf champion was one of my personal all-time favorites, and will be thoroughly missed by a great multitude of fans.  He was one of those horses that once you got to know,  you just HAD to love.  Indeed, it may have been impossible to NOT fall in love with him once you took notice of him on the track.  He gave it his all each and every time he raced, and has the “horsonality” of a total rock star.
 
Better Talk Now striking a "rock star" pose while eating some grass (author's photo)

Better Talk Now striking a "rock star" pose while eating some grass (author's photo)

Like many, I had been hoping to see him run in his final race in New York this fall and was looking forward to the closure that an opportunity to say goodbye might provide.  We all knew this day was coming, as the old man wasn’t getting any younger, but I can’t help but feel a bit of a punch in the gut now knowing we won’t see him run again.  Part of me feels selfish (and foolish) for that though, as he had already given us so much over the years.  This wasn’t the way his story was supposed to end though.  I think we all had dreamt that somehow, someway, he’d go out on top as a winner – just as he deserved.

Having spent most of the week thus far in the hospital myself dealing with some emergency surgery (appendicitis), I was unaware of this development until arriving home this morning.  Suffice to say it was not the kind of news I was hoping to come home to.    

Trying to be the ever the positive “glass half full” type, there are some important silver linings here to this story that we must keep in perspective. 

It goes without saying that it’s fortunate to have identified the injury and safely retired Blackie rather than have had something go horrifically wrong on the track.  Now he’ll be able to retire and live out the rest of his life while still in the care of Graham Motion and his top notch Herringswell Stables operation at Fair Hill, MD.

I know I tend to sound like a broken record about some things here from time to time, but having had the opportunity to visit them at Fair Hill earlier in the year on the morning of Del Cap day- this is where he belongs.  There’s no doubt in my mind about that.  From top to bottom Herringswell Stables is the definition of a class act. 

If I ever have the pleasure of owning one of these magnificent animals, I’ll do all I can to ensure my horse is under Motion’s supervision.  You can just feel the love everyone involved with them has for their horses.  Of course, Blackie was the “rock star” of the barn, and since he’ll stay there I suspect he’ll continue to be so. 

Motion has commented several times that he considers Better Talk Now’s  Breeders’ Cup Turf victory in 2004 as the highlight of his distinguished career as a trainer.  Looking back, I think that was one my favorite highlights of the last decade as well, albeit from a fan perspective. There was just something about Blackie that many found instantly lovable. 

Lastly, let’s not forget that he gave his fans reason to cheer their guts out one last time in his effort in the Sword Dancer back in mid-August.  He rallied from 10 lengths back with 3 furlongs to go and “gave it his all” to run 2nd to upset winner Telling.  I remember thinking he’d have a big shot in that race - and wanting desperately for him to run well.  At times, I’d swear he looked more like a happy kid in that race than a 10-year-old veteran.  In the end, it was rewarding to know that he was still a threat at the Grade 1 level no matter how “long-in-the-tooth” he might have been.

 

 

As we adjust to the realization that we won’t get to see him battling on through the deep stretch in future races, closing like a freight train into the early pace setters, we may at least take solace in knowing that he will be under the care of a group of people who love him dearly and will see to it that he receives only the finest care imaginable.  There’s no place on earth where I could envision him being happier.

In closing, here’s how we’ll always remember Blackie – making that powerful move in the stretch and running past all of ‘em to become a Breeders’ Cup champion.  Watching him run was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life – and no doubt went a long way towards making me the fan of the sport I am today.

  

 

We’ll miss ya, fella, and we’ll always love ya.  Thanks for all the memories you’ve given us along the way.  Such a card.  Such a character – but  an immensely and instantly lovable one.  Enjoy your retirement – you’ve earned the rest, ole buddy.


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Categories : Better Talk Now, horse racing, Horse Racing News

Maryland Million Selections

25 09 2009

It’s that time of year again – the 2nd biggest day on the Maryland thoroughbred racing calendar, overshadowed by only the Preakness itself.  It’s Jim McKay Maryland Million time!  Twelve races, and 114 entries to cover here – a veritable handicapping marathon.  What follows is a quick analysis of each of the races on the card and some advance selections.  Weather could still play a factor in how this all plays out, but for now I’ve assumed we’ll still have fast/firm conditions come Saturday afternoon.

 

Race 1 – The Maryland Million Sprint Starter Handicap – 6 Furlongs

We kick things off with a six horse sprint for three-year-olds and upward.  I’ll get right to the point here as the morning line favorite, #3 VISTA MOON, looks very tough to beat on paper. The son of Malibu Moon has won 5 of his last 6 races, all at the 6 furlong distance.  Beat him to cash, but good luck doing so.  Of the other contenders in the field, #6 LITE UP THE NITE and #2 TAKE DOWN TWO would appear to present the largest challenges.  LITE UP THE NITE exits back-to-back scores at Delaware Park and Laurel, where importantly he has shown an affinity for the Maryland dirt.  TAKE DOWN TWO is the first of many Not For Love offspring on the card and was beaten by a neck after attempting to wire the field last out at Delaware.  He’ll be running for trainer Steven Brown for the first time on Saturday, and note that Brown is 29% first off the claim.  I wouldn’t leave #1 LATE NIGHT LOVER out of the mix underneath in the exotics either, as he’s been a part of the superfecta in all of his last 8 races going back to December of last year.

Selections:

  • #3 Vista Moon (3/5*)
  • #6 Lite Up the Nite (6/1)
  • #2 Take Down Too (5/1)

 

Race 2 – The Maryland Million Starter Handicap – 1 1/8 Miles

The morning line favorite for the 2nd race happens to be #1 SUMACHA’HOT who is also entered elsewhere on the card.  I think this spot makes the most sense for him, although he’s never been the distance before.  The son of Mojave Moon is 3 for his last 4, and has been in the exacta in 8 straight races – how’s that for some consistency, eh?  The one thing working against him (beyond the added distance) is the fact that he needs a bit of pace in front of him.  That should come from #4 GAMMY’s A WINNER- a wire to wire winner last out at historic Timonium race course.  These two have banged heads before, with SUMACHA’HOT getting the best of GAMMY’s A WINNER on August 22.  I’m going to back GAMMY’s A WINNER for the win here in the hopes that he gets loose on the lead.  #5 BELLE’S BROKER and #3 HAM AND ERNIE make some sense in here as well should the top two encounter some trouble, and should definitely be considered underneath in the exotics.

Selections:

  • #4 Gammy’s a Winner (5/2)
  • #1 Sumacha’hot (7/5*)
  • #4 Belle’s Broker (5/1)

 

Race 3 – The Maryland Million Oaks – 1 Mile

The ladies get their first shot of the day with the 24th running of the Oaks.  This race should be all about the pace scenario.  #5 LOVE THAT DANCE should be a big part of that pace setup, as should #3 LORI Z’s PUNCH, and possibly the outside runner, #8 BRIGHT GEM.  I think that should set things up nicely for #1 BLIND DATE, who happens to be your 7/5 favorite.  Also working in BLIND DATE’s favor is that she’s picked up the services of jockey Ramon Dominguez, who returns to Maryland for the day and looks to have a big shot here.  But for one dull effort at Monmouth back in June we’d be talking about a horse with 6 consecutive victories here with BLIND DATE.  I’ll keep LOVE THAT DANCE and BRIGHT GEM underneath in my selections.  I’d probably consider using LORI Z’s PUNCH at the bottom of the trifecta, and if you twisted my arm I might add in #4 FOOLS IN LOVE as well.  As an interesting closing note, 5 of the 8 horses in this race are daughters of Not For Love, who obviously has been enjoying his stud duty.

Selections:

  • #1 Blind Date (7/5*)
  • #5 Love That Dance (5/2)
  • #8 Bright Gem (5/1)

 

Race 4 – The Maryland Million Ladies – 1 1/8 Miles (Turf)

We head to the turf for the first time in the day with the 24th running of the Maryland Million Ladies.  I’ll be honest here – my selection has both practical and personal reasons.  First the personal – #7 AMIE’S LEGEND is a horse I’ve backed before (specifically in the Shine Again back on May 23).  Furthermore, the daughter of (who else?) Not For Love runs for trainer Graham Motion, who always gets bonus points in my book for the absolutely top notch stable he runs at Fair Hill, MD.  Lastly, her name is “Amie” – and considering my wife is of the same name (though spelled differently), could I really go any other way?  I don’t think so.  Luckily for me, she makes some sense here, although she is seeking her first career turf victory – that is something to keep in mind before accepting a short price.  #4 ZIGGLY makes a lot of sense here as well, having prevailed in 5 of 15 lifetime turf races.  Note that she ran respectably against Julia Tuttle last out, who I think would be a logical selection if entered in this race.  The other horse I’m interested in seeing here is #6 TALKIN’ ABOUT LOVE.  I don’t think 3/1 is a very attractive price for a horse making their turf debut, but her closing style and a decent workout over the Monmouth grass on 9/2 make her a possibility. 

Selections:

  • #7 Amie’s Legend (4/1)
  • #4 Ziggly (7/2)
  • #6 Talkin About Love (3/1*)

 

Race 5 – The Maryland Million Nursery – 6 Furlongs

It’s time for some babies, as we move to a 2-year-old event in the aptly named Maryland Million Nursery.  We’ll keep this one simple. #9 TOBOGGAN SLIDE is the most accomplished of these young runners, having prevailed in both lifetime starts (last out in a dead heat).  Now he just needs to prove he can run as effectively going an extra furlong, which I don’t anticipate being a tremendous challenge.  Two other horses appear to have chances to me should the favorite falter.  #2 CACTUS CHARLIE has been improving up at Monmouth against Maiden Special Weight competition and could sit a perfect stalking trip through the early going.  #5 LOVE WHO (quick – guess who his sire is???) also appears to be developing nicely and picks up the services of Ramon Dominguez.  It wouldn’t be a surprise to see this runner in the winner’s circle.  As for the exotics, I think #4 MORUMSCO makes some sense underneath as he’s working lights out (4 furlongs in :45 and 4) and had the lead at the top of the stretch in the debut.  Improvement should be expected in his 2nd career start. 

Selections:

  • #9 Toboggan SLide (8/5*)
  • #5 Love Who (6/1)
  • #2 Cactus Charlie (7/2)
  • (Note: I’d take a long look at #4 Morumsco in the paddock as well)

 

Race 6 – The Maryland Million Turf Sprint Handicap – 5 1/2 Furlongs (Turf)

I don’t know that I’ve ever met a turf sprint that I like, especially not one without a Linda Rice runner (she’s my savior in these races!).   Since I know such races are not my strongest plays, I’ll keep this one brief.  I like #1A HEROS REWARD here, although 3/5 in a turf sprint does not sound very appetizing.  I just know how this would go if I didn’t play him, he’d win.  If I cover him, well, you know how this story goes.  #8 NATURAL SEVEN also warrants some strong consideration here for trainer Ben Feliciano. He’s got 7 wins at the distance, which suggests he’s better at figuring out turf sprints than I am.  Add Ramon Dominguez to the mix and here’s your value horse.  #11 CITIFEST rounds out my selections.  #10 SANDBAGIN’ LOVER also makes some sense here as well.  Of the rest, #4 LYCURGUS is a horse that usually winds up in my selections, so if I play a trifecta here I’ll add him into the equation.  I might also consider #3 DISCO DANDY, who could be part of the pace and gets one of my favorite turf jockeys in the colony; Luis Garcia.

Selections:

  • #1A Heros Reward (3/5*)
  • #8 Natural Seven (8/1)
  • #11 Citifest (8/1)

 

Race 7 – The Maryland Million Distaff Handicap – 7 Furlongs

Oh, that tricky 7 furlong distance!  That’s what we’re up against here in the Distaff Handicap.  There are several directions one could go here.  The favorite is #8 ALL GIVING, a 5-year-old daughter of Allen’s Prospect who has racked up 5 lifetime victories at Laurel Park.  She’s also proven he can handle the 7 furlong distance.  That being said, the most accomplished runner at this distance is #3 SAXET HEIGHTS, a horse who might offer some value on the tote board should you be willing to take a chance.  Ultimately, I went with the chalk here, figuring she might simply be the best horse in the race.  #4 MET A MINER looks very capable as she either wins or runs a clunker.  Note that she hasn’t put two clunkers together in a row lately, so might that mean a trip to the winner’s circle is in order?   If she were running at 6 furlongs I’d say so, but so far she hasn’t been as proficient going 7 furlongs.  I think she makes more sense as an underneath play here.  Don’t overlook #2 LOVE FOR NOT, either.  On her best stuff she can make some noise here.

Selections:

  • #8 All Givin (7/5*)
  • #4 Met a Miner (3/1)
  • #3 Saxet Heights (5/1)
  • (Note: don’t forget #2 Love For Not, who has a chance here)

 

Race 8 – The Maryland Million Lassie – 6 Furlongs

Forgive me, but when I handicap this race I can’t help but hear the theme music from Lassie in the background.  “What’s that Lassie?  Timmy has a 2-year-old filly he likes in the 8th race?”  Ah, if only it was that simple. This looks like a race to take a chance, and I’ve settled on #4 LIL KIARA.  The daughter of Lion Hearted broke her maiden last out in the Monmouth slop and likes to be forwardly placed early on (though not on the lead).  That could set her up well for a big run here.  #9 FOR ROYALTY looks like the horse to beat, having tested the Stakes waters in her last two efforts.  Obviously it would be no surprise if she proved much the best.  I don’t usually advocate supporting first time runners in a race like this, but #13 BEAR CAVE looks playable to me.  I like the recent workout tab and trainer Rodney Jenkins is fairly accomplished with debut horses.  I’d also pay some attention to #2 BEN’S BOOTS in the post parade, if only because Ramon Dominguez is aboard.  If you’re looking for a real bomber, note that Pino is aboard a 20/1 here who defeated claimers last out at Laurel, #1 POLISH DANCE.  Interesting race.

Selections:

  • #8 Lil Kiara (4/1)
  • #9 For Royalty (2/1*)
  • #13 Bear Cave (8/1)

 

Race 9 – The Maryland Million Sprint Handicap – 6 Furlongs

The Sprint Handicap is usually one of the more exciting races on the card.  This year’s edition appears to be up to the task of continuing that history.  #3 NOT FOR SILVER ran into a monster last out in Vineyard Haven, who was once considered the top 3-year-old in training by many. I think he’ll appreciate the drop in class on Saturday, as well as the cut back to 6 furlongs, a distance he is 3 for 4 at lifetime.  This runner should be mighty tough here given his affinity for Laurel Park.  #4 ROARING LION is capable of triple digit Beyer figures, but hasn’t put such races together in back-to-back fashion yet.  In fact, depending on how you handicap, this horse could be a “bounce candidate” here.  I think his penchant for setting the pace makes him a player here, along with the switch to trainer Bruce Levine’s barn two races back.  Even so, I’m not going to accept 2/1 on him (at least not from a straight win bet perspective).  I’ll make him beat me at that price and look for more value elsewhere.  I’ve only briefly mentioned Pino’s name thus far, but I think he might be on a live one here as well with #9 GREAT LOVE.  We’re talking about a horse who seems to always run a big race at this track and distance.  He’s a player in here for sure, and 6/1 is decent enough value to be worth a shot if he makes a positive impression in the post parade. 

Selections:

  • #3 Not for Silver (5/2)
  • #4 Roaring Lion (2/1*)
  • #9 Great Love (6/1)

 

Race 10 – The Maryland Million Turf – 1 1/8 Miles

The turf feature awaits bettors in the 10th race on the card.  I’ll be honest and admit this is the race I have the weakest opinion on throughout the entire day.  I could make a case for #10 IZZY SPEAKING, #9 SIR TOGO, #8 MOON ALA MODE, and #7 POCKET PATCH.  Of course, I must also mention that #5 MOTOWN SHUFFLE destroyed one of my Pick 4 plays on Preakness day this year.  Pick your poison.  This is actually a very good betting race – I just didn’t feel very strongly either way. 

Selections:

  • #10 Izzy Speaking (8/5*)
  • #8 Moon Ala Mode (9/2)
  • #9 Sir Togo (8/1)

 

Race 11 – The Maryland Million Classic – 1 1/8 Miles

Behold:  The Classic!  While it  might not have the luster of it’s Breeders’ Cup namesakes, any racing fan understands the significance of a “classic.”  Last year we only had 5 horses in this race, so it’s a very positive development to have a field of 10 this year.  I’ve posted my picks for this race over on Case The Race, and you’re welcome to read the full review there.  Suffice to say, I’m taking a stand on someone other than the chalk – in this case #6 REGAL SOLO.  Why?  Well, for starters let’s continue the mojo that horses with “Regal” in their name have recently earned (Regal Ransom).  All joking aside, this horse appears to be in top form for trainer Damon Dilodovico, who is both lethal with fresh off the claim runners and knows a thing or two about wining the Classic.  I’ll take 6/1 all day long.  Don’t get me wrong, I think the favorites (#1 BROADWAY PRODUCER and #8 RHYTHMN MASTER) have BIG shots here as well, I just figured I’d look for a price here and try to beat them if I could, and REGAL SOLO had enough angles going for him to warrant making him the selection.  I’ll add in #10 SWEET GOODBYE underneath as she should be part of the pace. I might do the same for #9 IN THE JUICE who seems capable on his best stuff.  As for last year’s champion, #2 CUBA?  I thought he was an obvious single last year.  This year I think he’s more of an underneath play in the exotics. 

Selections:

  • #6 Regal Solo (6/1)
  • #1 Broadway Producer (9/5*)
  • #8 Rhythmn Master (3/1)

 

Race 12 – The Maryland Million Distaff Starter Handicap – 1 Mile

We end the day with a group of hard knocking ladies battling it out over a mile distance over the Laurel main dirt track.  #8 SCHEING E JET must be quite a good looking horse, as she’s been claimed in virtually every race she’s run in the last year.  What’s more impressive is that despite the constant scenery changes, she’s been little miss consistency turning out solid performances every time she goes to post.  I love horses like this -and think she’s the obvious selection here.  As for the rest of the field, #4 SERENADIA really stepped up last time out.  Another performance like that makes here a contender here.  #11 FOUR KARATS is another runner I’m familiar with having seen her live on Black Eyed Susan Day and in the Shine Again.  I think she makes quite a bit of sense underneath, especially at 12/1 (she’s been in-the-money in 5 of 9 starts this year).  As for the horses that might be so apparent to all, I could make a case for #1 WITH PURPOSE for trainer Peter Kazamias.  This daughter of Rock Slide seems to run a good race whenever she gets a chance to go a mile.  Plus she’s a chestnut, and we all know my affinity for them.  :-)

Selections:

  • #8 Scheing E Jet (7/5*)
  • #4 Serenadia (5/1)
  • #11 Four Karats (12/1)

 

Best of luck to all!


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Categories : Handicapping Selections, horse racing, Laurel Park

Glory Days and the 401k – by Mr. Del Mar

24 09 2009
Once again it gives me great pleasure to turn the keyboard over to my main man and our esteemed guest author, Mr. Del Mar.  He who hath given us both the Bolt Speedman and Presence of Fillies at the Track posts in previous weeks.  This week he’ll be talking about a subject very near and dear to many of our hearts; caring for horses after their racing career has ended.
  
As such, I’d just like to take this opportunity to remind everyone of the magnificent work being done by numerous organizations such as ReRun Thoroughbred Adoption and of course Old Friends.  I must also mention my Facebook buddy Sharla Sanders and her program called The Second Race.  I consider these folks the Clara Bartons of our sport; angels who give everything and ask nothing in return.
 
I’d kindly ask all horseplayers who wind up with a decent lump sum in their pockets after a particularly strong day/week/meet of wagering to consider giving a small portion of that back to the horses themselves by donating to these organizations/causes.  Every little bit counts, especially in these economic times where we’re all trying to stretch our dollars as far as we can.
 
Enough preaching from me though, let me turn things over to Mr. Del Mar:
 
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What do we do with race horses when they no longer race and are considered by some just horses?  I say once a race horse always a race horse.  Many are put into breeding programs and the math is simple for the owners of the lucky few, it creates revenue.  Most are simply kicked to the curb after they have been used up for all they are worth to the owner’s pocketbook.  I’m not anti owner and I know that it’s a losing proposition for many to even own a race horse, let alone try to care for it after the glory days.  We owe much to the owners without them there is no horse racing, but what do we owe to the horses?
 
These animals are the stars, they are the show.  Without them it would just be jockeys running a foot race, I believe they call that a track meet.  These ultimate athletes who have given us so much only ask for feed and care.  There is no contract negotiations, no agent and no strikes.  They simply show up and run their hearts out for us and their owners.  How should we treat these magnificent creatures who put their lives on the line and give so much while asking for so little?  I say we let them live out their golden years in dignity, comfort and surrounded by good company.  I now would like to introduce an idea for a non profit, new look at The Horse Racing Hall of Fame.
 
There are many good natured individuals who already are working hard to find these horses homes, but they can only plug the dam with their fingers for so long.  With over breeding and careers shorter than an NFL running back, the water is already spilling over the side and the levee is breaking.  The main problem here is funding.  If there were a Horse Racing Hall of Fame in locations like California, New York and any other location with a strong horse racing market, we may be able to generate some revenue.  This would be the first Hall of Fame I’m aware of with live athletes, not just bronze busts.  You could interact with the athletes themselves, maybe set up a winner’s circle that mimics a major track for that area.  Make a small donation for admission, pay for pictures and maybe have your kids dress up like a jockey sit on the back of a race horse and have a very fun souvenir unlike any other.
 
This being a non profit charity, there will be many tax breaks to encourage people to do the right thing.  Maybe owners would donate racing memorabilia like horseshoes worn in a race, they could be purchased by racing fans and both parties could get a nice tax write off.  If legislation could be passed, perhaps we could even have satellite wagering with the proceeds going to the charity, maybe even find a way to get a tax break for the horseplayers.  Occasionally have an exhibition match with the horses that are still able to run.  Set up a small track where some of our retired residents get another shot at winning, bingo for a race horse.  These animals love to run and I’m sure they miss the competition and attention.  People could wager on these races and the takeout is simply a donation.  On another note, it would be nice to see a kind of mandatory 401K set up by the owners to plan for the horses retirement.  When a claimer exchanges hands you just roll over the fund.  Maybe tracks could set a small percentage of the takeout aside to do the right thing and make sure the horses who are the main function of their business will always have their basic needs.
 
An adoption program must be put into effect and there are already great organizations that do this.  The Hall of Fame would likely partner up with these folks and assist with funding to any foster horse owners.  Our stable would fill at some point so we must find homes for any horse we can.  What we can do for these organizations is bring awareness and let the public see these amazing animals in the flesh.  It’s a lot harder to say no when one of these animals is staring you straight in the eye and you know you can help.  Veterinary costs are a concern.  I’m sure there are many young would be veterinarians who would be happy to intern at such a facility.  A few veterinarian volunteer teachers to train them, a few on payroll and there it is, a highly reduced veterinary cost for a good cause.  The same approach can be done with almost every facet of horse care and horse racing itself.  Everything from farriers, exercise riders, trainers… you name it.  I believe there are enough good people in the world who would be very willing to lend a hand.
 
A prime example of never giving up on a horse is that of LAVA MAN.  Guess who’s back in training and possibly making a comeback, that’s right.  Even better his trainer Mr. Doug O’Neil is donating his 10% share of the purse for training fees if LAVA MAN returns.  Who knows maybe we’d end up with a horse that was believed to be out of the game and end up in a situation like this.  Talk about funding and promotion.
 
These animals deserve better, they can’t speak for themselves so we must be their voice.  With the tax right offs, volunteer work, admission, memorabilia, souvenir photos, satellite wagering and whatever else we can dream up… this may work and operate self sufficiently.  Let’s give these brave warriors the respect they deserve and a dignified way to live out their golden years.
 
Matthew Galbreth aka Mr. Del Mar

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Categories : horse racing

A Horse Divided

17 09 2009

“A house divided against itself cannot stand.”

Thus spoke Abraham Lincoln on June 16, 1858 to the delegates of the Republican Convention in Springfield Illinois who had earlier in the evening nominated him as their candidate for the United States Senate.

The issue at hand happened to be one of immense national controversy; human slavery.  Lincoln would go on to face his opponent, the famed Stephen Douglass, in a series of debates on the issue that rocked the nation to its very core.  Indeed, by the close of the following decade over half a million of the nation’s sons would see their lives destroyed by a war that (at least in retrospect) attempted to bring resolution to the “question” at hand.

None of this, of course, has anything directly to do with horse racing.  There is, however, one great irony (though admittedly of infinitely less importance than it’s historical counterpart) between the events of the past and those of the present, and today marks a perfect opportunity to reflect upon such.

Today, September 17, marks the 147 anniversary of our nation’s darkest hour: the horrific battle known as Antietam (or Sharpsburg, depending on which side of the Mason Dixon you were raised).  The 23,000 casualties that were amassed between 5:30 AM and 5:30 PM that fateful September morning stand as a testament for all time to the horrific consequences that can result from our most passionate of disagreements.  

Antietam Dead from Stephen Lee's rebel artillery battallion near the Dunker Church at Sharpsburg, MD

Antietam Dead from Stephen Lee's rebel artillery battalion near the Dunker Church at Sharpsburg, MD

So what great cataclysm are we as racing fans confronted with that has warranted this invocation of Lincoln?  Or this call for pacification?

It is time, my friends, to put down the hatchets and end this nonsensical Zenyatta vs Rachel Alexandra debate.

Why not use this anniversary of our darkest national hour to call upon folks to listen, as Lincoln would have implored “to the better angels of our nature?” 

It was from the ashes of the cataclysm that was Antietam, after all, that our nation took its first baby steps towards a “new birth of freedom” with the passage of the Emancipation Proclamation. 

Fast forward to the present.  As a racing fan, nearly everywhere you turn the debate rages.  On every horse racing forum, across the nebulous expanse of social networks like Twitter and Facebook – folks have drawn very sharp and defined “battle lines.”  Depending on what you say or how you feel, you are instantly placed on one “side” or the other. 

I’ve found myself caught up in this nonsense recently.  It seems that by stating my belief in Rachel Alexandra’s Horse of the Year credentials (a case that I’d like to think in both post and comments I laid out rather matter-of-factly), that I’ve been categorized as being “anti-Zenyatta”, or otherwise not a Zenyatta fan.  In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. 

Those who have read along here over the years know that my love of Zenyatta runs deeply, and goes hand in hand with the inception of The Aspiring Horseplayer.  She was one of the first handicapping picks I ever gave out publicly – and since then she’s turned into an undefeated superstar that I’ve been lucky enought to cover for her entire career.

She is, after all, my “slow cheetah.”

 

 

Sadly, however, we live in an age where people like to pass sweeping judgements based on 5 second soundbites.  Before information has even had time to be thoroughly processed and absorbed, staunch opinions are formed and rash conclusions made. Thus, because I’ve also been outspoken in my love for Rachel as she’s blazed through the pages of history in recent months, I’ve been categorized and labelled as one of Zenyatta’s “enemies.”

As a friend pointed out on Twitter a few weeks ago after an attempt to clarify the matter: “too late dude, you’ve been labelled.”

Nonsense, I tell you.

Just to set the record straight, I believe Zenyatta to be one of the most brilliant horses I’ve had the pleasure of watching run (on television that is, although I hope to see her in person during the Breeders’ Cup).  I thought her 2008 campaign was neck and neck with that of Curlin (whom I loved like no other).  That being said, I’m sorry, but her 2009 campaign has not been as awe inspiring, especially when compared to the historically unprecedented accomplishments of Rachel Alexandra. 

The above should not be interpreted as a knock on Zenyatta.  She doesn’t decide which races she runs in, or which horses she faces.  All she knows to do is to go about her business in the mornings and to run like the wind come race day.  It’s simply a reflection of the accomplishments each runner has achieved through calendar year 2009, and I think the historical record speaks for itself. 

I’ll simplify that point using the parlance of our times; “it is what it is.”

As for the implications of the upcoming Breeders’ Cup Classic, and a potential Zenyatta victory, I’m proud to offer my first ever NTRA submission for some additional thoughts.  The Classic, even without Rachel (or potentially Zenyatta) is “still a classic.”

With the above matter settled, I call upon racing fans of all ages and walks of life to cease with the slandering of either of these great animals in attempts to justify the greatness of the other.  There’s no need for that nonsense, nor should their be any tolerance for it within our sport.  Moreover, there is no need to pick and choose from amongst the two when it’s perfectly reasonable to love ‘em both.  In fact, I have trouble understanding how any self proclaimed “fan” of the game could not love both of these horses?  Ever since the debate began, my take has remained the same;  if these two ever do meet up (which is now entirely unlikely), the only outcome I’m interested in seeing is a dead heat.

The trouble, of course, is that when folks start lobbing incendiary filth at one horse or the other (usually in a shotgun attempt hoping that some of their slung filth will stick…especially if repeated ad nauseum), it causes people to become emotional and defensive in response.  It divides us.  It forces people to one side or the other.  Why must we do this?  Is this the new age belief that only through igniting controversy and fanning the flames of “reality television” style internal cat fighting that we can maintain relevance?  If so, this is indeed our darkest hour. 

The good news, however, is that this doesn’t have to be the case.  Even when discussing which of these two is worthy of Horse of the Year, it’s possible to do so without demeaning the other horse.  Haven’t they both earned such respect given what they’ve accomplished on the track?  We must demand higher standards from ourselves.  This is the “sport of kings” after all, and we’re supposed to have class to go along with our varied opinions. 

Let us use the memory of this day, and the danger of driving wedges between us as a united people, to remind us that no matter our differences, causes, or beliefs – nor how steadfastly we hold to them – we must not allow trivial nonsense to tear us asunder. 

We must not focus so intently on our differences.  We must be hesitant to divide.  Rather, we must focus on that which binds us together through common love and appreciation.  Is it really so hard for the most diehard of fans on one side of the “argument” to fully appreciate that which their brethren see on the other? It should be no great mystery, nor any great debate.  Instead, a mutual appreciation of all that we hold dear.  

I imagine that if good ole Abe Lincoln were alive amongst us today and by some twist of fate fancied himself a racing fan, he might say something like the following (paraphrased – badly- from the closing of his 1st inaugural address on March 4, 1861):

“I am loath to close.  We must not be enemies, but friends. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every (stable) and (race track) to every living heart and hearthstone all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of (our) union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature.”

In closing (and on a semi related note), take a moment to view the video below.  It concerns a teenager from a NY volunteer regiment who was killed in battle 147 years ago today at Antietam and subsequently hastily buried in a makeshift grave on the field.  The location of his body remained unknown and lost in the passage of history for a century and a half before a chance discovery in 2008. 

On Tuesday the body was officially transferred to the custody of the State of New York, where he was promptly buried with full honors upon returning to the mystic dirt he once called home.  A native son finally going home nearly a century and half since he went missing after offering his “last full measure of devotion.”

 

 

Rest in peace, young lion.  You were someone’s son, someone’s brother, and someone’s comrade-in-arms. 

Welcome home.


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Categories : Breeders' Cup, horse racing, Horse Racing News, Rachel Alexandra, Zenyatta

Horse of the Year; the case for Rachel Alexandra

6 09 2009

 

Rachel Alexandra - Photo by Jim McCue of the Maryland Jockey Club

Rachel Alexandra - Photo by Jim McCue of the Maryland Jockey Club

I’ve posted this on Twitter, placed it in recent articles, and feel very strongly about the matter.  Following Rachel Alexandra’s victory against older males in the Woodward on Saturday at Saratoga, the race for Horse of the Year would appear to be over.  I realize that might be a bold statement considering there are several huge races left to be run this year.  I can’t see how anyone else’s campaign could possibly top what we’ve seen unfold before our eyes.  The filly who was once rejected by her mother (Lotta Kim) has reached the top of the mountain as the finest horse in racing in all of North America.

This isn’t just a Horse of the Year campaign, it’s a campaign for all times.  Arguably the start to a Hall of Fame career.  Every time she runs, decades worth of history come crashing down like so many dominoes.  She lays waste to the competition, conquers every track she encounters, and can lay claim to achieving truly unprecedented results.

“…any talk of another horse being worthy of Horse of the Year honors is patently absurd.”

Interestingly, I actually believe that if the Zenyatta camp had travelled east to face Rachel in the Woodward, they would’ve had a very big shot to prevail.  Especially considering how the pace setup ultimately played out.  The closers (Bullsbay and Macho Again) were rolling late with every chance to catch Rachel.  You’d have to think Zenyatta would’ve been coming gamely in the stretch.  We must also factor in that Zenyatta would’ve been returning to dirt in a relatively fresh condition.

I just don’t see what Zenyatta can do now to surpass what Rachel has done this year?  There would’ve been an opportunity to keep pace by moving up the class ladder and taking on older males in the Pacific Classic, but that didn’t happen.  We KNOW that Rachel is the dominant horse of the U.S. east of the Mississippi.  Zenyatta?  Well, the picture’s a little cloudy for her.  She’s a champion and undefeated mare who deserves a great deal of respect, that much is certain.  

Don’t you have to feel though that the older male division in California has been somewhat ripe for the taking?  I thought Zenyatta would’ve made a lot of sense as a logical contender in last year’s Breeders’ Cup Classic.  Sadly, we’ve never had the chance to find out.  Hopefully that changes in the future, but even so it might be a case of too little too late.

Even if Zenyatta manages to win the Classic, and let’s assume for a moment that she does win in electrifying fashion against top flight competition, would that be enough to leapfrog everything Rachel has accomplished already?  Not in my mind.  Of course, this doesn’t even factor in that Zenyatta might run into a horse like Sea the Stars in the Classic.  As much respect as I have for her, the 2009 campaign so far does not stack up favorably against the accomplishments of Rachel.

Too strong an opinion?  Perhaps, but let’s review that list of accomplishments for Rachel:

Historical notes:
-First filly in 8 decades to win the Preakness
-2nd filly in 42 years to win the Haskell
-first filly EVER to defeat older males in the Woodward

Runners who have flattered Rachel with NEXT OUT Stakes wins:
-Just Jenda ( G3 Monmouth Oaks)
-Sarah Louise (G3 Victory Ride)
-Gabby’s Golden Gal (G1 Acorn)
-Take the Points (G2 Secretariat)
-Flashing (G1 Test)
-Summer Bird (G1 Travers)

Misc:
-5 CONSECUTIVE Grade 1 wins (Ky Oaks, Preakness, Mother Goose, Haskell, Woodward).

-Joins elite company becoming one of the few 3-year-old fillies in history to defeat Grade 1 older males over a mile or more.

-Faced males in 3 of those 5 Grade 1 races, won ‘em all.

-Perfect 8 for 8 record in 2009, all stakes races.

-Has defeated the winners of the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, Travers Stakes, Whitney Handicap, Stephen Foster – all while winning the Kentucky Oaks, Preakness, Mother Goose, Haskell, and Woodward for herself…and that’s just the last 5 races going back to May.

(read that point above one more time)

-For any other horse (colt or filly) defeating the Kentucky Derby winner would’ve been the centerpiece of their 3-year-old campaign.  For Rachel it’s just one of many such moments, and arguably not the biggest or the most memorable.  Think about that.  That’s really saying something.  Just to help you remember how special that moment and the buildup to that historic ride was, take a little walk down memory lane once again:

 

 

-Has won Grade 1 races this year at 5 different tracks: Churchill Downs (KY Oaks), Pimlico (Preakness), Belmont Park (Mother Goose), Monmouth Park (Haskell), and Saratoga (Woodward). 

-There were 3 more stakes victories starting the campaign in early 2009.  Take note of this as it’s the first point in the discussion that Zenyatta’s ’09 campaign draws even by comparison.  It’s the basement of Rachel’s accomplishments but currently the ceiling of those Zenyatta has earned thus far in 2009.  I think that last sentence bears some reflection.

The thought that all of the above happened in the 3-year-old campaign of a single filly is so unbelievably spectacular that I’m not sure even Horse of the Year renders it full justice.  Remember that after all this, she’s still not even a mare yet!  It boggles the mind to think of how she might develop if given proper rest to prepare for a 4-year-old campaign.

“…any talk of another horse being worthy of Horse of the Year honors is patently absurd.”

Well, maybe that is a little harsh, but it’s hard to argue with the list of accolades listed above. 

Any argument favoring someone else for Horse of the Year is bound to contain speculation about what might happen in the future, or is based on memories from the previous year.  In contrast, Rachel’s case is built on events that have actually happened this year.  There’s no might or if about them.  She’s earned it all on the track.

What say you?


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Categories : Belmont Park, Churchill Downs, horse racing, Horse Racing News, Monmouth Park, Pimlico, Rachel Alexandra, Saratoga, Z Humor, Zenyatta

Rachel Alexandra makes history; defeats older males in the Woodward

5 09 2009

“A horse, a horse! My kingdom for a horse!”

She did it!!!

Rachel Alexandra defeated a field of 7 older males to take the Grade 1 Woodward at Saratoga on Saturday afternoon, virtually locking up Horse of the Year honors with yet another history defying stretch run.  It may not have been by double digit lengths this time, as had been her trademark against fellow 3-year-old boys and girls, but at the end of the day it may have been her most impressive performance yet.

 

 

As anticipated, the pace setup for the race was extremely challenging for the daughter of Medaglia d’Oro.  She found herself on the lead being forced to set punishing fractions of :22 and :46 through the opening splits.  As the field turned for home, it appeared that the great filly might have bitten off more than she could chew.  Macho Again and Bullsbay had taken aim and were unwinding as the field raced to the wire.

Flash back to the moment immediately after her victory in the Haskell.  Jockey Calvin Borel indicated that he “didn’t know how great Rachel was” because we had yet to see how she would respond when another horse looked her in the eye in the stretch.  Well friends, we got about as close to that on Saturday as we’re likely ever going to see.

As Macho Again looked poised to surge past her for the score, Borel suddenly found more. Like the courageous champion she is, her ears perked and her eyes ablaze, horse and rider determined that history would not be plucked from their grasp within sight of the wire.  Somehow, someway, she dug down and found more.

What followed was a moment for all time.  The 3-year-old filly crossing the wire in a Grade 1 “distance” race against older boys.  Clearly, she must’ve read my “win one for the Vintner” post before heading to the paddock.  I tried to warn the boys what they were in for, even going Shakespeare on them get their attention, but they must not have listened.

She has now blazed a trail through history not once, not twice, but THRICE in momentous races.  The Preakness, the Haskell, and now the Woodward.  I said this over twitter immediately following the race and I think it bears repeating.  “Any discussion of another horse deserving Horse of the Year honors is now patently absurd.”

Not to take anything away from other runners, but the accolades for Rachel are simply off the charts now.  It’s beyond my comprehension how anyone could even make a case for another horse as Horse of the Year?  I suspect such sentiments would be fueled by disdain for her connections, or blind love for another horse.  I understand those feelings quite well – it’s just that they’re flat out wrong in my opinion.

True, the Breeders’ Cup “championship” awaits, but I can’t imagine any single race being able to stack up to what this horse has done on the track throughout the year. 

What we’ve just witnessed was a unique moment in history that we might not be lucky enough to live to see again. Yes – it was that special. Just like her victories in the Preakness and the Haskell.  There’s a reason these types of races don’t happen every year.  Rachel is an absolute one-of-a-kind freakazoid of nature. 

So what lies next for her majesty? Owner Jess Jackson has hinted at shutting her down for the rest of the year, presumably so he can bring her back fresh for her 4-year-old campaign.  My guess is that after a grueling victory like this, where she had to lay it all on the line to prove her greatness, she’s likely had enough – at least for now. 

I keep thinking they’ll send her to Dubai next year to race in the World Cup, once again following the path that Curlin blazed for the Jackson/Asmussen camp in ’07 and ’08. It’s important to keep in mind though that Dubai is switching to a synthetic surface.  We all know how Jess Jackson feels about them.

The victory makes her a perfect 8 or 8 in 2009, including 5 consecutive Grade 1 victories stretching back to the Kentucky Oaks, which ironically was the race that first brought her to the forefront of the sport’s consciousness.  Additionally, she’s now boosted her lifetime earnings to just under $3 million ($2,948,354).

Of course, the possibility of a matchup with Zenyatta in the Beldame courtesy of TVG-Betfair is still out there.  I just don’t see it happening as it doesn’t seem like either camp is particularly interested.  The Breeders’ Cup is still out there as well, but Jackson has been adamant that he wants no part of the “plastic Classic.”

Ironically, Rachel wasn’t the only horse stringing together her 5th amazing victory against top level competition.  European sensation Sea the Stars was equally impressive taking the Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown.  The victory left racing fans from across the pond speechless searching for races to compare with the performance.  The Arc most likely awaits Sea the Stars next, but his connections also have designs on the Breeders’ Cup Classic.

 

 

Not a bad Saturday, eh?  We just saw the two most magnificent specimens in all of horse racing the world over turn in monster performances.  Up next we’ve got Colonel John on Sunday at Del Mar.


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Categories : horse racing, Horse Racing News, Rachel Alexandra, Saratoga, sea the stars

Rachel Alexandra in the Woodward; Win one for the vintner!

4 09 2009

“…And the last thing he said to me — “Jess,” he said – “sometime, when the barn is up against it – and the filly is set to meet the boys – tell her to go out there with all she’s got and win just one for the Vintner!”

Knute Rockney delivers the famed "win one for the Gipper!" speech at halftime of the 1928 matchup between Notre Dame and Army

Knute Rockne delivers the famed "win one for the Gipper!" speech at halftime of the 1928 matchup between Notre Dame and Army

 When she steps onto the track on Saturday afternoon just before six o’clock in the afternoon (Eastern Time), the filly Rachel Alexandra will be looking to add yet another illustrious stripe to her storied career.  In years past the notion of a 3-year-old filly taking on and defeating older males in the Woodward (Grade 1) at Saratoga would’ve sounded absurd.  This year, and this horse, however, render matters utterly different as the filly sensation will head to post as the heavy 1/2 morning line favorite.

She’s already proven the naysayers wrong by shattering popular opinion and defeating fields full of stakes winning 3-year-old colts.  A win against the older boys in the Woodward would not only be the next logical step up the proverbial class ladder of thoroughbred horse racing, but also icing on the cake in her quest to become the 2009 Horse of the Year.  The Preakness, the Haskell, and now potentially the Woodward, all as a 3-year-old filly?  Remarkable.

That last part causes some consternation amongst fans of different horses.  In recent weeks we’ve heard from them how Quality Road was going to annihilate the Travers field and prove that he, and not Rachel, was the best 3-year-old in the nation.  Unfortunately for those who subscribed to such a belief, Quality Road wound up being trounced by a horse that Rachel had defeated handily in the Haskell;  Belmont Stakes champion Summer Bird. 

The win by Summer Bird marked only the latest in a long line of recent foes who have solidified Rachel’s credentials as horse of the year.  We all know the stories.  Just Jenda, Gabby’s Golden Gal, Flashing, Take the Points, Summer Bird, Afleet Deceit, and Sarah Louise have all returned victorious in their next starts following defeats at the hooves of Rachel the Great.

The field for the Woodward, while not as large as the field of the Travers last weekend, has the potential to flatter her even farther. Grade 1 winners Bullsbay (Whitney Handicap), Da’ Tara (2008 Belmont) and Macho Again (Stephen Foster) lead the charge along with Grade 2 winner It’s a Bird and Group 2 winner Asiatic Boy.  In fact, there are over 20 stakes wins amongst the competitors lined up to challenge Queen Rachel and attempt to deny her history.

From a pace setup, the filly would once again appear to be challenged.  She could wind up being the speed of the race, although one would suspect jockey Calvin Borel would prefer to use her newly found and decidedly deadly pace pressing style if given the chance.  The only other likely pace horses on paper would include Da’ Tara, who wired the field of the 2008 Belmont at moderate fractions, and possibly Cool Coal Man, whom you wouldn’t expect trainer Nick Zito to “send” if he were anticipating stablemate Da’ Tara being on or very near the lead.

If Rachel is on the lead, it’s going to take a monster effort, similar to what we saw in the Preakness to hang on against Macho Again, It’s a Bird, and Bullsbay in the stretch, as those runners figure to get favorable trips. 

Looking over her competition, It’s a Bird looks to me like the biggest threat.  Trainer Martin Wolfson also trains Icon Project, the next horse that many are whispering might have a chance against Rachel.  Sadly, for Wolfson, Icon Project will not be in the Woodward, and instead he’ll have to turn to It’s a Bird.  Some folks might go gaga over the name, considering the smashing success that “bird” themed horses have celebrated this year, but this ornithologically named runner is a son of Birdonthewire rather than Birdstone.  Still, if his efforts in the Lone Star Park Handicap and Oaklwan Handicap are any indication, he’s capable of sitting an ideal trip and making a run for the money in the stretch. He’s a must use on the exacta and trifecta plays, especially at 10/1 with the talented Leparoux at the helm.

 

 

One must also not overlook the disappointing but talented Asiatic Boy, who has won Group 2 races on the dirt at Nad Al Sheba and finished second in both the Suburban Handicap (Grade 2) and Stephen Foster (Grade 1).  My only problem with Asiatic Boy is that if he could barely hang on to defeat Einstein after that horse had a “trip from hell” in the Stephen Foster, than how could I anticipate victory against a significantly more talented horse like Rachel?  Jockey Alan Garcia, who recently was granted a stay from his impending suspension following Vineyard Haven’s drfitwood performance in the King’s Bishop, once again takes the call at attractive odds of 10/1.

And then there’s Bullsbay. I think my affinity for Tiznow offspring is well documented enough that I need not go into great detail.  Add to that the fact that he runs for my favorite trainer, Graham Motion, and it he becomes a strong heart play.  If I distance myself from those feelings, he actually looks like a potential bounce candidate on paper, following a career best effort in the Whitney.  A review of his running lines, however,  shows that he seems to demonstrate that trademark Tiznow toughness in the stretch, giving a solid account of himself nearly every time he goes to post.  This is perhaps best evidenced by his 13 in-the-money finishes in 18 lifetime races, including 7 victories.

 

 

My gut tells me the filly will rise to the occasion just like she has done in each of the challenges she’s faced since last fall.  A quick comparison of her final times over the 1 1/8 mile distance that the Woodward is contested over shows that she finished in just over 1:46 in the Mother Goose, and though she was aided greatly by a blistering early pace set by Flashing and Malibu Prayer, it’s important to remember that she finished the final 1/16 “under wraps.”  Might she have been capable of a sub 1:46 final time?  Also note that she finished the Haskell in just over 1:47 despite running over a tremendously sloppy surface. True, the track was sealed, but those times jump off the page.  Clearly this is a distance she relishes.

 

 

By comparison, her biggest threats have been a few steps slower in terms of final times (never an apples to apples thing, mind you). It’s a Bird took the Oaklawn Handicap over the same distance in 1:48 and 4, and Macho Again’s Stephen Foster victory clocked in at 1:49 and 3.  That’s a fairly substantial differentiation in terms of final times, even if those races were contested at different tracks and conditions.

One thing is for sure, Rachel Alexandra is not going to be an attractive betting opportunity by any stretch of the imagination, so if you’re playing for a price you’d obviously have to go against her.  But why be silly and play against such an immensely talented runner?  Would you really be “happy” if you beat her? I guess the answer to that question depends on how much you are willing to risk.  The value will be there if you can beat her.

We must also remind ourselves that horses are not machines, and it’s important to note that even the best of the best suffer defeats.  I know the pro Zenyatta crowd foams at the mouth whenever anyone says that, but they must restrain themselves by realizing the obvious fact that Rachel is already out classing anything Zenyatta has attempted by taking on older males, and thus exposes herself to significantly more risk of defeat. If Rachel were taking the same protected path as Zenyatta, she’d be running against 3-year-old fillies again in a 4 or 5 horse field and offering nothing of historical or compelling interest to the sport. I love ‘em both, but there’s no comparison in terms of accomplishments attained this year.

Instead, what we have on our hands is a filly once again on the cusp of re-writing history the moment she steps on the track.

I’ll look for Rachel to take command at the top of the stretch and put the issue to rest with several hundred yards to go.  At some point in time she is bound to get tested in the stretch, and it would be logical and fair to assume that may well happen in this her first effort against older males.  I just have this feeling that whatever they challenge her with she’ll have an answer for.  She seems to be that once-in-a-blue-moon type of talent.  I’m not one to run around proclaiming her the “greatest ever” quite yet, as I think that’s a disservice to the numerous entrenched “greats” of the sport whose accomplishments would then be unwisely overlooked and unfairly forgotten, but she seems to me to be clearly the most talented horse in training at the moment and arguably the best we’ve seen in at least the last several years.

As much as folks love to hate him for what they perceive to be hubris, the simple fact is that her owner and wealthy vintner Jess Jackson has given fans reason to rejoice these past two years by virtue of bringing back Curlin as a 4-year-old and racing Rachel in historically significant situations that she likely otherwise would have avoided.  The result is that we are once again staring history in the face.  Fifty-five previous runnings of the Woodward and counting.  No filly winners.  Expect all of that to change with Rachel on Saturday.

“Win one for history, Rachel.  Win one for your fans. Win just one for the vintner!”

Give ‘em hell, girl!

 


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Categories : Handicapping Selections, horse racing, Horse Racing News, Rachel Alexandra, Saratoga

The Fantasy Factor

3 09 2009

Consensus #1 fantasy football draft pick - Adrian Peterson of the Minnesota Vikings

Like many of you, I recently completed my annual fantasy football draft earlier this week.  Going through that process and the labor of love that is projecting performances for all of the receivers, backs, tight ends, and defensive units in the league got the ole hamster wheels spinning in the cobwebs of my head once again.  “Why don’t we have something like this?”  

Can you imagine the thrill a horse racing fan might have in knowing that they hold the coveted “top pick” in a fantasy horse racing draft?  Rather than the consensus Adrian Peterson sweepstakes that such a lofty draft position holds in the football world, it would be the Rachel Alexandra show, or perhaps the Zenyatta slot, depending on your loyalties.  

Even if the idea of forming 10-12 stable leagues doesn’t translate quite effectively to the world of horse racing, one could still envision an auction style process where one has to choose between spending a large chunk of their available capital on a horse of Rachel or Zenyatta’s quality, or attempting to fill out their roster with slightly lesser runners capable of racking up victories (and thus points).

If you’ve been paying attention to the posts here lately, most of the conversations we’ve been engaged in surround trying to attract a younger generation of fans to the sport of horse racing.  We’ve tossed out just about everything conceivable from actual marketing strategies pitched to the NTRA to fresh ideas courtesy of our Johnny-on-the-spot guest author Mr. Del Mar.

One thing keeps coming up.  Let’s say we are able to engineer a big event, such as a momentous race between uniquely popular horses or a special day at the track that attracts large numbers of youth.  We’ve seen these already to some degree with the recent innovations surrounding night racing at Churchill Downs, and with some of the traditional tricks of the trade such as $1 beers, free attendance, and trendy music concerts.  All that is well and good as they get folks to take the first step and walk through the door, but do they really contribute to building a sustained fanbase reinforced by substantial numbers of legitimate new “racing fans?”  

The elephant in the room continues to be the question of how to get these fans to RETURN to racing once that special day is over.  How do you make them want to come back to the track next week?  How do you make them care enough to actually contribute consistently either through on track attendance or through regular wagering?  After all, it’s the creation of regular racing fans rather than one time attendees that the sport so desperately needs. Getting them in the door is definitely a start, but you’ve still got to make that sell long term.

The challenges for attracting these fans for anything resembling a sustained period of time are many fold.  Our sport isn’t the most easily accessible.  It’s all but forgotten in terms of national conscience.  In fact, even if we do manage to capture the attention of a few folks along the way, all one must do is think back to when they were first becoming a racing fan to understand the absolutely overwhelming and unprecedented complexity that a prospective new fan is faced with.  It’s enough to turn many a confident would be aspiring horseplayer away.

The good news is that we aren’t the only sport that’s had to ponder such challenging realities.

As you may recall, part of the whole Take Back Saturday idea that I continually reference was to reflect upon the successes enjoyed by other sports and to see if their weren’t some real lessons that the sport of horse racing could learn from, and possibly galvanize into something tangibly beneficial for our own goals. With that in mind, I’ve always believed the sport to attempt to copy is professional football.  Fifty years ago, football was the red headed stepchild of Major League Baseball.  Now it’s the unchallenged monster of American sports, with it’s biggest game the single largest television event of the entire year.

I grew up as a  football fan.  From a young age I was reenacting bone jarring tackles, hurling myself into the family sofa, or imagining being placed in a desperate struggle of infinite importance, like the no-holds-barred 2 minute drives against the Cleveland Browns that John Elway seemed to engineer in the playoffs each year. 

In time I took those dreams to the football field and wound up playing on some pretty darn good teams in my teenage years.  One of the most enjoyable aspects of getting to strap on the helmet and lace up the cleats was that by immersing oneself into the game, you had a magnificent opportunity to understand the x’s and o’s that the average person would never be able to fully grasp. Concepts like disguised blitzes, motioning away from the playside of the offensive formation to deceive the defense, using multiple receiver sets to expose man to man coverage schemes – these were things that seemingly only those who played the game, or only the most diehard of fans, could fully grasp.

Fast forward to today.  It seems that every 12-year-old kid with working opposable thumbs understands how to spot a dime defense, and that it’s inherent weakness is being susceptible to the run.  They understand that balanced formations like the twin Tight End set can be difficult for a defense to scheme against as long as they mix their run and pass calls effectively to keep the opposition off balance.  They know that, apart from short yardage and goal line situations, the effectiveness of the fullback position is going the way of the dinosaurs.

Even more so, an ever increasing number of people from diverse walks of life are intimately aware of entire rosters of players; especially those who handle the ball. It wasn’t that long ago that you could count how many folks outside of the “jock” crowd could name all the Wide Receivers on even the home town team.  Nowadays?  Folks know exactly who is behind nearly every receiver or back in the league. Each fantasy draft I’ve been involved in over the recent years has necessitated ranking the “skill players” at least 40 deep at each position, if not more.

Two factors have contributed to this, and they aren’t ones that it would be impossible to replicate:  the rise of fantasy football, and the proliferation of the Madden video game franchise.

That’s right – games.

Games are the answer to making the learning process fun.  It seems trivial, I know, but it’s the entire reason that so much of our learning process as kids are centered around games.  We learn through play.  They can capture the zest of actual on-field competition while still retaining the innocence of being a purely fantasy adventure.  They familiarize players with the performers, and with the intricacies of the sport itself.  Even better, “fantasy” style games are a gift that keeps on giving as they give folks a compelling reason to care about what happens on the field (or in our case, on the track).   They give you an excuse to watch, and to check the scores.  They provide relevance for checking upcoming schedules and pondering what lies ahead.  For four months out of the year during the football season, every yard, every tackle, and every point scored are followed with absolute devotion.

And what of video games?  Well, we’ve tried them in the past with respect to horse racing, but we’ve never had anything even remotely close to the blockbuster success of the Madden franchise.  I’m not suggesting it’s possible for a niche sport like ours to ever sell anything anywhere near what a football game sells in terms of volume, but there are still concepts we could learn from here.

Madden was an insider, who not only wished to market himself (perhaps more so than even he realized was possible), but also wished to pass on an understanding for the game he loved to a new generation of fans.  What a noble concept!

The franchise itself has now taught an entire generation of people who would otherwise have never had a taste for the complexity of strategies being enacted on the field to put themselves right into the fray, calling plays, dialing in blitzes, executing reads, and directing hot routes. 

Imagine if we could achieve even a fraction of that progress in our own sport?  Imagine if we could harness an entertaining medium for educating people on the complexities of horse racing? 

Gallop Racer - the best horse racing video game series EVER!

The closest thing we’ve had to a racing game capable of captivating folks was the Gallop Racer series from Tecmo. The game had it all – exciting racing action, complex concepts that included distance considerations, surface changes, and class level distinctions.  Even breeding and betting were covered.  All that it really lacked was the professional polish of the Madden franchise.  Where Madden looked like a legitimate NFL product, Gallop Racer featured fictional horses (some loosely based on actual equine greats) and a cartoonish, Japanese-anime inspired interface. 

If someone could ever get the concept right – and I’m convinced it can be done – there’s a chance it could help bridge the gap and facilitate the educational process for would be racing fans.  Horse racing games actually sell quite well in Japan, where the sport is marketed heavily to the population.  Stranger fads have taken hold here in the U.S.  Who knows?  It’s not a cure-all by any stretch of the imagination, but it certainly wouldn’t hurt to try.  I mean seriously…if MTV can bring back the Teen Wolf franchise, than pretty much anything should be on the table, right?

On the “fantasy” front, we’ve actually made some progress, as various fantasy related horse racing games keep popping up all over the place.  Probably the best of these, at least in my humble opinion, is the yearly “Road to the Roses” challenge that builds from the earliest prep races all the way through the Kentucky Derby.  Thousands of players participate, and the presentation of the game is top-notch, with just about everything you could hope for (past performances, video replays, analysis) available in one convenient place at the click of a mouse. 

The only trouble is that it’s over once the Derby champion has been crowned, and by then 99% of those involved have long since considered themselves eliminated from any real prize consideration.  Still, it’s a foundation that can be tweaked and improved upon with relative ease, and thus holds great promise.  But why not replicate something like this for the entire year?  Think of the possibilities is all I’m saying.

Just a short time ago “fantasy football” was a game played by a select few, toiling over newspaper copies and manually keeping track of score in leagues that consisted of only diehard and obsessive football fans.  Now it’s an annual right of the Labor Day season that everyone from the diehards, to children, to otherwise uncaring wives and girlfriends participate in and follow with passion.  In many ways that situation reflected our present predicament rather brilliantly, with only a proud few horseplayers remaining where once the bulk of the nation cheered along.  With a little effort and a little luck (not to mention some refined products of our own similar to those that the sports we compete with have going for them), we just might be able to turn things around and right this ship. 

Worst case scenario? We have a helluva lot of fun trying.


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Categories : Fantasy Horse Racing, horse racing, Rachel Alexandra, Zenyatta


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