Loving The Race Horse

Electra Woman and Dyna Girl

2010-03-11T19:50:00Z

I don't usually bother reporting News because so many other blogs only do that - but this is kind of important. Here is the NTRA press release for Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta's 2010 debuts - live coverage.

SEASONAL DEBUTS OF RACHEL ALEXANDRA, ZENYATTA TO BE SHOWN LIVE ON NTRA.COM

Other Key Races to be Webcast Live as Part of NTRA Interactive Initiative

The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) announced today that the organization’s Website, NTRA.COM, will offer free, live video streaming this Saturday of the seasonal debuts of both 2009 Horse of the Year Rachel Alexandra and the undefeated Champion Zenyatta. Rachel Alexandra will make her 2010 bow in the New Orleans Ladies Stakes from Fair Grounds, while Zenyatta will compete later that day in the Grade I Santa Margarita Invitational Handicap at Santa Anita. The New Orleans Ladies and the Santa Margarita are expected to serve as preps for Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta, respectively, prior to their scheduled showdown in the April 9 Apple Blossom Invitational at Oaklawn Park. Post time for the New Orleans Ladies is slated for 6:15 p.m. (ET), and the Santa Margarita is set for 6:40 p.m. (ET). Both races also will be televised live on HRTV.

Saturday’s Webcast will begin at 6 p.m. (ET) and is the first of a series of races leading to the Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup World Championships that will be Webcast live on NTRA.COM. The series, called NTRA Live!”, will be hosted by ESPN analyst and NFL Network host Randy Moss. NTRA Live! will feature interviews with handicappers and on-track analysts, interactive chats with viewers, pre-and post-race analysis, handicapping selections, easy access to free past performance data and advance deposit wagering platforms, as well as other original and unique programming components. The programs will be produced and directed by Tim Turrell, who has produced numerous telecasts on horse racing and other sports for ESPN, The Golf Channel and others.

“There is obviously immense interest in Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta, and we can think of no better way to launch NTRA Live! than through a worldwide Webcast of their 2010 debuts,” said Keith Chamblin, senior vice president of the NTRA. “Our goal is to deliver high-quality broadcasts of these important races to a worldwide audience. We also want to take advantage of this Web-based platform by utilizing content elements that wouldn’t necessarily be available to us via traditional programming.”

Following Saturday’s Webcast, NTRA Live will continue on March 20 with the Webcast of the Florida Derby from Gulfstream Park. Other races on the schedule, which is expected to include 15-20 Webcasts during the year, include the March 28 Sunland Derby from Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino and the April 17 Coolmore Lexington Stakes from Keeneland.

Kentucky Derby Picks of the Past, the 90's (How I've faired over the years - part 3 of the series)

2010-03-09T02:38:00Z

We roll into the 90's as I'm preparing an escape from the Land of Enchantment (Entrapment if you're a native New Mexican). During this same time my first horse to race was also nearing her first start. An Exciting decade of new beginnings. However not so exciting for me in the early stages of the Derby Decade.

1990 - I was in Las Cruces, NM visiting my friend Christine Freeman (she's a day older than me). I watched the race on her 2 inch tv or maybe it was a 13 inch. Even on that small screen the moment with Carl Nafzger and Frances Genter as Unbridled was heading to the wire was epic. However, my picks Thirty Six Red, Real Cash and Dr. Bobby A. are still running I believe. 9th, 11th and 12th. Billy loses. But at least my horse would win in her 3rd start later that year.

1991 - you must know by now that I could not stand Strike the Gold. COULD NOT. Don't care - don't cry to me about it. Yuck. With that my choices were 5th - Fly so Free and 6th - Quintana (by Affirmed). The latter made a great move and I thought my man was gonna get in there. But alas the horse I liked the least in that crop wins. Billy loses. My horse won an allowance that year for me. So not all was lost.

1992 - closing in! as usual I didn't care about what comes from Arkansas. Why? Cause I'm a bitch and I have to pick places I don't believe match up to the level I like. Arkansas - that's you. Lil E. Tee won after a trip through Oaklawn and a win at Turfway (Latonia, whatever it might have been called at that time.) My picks? Casual Lies (2nd), Technology (10th). 2nd can almost be more hard to deal with than off the board. Really liked Casual Lies. Billy loses.

1993 - most likely one of my least favorite years in Derby history. Sea Hero won - great story - but not my pick. No - I had Bull inthe Heather (a rockin 11th - all bull no heather), El Bakan (18th) and Tossofthecoin (last - 19th). Awesome. I was getting ready to end my exciting life in retail in Farmington, NM to hit the big time of the Thoroughbred industry - with my hot white Mercury Topaz and $200. Billy loses.

1994 - another year that I wasn't in love with. Go for Gin wins (I have a nickname for him that I can't share). My horse of choice? 2nd place finisher Strodes Creek. I really thought I had that one nailed down. Billy loses.

1995 - oh look - another 2nd! Six years into the decade and no wins. My Dad had Thunder Gulch - I had Tejano Run (2nd) that's a $480 exacta that we didn't bet. I also had Talkin Man (love! 2nd at the head of the stretch - and then 12th), and the great Serena's Song (16th - one of the stars of the 1st Breeders' Cup I had ever attended - with my Dad. So awesome). yet - Billy loses.

1996 - So I cashed a ticket on the winner Grindstone - but to be fair - I did not pick him - I was head over heals about his entry mate - Editor's Note (6th). I also had 3rd place finisher Prince of Thieves. I'd now been in KY for closing in on 4 years - and had yet to see the Derby live - but guess what the next year would bring? not a winner. Billy loses

1997 - Silver Charm took the roses - without accolades from me. I mean - I wasn't mad at him just didn't pick him. You would think I'd have picked Free House (and I did but not to win - he was 3rd by the way). To me that horse was flat out star power, hot flashy gorgeous - like all the guys I like (well). I saw Pulpit for the 1st time in the paddock at Keeneland for the Blue Grass S. - and was almost immediately over the moon. I don't usually fall for the bandwagon horse - but this one was breathtaking. He finished 4th. Billy loses - but also wins because I watched this race from the backside at Churchill Downs. My first Derby! This would be the year someone yelled to me while walking on the track to the grandstand "Billy Idol" - I just curled my lip an waved.

1998 - all year I had cheered on Real Quiet because he had made a start (a losing one - and I say that only because too many people say he won) in New Mexico at 2. For whatever reason - I was off him when the Derby hit. Once again on the backside at Churchill, my horse was Old Trieste (10th). I could have killed myself after the finish. But lucky for you - I did not. Billy loses.

1999 - a year that will live deep within my soul. No - not a winner for me but I spent the weeks leading up to the Derby doing interviews for newspapers, tv, and most importantly ESPN Magazine. All because of my colorful tattoo on my back - complete with the Twin Spires, Hot Air balloons, 5 horses and Janet Jackson in a derby hat. I watched the Derby from the paddock this year with my friend Beth and cheered on my pick that was in print in ESPN magazine. Menifee. He was 2nd. At least I didn't seem stupid to the world. Billy loses.

The 90's came and went as my least favorite decade for the Derby. Can't win them all right? Take note - not a winner since Winning Colors. When would this drought end? Wait for the '00s coming in a few days.

Who did you win with? Lose with?

Kentucky Derby Picks of the Past, the 80's (How I've faired over the years - part 2 of the series)

2010-03-06T14:54:00Z

(if you missed part 1 here it is http://lovingtheracehorse.com/2010/03/04/pick-an-apple--pick-a-pair-no-i-didnt-mean-pear--a-series.aspx)

My first Derby winner (that I picked - not owned, still waiting on that) was Gato Del Sol. That was in 1982 (are you old enough to ride this ride?) I may be a huge Affirmed worshiper but I was like 8 years old (if I even want to admit my age) when he won and I really can't say I remember that year, Spectacular Bid or Genuine Risk. All 3 being horses which I appreciate their dominance and power. I actually started paying attention in 1981 when 2 little New Mexico horses hit the scene.

1981 - Bold Ego and Pass the Tab both had roots in New Mexico (my birth state yo). I only picked them because they were stakes winners that I'd heard of and my Dad told me about them. There has to be a beginning right? Bold Ego won 3 of NM's top 2yo races: New Mexico Futurity, Riley Allison Futurity, Rio Grande Kindergarten Futurity before heading to Oaklawn Park as a 3-year-old and taking the Rebel S. and Arkansas Derby-G1. He had the lead after a mile before fading to 10th - later he was 2nd in the Preakness S.-G1 (the race that has eluded all New Mexicans - ha). Pass the Tab had won the Santa Fe Futurity (no longer exists along with Santa Fe Downs) at 2 and was on the board in several Florida Derby preps. He was 3rd after a mile but faded to 6th. Billy loses.

1982 - As I mentioned above - I picked Gato Del Sol, but I also liked the filly Cupecoy's Joy. I had to watch this race later on news replays as me and my Dad were at McGee Park. This was the local racetrack in Bloomfield, NM that was at the time - only calcutta wagering (don't ask - it's basically illegal) and later became San Juan Downs (where I had my first win as an owner/breeder) and is now known as SunRay Park. We stood atop the scary wooden bleachers (I always thought I'd fall to my death) and the small mostly Quarter Horse, Appaloosa crowd listened to the call over the P.A. system (so you really heard nothing but noise). I couldn't understand a word but as the announcer called Gato Del Sol my Dad said "shit! I shoulda bet your horse you picked this morning." And so began an addiction to finding a longshot. Luckily many years later in 2000 I got to be associated with Gato's homecoming at Stone Farm when I worked for their ad agency The Bell Group. A special moment. Billy wins.

1983 - you have to remember (or maybe know for the first time) that during this time there were only 3 channels on tv and occasionally we got a derby prep on Wide World of Sports. But you always had to wade through a bunch of sports a boy like me didn't care about to get 10 minutes of horse racing. Wasting most of your day (not like now where I waste the entire day watching every race possible on TVG and HRTV - wait - not a waste) trying to find a horse you might like. My choices this year were Slew o' Gold and Marfa (because of that Blue Grass S.-G1 savage moment - hot!). Slew o' Gold sadly finished 4th and Marfa finished 5th. Another "full circle" moment - I got to Billy loses.

1984 - I was a Swale (winner) fan but my year was crushed with Time for a Change and Dr. Carter didn't make it to the Derby. I was suckered in by the very impressive record setting Arkansas Derby win of the filly Althea and her classy stablemate Life's Magic (take note - HUGE Eugene V. Klein fan here, I mean how could I not be? One of his first G1 winners was Miss Huntington). Althea lead for 6 furlongs and faded to 19th, Life's Magic finished 8th and stayed in my heart forever. Billy loses.

1985 - oh suck. Wasn't a Spend a Buck fan. LOVED Tank's Prospect (yay Preakness win!) but he was 7th in the Derby. A 3 year streak of losses! not even on the board. Billy loses.

1986- more suck for me. Mogambo and Groovy (yeah I love a sprinter). Mogambo was my horse because I loved his Champagne win at 2. I should have stopped there - he finished 10th. Groovy led for 6 furlongs and finished last. I did get to work with his sister Cookie as a yearling my first year in Kentucky. The first yearling I prepped. I felt so honored. Billy loses.

1987 - I was head long into my love of Spendthrift Farm (back then they really made me feel welcome - senior in High School - by answering my questions, sending me info, etc.) so I had On the Line (10th), Candi's Gold (8th) and Avies Copy (3rd), all by Spendthrift stallions. However, I couldn't let go of Alysheba. I told my Dad after the 1986 Breeders' Cup Juvenile when he ran 3rd that he would win the Derby. When Derby time came around I told him my picks - all 4. He asked "can't you just pick a horse you like and stick to it?" I said "not just one, I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings." You would thought I was 8 but I was 17 and so began a slight level of crazy (like now when I think the cast of Will & Grace are my friends). Billy wins.

1988 - hell yeah. Probably the best year ever for me. I picked one horse, Winning Colors early in the year and everyone said I was crazy. She was the epitome of the perfect Derby horse for me. Her sire was *Caro (IRE) (my 2nd favorite stallion of all time and stood at Spendthrift), she was out of a daughter of Bold Hour (stood at Spendthrift), she was owned by Eugene Klein. She was big and beautiful, gray and breathtaking. I was living in Lexington going to school at the Kentucky Horse Park. My Dad had flown out to drive back to NM with me as the program I was in had ended. We cheered in my studio apartment for our horses - me the filly, Dad - Forty Niner. What a great moment for racing, for the Triple Crown and for a father and son. I know a lot of people were fans - but she's tattooed with Flawlessly and Affirmed on my right arm - that's fan appreciation. I was honored to take her for a walk at Keeneland one day at the November sale. A moment I still get goosebumps over. Billy wins.

1989 - close but not close enough. My Dad LOVED Sunday Silence (winner)- I was like - whatever (funny when you look back). I loved Easy Goer (2nd - dammit) and Houston (there almost til the end - when it matters). In the lead for a mile, 3rd entering the stretch - 8th. Thanks. Billy loses.

The 80's

Picks	1st	2nd	3rd	win %
17	3	1	1	18%

Pick an Apple - Pick a Pair (no I didn't mean Pear) - a series

2010-03-04T13:02:00Z

It's March 4th. I woke up this a.m. with a migraine - on the couch because the snoring in the bedroom was unbearable. I'm a light sleeper when it comes to noise as it is and if I get woke up by sound - I'm awake and usually not impressed. I moved to the couch with my French Bulldog Beau to get some peace and quiet.

I started this blog a week ago at the suggestion of my friend Margaret Layton and just haven't really found the story in it. Until I woke up this morning.

It sounds like Spring outside - and with the blinds closed it almost looked like it could be. The sun was shining (not my favorite for a migraine) and I could hear a lone bird chirping. I remember when that sound used to piss me off - and now somehow it makes me smile, even with a migraine.

Of course - I didn't start rewriting this entry until the migraine was nearly passed. I can't even think of focusing on such with all that pain - especially when it would please me most to cut out my eye that was throbbing. What allowed me to have this moment was that I can't sleep with that pain - and I must find somewhere else to concentrate my mind - besides the spinning, nausea and pain. I took the drugs and put the aroma therapy pillow that I heated up in the microwave - almost to scalding, branding pain - on my face and began breathing in and out. During that process the Kentucky Derby started entering my head.

As you may or may not know I've been struggling to find the passion off and on that once consumed my entire being when it comes to horse racing. Part of the issue for me is that after being actually in the world as more than a fan, as an employee, a breeder, an owner, a businessman (wow - I've once again called myself a man - I still feel like a boy), a supporter, etc. - I know more than before and I can't just go by blind love and excitement.

Growing up picking a Derby horse to honor and cherish up to (and hopefully beyond) the first Saturday in May was fire like. I daydreamed in class about it. Sure that may be the reason I graduated with a 2.7 GPA - but don't think I'm average (or ignorant) - I'm realizing now that I was bored. By now - if you EVER thought of me as average - you must be one hellacious whack job.

I used to pick my Derby horses mostly because of their sire. I spent countless hours each week following certain stallions progeny so that I could cheer them on down the road. I would make notes of where sons (and daughters) of Affirmed, *Caro (IRE), (my favorites) were running - the races, the tracks and the possible next race. As they would impress (or not) I would remove them from my list. Always having a favorite no matter what the result.

I could not pick a horse with a bad name. A name that would best be suited for a $5k claimer or gelding. Which is why horses like Demons Begone, Lil E Tee, would never make my list (besides not being in love with their sires - for no particular reason). One of those I was right - the other - clearly wrong. But to me - to pick a Derby horse is to pick a Triple Crown prospect. Would I want a horridly named horse to go down in history along the classy names like Affirmed, Secretariat, Citation? No - shant.

As I got older (haven't grown up) - and moved to Kentucky to one day fulfill a dream - I started changing my strategy - ALWAYS having Affirmed and sons of *Caro (IRE) in the forefront of the list but also leaning towards horses I worked with as yearlings at Three Chimneys Farm and Jonabell Farm. As well as offspring of stallions at those farms. The list began to grow when I began working for The Bell Group - dropping Three Chimneys stallions and adding those of farms we did advertising for - like Claiborne Farm, Pin Oak Stud, and others.

Gone were the days of picking for pure fanatic passion. One way or another my picks became by association. By the time I started my business I was picking more because of what the end result could do for a client (because it really doesn't do shit for me). When Derby day came and went - I felt less than enthralled most of the time because I had picked a horse that most often didn't measure up - and picked because of someone else's need - not my excitement. Now - don't get me wrong - it is more than exciting to be this closely involved in the world of Thoroughbred racing and actually have a connection somehow to a Derby starter.

How many kids from New Mexico can say they know the owner or worked with a horse that ran in the Kentucky Derby? Probably more than you think - but overall - not many.

After a while I've come to realize that part of my lack of passion is my own fault. Not that of being to attached. I want everyone I worked for/with to win at some point. You know in a field of 20 even THAT is a hard task to complete. After Mine That Bird came along for me last year - the first time I've been emotional over a Derby win since Winning Colors - I've been put back in my own drivers seat. Sure that was cheering on a connection - but not for the same reasons as cheering on Monarchos (sire stood at Pin Oak Stud) and Giacomo (sire stood at Jonabell).

So here it is March 4th, 2010 and I don't have a Derby horse to cheer on as yet. So this series is my way of finding that horse. I will look back at who I've picked since Bold Ego and Pass the Tab in 1981 to 2009 Mine That Bird, Chocolate Candy, Mr Hot Stuff and Friesan Fire - and why I chose them. The series will wrap up with my 2010 probables - mixed with handicapping and passion.

Feel free to chime in along the way with who you like and why - and take note - I'm not going to approve your comment if it's something childish like "he was pretty" or "because she was a filly" - I want more than that - and I will NO LONGER bother with approving comments that attack the racing industry.

Doing A Disservice - for Too Long

2010-01-25T22:56:00Z

Today I read a blog - that I don't intend to read again.

I try hard to make this positive here - or at least informative. When you post your opinion for the world (or my world) to read - you have to be in some way honorable. If you're not going to research what you're talking about (whatever the subject) then what you do is become nothing more than tabloid bullshit.

The blog is something like fuglyblog.com - I'm not putting the link up because I don't really want to promote it. The creator seems to run her mouth heavily about things she doesn't know anything about. She is yet another "rescuer" that likes to say she loves horses but she clearly hates horse racing. She doesn't nothing that I can see that promotes the sport - she just tears it down.

I was alerted to the blog by a friend who noticed she was bad mouthing one of my clients. I'll not stand for that - at all. She states that she read online - that Claiborne Farm (celebrating 100 years in 2010 - can anyone else claim that longevity? AND quality? - I'd love to know) refuses to hire stallion handlers or grooms. Then she is dumb enough to say she didn't bother to check that out.

1st off - if she ever paid any attention - she'd see that there are women as grooms at Claiborne. But you'd have to get off your ass to do so. 2nd - most women don't want to handle stallions - therefore - they aren't applying for such jobs most places. Before some idiot comments - take note that Warmbloods are not Thoroughbreds - so do not make a stupid remark and try to compare. Thoroughbreds are intense - calculating - thoughtful horses - and the stallions are rarely gullible or stupid.

There are several women that handle Thoroughbred Stallions throughout the US. She makes stupid statements about women in the industry - and it's clear she's talking about an industry she isn't in. I've been in this industry for going on 17 years. I've worked with more women than men (including when I prepped yearlings at Three Chimneys - thanks Rachel Southwood and the late Lorena Mullins). My bosses have mostly been women - including Benny Bell Williams when I was at Jonabell Farm. She is probably the best horseman (excuse me horseperson) I know. I deal personally with more women than men when it comes to my public auction clients, including trainer Michelle Nihei and Claiborne Farm's Dell Hancock.

What I notice most in the world of equality of the sexes is that women do more disservice to themselves than anyone. If I hear one more woman tell me that she can't get a job because she doesn't have a penis. Do you realize that you just proved you don't deserve the job? Because you think automatically that having a penis is better than not? I hear this type comment more from people who are not qualified than people that are deservedly hired. It's the same with anyone that thinks they are the best - but do not realize they don't have the qualifications. Sure because of some laws that were passed because people in charge at one point in business weren't smart enough to hire the most qualified person they just hired the white guy.

You know what I'm talking about. Nowadays that idea has changed because people across this land have realized that if they want to succeed they need to move forward and not hire people based on sex, race, relation, sexual preference. They are learning to hire based on - who will help move my company forward? Some industries do better than others - but the people that don't get hired and complain about it being because they aren't white, black, straight, male, etc. - do themselves a disservice. You didn't get hired - because someone else did - whatever the reason - you certainly didn't win them over. Improve yourself and stop complaining because - you're just stepping backward.

Women like this fugly woman (I use that only because of her blog - I don't know her at all - and could care less to meet her - thanks) are doing nothing for moving other women forward. -- Why? Because she's not smart enough to learn before she talks.

Sex Still Sells - Time to Sex Up Horse Racing

2010-01-02T02:58:00Z

1st off - I'm working on a claiming blog - but finding out tons of info during the process - so It's becoming more and more serious and involved. Which is exciting. So stay tuned as I research that aspect.

Now on to something a little closer to my heart - hot nude guys. - Oh come on straight guys and bible thumpers - don't stop reading.

For several years now our racing friends down under have been putting out a charity related calendar with nude photos (or nearly nude) of jockeys. I've been shown tidbits of the 2010 calendar and well - it's worth the buy. Jockeys are fit! A lot of muscled packed into a powerhouse body.

So it was mentioned on a friends Facebook page that they should do it here - and turns out the Jockey's Guild is working on a charity calendar for 2011! Sweet. Rumor has it they are looking for model suggestions. So - here are my 12 jockeys that I would prefer to see nude (in no particular order).

Before I give the list - I will say that I don't REALLY want to see them nude. I do not spend time thinking about this (ok - I'm spending time right now but not a usual past time). This is a blog first of all - and if sex sells - I might as well throw sex in my title so that I get more hits by pervs and weirdos right? I have no problem with nudity - unless it's mine in one of those f'd up dreams I used to have as a kid standing in line coming in from recess and everyone else is clothed but me - and I float. I frickin' hated those dreams - it was always cold - I swear it was the cold.

Anyway - here's my nudes - and I honestly believe it would be wise to split it up - girls and guys calendars:

Alex Solis - I must say that I've never really thought of him as a hottie - but I have seen some pictures of him NOT in jockey attire - and shirtless and let's just say - for a 45-year-old man (which is not old damnit but you know how people think) he is the most fit I've ever seen.

Channing Hill - kind of a boy next door look - and was born the year I graduated High School (thanks age awareness league) which makes him the same age as my nephew and now that I'm typing this I'm freaking out because in my nephew is a little boy and this just creeping me out. However I'm sure he would be great for attracting young girls (and boys) and maybe some lecherous weirdos and cougars.

Moving on. Geez I'm suddenly reconsidering this blog. I've so fucked myself already. Sometimes one shouldn't open their mind up for everything to be read. Too late. I'm doing this dammit.

Aaron Gryder - I don't know what it is but he's very attractive to me. Oh here we go again. should I stop? Ok I'm gonna suck it up and go on. No more pussyfootin. Aaron is hot to me - and I know a lot of women who agree. So there!

Iggy Puglisi - I don't know why. I think he's attractive (especially without the hair slicked back) and I really enjoyed him as on air talent on TVG - but I didn't like what I heard about (because I didn't watch) with him on Jockeys. Just made me really sad. - so maybe a nude shot would cheer him up a bit. - Works for me.

Mike Smith - he's always been attractive. Hollywood type face if you ask me. Plus he's big name. (Not that the others aren't but Mike's one that people that don't follow racing actually have heard of - that's key when selling sex). I mean - which video did you Google, buy, download, rent, etc. - Paris Hilton with that no name freak that was married (right?) to Shannon Doherty or - Tommy Lee and Pamela Anderson. You know which one - and you know why.

So anyway - ever notice I can't keep a train of thought? Yeah - imagine what its like in here on a regular basis.

Jeremy Rose - met him once at a party at Churchill Downs. Was kind of shy and quiet - but most people seem that way when I'm at a party. Ha!

Jonathan Joyce - I don't know much about him - but he seems to be having a decent career in Maryland.

Ok - so that's all the men I can come up with. Maybe Brian Hernandez would be ok. Not sure - he has such a young look. Might be too weird. Hey where is Ryan Fogelsonger?

There are a few women that ride that I think would attract great attention. The obvious would be Chantal Sutherland but since she turned down Playboy because she thought her nudity was worth more - I'm guessing she wouldn't do a charity calendar. Don't know her at all but what came across on Jockeys - made me think she was only pretty on the outside. Maybe I'm the bitch.

Jordan Springer - big ups to my girl. You may not know her as well as Chantal - but she's frickin' hot! Also a damn good rider.

Jenna Joubert - now I don't know her at all but I find her to be very striking!

Clearly Rosemary Homeister would sell some calendars. She's beautiful - GREAT hair.

Basically I think you have to mix the calendar with hot names and hot faces. Jockeys are a hot commodity - just like the horses. They are the OTHER thing crossing the finish line. They are as important to our industry as the horse. We seem to have a problem promoting it because the horses don't race as long as most non-understanding fans would like. What we do have are our OTHER athletes. So since it's already in the works - I think we may finally have something that positively impacts our sports publicity.

Live Nude Girls - and Guys. Who would you choose?

2009 Breeders' Cup Picks

2009-11-06T03:39:00Z

I do not have time to elaborate today but wanted to get my picks out there for you now!

In order of Preference - :

Day 1
Marathon: Father Time, Gangbuster, Nite Light,
JFTurf: Tapitsfly, Junia Tepzia, House of Grace, Smart Seattle,
(I love In the Slips and she'd be 1st on my list here if she wasn't on the Also Eligible list)
JFillies: Connie and Michael, She Be Wild, Blind Luck, Negligee,
F/M Turf: Rutherienne, Forever Together, Maram,
F/M Sprint: Informed Decision, Free Flying Soul, Silver Swallow, Ventura
Ladies: Life is Sweet, Proviso, Careless Jewel

Day 2
JTurf: Pounced, Codoy, Viscount Nelson, King Ledley (Summer Movie would have been on my list)
Turf Sprint: Gotta Have Her, Silver Timber, Desert Code, Diamondrella
Sprint: Fatal Bullet, Fleeting Spirit, Zensational, Capt. Candyman,
Juvenile: Aikenite, Noble’s Promise, Lookin at Lucky, William's Kitten
Mile: Justenuffhumor, Goldikova, Ferneley, Court Vision,
Dirt Mile: Midshipman (he’s the only speed and I normally wouldn't have like him), Furthest Land,
Chocolate Candy, Neko Bay, Mastercrafstman
Turf: Spanish Moon, Conduit, Telling
Classic: Mine That Bird (I'll never quit him) Twice Over, Richard’s Kid, Zenyatta,

Ever Plan a Sale and No One Knew What To Do?

2009-10-06T23:15:00Z

I toyed with not even doing a blog after the Keeneland September Yearling Sale ended. I have such a hard time fitting in the blog fun during this time of year as it is.

If you don't know what I do - then I'll tell you. If you do know - skip ahead - wait don't do that. Just read along - you might learn something and maybe you'll need my service to help you a little bit. Anyway - I put together books of information for consignors at public auction (Thoroughbreds) - that allow them to answer the questions of potential buyers and as well as assist in marketing and pricing the individuals they are selling. So there's that - I am busiest in September and November so I disappear a bit.

Back to business.

We all knew that September would be tough - no one really knew HOW tough. I mean - how could you right? People said that the July sale would gage how the rest of the year would go. But July at Fasig-Tipton is not Keeneland September. It's changing - yes - but seriously you have completely different quality as well as - 2 days compared to 400 (I exaggerate there but if you've ever worked the September Sale - it basically feels similar to 400 days).

So the sale ended down more than 40% from last year - that's drastic. Why? Well there's that whole economy thing going on here in the US (and around the world). That's the main deal - flat out - people aren't investing in us when their investments aren't cutting it for them elsewhere. People with tons of money - lost/are losing more than say ME or you. That's not to say I'm doing good (in case there are gold diggers out there with low expectations - also NOT available) but I don't have a lot of money tied up in pretend ideas or banks or anything like that so people like me don't cry as loud.

With that we have a market that has a lot of people running scared. Before you get to thinking that it's all gloom and doom - my clients did well enough at the sales. No BIG slam dunks - but they sold - and stayed ahead of the game. I'd like to take credit - but I'm not (just before anyone thinks I'm thinking it's because of me). I saw the results of several consignments (not just mine) that did quite well - all things considered. Some did well - without having to make considerations.

So how will this all affect the industry? I'm not sure but IMHO it's going to weed out those people that came to Kentucky with only $$ in their eyes. Not that there's anything wrong with that - because if you don't like money - then you've probably never had any or you probably consider yourself above trying to make money. I consider you a liar or lazy btw. Because if you don't want to make money because you think it's evil or only the MAN makes money - you're just telling me that you're too lazy to actually work. You could easily strive to make money and do some good with it.

I've gone off topic.

There are a lot of people that only were enticed to the industry because of money and a little love for the horse. I don't believe everyone has to be obsessed and passionate about it that works in it. However I do believe if you are in a position that affects other peoples horses, and investments in those horses - it might have been good for you to have some experience with horses. You get more sense of how it all works from a different level.

This glitch in time will eventually pass (we've seen it before) and it will cause some farms to go under and some people to seek another line of employment. Sadly - too many - people I know that truly want to be here because it's their passion are already planning a departure.

A shame.

One last comment: we will should see changes in the stud fee range. Maybe now (and maybe not) stud fees will be set more realistically and based on the sire's results on the track not in the sales ring.

Where Does Your Income Originate?

2009-06-23T14:19:00Z

Be warned - I'm hot right now.

It's unbelievable to me that I am even having to think about this bill that didn't get passed in the senate.

Let me take you back to a place for a moment. I take you there a lot mainly because - well it's the only other place I've lived. New Mexico. It's not a state you think of racing and breeding horses. Most people in this country aren't educated enough to realize it's a state - and that's the fault of either the school system or poor gene pool. I haven't decided. Anyway - New Mexico's horse racing (both Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred) and breeding industry was nearing extinction when I left to follow my dreams in Kentucky.

It's a large state (5th largest btw) and not heavily populated. There were 6 tracks at one point and time. Not all racing at the same time. Here is your list:

1) San Juan Downs (NW corner - between Farmington and Bloomfield, NM) - they could handle traffic from corners of Arizona, Colorado, Utah and NM. Raced May 2nd to Labor Day. Average purse per race in 1992: $1,246

2) La Mesa Park (NE corner in Raton, NM - they could handle Oklahoma, Colorado, Texas and NM. June 20th to July 26th (once upon a time they raced all Summer). Average purse per race in 1992: $1,081

3) The Downs at Santa Fe (about middle of the northern half of the state, in Santa Fe, NM - handling large tourist traffic and Albuquerque traffic). Raced April 29th to Labor Day roughly. Average purse per race in 1992: $3,857.

4) The Downs at Albuquerque (about 55 miles south of Santa Fe in Albuquerque, NM - handles their own traffic, and that of many who travel through NM to get somewhere else). Raced from January 10th - June 15th. Then again from September 11th to October 12th. (NM State Fair Meet). Average purse per race in 1992: $4,484.

5) Ruidoso Downs (about middle of the southern half of the state in Ruidoso, NM - handling a large amount of Texas traffic and Southern NM traffic). Raced May 7th to Labor Day. Average purse per race in 1992: $3,471.

6) Sunland Park (on the NM/TX/Mexico border - way south yo, handling obvious traffic including that from El Paso, TX). Raced January 1st - May 3rd and October 23rd to December 31st). Average purse per race in 1992: $2,944.

So there you have it - 6 tracks, 4 competing against each other during the Summer. The purses were beyond crap. Take note - in case you don't know - most races the winner gets 60% of the purse. The trainer/jockey each get 10% (that may have changed - but I'm not looking it up). Most pay to 5th or 6th place. So you as the Owner - ended up with very little - considering that most horses run (back then) once or maybe twice in a month - and not every month. If you didn't win every time - you're losing money (which most people did). So let us fast forward a bit.

I left New Mexico in the Summer of 1993. At that time San Juan Downs closed (remained closed for 6 years). La Mesa Park closed the year before and has yet to reopen but ground breaking (interestingly enough) begins tomorrow June 24th. Santa Fe Downs closed in 1997 - and has not reopened and likely will not btw. This left 3 tracks in operation mostly due to the strong Quarter Horse support for large stakes at each track, IMHO.

Something had to be done - there was a slight change in race date distribution and they added VLT's or slots. Had that addition to these entertainment venues not come to pass - I do not believe I would know a soul who owned/race/trained a horse in NM any longer. Let's jump ahead shall we to 2007 - slots in affect since 1999 and purses have risen significantly.

1) SunRay Park (Formerly San Juan Downs) - Raced May 3rd - July 15th. Average purse per race in 2007: $14,184. Up from $1,246.

2) The Downs at Albuquerque. Raced from August 10th - October 7th. With the NM State Fair Meet somewhere in the middle. Average purse per race in 2007: $16,018. Up from $4,484.

3) Ruidoso Downs. Raced Memorial Day to Labor Day. Average purse per race in 2007: $18,378. Up from $3,471.

4) Sunland Park. Raced December of 2006 - April 29th, 2007. Average purse per race in 2007: $26,111. Up from $2,944.

5) Zia Park (New Track opened in 2005 - on the NM/TX border near the South East corner of the state, in Hobbs, NM). Raced September 22 to December 11. Average purse per race in 2007: $21,923.

It's a no brainer that the VLT's fully saved racing and breeding in NM - eventually leading to us having horses race there and end up winning the Kentucky Derby-G1, Alabama S.-G1, Acorn S.-G1, La Brea S.-G1, must I go on?

So for years everyone said it won't matter because this is Kentucky. Well people it matters. People support horse racing but not "gambling" because it's addictive. Are you f*^%in kidding me? Gambling supports horse racing. We are not Dubai - we need people to wager in hopes of making a big splash at the window in order to support the horses, the people and the exterior that benefits from horse racing.

I cannot believe people are this stupid that they have to have it spelled out for them. But I'll get the block letters now - and you can pass this on to every retard that makes a buck from horse racing but thinks they are better than it - and thinks they'll survive without it.

What do you do for a living? I do pedigree research on Thoroughbreds for numerous consignors that are mostly based in Lexington. All of my income is derived from the world of horse racing. I won't share with you the amount - 'cause it's none of your business. But - if I don't have my business - that means I will leave Kentucky most likely probably on a killing spree but that's way off topic. Say I'm gone because I can no longer support my lifestyle and there are no horses for me to research. This means - I do not spend money at Incredipet, Kroger, Wendy's McDonald's, Puccini's, Mia's, Ohana Massage, Fayette Mall, Loch Lea Antiques, King's Garden Center, Walgreen's, Staples, FedEx Office (that's Kinko's yo), Farmer's Market, Portofino's, Giuseppe's, BloodStock Research, Daily Racing Form, NuVOX, Dish Network (I canceled DirectTV btw), KU, Columbia Gas, Starbucks, Kentucky American Water, Slone's Signature Market, Lansdowne Vet, BP - all in Lexington or surrounding areas. Do you know how much money I blow? A lot - I like to spend when it's there. That leaves only Verizon still getting my money because I must have a cell phone and they aren't based here. But I'll not be buying a new phone at a Lexington store or accessories.

Do you see how this works? I am one person. If you're a retailer, restaurant owner, business owner of some sort in Lexington your cash flow - somehow begins with a horse that someone else owns. There are plenty of racetracks and plenty of states that have plenty of land that anyone (outside of Don and Mira Ball) can change into a horse farm in this country. - I make the Ball crack because they both own a farm and develop land on former farms - the biggest hypocrites in the business. Someone long ago said this was the best place to raise a horse - people believed it, a community began - there you have it. A City thrived.

But it doesn't take a genius to realize that if the purses continue to drop at Ellis, Turfway and Churchill - even Kentucky Downs - then eventually those tracks close. Meaning people will have to ship further to race their horses. Why ship so far - why not just move? I would.

Keeneland is a boutique track with a public auction business. They will most likely be fine - without slots. But will they be fine as the only track in the state? No - not at all. Because - who comes to Kentucky if the farm owners that race cannot sustain because they have to spend more money to ship to tracks that have good purses? It's a vicious cycle.

Plain and simple: we are an entertainment industry that only exists if people gamble on us. You cannot pay the jockey, groom, trainer, exercise rider, hot walker, vet, blacksmith, feed supplier, etc. without that gamble. Right there are 8 different job titles that directly work with horse racing (just racing not breeding or sales). If they aren't here in KY making a living - they WILL be elsewhere. Believe me - which means all their excess money will not trickle down to YOU - the person struggling to keep their business afloat.

If you live in an area with a racetrack in the state of Kentucky - your ass makes money when the races are live (and in Lexington - all year round). Not just business owners - but employees as well. If you're a server at any one of the restaurants in Lexington alone, Starbucks staff, Sonic Carhop - imagine life without a tip during Keeneland live racing or sales? That means - you get to find a job delivering the crap ass Herald-Leader one day - that made sure no one cared about your job because they don't support horse racing anyway. Good luck with that.

I do not give a shit what religious belief you have, what political party you're associated with, what moral high ground you think you are on, what part of Kentucky you reside in - without horse racing - what is Kentucky? It's Tennessee without Country music. It's New York City without Broadway. It's Disneyworld without happiness. And who the fuck would want any part of that?

Wake up.

Also - for show your support and how important your job and your income are to you and your family. "We are NOT done fighting!" Rally @ Keeneland Sales Pavillion. 6/24 at 6:30 p.m.
http://www.horseswork.com/

Almost Half of My Life

2009-05-22T03:11:00Z

So if I were getting ready to turn 30 the title of this entry could be Half My Life - but sadly I'm a wee bit older than that. Just a wee bit.

I just had my 15 year anniversary of living in Kentucky. No there was no party or anything - no need - but there was a shock to the system of how much has gone on since my move.

This is basically going to be a time line of sorts of the past 15 years of my life in Lexington. Believe me - there will be a large number of omissions. You know - the things that will come out only in the future when I write a book (because I'll not have children to write a tell all - I must do it myself) or when I run for President and someone decides to ruin my campaign by telling my secrets. Btw, if you're planning that - I have no secrets - there are just some things I don't mention here. So there.

Summer 1993 - I quit my job of 6 years in a torture chamber - or retail store called Best Products, Inc. making $14,000 a year, lied to my parents and said I had a job on a horse farm waiting in Kentucky. Drove in my white Mercury Topaz (hot huh?) with my Uncle James (originally from Hodgenville, KY, met my Mom's sister Alice while she and my Mom worked for the FBI), dropped him off in his hometown and finished the drive alone. My future was in front of me. I was 23. (you'll notice that I won't be updating my age regularly - mostly because I still feel like I'm 25-28).

Freaked out a bit because I only had $200 when I left New Mexico and I really didn't have a job. Met a guy at Pyaar Acres while checking on a friends horses. He got me an interview with Gary Pimentel at Three Chimneys Farm. I had no idea what I would be doing - or if I'd even get a job. All Gary knew was I was from New Mexico (always a confusing lead I've found when I moved here - most people were confused that I have blue eyes and no accent. Yeah - we have a great education system. No I didn't need a green card, or visa to get here).

Gary hired me and for that time in yearling sales prep history - I worked with the most skilled horseman and teachers. Gary, Lorena Mullins (recently passed away) and Rachel Southwood taught me a ton. I dropped 40 lbs. in the first 3 months - partly because I was too poor to eat. But my bills were getting paid. That's what is important right? So I'm told. I ate occasionally - no exaggeration. Miserable I tell you and when winter hit - I wanted to go home. It was so cold and I was so hungry and tired.

I worked at Three Chimneys for 3 years mostly doing yearling sales prep. I also did a short breeding season on one of their broodmare divisions (this would be the worst time - dropping to 110 lbs and body sore all the time. Turns out if you work your ass of and never eat - it's not healthy and it hurts). I do miss the workout I got from yearlings. I don't believe it's that big of a workout these days for most of the big farms. Adding in walking machines and such. You can see a difference at the sales as well. The handlers aren't as fit as the yearlings (no offense - just an observation). The horses also have less respect for them. I think that's from the lack of handling they miss from hand walking.

Summer 1996 - I moved from Three Chimneys to historic Jonabell Farm. Benny Williams created a job for me where I worked half on the farm with the yearlings and half in the office learning. Best move I ever made outside the move from New Mexico. I ended up taking a lot of yearlings to the sale ring there. I also learned a lot about researching information for stallion advertising. At this same time I was becoming a little bit (stop laughing Benny and Ruthie) of a social butterfly. More like a social firefly - out every night. I might have burned more than one candle at both ends and the middle.

My social network became the biggest mix ever. Horse people, strippers, hookers, criminals (will not specify thanks), gays, lesbian, drag queens, must I go on. All that did affect my life heavily - Benny - you put up with too much.

Summer 1999 - while working the Keeneland July Sale for Jonabell I got a call from my sister letting me know that our mom, Virginia, had once again been found to have cancer. This being the 3rd year in a row - all 3 times a different variety. This time she had no fight left and they gave her little length of time to live. I made a trip home driving in my little blue truck - to spend time with her. One of the worst times of my life. (not trying to focus on bad things y'all - just letting you know what makes me who I am).

My mom was the most quality woman I've ever known. I don't know anyone with any worth that would say a bad word about her. I remember one time her telling me someone related to us was a bitch - and she hesitated at using the word - and said it quietly. Because she had class and didn't talk like that - but that told you how bad this person actually was. I returned home to KY and within a short couple of weeks got the call from my Dad "Billy, your mama died this morning." I wondered then if I should have ever left NM in the first place.

Spring 2000 - No longer working on Jonabell Farm - but I had been working for The Bell Group - once a part of Jonabell - a Thoroughbred advertising agency, for a while. I also had finally met someone that aided greatly in me not wanting to be out on the town Monday through Saturday from 5:30 p.m. til it was time to go to work. To this point - I really wasn't into any relationship I had been in - and at 2 months - I was done. Quickly done.

Summer 2000 - Came in from a night out for a friends birthday to find message after message from both sisters. You know that's never good. I called my younger sister back - and the only thing I could understand through her crying was "Dad is dead." For a long time I didn't like going back to NM because every trip was for a funeral for someone in the family. Me and my sisters always have felt younger than we were (well Vickie might not have since she's a mom). I was 30 years old and no longer had parents to call. I felt like I was 18.

I felt for my sisters because they had to deal with more than me being closer to home. Then again - they also got to be around my parents all the time. To be honest - I pretty much fell a part for a good 9 months. My partner was put through a lot of hell because I was not dealing with it all the best way (but then - who does?)

I got married late that August in Lexington. All my in-laws - none of my family. Tons of friends. I grew up in a once close large family. As you grow up and see people for what they really are - you begin to realize family really isn't just assigned to blood relatives. Other than my sisters and my nieces and nephew - I'm closest to the family I have in Kentucky.

blah blah blah

Fall 2000 - all the above led me to make a rash decision and leave The Bell Group. I was supposed to be leaving for a specific job - that fell through. I knew it wasn't going to happen before I left but I was nearing the need for commitment with a straight jacket (not related to work - just mind). So I gave notice and had no job at all.

Literally I stayed home and cried for nearly 6 months. That may sound pathetic to you - and it really is because now I can stand people who are too lazy to live and get through - but sometimes I think it's wise to deal with what you can and fuck the rest. It allowed me some time to really grieve instead of block. It allowed me to sit and think about what I wanted to do.

I'd lost all care and concern for the horse world. My love for horses - had taken me far away from home and kept me from enjoying the last years of my parents lives. I do believe if I had kept working I would probably be working in a bar somewhere not having anything to do with horses or be in a home - rocking and rocking, meowing like a cat. (it's ok - laugh).

November 2000
Desmond and I went to the Breeders' Cup at Churchill Downs. I had no business going because I had $100 that I could spare after quitting my job. That was a day I couldn't wait for though. I was finally going to get to see some favorites in person - Affirmed Success, Quiet Resolve, Chilukki, and many more.

That day I hit big - I think I cashed on every race by the Classic. I left Churchill with more than $4k. Not bad for a messed up wacko with no job.

April 2001 - I began Huntington Equine. I had sort of started it years ago when the Bell Group quit offering pedigree research books for public auction consignors as a service. Benny GAVE it to me. She taught me how to do this - and then basically gave me a future.

I finally had some purpose going again. I began helping with sales prep for Hartwell Farm - mostly just showing real early to walk yearlings. Then I'd dash home and shower - head to Thoroughbred Times to help with stallion directory. In the evening I'd head to Spencerian College where I was taking night classes for a graphic design degree.

Not only did I have a purpose but I went from nothing too much. I don't moderate well.

April 2004 - I had been working as a copywriter/research specialist for Thoroughbred Times - mostly working with their daily newsletter TODAY. When I found out that the main guy in town doing the sale books was calling it a day and I started getting more clients.

I had to make a decision - my job or my business. I was nearly done with the graphic design degree. I realized with all the new business I needed to focus on that future. I left Ttimes and went out on my own - completely without a net.

Right this minute - I've realized while typing this up that had I stayed in NM - I would have been miserable - always wishing I'd followed a dream. Had I returned to my family during the rough times - I would have never gained any strength.

I've made all the decisions in my life. Many people would consider some of them to be bad - and whatever. Last month I quietly celebrated 15 years living where I always wanted to live. This month I'll celebrate 9 years of marriage (proving that a pretty spectacular person was able to catch me). I've been working completely on my own for 5 years now and each year it gets easier - better for my clients and more worth it. All the decisions I've made those publicized here, those insinuated here and those I'll not put in this blog - all of them are mine and not regretted. Why? Because they were my choice - and helped me develop into who I want to be.

In October I'll celebrate - somehow (was going to be Disneyworld but don't think so now) - my 40th birthday. I feared this age because it always sounded old to me - I still feel "little" (inside joke - not like that) not 40. How many people can say they took a risk and ended up having the best life ever? I wish you all could feel so free and happy about it.

I love my job (most days), I love my life (all days), I love writing this blog when I feel the need.

Mine - All Mine or 21 Years In the Making

2009-05-03T20:07:25Z

How freaked out am I? Pretty damn. Some of this may be rehashing but it’s kind of what I’m going through so you’ll just have to deal with it.

I spent Derby Day nearly sick to my stomach with excitement. I realized throughout the day that I hadn’t been this excited since 1988. That year (if I haven’t already told you and don’t mind if I repeat myself) I had picked Winning Colors to win the Kentucky Derby– in about February. I was going to school at the Kentucky Horse Park in a program they once called Kentucky Equine Institute. Pretty much everyone made fun of me for picking that filly. (Except my friend Kim – thanks!) My basis for picking her? She was impressive and she was by *Caro (Ire) – loved him. I also was a D. Wayne Lukas fan and a Eugene Klein fan. I loved watching Mr. Klein – who probably had the money to do whatever he wanted – get so excited about winning any races. Every time I saw him on TV he was overjoyed with a win – even if it could have become old hat at that level. Nowadays – you hardly see that with the big money men anymore. It’s almost expected and then I even get the impression of unappreciated (comparatively) and entitled or deserved.

I finished the KEI program and was getting ready to head back to my hometown of Bloomfield, NM. That’s a long drive for a 100 lb. 18-year-old boy first time away from home. My Dad flew out to visit that weekend and make the drive back. He wanted to leave Saturday morning, uh – that’s Derby Day. I was in shock. I said – but Winning Colors? Hello – and you love Forty Niner. Thought you would want to watch? He gave in – pretty easy.

We drove around and bought a Daily Racing Form – and sat on the wee little bed/couch in my studio apartment, to watch on my 19” TV (no cable – just antenna – I know right?)
Back then – you saw maybe the turf stakes before the Derby on TV and maybe a replay of the Oaks from the day before. The build up for me was excruciating. Not in a bad way – but just like a little kid waiting for Santa to show up. Remember that feeling?

They finally broke from the gate – and you know the outcome – but what you don’t know is that my Dad and I sat in that little room cheering and screaming for our horses. His favorite stallion ever was Mr. Prospector – always wishing for a son of his to stand in NM. He was pretty much a quiet man – didn’t show a lot of excitement. Usually just a little bit of “come on – insert name” and that’s about it. I only saw him really jump up and yell 4 times that I can remember. Forty Niner in the Derby (2nd), Tank’s Prospect in the Preakness (1st) and my filly – Whathaveyoudoneforme (both of her wins in NM). The latter 2 times may have been the most he ever cheered. Then with each win – a grab of my shoulder and a kind of “we did it” move with his arm.

As Winning Colors stayed in the lead and Forty Niner made his move – our voices got louder and the slapping of our own hands and the pounding on the sort of sitting apparatus became stronger. Never have I felt so much excitement for a horse I had never met. Winning Colors won with Forty Niner in 2nd. I was vindicated and beyond excited. I wondered if I ever would feel that again – outside of maybe my own horse. Obviously my own horse would be a MUCH bigger moment in my life.

The 2 wins by my filly at San Juan Downs – were better. She was born in 1988 – a Quarter Horse that I nicknamed Nasty. Trained by Pat Swan and ridden by Tomey Jean Swan. Two finer people I’ve never met. Two finer horsemen I’ve never met. Nasty won once at 2 and once at 3 for me. Most likely 2 of the best days of my life. I’m not lessening other events – I’m building up the wins by a filly I bred, raced, and loved. Every time she ran I would nearly puke. My Dad said – “you’ll never be able to handle owning a Thoroughbred then – because you hold your breath and get sick before.” My Mom said – “why do it if you don’t get that excited every time?” I love that quote.

Man I miss my Dad today.

Let’s fast forward to Derby Day 2009. I wrote all the above that I’ve mentioned before because I wanted you to feel what I’m feeling. As you know I haven’t been “feeling it” for my favorite world for a while. So not being able to sleep Friday night and getting up 2 hours earlier than planned started the day of nerves for me. The week had been so great, buying a new house on Thursday evening after spending the morning at Churchill. Seeing the Derby and Oaks horses gallop, meeting up with old and new friends and then meeting Chip Woolley.

Oaks Day – my handicapping was on but I only cashed for about $75. I always do a 3 horse exacta box and take those 3 horses and box in a trifecta. Then my favorite of the 3 I bet across the board. I had lots of Friday winners – my across the board horses however were off more than on the board. Torture. All that was kind of forgotten when Rachel Alexandra raced by herself in the Oaks. I haven’t been that impressed and overwhelmed by a victory since Landaluce. That’s kind of a long time ago.

All day long I was sick to my stomach – not in an actual I need a doctor or Pepto way but in a my nerves are shot and I’m just on the couch at home way. I handicapped 10 races on the card. By Derby time – I had 8 across the board bets to cash from the previous races. I hadn’t hit a single exotic. I had Chocolate Candy and Mine That Bird across ($5 each btw) for the Derby.

I watched the stupid questions asked by Kenny Rice to Chip Woolley. Are people from Kentucky that haven’t ever lived outside of here – that ignorant? I watched Kenny almost trip Chip on the walk over. I listened to the comments all day long about Mine That Bird. Not a one – said anything about the fact that he was a champion last year. Probably because they didn’t even know. Because they didn’t consider him – so they didn’t research him – or their research teams are just way lacking in follow through (probably that one).

I tuned to ESPN once and they showed Eight Belles body on the track from last year – pissed me off. Not smart enough to just discuss without the images? I know they prefer to shock because they can’t really tell a story without. Drama is much like sex – it sells – but not for me – well not drama. I went back to the coverage from WLEX18 in Lexington – they did the best coverage overall – including when it switched to the larger NBC. WLEX was educated and intelligent about the Derby field. It was a pleasure to watch.

They were off! I was no longer on the couch. I was standing up and saw that Mine That Bird was so far behind the last horse. My heart sunk and I was thinking – shit – I don’t want that to happen. People will knock NM and all involved. The race call was horrid because Tom Durkin – though often great – tries to build and put on a show – but forgets that there is a field of horses – not just a handful of mentionables. I lost Chocolate Candy in the mud. I didn’t ever hear Mine That Bird again – and wondered if he was gonna close.

I saw him shoot through the hole on the rail – and didn’t right off know it was him. Mud. Then I saw the pink on the 8 saddle cloth. I screamed to Desmond “oh my God it’s Mine That Bird.” I don’t think I quit screaming his name and jumping and slapping my hands. Tears were rolling down my face – finally Tom Durkin noticed there was a horse 4 lengths ahead of Pioneerof the Nile (who I threw out – funny). That little horse was rolling. I couldn’t think – couldn’t realize – couldn’t stop crying.

He won. Not only did he win but he kicked their asses. No it wasn’t Rachel Alexandra’s 20 ¼ lengths but it was bigger than Barbaro’s impressive Derby victory. I called Beth – who met Chip with me on Thursday. A lot of Oh My Goshes later – I had to call my sister Crystal. My texts were blowing up, my Facebook status comments were piling up, even had some tweets on Twitter. My sisters were at National Scrap Booking Day (I know but that’s their thing). Crystal answered and I couldn’t talk because I was crying. I said “Crystal? He won!!” with my shaky voice as my little sister, Vickie, text me asking if Chip’s horse had won. He had.

Crystal’s husband Charlie had just called her telling her he won – she wasn’t sure he was telling the truth because he likes to pull her leg a little. But she said he was so excited that she thought maybe he wasn’t joking. My sister’s get it even though they aren’t in the horse world at all - they know how much something like this means to someone like me – but it’s kind of incomprehensible to people outside the business, I believe.

My friend Jeni Ellis, who Chip trained one of her fillies to a 10 length victory a couple of years ago sent me a message that the crowd at SunRay Park (formerly San Juan Downs - near Bloomfield, NM) was on its feet cheering.

It amazes me how the media can’t fathom that someone can win the Derby without being from Kentucky, or by racing in NM. They couldn’t recognize that the horse is a Champion, that there’s more to it than buying an expensive yearling or 30. They weren’t smart enough to realize that hmmm, if the horse ran in Canada for different owners that paid the original $9,500 price at Fasig-Tipton October, that he might (being a Graded Stakes winner and Champion in Canada) have cost a little bit more than that when the new owners bought him (for $400,000). He hasn’t been a $9,500 horse since he broke his maiden for $62.5k.

Are they really that untalented at their own jobs – that they can’t find more than just motorcycle accident and long haul from NM in a truck and trailer? Does anyone realize that most horses travel in trailers of some sort? Yeah – I’m sure Pioneerof the Nile came via plane – as many probably did – but seriously it’s a stupid question. Stupid. And it’s been asked.

The gentleman that owns Buena Suerte in Roswell, NM (co-owner of Mine That Bird) has been in the horse business longer than most people I know in the Thoroughbred business. I think it’s funny that people act like they are new to the game. I think it’s funny for Baffert to comment that he just got beat by a Quarter Horse trainer – when he was first and foremost a Quarter Horse trainer (as was Lukas).

I honestly believe that the racings gods slapped us down last year because we needed some reality checks. It will take some time to clean up the damage done by the greedy. It will take longer to improve the mess created by the non-horseman. But I do believe that things had to get ugly on a national scale – so that maybe someone would get their shit together. Maybe now with a little gelding that knocked the block off the big guys and a filly that took us back to a decade when horses were shockingly brilliant – we will begin to regain popularity and respect. It will not happen because someone bought a $5 million horse – that is important to keep people in business – but it’s not going to do anything for anyone who doesn’t have a $5 million horse to sale. It also doesn’t do anything for the image of our sport/industry – because the outsiders and the non-understanders see us as just greedy people who use animals to gain wealth.

Most of us know differently – but all of us need to recognize and be wiser about our choices.

I love horse racing again – it took 24 hours to really make me feel something again. I haven’t had emotion like this about the Derby in 21 years. I haven’t dreamed it possible for me to ever have a Derby horse in about as long. Thanks to Mine That Bird, Chip Woolley, Calvin Borel, Double Eagle Ranch and Buena Suerte Equine - I believe in it all again.

2009 Kentucky Derby preview

2009-05-01T19:57:00Z

Hmmm - my Oaks Day is turning out with several winners - but not a lot of ticket cashing. So I'm on - I'm just not exact - yet. Maybe the racing gods are waiting for Saturday for me. I probably won't put my picks for tomorrow's card up - jinxed me.

I used to send out an email with all my picks and comments and such and it was a little bitter and crude and often biting. I'll probably remain that way today for this entry. Well biting anyway. I just try not to fall into the same personality as most blogs out there - hateful, cranky, bitchy. Not sure how this will turn out!

It will probably have some strong opinions.

Below are the entries for the Kentucky Derby - in post position order. Along with my thoughts on the horse and or connections and their chances. At the end of each horses comments will be my thoughts on where he will finish.

1. West Side Bernie: Everyone is picking him as their Longshot horse. Really? He's by Bernstein out of a Gilded Time mare. He's really inconsistent to me. I just don't see what people are excited about. I don't see this pedigree getting there. I don't see this horse getting there either. I could be wrong - but I don't think so. 10th

2. Musket Man: What an awesome run these people have had with this colt. 5 wins in 6 starts. He's quality but he's not Derby quality. The owner also jinxed him by saying "when we win the 1 1/4 miles tomorrow" while being interviewed on TVG. That ruined it. 11th

3. Mr. Hot Stuff: He's gorgeous - believe me. I think he'll close well and probably end up 4th or so. I like him and including him in my exotics, but don't think he's quite ready to win it. 4th.

4. Advice: I don't know why he's running. I know he won the Lexington S.-G2 but I don't understand why they would put him in the Derby. He won't want to do this length of race. 16th

5. Hold Me Back: He has a nice record - on the board in 4 of 5 starts but the one start that he was off the board was when he ran on dirt. I think he's top quality on All-weather or Turf - I think he can probably go 1 1/4 miles easy - but he won't want to tomorrow on whatever that track will be. Arlington's Secretariat S.-G1 this Summer would be best. 14th

6. Friesan Fire: I don't care if it's wet or dry he'll run big I think. He improves so much each race. I think he's the actual one to beat. Everyone was all about him until they didn't run him after the Louisiana Derby. I think he's classy enough to do it off the layoff in March. 2nd

7. Papa Clem: He keeps improving - especially if you believe in speed figures, especially if you prefer Beyer's. However I think he's a touch below the G1 quality. He gets beat by the G1 horses. 13th

8. Mine That Bird: Now you know I have a special connection to this guy and that's important to me. I also wouldn't bet him if he had NO chance. I've heard from several "experts" that think he shouldn't be here. There are always plenty of those. Ignore those NM races because he got bad rides! BAD. He has Calvin Borel who knows how to ride a closer/stalker at Churchill Downs. A son of Birdstone out of a Smart Strike mare? Love it - will run all day - will run on anything and is my tasty longshot - for so many reasons. By the way - he's the only champion in this field. 3rd

9. Join in the Dance: he's there to set the pace - that's it and thankfully so because there is no pace and I like closers this year. 20th

10: Regal Ransom: More than likely another pace factor - however he's a cut above JitD. If there is a downpour - don't be shocked for Godolphin to finally get a win with him. 8th

11. Chocolate Candy: Yummy yummy. The winner. His family includes Affirmed (my favorite) and not just somewhere but Affirmed is a half-brother to his 2nd dam. He's stunning. He's gonna love the dirt! He's gonna love the slop. I'm gonna love him. 1st

12. General Quarters: Awesome story. The trainer/owner is the coolest guy yet if you ask me in the long list of annual Derby/older guy with one horse type stories. I'd love to see him win - not tomorrow though. I don't honestly think he can. 7th

13. I Want Revenge: He's supposed to be the favorite - but already he's not. More than likely that will change later but who knows. His connections make you not want to cheer for him - much like I wouldn't cheer for Big Brown last year. I just am turned off by the group - different trainer - same affect. So I don't want revenge - I want Justice. 12th

14. Atomic Rain: Considering that he was part of the beaten group (West Side Bernie and Just a Coincidence) behind I Want Revenge - and the fact that all 3 aren't really high quality - I think they drop I Want Revenge's level. This horse doesn't really belong. 17th

15. Dunkirk: hmmm, the unknown. He's a looker and should be with his $3.7 million price as a yearling. However I think since he's only had 3 starts that he may be up against it. Each race improves by leaps and bounds but I don't know - I'm not feeling it. Am I wrong? 6th

16. Pioneerof the Nile: he's the talk of the West Coast. I think he should be the real favorite and I think it's his race to lose. I was NOT impressed with him visually yesterday when I saw him. So I don't plan on using him in MY exotics. I just didn't like him in person. I was actually kind of shocked by his appearance. 9th

17. Summer Bird: another with only 3 races and he shouldn't be here at all. AT ALL. 15th

18. Nowhere to Hide: yet another that's basically to me "we want a horse in the Derby" type entry. Shouldn't be here. 19th

19. Desert Party: I think he's really the best option Godolphin has ever brought to the table. His one bad G1 dirt performance can't be trusted because he stumbled and was pinched back at the break. But it's hard to judge a horse like this. I'm including him - I think he could surprise all the naysayers. 5th

20. Flying Private: He runs about as good as me. If I was 3 I guess I could be in? 18th

Kentucky Oaks Picks

2009-05-01T18:43:00Z

I copied and pasted my picks into my blog and it didn't appreciate the Word formatting. So I had to skip it and wait until a) I was back from the drive thru at Keeneland and b) my migraine was gone. I hate migraines - though I'm sure I don't know anyone with love for them.

these are NOT in order of Preference - they are just in order of post.

Race 1
Uno Peso
Susies Gal
Satin Thunder

Race 2
My New Lady
Sweet Euphoria
Full Strut

no picks on Race 3 and 4

Race 5
Just Ben
Reynaldothewizard

Race 6
Chitoz
Smart Enough
Chamberlain Bridge

Race 7
Miss Isella
One Caroline

Race 8
Diamond Tags
Mein Fraulein

Race 9
Macho Again
Bullsbay
Shift in Power

Race 10
Stormalory
Skipadate
Turfiste

Race 11
Gabby's Golden Gal
Justwhistledixie
Rachel Alexandra

Wanna Thank Your Mother for a Backside Like That

2009-05-01T03:04:00Z

Today I got up at 4:00 a.m. which is beyond early for those of us that don't work on the track. I picked up my friend Beth at about 4:50 a.m. We drove to Churchill - excited like little kids on Christmas.

We rehashed Derbies past on the ride, drinking our Starbucks. I remembered my first Derby once I moved to Kentucky. Hanging out on the backside of Churchill with a group of people that I still consider friends (shout out to Janel, Madeleine and Matt). It was the year of Silver Charm. That was my first live in person Derby. (btw - I picked Pulpit).

Our hopes today were to see Chocolate Candy, Friesan Fire and Mr. Hot Stuff. In addition if we were lucky enough for me to find and meet Chip Woolley - Mine That Bird's trainer from my hometown of Bloomfield, NM and see the two big fillies (especially West Point's Justwhistledixie) for the Oaks - it would be a bonus.

We made our way through the barn area to the track and saw numerous people we've met/worked with throughout the years. All the horses galloping and posing on the track started giving you that feeling again like when you saw your first horse race. Remember that? Feeling of awe. We found us a place on one of stands after milling about. Then heard the magic words from a runner for some station "Chocolate Candy is on his way out on the track." He came out and is even more gorgeous in person and I don't mean that like a little girl with a pony. I mean it like a man (I just called myself a man - that freaks me out every time because I always feel like I'm a boy - shut up) who has now seen tons of quality horse flesh and until recently - had become jaded by it all. I was overjoyed to see Chocolate Candy.

It wasn't long after that we saw Mr. Hot Stuff (and now that I've been told the story behind his name - something to do with a family inside joke for WinStar and a suit and so on - he's hot!). He looked good. I mean like hottie on the beach good. (that can apply to either sex for those of you who just winced a little - and stop it).

After that viewing spectacular we found the stakes barn - met up with some West Point peeps and saw their awesome filly for the Oaks. Then out of the mist (ok - not mist - just in the shedrow but c'mon) we saw Mine That Bird. Now you're probably not as excited as me but we're talking a NM boy and a horse now from NM with a trainer that lives across from my sister. I mean - that's vicariousness at it's most righteous.
I found Chip Woolley - and introduced myself. We talked for a while and wished him good luck. Really nice guy.

We also so Rachel Alexandra and let's just say she's full of herself. After the break we caught Friesan Fire and met Larry Jones pony. Pioneerof the Nile came out on the track as well. Our morning was so full.

Think back to a month ago as I was hoping that Keeneland's Spring Meet would inspire me to love it all again - and it worked. Who knew that a trip to Churchill's backside would take that up a notch? I was ready to chuck it all, sell the business, and go full force into only showing our dogs. I am more than happy to report that I am so back to loving horse racing.

If only because of the horse.

For fun - I'll give you my picks for the stakes on both the Oaks and Derby cards sometime Friday. \

Why Did You Use THAT Name?

2009-04-27T22:14:00Z

So we are 5 days from Christmas for Horse Racing fans. I had to go on a two mile walk with my Bouvier - Dreamer (yes his call name is for the movie of the same name) today just to get away fromy laptop and TVG. I love both - but I'll spend 24 hours searching - looking - exciting over it all. Of course - it doesn't help that I cannot get away from my mind. Plus Dreamer kept getting stronger the further we went. So I was feeling like it was a race. Bam - my mind is back to the first leg of the Triple Crown.

(while I type this I've got a rerun of Two and Half Men on and Charlie just took Jake to the track. Luckily it wasn't a lengthy experience - I hate when TV shows do horse racing).

I'm looking at the past performances for the probable contenders for Saturday's race and I got to thinking about the names of the horses. If you want to win the Derby - why would you name your horse a name that sounds better on a horse in the 1st at Beulah? That's not me knocking Beulah or claimers. That's me knocking people with suck ass name choices.

I am very particular what my Derby winner is named. I can't have tacky or just plain un-original names. Below is a list of names currently attached to probably entrants - and why I do or don't like the name. Please - DO NOT take offense if you are associated with any horse. Not trying to hurt any feelings - so don't be so sensitive.

Advice: Good name - his dam's name is Word o' Wisdom. I like the name.

Chocolate Candy: probably better on a filly but his sire is Candy Ride (Arg) and he's owned by diet queen Jenny Craig - so I like the humor. Even if it's not intended

Desert Party: Nice - stands on it's own. Original

Dunkirk: I'm sure it's got a meaning - I'm not looking it up. It's ok with me. However anything with Kirk in it reminds me of Captain Kirk and I hated Star Trek.

Flying Private: reminds me of about 300 already used names.

Friesan Fire: I love Friesian's but notice the difference in spelling. I went to freetranslation.com and from Spanish to English - it means "they mill" - yeah I don't get it.

General Quarters: It stands all on it's own and it's kind of a neat name.

Hold Me Back: mother is Restraint - not the best name for a horse you want to win.

I Want Revenge: Sire is Stephen Got Even. Original - not very Derby like.

Mine That Bird: Sire is Birdstone, dam is Mining My Own. Oh why not go with Own That Stone. Bad name. Canary would have been better.

Mr. Hot Stuff: Worst name - hate it a ton.

Musket Man: It stands on it's own. - It's also very gelding in a claiming race IMHO.

Papa Clem: Named for the owner's Grandfather. I don't mind it at all.

Pioneerof the Nile: Don't mind a run on name but not the way this was done. Not a fan of the name.

Regal Ransom: It's good enough.

Square Eddie: Probably named for someone - don't like it otherwise.

Summer Bird: Another Birdstone - another lack of originality

West Side Bernie: by Bernstein - Reminds me of West Side Story for some reason (not a fan really) and so he should be a gelding.

Win Willy: Really? I mean Monarchos out of City Fair and you get Win Willy.

Who wins?

My Worlds Collide

2009-04-22T00:54:00Z

Wow - let me just start by telling you that I have Derby Fever, finally.

I have been very excited about Chocolate Candy because a) I think he's way on the improve and b) his 3rd dam is ALSO the dam of the great and powerful Affirmed (you know he's my favorite). I keep trying to really get myself inspired - to the point Desmond and I were almost buying tickets to go to the Derby. Then I thought I'd throw my party that I was going to do annually starting last year. Then I decided I'd not do either and just go through the Keeneland drive thru with my friend Beth like we do every year we aren't in Louisville. After that we'll part ways - maybe after a Culver's burger and enjoy races comfortably from our couches at our respective homes.

So I have been paying some attention to the quality of say the top 10 runners for the Derby but haven't really put my thoughts down on paper (or fake internet pretend wannabe save the rain forest type paper). I was sitting here last night in bed - cat buggin because she thinks it's her time - and I was looking at Twitter, Facebook, Kentuckyderby.com, Thoroughbred Times Triple Crown page, etc. I was trying to figure out some things and was kind of just going through the motions.

Usually - I'm all about a horse for the Derby after they've run the Breeders' Cup Juvenile - and other than
Stardom Bound - I was not in love with anyone on that day for this year's Triple Crown. I mean I picked Alysheba for pete's sake (who's Pete btw?) on BC Day. Yeah - I realize that was long ago - but it's usually that race that has me revved up. Hard to get revved up over a synthetic race for a 1 1/4 mile dirt race. Messes me up.

I'm wandering.

Back to last night. So I kind of stopped bothering as I got an instant message from my sister (it's a huge deal to have either of them on Facebook btw). We bs'd for a bit and I mentioned the Derby and she said that her neighbor Chip was going but she couldn't remember the horse or owner. I chuckled to myself and said - so he's going as someone's guest or just for fun or something? She said "he's going as a trainer." WTF? I thought to myself (sorry Crystal) she doesn't have a clue. I said "no he isn't, he doesn't have a horse in the Derby." I even snarled my hateful lips at it all.

I kept thinking - if it weren't late I'd pick up the phone and put an end to all this nonsense. She said something about unless she misunderstood yes he has a horse in the Derby. I thought - maybe under card because NM races have picked up heavily in quality and who knows. But not Derby. Not MY Kentucky Derby. So I asked her what his full name was - I'll Google the man and tell her she's wrong. I'm so damn smart - I'm the horse racing guy in the family.

She said Chip Woolley. I said Hmmm. Googled his name and Kentucky Derby and found out that my sister, a hairdresser in the heart of oil and gas country in my hometown of Bloomfield, NM (population 6,420 - last census) was ahead of me on a Derby horse. My sister - who used to make me chase her while on a bike (me and my little sister Vickie on foot) while playing a game called Little Liza Jane (DO NOT ASK) and we could never catch her because she's 6 years older. Mean! My sister, who used to tell us she was magic and would disappear at night to go to a place called Copacabana where she would meat Queen Athena (uh huh) and her assistant Toshiba (stay with me now) and if only I could remember the male assistants name - probably Quasar or something.

She even drew pictures of these places and we believed her - little kids, we were little kids. She wasn't mean to us - she just enjoyed lying to us. Nice. She was good too - because we couldn't find her EVER. And had Bob Barker not given away a Toshiba product on The Price is Right - she may have fooled us for years to come.

This same girl - who didn't move to the heart of the horse to follow a dream of being near the Kentucky Derby - lives across the f'n street from a trainer of probable Kentucky Derby starter - Mine That Bird. I'll tell you the names of all the horse trainers that know me by name - after growing up in the business, Michelle Nihei, Kenny McPeek and Pat Swan. If there are others that know who I am by sight - I didn't know they did. Now - before you think I'm bitter about this - I'm not. I just am bitter about that Queen Athena Copacabana crap - Barry Manilow was magic too and he wrote the song about this place she went to every night. I mean really. Gullible little kids. I'm surprised we ever made it out of the house.

Back to my world's colliding. I mentioned to my friend Liane about the story (sans all the childhood trauma) and she said - Amy knows him from her Quarter Horse Association days. Get this - I've known Amy Owens for about 8 years now. Met her at Thoroughbred Times when we were both there. One day we're talking and turns out she knows Pat and Tomey Swan very well. They are good friends that trained/rode my first/only QH winner back in NM. All the way in Lexington, KY I meet someone who puts me back in touch via email with Tomey.

Then it turns out that Amy worked with my 2nd cousin A.J. Mangum while at the AQHA - he's like 6 days younger than me - and we lost touch years ago. Hadn't spoken to him probably since the year I moved to KY and he made a visit for work. All the way in Lexington, KY I meet someone who puts me back in touch with A.J. via email - and he's family.

Since I've moved here I've met people that knew someone I sort of knew somehow in the industry - NM to KY. I even met a guy (I'll keep his name out) that told me "I knew your Dad - I rode for him in Texas." I just said "right" and walked away - my Dad would have never lived in Texas and wasn't a trainer. I did meet some people that knew my Dad while at a party with my partner however just after my Dad passed away. It was several years ago - but this older couple knew him from long long ago in New Mexico - so frickin' random. They were genuine not like the drunk former jockey that I won't mention.

The horse industry completely amazes me - because it's so vast and so different from state to state - and I'm talking racing, showing, breeding, rodeo, etc. - but we all are connected somehow - not just by the horse but because of the horse.

Take from this 2 things: 1) be careful what you say/do because someone knows someone that knows you and it will affect you someday and 2) don't lie to your siblings when they are little - (or ever), they can be very impressionable and one day they will tell all!

Love you Vickie and Crystal. Good Luck Crystal's neighbor on Derby day!

Passion Restored

2009-04-09T15:51:00Z

I just have to tell you that a few days of live races and sunny weather and I'm back on track.

Yesterday I had a great day at Keeneland, talking to friends (shout out to Frances, Beth and Nick), cheering on Michelle Nihei and King Carter (3rd!!!!!!!!!!), playing the Keeneland Handicapping contest (finished 9th - yes I'm blue beard), cheering on friends Kenny and Sue in the feature with War Kill (I killed that race) and handicapping with Eddie D. (we'll get it today!)

I have had such doldrums of late but I'm getting Derby fever finally (used to start for me on Breeders' Cup day). Real excited about Chocolate Candy. More on the Derby after we get through preps.

Today (Thursday before Blue Grass Stakes) I've handicapped the card at Keeneland and will enjoy most of the races from home watching TVG while I get all the dogs bathed/brushed blah blah blah. Lots to do around here so I can't do the daily live races like I'd prefer. That's ok though!

I wanted to share that I feel pretty honored to have been able to do whatever I want in the industry. I have carved out a spot for myself where I can enjoy and work. I needed a breather to appreciate that I think. Sometimes the excitement goes out because it's no longer wait a week to find out - it's all NOW. Yesterday I was keeping up with so much just from my cell phone. Facebook, Twitter, E-mail, texting, race results, phone calls. I felt so connected - and I was there watching live racing.

If you're a fan and you are losing interest - go to the track. If you're in the industry and you're down in the dumps. Take a day and go to the track - and just be there. Watch like you did the first time. Will change your perspective and you feel it rush through your veins into your heart, again.

Go Racing.

Billy's 3rd Day choices

2009-04-05T17:36:00Z

I don't have a lot of time so I'll do this quick.

Billy's Picks
Sunday, Keeneland, April 5th

Race 1
Lil Tree (finished 2nd by the way)
Jilluke (finished 3rd)

Race 2
Wellofaprize (won - and yes I handicapped before but didn't have time to post - call me on it if you like)
Dragum (2nd)

Race 3
Skim Skam
Gasconade
Hyrule

Race 4
Moyer's Pond
Man Named Sue
El Indy

Race 5
Talkin Indian
Gloria Goodbody
Winter View

Race 6
Commadore Kate
Careless Jewel
My Fast Friend

Race 7
Hyracotherium
Wicked Style
Sidcup

Race 8
Affirmatif
Rescue Squad
Rabbit Tracks

Race 9
Paulliac (they scratched the other 2 I like)

Billy's 2nd Day Choices

2009-04-01T23:19:00Z

Saturday will most likely be my favorite day of the meet. Stardom Bound is running and she may be the horse that gets me back into loving the race horse. I feel like she's my Winning Colors. Even if she doesn't run in the Derby - she makes me feel like a kid again. I don't love her new connections like I did Eugene Klein, D. Wayne Lukas and Gary Stevens. Ok I didn't LOVE them but I was in awe of them.

So the 2nd day of Keeneland's meet includes the Grade 1 Ashland S. for 3-year-old fillies. It will be Stardom Bound's first start outside of California. It most likely will be the only time I get to see her race in person - because I don't get out much (of the state). So I'll be there to cheer her on, as well as her sire Tapit, the farm he stands at - Gainesway (shout out to a client), the place she was born Loch Lea Farm (shout out to a friend) and of course, to cheer on excitement and passion.

Already my trying to make every day has been flawed - I'll miss Sunday to be out of town but one must always make sacrifices for others. I will however, make my picks and put them online. If my picks start showing that I suck as handicapper for the public - I'll throw on the breaks quicker than I can shave my head. (that's not real quick btw).

Keeneland
April 4, 2009 Day 2

Race 1 (maiden 2yos)
Wild Hare (Soft spot in my heart for her mama - Rabbit)
Five Plus Five (equals 10)
Tight Jeans (no comment)

Race 2 (allowance)
Sharpest Cat (anxious to see this one in person - bet he's gorgeous, by Cat Thief out of a Diesis mare)
Six Shots (G
King Caden

Race 3 (maiden)
Oree (I so need to look that up - anyone?)
Sabago
Seeking the Sluice

Race 4 (allowance)
Sudden War (by Hennessy's son Sunray Spirit - I grew up near a track now called Sunray Park - why not?
Kings Highway (by Mizzen Mast - happiness, the Caro line lives on)
Hidden Glance

Race 5 (maiden)
Just Right (Fr) (inside joke)
Admiral Bull
John Wyatt

Race 6 (allowance)
Luster
Pull Dancer
Come on Ki Ki (Don't Go Breaking My Heart)

Race 7 (allowance)
Chitoz (I always bet those with Affirmed in the pedigree - this be out of Wichitoz, by Affirmed)
Island Warrior (consistently makes me $$ at Keeneland)
Rock Gold
St. Joe (spent a lot of time in their E/R - ha)

Race 8 (allowance)
Parading (secret laugh)
Stream of Gold (IRE)
Wicked Style (we'll see)

Race 9 (Ashland S.-G1)
Stardom Bound (2yo champion filly - undefeated in G1 company)
Dream Empress
Gozzip Girl (I didn't like that show but I like the filly)

Race 10 (allowance)
Lady Aquitaine (is that a skin care prescription?)
Meadow Saffron
Mantekilla (didn't she lose on American Idol?)

Billy's Opening Day Choices

2009-03-31T21:35:00Z

Below would be my choices for Keeneland's Opening day races. Because I'm a procrastinator I thought I'd better do this now (and will try for each day in advance) because there is no way in hell I'll be trying do this the night before or day of. Won't happen.

For those of you out there that think it's odd to be so excited about going to the races. Take note that the only reason I moved 1600 miles from home was to work within the Thoroughbred Industry (as did many of you I know). I no longer wanted to be sidelined or be a hanger-on or just a fan. I do not get to see live racing EVER anymore because of my schedule with the business I've got going (all Thoroughbred related). If you factor in work, personal life, and other hobbies (dogs) then going to other places to catch a race is not necessarily feasible. So having racing come to me with top quality horses - is like a treat.

I shall enjoy that treat as much as possible. Below will just be names for now - until Program numbers get added - then I'll update.

(typically my rule of thumb is to not bet Maidens - horses that have not previously won, or races with 6 or less entrants)

Keeneland
April 3, 2009 Day 1

Race 1 (only 6 entered) filly/mare claiming
3. She's Cherokee (I love me some Cherokee Run and love a horse that has won at Keeneland before)
6. Lady Seattle

Race 2 (maiden 2yos)
4. Carson's Pride (love Carson City line - the only stallion my Mom ever really talked about when visiting)
3. Evil Genius (interesting)
1a. Foot the Bill

Race 3 (claiming)
2. Thiscatcanscat (likes Keeneland yo)
7. He's a Dixie Boy (I'm basically throwing his name out because I like Dixie Union (sire))
4. Spice House

Race 4 (claiming)
2. Hurricane Gussie
8. Milwaukee Queen (only other one I actuallyl think well enough of in this race)
4. Dr. Jenny

Race 5 (turf allowance)
5. Vacation (intriguing)
10. Grand Stage
6. Manitowish Waters

Race 6 (maiden)
10. Single Solution (this race is really full of untouched talent - or crap)
1. Goshawk Kathern
8. Kiddari

Race 7 (allowance)
2. Tactical Candy (by one of my favorites - Tactical Cat)
3. Tiz to Dream (most likely the winner but will be the favorite and I have rules)
8. Hadavision

Race 8 (allowance)
11. Wildcat Brief
4. Doc's Friend (hmmm)
9. Final Judgement (me likey)

Race 9 (Transylvania S.-G3)
4. Southern Anthem (seriously need to watch)
6. Orthodox (I've been a fan for a while. Come on and get through for me)
5. Florentino (JPN) (I always like his sire)

Race 10 (maiden)
10. Lastful Appeal (go!!!!!!!!!!!)
9. Miss Cosmopolitan
6. Tweeter (I mean seriously - as much time as I spend tweeting on Twitter?)