That's a WRAP on 2012..... AT THE POST finale for the year!

With this being the last column of the 2012 racing season for myself, we'll look back at three important events in the sport of thoroughbred racing. It was a year where the possibly of the 13th Triple Crown Champion was less than a day away, the future of NYRA was now in the hands of the governor and we concluded the twenty year run of a local horse racing show on cable.

About every March, when this column gets it's usual start of the year, the three year old runners and the road to the first Saturday in May; the Kentucky Derbystarts. We gather together 20 horses going for the elusive chance of winning the Triple Crown. With three races, five weeks apart, it a rarity that hasn't been accomplished since 1978. This year, a California based horse with a little know Canadian transplant jockey and a sometime controversial trainer was looking to make history in the Belmont Stakes.

I'll Have Another, under the guidance of Mario Gutierrez and Doug O'Neill won the first two legs of racing's Triple Crown ( Kentucky Derby & Preakness) and was only a day away from possibly completing that shot in the Belmont Stakes. Looking like the first horse in 34 years to possibly win the crown, a startling announcement was made a little over 24 hours before the race, that I'll Have Another would scratch from the race and be retired. This once again, dashed the hopes of all racing fans and will cause this handicapper to NEVER look forward to another Triple Crown winner in thoroughbred racing or even try to predicted it.

Just before the start of racing at Saratoga this past summer, a announcement was made by the Governor of New York; Andrew Cuomo that the organization that runs thoroughbred racing in New York; NYRA would be getting a through overall change in how it would be run with a new oversight board and committee made up of appointees from his office. This would guide the entity that has been plagued the past few years in red ink to re-organize and be more "respectable" in eyes of the public and the governor's office.

The new members of the NYRA board were named, yet the organization remains under control of NYRA and for the first time in years, showed a profit and was in the "black" this past quarter of this year. With racing heading into the winter months in New York, it will be very interesting if the positive trend remains with the group and if the governor's office will stand back and let NYRA do, what NYRA was met to do and that is conduct and run thoroughbred racing in this state.

The racing year ended on a great note with this year's Breeder's Cup at Santa Anita Park and a exciting look toward next year with many stars returning. But on the Saturday of the Breeder's Cup, I got a sad message that a very popular thoroughbred racing show on local cable was coming to a end after 20 years. 'Trackfacts' on Capital OTB channel hosted by Tom Amello and Nick Kling had it's last show on the network. Started by Tom, it was created from his on track Saratoga sheet which has been a staple there since the late eighties. It first started as a 30 minute taped show on the network and grew to a ninety minute "live" show with his long time co-host and good friend of mine; Nick Kling as his weekly sidekick.

Though the past 20 years, Tom and Nick interviewed many key people in the sport of thoroughbred racing and have been a driving force in the educated of thoroughbred racing fans in the Capital District and beyond. Both very good personal friends of mine, I will truly miss their show on Capital OTB and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors, the network WON'T be the same without them! Have a GREAT winter wagering, my racing fans and I'll see you guys in the spring..... AT THE POST !

Holidayfest @ NYRA 2012.....wrapping up the stakes season at the BIG "A"

It's Holidayfest at Aqueduct and the final BIG weekend of thoroughbred racing for 2012. With my 2nd to last column for this racing year, it's all about the handicapping... and that is my favorite part of what I've done for the last 14 years here at the Recorder. Coming off a GREAT Breeder's Cup weekend, we'll try to end the year with some good wagers, until we start looking forward to the Triple Crown season of 2013 in March of next year.

We got four graded stakes at Aqueduct today, two 2 year old races and two races for older runners. The Aqueduct 6th race is a grade II - Demoiselle Stakes for the young fillies at a mile & an eighth, in a race, that could be considered no more than a non-winners of one event. A VERY short field of six runners, with a Todd Pletcher entry (which includes Coconut Shrimp that raced Thanksgiving day and should be scratched) we get ONLY one horse who didn't break her maiden in her last start (Ruby Lips #6). The pick here is Emollient #2 who broke her maiden second time out going 7 furlongs. In a race that is wide open, she'll be my top pick with Unlimited Budget #1 , my second choice....it's a WIDE open event!

The boys are next up in the 7th race, going the same distance in the Remsen Stakes. Again we have a similar field with an Pletcher entry and a wide open field. Here, the Repole / Pletcher entry looks very tough and they will be my top selection (Micromanage & Overanalyze #1) with "class" seasoning and bigger things on the horizon next year. For 2nd, Chad Brown has a very good maiden breaker last time out by the name of; Normandy Invasion #9. Won by over 9 lengths going a mile in last start at Aqueduct, he figures here versus this group.

The grade I - Cigar Mile is up next as race #8 with a short evenly matched field. It's a perfect spot to take a chance with a very talented filly that could win top Sprinter of the Year honors with a victory here. Groupie Doll #7, comes off a convincing victory in the Breeder's Cup Filly & Mare Sprint going seven furlongs. She couldn't find an easier spot going against the boys in a spot for championship honors! Her "main danger" is the winner of this race, two years ago; Jersey Town #4. At 34-1 then, he isn't the runner that he used to be in the past, but is a classic miler and was a BIG winner for me many years ago when he broke his maiden in Gulfstream Park at 12-1. My top two horses (4-7) will be used with the 1/5/6 underneath (Stay Thirsty, Hymn Book and Coil).

We wrap up the stakes action in the 9th with Gazelle Stakes going the route distance of a mile and a eighth. I'm going with a price here and a runner that did me quite well at Saratoga this summer. Sea Island #5 won going this distance at the Spa in optional allowance company and goes from turf to dirt for today's race at 15-1 morning line odds (which she won at three starts back). Along with her in the "win" spot, I'll use Book Review #6, the probable favorite and first time going two turns and the #7 - Wandy's Girl who would be no surprise with her very impressive record of 18 career starts with 14 victories since shipping stateside.

The plays for this HOLIDAYFEST stakes cards are; a Grand Slam (6th) play (1/2 with 1/9 with 4/7 with 5/6/7) and pick 3 plays; (6th : 1/2 with 1/9 with 4/7) & (7th : 1/9 with 4/7 with 5/6/7) with win plays of Sea Hunter in the Gazelle and superfectas of 4/7 with 1/5/6 in the Cigar Mile (8th) & superfecta "key" in the Gazelle (9th)(5/6/7 with ALL in the 4th spot) ......GOOD LUCK!

2012 Breeder's Cup..... wrap up!

This year's biggest racing event; the Breeder's Cup World Championships, are now in the books! Two days of 15 races for all classes and on turf & dirt have been contested over the Santa Anita racing strip. While some racing categories have been decided, others still remain a bit blurry. Here are my thoughts on a few races that had a impact on year end honors and other events which I was successful in wagering.

Probably the most impressive two year old filly, could have beaten the "boys" sprinting a few races before she won the Juvenile Fillies race. Beholder; trained by Richard Mandella, went wire to wire in stretching out her speed to a route distance in victory. She was pre-entered in the Juvenile Sprint, but chose to face her own kind going a distance of ground. With the maiden; Hightail, trained by Hall of Famer; D.Wayne Lukas winning the short field in the Juvy. Sprint, Beholder would have won that race easily too!

In the Filly and Mare Turf, my heart and my wagering dollar was with a fantastic mare; Zagora, trained by Mechanicville native; Chad Brown. She's a mark of constancy since she shipped stateside and into Chad 's barn. Going into this race, she was a sentimental pick and my only question with her was, could she get the race distance. Well, she did and her price in return was a surprise too! Going off at odds of 9-1, Zagora has cemented Filly & Mare Turf Champion honors and was recently sold in auction after that victory for 2.5 million and returned to her homeland of France .

The feature race on Friday was the "Ladies" Classic or like many people still refer the race as; the Distaff, Royal Delta became a back to back winner and could get consideration as Horse of the Year off her unusual wire to wire victory. Friday was close to a "break even" day wagering for me with Zagora and marathon longshot winner; Calidoscopio, bailing me out.

Saturday's races got off to a wonderful start with my second place selection; George Vancouver winning the Breeder's Cup Juvenile Turf. Set off at odds of 9-1, this son of legendary Phipps runner; Versailles Treaty, he bulled his way to the lead and keyed a nice exacta box , triple box and dime superfecta result for my phone-a-bet account!

Never underestimate the power of a gutsy and hard hitting thoroughbred. That would sum up the victories of both; Little Mike in the Turf and Trinniberg in the Sprint. The speed of both these runners and will to win, garnered both them Breeder's Cup victories. If you followed both these runners throughout the season, you were well rewarded with winning mutual's of $36.60 and $29.40 respectably.

We finished the day with two wonderful and talented runners when, Wise Dan showed his possibly Horse of the Year like winning effort by dominating the Breeder's Cup Mile. This horse can win on grass, dirt, polytrack and with no standout this year in the thoroughbred world, his efforts could get him top horse honors. In the Classic, it was a ding-dong battle between the winner; Fort Larned and my selection; Mucho Macho Man. It was that half length win by Fort Larned that kept me from having an even BETTER 2012 Breeder's Cup finish, than I did!

Breeder's Cup 2012 ........ more "changes" in the wind!

The Breeder's Cup World Championships returns to the west coast and Santa Anita Park, for the first time in two years. The last time it was contested there, the main track had a synthetic racing surface. I did quite well with my handicapping in those races and showed my first Breeder's Cup profit in 2008. So, this year's races will be interesting from that stand point and also with the new medication rule for the juvenile runners. No two year old runner will be allowed to race on lasix in the Breeder's Cup this year. Lasix is a anti-bleeding medication given to thoroughbreds that could prevent bleed during the physical exertion of racing. Years ago, lasix was banned for all horses in New York . The exclusion of this med for the two year olds this year, may lead to all the Breeder's Cup competitors in future years.

This new ruling has prevented several trainers in shipping their young runners to California for these important year end two year old races. Nevertheless, both the juvenile races on the grass are wide open events. It's the three dirt races (for the juveniles) that have limited the size of the fields. But also, the trend in recent years has been for the connections of two year old runners (especially the colts) to skip this race and wait until the three year old season next year for their runners.

With addition of so many different races the past few years, certain race size fields have been effected. With introduction of the Breeder's Cup Dirt Mile and Filly & Mare Sprint, they have effected the Breeder's Cup Sprint race. In the past, the Sprint was a highly contested full field event. Recent years, have taken away those high price payouts because of those two new races. The Turf Sprint on the other hand has not really effected the Breeder's Cup Mile or Turf. Turf race sprinting has exploded on the thoroughbred scene in recent years and the usual runners here are sprinters and horses with up to a mile limitations. A full field in the Turf Sprint has no problem filling in any of the years since this race was introduced.

Looking at today's 9 race fields, several horses stick out on paper and a few races are wide open. Juvenile Turf, Turf Sprint, Sprint and Classic have to potential of getting a 3-1 odds on the favorites. In the Classic, Game on Dude should and will be the favorite. But, I wouldn't take less than 5-2 on him and question him at the Classic distance on "real" dirt. That's why I be using him underneath in my plays and will let him beat me, if he's is two and a half odds or less. Groupie Doll in the Filly and Mare sprint is listed at even money on the morning line. This is a legit number for her versus the competition she is facing. The Dirt Mile has several contenders that are all grouped together. Can't see a "longshot" here winning this event. The Juvenile comes up short and really is a three horse race between Shanghai Bobby from the east coast and Bob Baffert's two runners based here. The Turf race this year has a little more quality than in recent years. The Euros have a legitimate state-side contender to be afraid of in Point of Entry. In the Sprint, the same could be said like the Dirt Mile with evenly matched contenders. But, I can see a longshot running in the money and spicing up your exotics. The Mile on the Turf is the most intriguing race on today's card. The showdown between Wise Dan and Execelebration pits the best two milers in training at this time. All others in this event are running for third or lesser.

Mark Hoffman's 2012 Breeder's Cup selections - day #2 (11/3)

Breeder's Cup Juvenile Turf



Noble Tune (#9) - this Chad Brown trainee is 2 for 2 with nice stalking victories and then drawing off, in a wide open event; he looks to have the right running style & morning line price!



George Vancouver (#3) - very interesting European invader whose breeding is from championship stock, has yet to win on turf; but trainer wouldn't bring him here if he didn't think there would be a shot.



Exotic & multi-race runners : Balance the Books - Dundonnell - Brown Almighty





Breeder's Cup Filly and Mare Sprint



Groupie Doll (#9) - riding an impressive four race win streak, meets an average field here and should set the perfect trip, BEST BET on today's card.



Switch (#10) - my selection in last year's race; turns back to a sprint and is 5 times in the money in 6 starts over the Santa Anita strip, need a "price" pick over favorite top selection.



Exotic & multi-race runners : Rumor - Musical Romance - Turbulent Descent





Breeder's Cup Dirt Mile



Fed Biz (#5) - lightly raced three year old colt; comes off 3rd place tiring effort in the Indiana Derby, 3 for 3 at the distance & track, a square price here!



Shackleford (#6) - 2nd best in the one turn Kelso Mile last time out, runner up in this race last year & is at his best distance, hard hitter.



Exotic & multi-race runners : Jersey Town - Emcee - Tapizar





Breeder's Cup Turf Sprint



Corporate Jungle (#10) - no factor in graded stakes action going a mile in last three starts, turns back to a sprint going on Santa Anita's famous downhill turf course, interesting runner in this spot.



California Flag (#1) - hard hitting 8 year old gelding has raced in the other four previous running of this race with a victory here in 2009, hasn't been seen since April with a wire to wire victory on this course, draws the rail.



Exotic & multi-race runners : Bridgetown - Great Attack - Great Mills





Breeder's Cup Juvenile



Power Broker (#9) - strong victory 1st time dirt going two turns here in prep race for today's event, has the edge versus these runners with that win.



Title Contender (#1) - just broke maiden here going a mile; wire to wire, this Baffert one/two punch will be hard to deny with the home court advantage.



Exotic & multi-race runners : Shanghai Bobby - Fortify





Breeder's Cup Turf



Point of Entry (#1) - razor sharp McGaughey runner has won five races in a row and has been never better, draws the inside & only danger would be the European shippers.



Trailblazer (#12) - was a fast closing 2nd going a mile last time out over the course, this Japanese bred runner chose this spot over the Breeder's Cup Mile, distance a question.



Exotic & multi-race runners : Shareta - Optimizer - Slim Shadey





Breeder's Cup Sprint



Capital Account (#8) - just missed with late rally in prep race start last time out, has the home course advantage & running style for this race!



The Lumber Guy (#7) - this NY bred got a grade I victory in last start turning back in distance & versus open company, improving colt makes cross country trip and meets tougher company.



Exotic & multi race runners : Amazombie - Coil - Hamazing Destiny





Breeder's Cup Mile



Excelebration (#6) - could be 5 for 5 this year if not running 2nd the world's greatest horse; Frankel in back to back starts this summer, maybe the best mile in training at this time.



Wise Dan (#2) - a head away from being perfect this year, can win on any surface and is 4 for 5 on turf at a mile, possible "Horse of the Year" honors if he wins this race & longshot wins the Classic.



Exotic & multi-race runners : Moonlight Cloud - Jeranimo - Wilcox Inn





Breeder's Cup Classic



Mucho Macho Man (#11) - this little hard hitting colt has comprised a record of 4-1-1 since his Belmont Stakes effort last year, he's been carefully brought along by his trainer and pointed to this since the beginning of the year, my only question with him is the distance.....not his heart!



Ron the Greek (#10) - his effort last time out was too bad to be true at Belmont on a track labeled "good", his biggest career victory was here in March winning the Santa Anita Handicap, looking for a BIG rebound race today.



Exotic & multi-race runners : Game on Dude - Nonios - To Honor and Serve

Mark Hoffman's 2012 Breeder's Cup selections - day #1 (11/2)

Breeder's Cup Juvenile Sprint



Super Ninety Nine (#5) - broke his maiden first out and over the Santa Anita strip going seven panels, Baffert won the inaugural running of this race last year.



Merit Man (#3) - won the Tim Conway Stakes which was a prep for this in last start by over five lengths, the "horse to beat" here.



Exotic & multi race runners : Sweet Shirley Mae - South Floyd





Breeder's Cup Marathon



Atigun (#1) - has been facing grade I & II competition all summer here on the east coast, this three year old loves a route of ground & should have no problem with the marathon mile & three quarter distance!



Grassy (#4) - taking a real long shot with this first time dirt runner, showed he could handle the distance on grass & maybe just might on this new surface, I've always liked this horse!



Exotic & multi-race runners : Eldaafer - Calidoscopio - Not Aboard





Breeder's Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf



Sky Lantern (#3) - ships in from Europe in fine form and off of stakes win in Ireland impressively turf sprinting, very tough here & BEST BET on today's championship races card.



Watsdachances (#6) - the first of many Chad Brown runners; this filly is a perfect 2 for 2 since shipping to the US , will be flying late!



Exotic & multi race runners : Spring Venture - Waterway Run - Summer of Fun





Breeder's Cup Juvenile Fillies



Kauai Katie (#8) - undefeated so far and very impressive sprinting in all three career starts, stretches out to a route distance today & her untapped potential may be shown today as a "superstar"



Dreaming of Julia (#5) - also undefeated; for same connections and proven at a "one turn" route distance, BUT was life and death to hold off foe in last race though, she may regress at a short price.



Exotic & multi-race runners : Executiveprivilege - Spring In The Air





Breeder's Cup Filly and Mare Turf



Zagora (#2) - in a wide open event; I've gotta go with the most consistent mare I know of on the weeds, was 2nd best in last start on a yielding surface, I like the 8-1 morning line odds......but know she'll be bet!



The Fugue (#4) - comes off short layoff after winning the Yorkshire Oaks a group I race in England , tries a firm turf for the first time in her career & has been pointed to this race.



Exotic & multi race runners : Lady Shamrock - I'm A Dreamer - Ridasiyna





Breeder's Cup Ladies Classic



Royal Delta (#6) - winner of this race last year, she is the class of the field..... no doubt, but faces some tough foes & will have to be on her "A" game to become a repeat champion!



My Miss Aurelia (#2) - had a abbreviated three year old season starting late with only two starts, both though were very good & the talent remains from her excellent juvenile season, may be the leader of this class next year!



Exotic & multi-race runners : Awesome Feather - Love and Pride

AC @ FL ....... and a winners circle photo!!!!

In just one week is the biggest racing event of the year; the Breeder's Cup World Championships, this year at Santa Anita Park. We've been watching all the prep races leading up to the 15 stake races next Friday and Saturday, with the 180 horses pre-entered announced this past Wednesday. It is the biggest two days in thoroughbred racing, but there are also other "big" days in the sport and this past Monday was a personal one for myself and a little partnership I know.

Last Thursday, just before I wrote my weekly column, I was notified via my Equibase Virtual Stable e-mail that Ausable Chasm would be racing at Finger Lakes Racetrack in western New York on Monday afternoon. It was her first start outside the NYRA race circuit and one that I've been waiting for several months. Our Dee Tee Stable color bearer had not seen the winner's circle since her 2nd career start over two years ago at Saratoga Race Course. Although she would show flashes of life last Fall and winter at Aqueduct on their Inner-track, she was way off form and desperately needed a change of scenery and class relief.

It looked like she would be shipping to Finger Lakes just before this summer's Saratoga meet. But, it wasn't until a few week's ago that she made the trip upstate and westward to the Farmington racetrack, twenty miles south east of Rochester New York. With her trip upstate, she would be conditioned by trainer; Michael LeCesse, currently the 4th leading at Finger Lakes in 2012.

Class wise, she was dropping from 20k claimer - non-winners of two races lifetime, to a 4,500 claimer same condition. Plus, she was going from turf to dirt and turning back a panel, sprinting (7 to 6 furlongs). Her last "decent" effort was on New Year's Day of this year, where she just missed underneath Jackie Davis on the Aqueduct Inner-track. That was 11 starts ago and in that time, was only once under double digit odds.

So, it was only natural off her form that the Finger Lakes odds maker had her at 20-1 morning line odds. But, I thought otherwise and knew that she fit with this group and at this track. So, Karen and I made the trip late Sunday night to Victor N.Y. only 15 minutes from the track. It was a beautiful Fall day in western New York , warm and sunny and I was quite confident that Ausable Chasm would improve in her new surroundings.


I met up with one of the partners of the group and a friend of his and the four of us made it toward the paddock and little winners circle near the finish line. The first "flash" on the tote board she was at 3-2 odds, dropping from the high 20-1 morning line. The horses at Finger Lakes make their way to the paddock, coming down the track and up by the finish line. That's where I saw her and knew that she was sharp and "on her toes". Going off at final odds of 7-2 (3rd choice in a 8 horse field), she broke sharply just off the "speed" of the race; the even money favorite; Miss Directed.

On the far turn, she blew past the leader and drew off to a two & a half length victory. She finally found the winner's circle for her 2nd career victory in 27 lifetime starts. It took a LONG time, but was well worth it. The class relief was needed and also the change of sceneray under new connections. It was a happy winner's circle photo with me, Karen, Dave, Bill and trainer/ jockey. It was so nice that this little filly, found herself back to good form and a victory. It's something I thought could happen and I was right about it (for once!). Picking "winners" and cashing tickets, is a great feeling. But, getting that "winner's circle" photo is even better!

My take on the future of thoroughbred racing in the Empire State

It's been quite a while since I wrote a column just giving my thoughts on the sport I've loved for over twenty five years, thoroughbred racing. The memories throughout the years, have had their ups and downs. I went from a casual observer, to a public handicapper and columnist. I've learned a lot about the sport, through following it on a daily basis and the teaching's of the experts that have been around long before I wagered my first $2.00 bet. I've been blessed for all the good fortunes that I've achieved though hard work and learning the sport from following it. Living only 45 minutes from the " Mecca " of thoroughbred racing; Saratoga , I've been fortunate to see the BEST that thoroughbred racing has to offer. But, even though I had these blessings, the sport in my opinion has changed very much and in my eyes, not for the better.

It's been an on going "soap opera" in New York with the New York Racing Association (NYRA). For almost ten years, and four governors, thoroughbred racing has been in a whirl world of controversy. An organization on the brink of bankruptcy, the state has bailout out NYRA on several occasions and NOW is under full control by the state and governor's office. New rules and regulations were set in forth last week and a new appointed ruling board has been put in place by Governor Cuomo. A large board with many names who really do not have much expertise on thoroughbred racing. Hand picked by the governor, one wonders whether the "best interests" of thoroughbred racing are really the utmost importance in Governor Cuomo's world of thoroughbred racing.

I've never been sold on the true aspirations of what Governor Cuomo wants thoroughbred racing to be New York . He talks a good game and says he has the best interests in the sport and I guess since he is governor and now the state runs NYRA, we have to believe him and take his word. But, the last thing I want to see is the "on track" sport of New York 's thoroughbred racing damaged because of political shenanigans.

As I've said in the past, NYRA's problems were created by themselves. Years of mismanagement and mistrust of the public has damaged it's reputation. With the organization being a non-profit and taking public funds, the state has had a watchful eye over it. Governor Cuomo has taken full reign over thoroughbred racing in the state and hopefully he's not only taking in consideration of getting the sport more reputable, but also keeping the world class aspect of the sport "on track".

Thoroughbred racing has been a declining game sport for several years. The introduction of VLT's and casinos in our state has been the money maker for the gambling revenue the last ten to fifteen years. While attendance and handle has dipped in two of the three NYRA tracks. All this puts the thoroughbred racing in New York at a crossroads. The goal is to make NYRA good in the public's eyes and also to bring the revenue to the state's coffers. But, with NYRA's past record, it's going to be another entity running thoroughbred racing in New York for a while.

This crucial time for racing in New York and the direction the sport will be going in the future. It is my hope that the governor and this new appointed board will do everything in it's power to continue the top level of thoroughbred racing that New York has been the leader in throughout the years. But, I remain very skeptical of the governor's true intentions of what he wants racing in the Empire State , hopefully I'm dead wrong. Only time will tell and the real results will be "on track".

New rules put forth ....... to improve racing in New York!

This past week, the New York State Racing and Wagering board approved new sets of rules in response to the reported high number of thoroughbred break downs at NYRA this past winter. The changes will provide more disclosure to the public on the use of corticosteroids and other types of substances that can mask the pain in thoroughbreds. This should provide greater safety to horses in lower claiming races also. With the recent increase in purses on the NYRA circuit do to the VLT revenue at Aqueduct, there more lower level thoroughbreds racing for bigger purses versus higher quality racehorses. This is thought for the increase breakdown rate last winter at Aqueduct.

These rules changes will serve as a model for all racing jurisdictions and will significantly increase the safety of horses and riders. Here are the rule changes, set forth by the task force committee on horse race health and safety. Rule one; "Allowing voiding of claims of horses that are vanned off the track after a race, requiring disclosure of corticosteroid administrations and drug treatments to stewards and claimants, expanding the Racing and Wagering Board’s out-of-competition drug testing program, implementing stricter and lengthier time frames for the administration of corticosteroids and Clenbuterol before a race." These new rulings will apply to all thoroughbred racing in New York State ; including Saratoga Race Course, Aqueduct Racetrack, Belmont Park and Finger Lakes Race Track.

This also includes; Voiding a claim for a horse that is vanned off the track, within one hour of the race. The existing rule where a claim is voided if a claimed horse dies on the track remains in place. Providing proof to the claimant of a horse shall be notified, within 48 hours after the claim is finalized, of any corticosteroid administrations to the horse within 30 days of the race and providing that the trainer shall maintain accurate records of all corticosteroid joint injections to horses trained by them.

The leader of the state racing and wagering board, chairman of the task force on racehorse health and safety and Chief Operating Officer of The Jockey Club all alluded these new rules and changes for the betterment of the sport. It's the first of many thoroughbred related rulings that Governor's office has set forth to improve the racing image in New York . This and the ongoing saga of NYRA has gotten the attention of many state officials, especially the governor. While these new measures will improve the safety of thoroughbreds, riders and owners claiming horses; the main reason it was brought to light was because of the increased purses in low level claiming races. Cheaper horses running for higher purses, will the future not bode well for the lower level claiming races then?

The VLT money from Aqueduct has been a great benefit to the horseman in New York . Increased purses means more trainers and owners will come to NYRA tracks. But at NYRA's lowest levels, there many be caution in the future with high purses and not so healthy horses. Monies may be cut for the lowest level claimers in fear that in will promote unhealthy horses entered. With the new safety rules, this may be eliminated. But, horses do breakdown and with racing year round in New York and under severe weather conditions, the fatality rate may continue. So even with the new rules enacted, thoroughbred racing may still be under the microscope in the future in New York and the almighty dollar will come into question.

Keeneland & Belmont - Mile Turf / 2yr.old preps!

The march toward the Breeder's Cup continues today with key two year old races and turf runners pointing toward the Breeder's Cup Turf Mile. The Keeneland (7th) is the First Lady Handicap a mile on the grass for filly and mares. The race may produce a few runners for either the Breeder's Cup Mile (turf) or the Filly & Mare Turf. Here the match will be between Tapitsfly (#2) and Hungry Island (#4). Both are graded stakes winners on grass at a mile and rivals versus each other four times together this year. But, there is two dangerous opponents they will face and they are also top notch distaff turf runners. Summer Soiree (#5) is making her second start off a layoff and Daisy Devine (#6) returns off a May layoff when she had four race win streak snapped. These four will be tough here and the selections are a "box" of 2/4/5/6.

The Shadwell Turf Mile (9th) at Keeneland has possibly the BEST turf horse in the country. Wise Dan (#5) recently won both the grade I - Woodbine Mile and Fourstardave Handicap at Saratoga . He undoubtedly is the "horse to beat" here and my top selection. Horses that rate a upset chance to beat him and can be used underneath with this talented runner are; Doubles Partner (#2) coming off a short layoff, lightly raced; Corporate Jungle (#3) second behind my top pick at Saratoga, Data Link (#7) winner here in spring going this distance for Shug McGaughey and Silver Max (#10) turning back in distance and is a speedy front runner. Numbers here are: 5 with 7/10 with 2/3/11.

At Belmont , three year olds go a mile & a eighth on the weeds in the Jamaica Handicap (9th). All this spring and summer I've been high on the three year old runner named; Summer Front (#5) trained by Christophe Clement. I throw out his last race at Arlington Park in the mile and a quarter Secretariat Handicap, he does not to want to go that far and today is my top selection. Dullahan (#3) is the underlay morning line favorite at 4-5, I'll use him ONLY in my third & fourth slots. For second I'll use the lightly raced European invader; Cogito (#4) making his first U.S. start and Howe Great (#7) who has raced against my top choice this year. The numbers here are: 5 with 4/7 with 1/2/3.

Also at Belmont today are two major two year old stakes both for the fillies and colts. First in the Frizette Stakes (#7) at a mile, we have a prohibited 2-5 favorite in Dreaming of Julia (#7) who has won both of her two lifetime starts by over 27 lengths. I won't try to beat her and she'll be my top selection and likely favorite for the Breeder's Cup Juvenile Fillies race with a victory today. Toasting (#1) is my second selection from the rail and has won at this distance, over the track in her last start. The numbers in this short field are: 7 with 1 with ALL for third & fourth positions.

The boys go in the Champagne Stakes (8th) in a short, evenly matched field with three Pletcher runners. Here I'll go with a price in Bern Identity (#6) who was third recently in the Hopeful Stakes at Saratoga . He was a sharp winner of the Sanford Stakes in his start before and is a nice 15-1 on the morning line. For second, I find it hard to separate the three Todd Pletcher runners; Shanghai Bobby (#2) Archwarrior (#4) and Micromanage (#7) so the numbers for this grade I event are: 6 with 2/4/7 with ALL in the 3rd and 4th spots.

Super Saturday 2012 @ Belmont Park - selections

Today is NYRA's Super Saturday, six graded stakes worth 3.4 million dollars make up the Belmont card in races 5th through 10th. We have sprinters, milers, distaff runners, older handicap foes and two route races on the weeds. These races will play an important role leading up to this year's Breeder's Cup at Santa Anita Park on November 2nd & 3rd. Today's card might be this biggest of the year at any NYRA racetrack.



We start in race #5 - the Beldame Invitational Handicap for filly & mare distaffers going a mile and a eighth. It's a rematch between Royal Delta and It's Tricky from the Personal Ensign Stakes at Saratoga, when both horses were defeated by Love and Pride. It comes down between the two favorites once again and I'm leaning toward Royal Delta slightly over It's Tricky. Go Unbridled & Cash for Clunkers are my exotic and multi-race plays. Numbers for the 5th race; 3/6 with 1/4/2.



The Kelso Stakes (6th) is a one turn mile on the dirt (formally contested on grass). Horses in this race will mostly likely be pointed for the Breeder's Cup Mile or possibly the Classic. Again, it comes down between the two favorites in the race; To Honor and Serve & Shackleford. My slight edge goes to To Honor and Serve coming off his Woodward Stakes victory. Shackleford will HOPEFULLY rebound off his dull effort in AG Vanderbilt going 6 furlongs in the mud at Saratoga. Horses to use underneath; Jersey Town & Tapizar. Numbers for race 6th : 5/6 with 3/4/8.



Sprinters go next in race #7 - the Vosburgh Invitational at six furlongs. In this wide open event, my top selection returns off a slight layoff and turns back in distance. The Lumber Guy was last seen in early May prepping for the Belmont Stakes in the Peter Pan Stakes here going a mile & an eighth. Today he returns to the races, turns back in distance and faces older foes for the first time. For second; Sean Avery is as a consistent sprinter as they come; even though he's had racing gaps throughout his career. Underneath these two runners, I'll be using; Royal Currier & Caixa Electronia. Numbers for race #7 : 1 with 7/8/5.



The first of two stake races on the weeds is for the ladies in the Flower Bowl Invitational (8th) a mile and a quarter on the inner turf course. Going with a runner that has some European flavor and a recent winner here stateside. I'm a Dreamer shipped in to Arlington and won the Beverly D. Handicap last time out and handles soft or yielding turf expected today. Zagora is my second selection and is a hard hitting mare that should have no problem with this marathon distance. Exotic & multi-race runners to include are; Hit It Rich & Hessonite. Numbers for race #8 : 4/7 with 3/2/1.



It's the boys turn on the weeds and going a quarter of the mile longer in the Joe Hirsch Turf Classic Invitational (9th). The Shug McGaughey runner; Point of Entry is my top pick & BEST BET in today's six stake races. Winner of four straight races (three stakes) he loves these marathon distances and the ONLY question here is whether he'll take to the "off" turf going. For second and the "horse to beat" is the speed of the race; Little Mike. Last time out in the Arlington Mile, for the first time in his career he won beyond the mile & an eighth distance: today he tries a mile and a half. A longshot to use with my two top picks; Finnegan's Wake, numbers for race #9 : 2/4 with 6.



The main event of today's race card is the Jockey Club Gold Cup (10th) at a mile and a quarter, a prep for the Breeder's Cup Classic. My top selection goes from the rail and gets the mile and a quarter distance he won at in the Santa Anita Handicap. Ron the Greek came from far back in the Whitney Handicap to gain 2nd, today he goes further and tries to win off a second place finish, which is a pattern he has done three times before (2nd then 1st). For second; Fast Falcon has been rallying in three out of four last races, including a fast closing 3rd at 32-1 in the Travers. Maybe today, he'll get victory for the "cold" Nick Zito barn! Underneath my top two picks will be; Hymn Book & Atigun. The numbers for 10th : 1/7 with 4/6/5.

Late season 3 yr. old rivalry @ PARX!

Rivalries are part of thoroughbred racing on many levels. When it comes to three year old runners, usually the Triple Crown series highlights them. We thought that we would have a good one after this year's Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. I'll Have Another and Bodemeister ran one/two in those races and there was great anticipation for the "rubber game" rematch in the Belmont Stakes. But, Bodemeister skipped the race and I'll Have Another's Triple Crown bid was halted when he scratched the day before the race and disappointed millions. We know now, both horses have been retired and the possibly of a rivalry match up with any three year old horse at this point would be moot. Well, think again!



This year's Travers Stakes - the Mid-Summer Derby, lost a lot of luster with all of the major three year old Triple Crown runners either hurt or retired before the race. That left a evenly matched field of second string three year olds, new shooters and Alpha, the winner of the Jim Dandy Stakes. He had the most talent and "back class" of the group assembled. As far as the "new shooter" group, was one runner with very little Triple Crown racing experience. In the Travers, he was getting the "acid" test and was a longshot, spite his connections. This runner was Golden Ticket, trained by Ken McPeek and took six tries even before he broke his maiden. So, this unlikely matched up was never on the radar in the Travers Stakes as a future "rivalry" between three year olds.

But, after the "dead heat" finish after the mile and a quarter event, a new and interesting grouping had developed. In fact, right after the race there was the anticipated match up we have today in the running of the Pennsylvania Derby at PARX racetrack. The winning favorite of the Travers; Alpha with the winning longshot in the same race; Golden Ticket will knock heads again versus six others going a mile and an eighth in this grade II event for three year olds. We usually don't see such a high profile three year old race this late in the season, but with the show these put on at Saratoga, it may give hope to resurrect a group of sophomores who class looked doomed after the Belmont Stakes. But, will the rivalry bloom off the Travers or will another step forward in the class?

The rail horse; Stephanoatsee (#1) won an optional off-the-turf claimer at Delaware Park in his last start versus three foes coming off a January layoff. Well thought of early this year, he can move forward off that effort.....but will have to improve very much to beat the top two, he a longshot to use underneath in exotics. Casual Trick (#2) has come into his own since coming to PARX and winning both his races here, he faced "better" horses also earlier this year and is a must use too! Handsome Mike (#3) only shows a maiden victory and that was on turf, no shot here. Junebugred (#5) was a longshot in the Smarty Jones Stakes, a prep for today and was a no factor 4th, pass on him. Csaba (#7) is an interesting runner here who two starts back in the off-the-turf Hall of Fame Stakes at Saratoga , ran a sharp 2nd in the slop going this distance, consider here. Macho Macho (#8) recently won the West Virginia Derby at Mountaineer and has been consisted in all of his seven lifetime starts. My selections for the Pennslyannia Derby are; Alpha (#4) Casual Trick (#2) Csaba (#7) and Macho Macho(#8), mix these four up in your superfecta plays and key the longer price runners "over" Alpha.

As many of you know, I always enjoy talking about I was introduced to this sport and the people who helped along the way. One of the first times I ever saw just what the OTB television network looked like was I was just a young boy. It was in my hometown in Fort Plain and every few weeks, I would see and hear horse racing on that blue & white TV screen at the local barber shop. My mom would bring me and my brother to Floyd's Barber Shop on Main Street . There, while getting my hair cut, Floyd would be listening to the race calls on the TV in his shop. Those were the days when the was only the race call and morning line odds on the screen. Floyd Salvagni passed away this week at the age of 95, he was just one part of how I was introduced to thoroughbred racing. It was just a little part, but one I remembered all these years!

Woodbine "Win and your in!" Sunday

We head a bit north this weekend, to Woodbine Race just outside of Toronto Canada for their Sunday stakes race card. Four stake races on their legendary turf course and polytrack racing surface. I had the opportunity a few years back to attend the races at their beautiful racing facility. It was on closing weekend in 2000, unfortunately the races came off the turf, but the course is unique because the main turf course is the first track outside the rail. Most racetracks, the turf courses are inside the dirt or polytrack courses. In the grandstand, the upper deck seating is like a balcony over hanging the E.P. Taylor turf course. It is one of the most beautiful racetracks in the world and tomorrow's races have a big impact on the upcoming Breeder's Cup at Santa Anita.

The first race comes in the 5th - the Canadian Stakes going a mile & a eighth on the turf. Nine are entered, with no clear cut favorite. My top selection is on the far outside post; Kapitale (#9). Her last start was at Arlington Park in the grade I - Beverly D. Stakes racing a mile & three sixteenths on the weeds. She rallied for 4th at 25-1 with a late charge shipping in from Europe . Today she meets an evenly match field and gets the call. For 2nd, All Star Heart (#5) has been holding her own with a fine record Southern California just missing in her last start at this distance for Hall of Fame trainer; Ron McAnally. Horse to use underneath in the exotics are; Laughing (#2) & Barefoot Lady (#4) .

Race #7 is the Ontario Derby for three year olds going a mile & an eighth on the polytrack surface. My exacta box pick here is a pretty well known duo from this year's Triple Crown trail here in the states. Prospective (#6) and Steelcase (#7) both saw action during this year and Prospective is a perfect 3 for 3 over the Woodbine surface. Steelcase is the uncoupled entry with Prospective and came out of the grade I - Travers Stakes in his last start. Horses to use underneath my top two picks are; River Rush (#2) & Any Given Royal (#9).

The next two stake races are both on the rich Woodbine turf, first up is the mile & a half Northern Dancer Turf Stakes race #8. Top pick here is Wigmore Hall (#7) who recently race again here stateside in the Arlington Million and was no factor. He won this race a year ago as the favorite. For 2nd, the local 10 year old gelding; Musketier (#6) who loves this marathon distance. Exotic & multi-race runners to use underneath; Scalo (#4) and old reliable; Al Khali (#4).

The feature race of Sunday's Woodbine Stakes card is the one mile turf test, the Woodbine Mile. A major prep race for this year's Breeder's Cup Mile on the grass. The prohibited favorite and my top selection is Wise Dan (#3) who was brilliant in the Fourstardave Stakes at Saratoga by five lengths on a yielding course going this distance. For 2nd place, European invader; Cityscape (#7) gets the call and possibly at a price from his off- form overseas efforts. Horses to use in your exactas, triples and superfecta plays are; Hollinger (#8) and Big Band Sound (#5).

That's a wrap on Saratoga 2012!

Another Saratoga racing meet in the books! We had 40 days of 417 races, which were a record of any past Saratoga race meet. That's 20 more races than in 2011, which in turn made the overall handle rise than the pervious year. The was no doubt that the upstate Saratoga weather was the best in recent years. Not too hot and with little bad weather that effect the grass racing. Sometimes although, NYRA did jump the gun with taking races off-the-turf when there was just a little rain felt (August 17th - Friday, 10th race finale). There was plenty of "cheaper" races this year, lots of "beaten" claimer races usually for 20k. I guess you'll see plenty of these races when, 37 of the 40 days have 10+ races each day.



I have never seen so many nine-plus race cards in the 26 years that I've been going to Saratoga . Way too many races, in my opinion! With advent of VLT money for the NYRA races, purses have ballooned to an all time high. Unfortunately, bigger purse mean cheaper horses running with more opportunities. Great for the small-time horseman on the NYRA circuit, especially during the long Aqueduct Inner-track meet. But, when it comes to Saratoga and the "best" thoroughbred racing in the world, this causes a problem.



When I started following thoroughbred racing in the mid 80's, the Saratoga meet was the "August, place to be". But with life, things change throughout the years. I've seen the historic Saratoga meet bloom from 24 days to 40. From nine races a day, to ten or more. From the "lowest" claiming level from 35k to 20k and even lower in recent years, BEFORE the added VLT monies. Thank god that the Recorder is a morning newspaper and that NYRA post entries early. If not, my job handicapping would be even tougher!



The trend of "more" racing at Saratoga is a disturbing one. It seems that the "powers to be" are more concern with the money wagered, than the quality and traditional races that made Saratoga the premier thoroughbred racing meet in the world. Is this because, NYRA has it's back to the wall with the state of New York and it's governor? These are questions I've been asking myself, since the change in regime in the New York Racing Association earlier this year. If the "state" decides to conduct Saratoga thoroughbred racing from July 4th to Labor Day next year, six days a week like Saratoga has been for years, here would be the schedule; racing would start on a Thursday in 2013. The total amount of days between then and Labor Day on a six day week would be; 53 racing days. If NYRA went to a five day race meet (like Aqueduct & Belmont) it would be 45 days. That would be a bit easier to digest, but 10.4 races a day (in 2012 for 40 days) would be 468 races for the meet or 51 more races! Really, is this what the "state" wants Saratoga racing to become?

Don't get me wrong, the Saratoga thoroughbred race meet, means the world to me. I've looked forward to when the races comes north from Belmont each year since 1986. But, if racing becomes like Aqueduct during the winter months with the extension from July 4th until Labor Day, this guy will sit on the sidelines for most of the meet!

My Saratoga final totals for the 2012 racing meet are as follows; 102 winners out of 416 races with a ROI of $623 on a $2.00 wager of "top" selection winners. My "Horse to Beat" Play of the Day had 8 winners, 8 places and 4 show winners out of 38 races.

The 2012 TRAVERS - who would have thought????

It's the home stretch week of the 2012 Saratoga meet; we've had good weather, LOTS of races to bet and saw some unique things during the past 40 days. Well, not quite 40 yet,! But with the 10+ race days the whole meet, it's seem like two months worth of racing! I know that I sound like a "broken record" but, more isn't better and the true fans of the sport would see quality instead of quantity. Never the less, NYRA got the 13 race Travers Day card done in good time last Saturday. The stakes races were of high quality and both the King's Bishop & Travers were good paying out results. Along with that, this year's Travers had a flair of history at the finish. Something if you told me the result, I wouldn't have believed you!

The "wide open" Travers field this year had the Jim Dandy winner; Alpha as it's lukewarm favorite. There was only one other horse that would have paid under a $10 mutual (Nonios 3-1) but almost half the field of 11 - (5 runners) were over 20-1 longshot "bombers". This show just how wide open of a Travers it was, much like I thought it would be. The "speed" in the race came for two of these longshots, Speightcity and Golden Ticket. The latter had very little graded stakes experience, but got the ideal trip. The same could be said for the "lukewarm" favorite; Alpha. He rarely runs a bad race and is usually on or near the lead. This was true in the off-track Jim Dandy Stakes victory and last week, he got the "garden" trip again. But, he likes to "loaf" around when he gets the lead. Some say he gets lazy and it could cost him the race. But, we all saw what was going to happen next.

Who would have thought, a longshot Nick Zito runner by the name of Fast Falcon, would be flying late and get Alpha to re-engage in the running and get his nose on the wire first. That would be TWO noses on the wire first. Because, the lightly experienced; Golden Ticket dug in deep and just missed being the outright owner of that Travers trophy and the infield canoe painted in his stable colors. It's was truly a site to see when the dead heat red bar on the tote board, came on. A Travers Stakes moment in thoroughbred history, the 1st DEAD HEAT in this race. With such a crazy three year old season, with almost all of the major winners of stake races either hurt or retired, we get this bizarre result.

As far as the three year old championship picture though, the outcome of this year's Travers Stakes most likely will not have any bearing when the voting comes around. Alpha is a nice three year old runner, but a "dead heat" doesn't move him into even one of the top five best sophomore runners of this year. Golden Ticket came into his own with his finish. But, he could become another; Afleet Express or one of the recent Kentucky Derby winners; Mine That Bird, Super Saver or Animal Kingdom and have their ONLY claim, one big grade I race victory. The "leader" and most likely champion will be I'll Have Another with his duel Triple Crown race victories. But, those by today's standards do not even put him in the same class as Smarty Jones or even Big Brown.....in my opinion.

One thing I give kudos to NYRA for doing this past Saturday for the Travers Stakes card was moving the 13 race card along at a good pace. The hour and a half earlier start was key (11:35am). Getting all those races done at a decent time (6:30) and having the Travers run in the 5:30 to 6:00 hour is how it should be done ALL the time! It's important to have thoroughbred racing televised, I know. But, the networks could try to get in the "traditional" 5 to 6 time slot for east coast racing......just saying!

Saratoga...Travers... History... REALITY!

Today is the "Mid Summer's Derby ", the Travers Stakes. One of the oldest races for three year old runners, which is at one of the oldest racetracks in America; Saratoga. A race that is deep with tradition and history. Every year, the third week in August, the thoroughbred world eyes are on Saratoga Springs , New York and this mile and a quarter event. The race is as big as ever, with four of the five local Albany market television stations hosting a Travers preview show, on Travers eve (last night). The "hype" surrounding this race locally is huge, especially with the success of the Saratoga meet the past 30 years or so. But, thoroughbred racing is at a crossroads in this country and especially in the state of New York . While racing is still good in New York and at Saratoga , the future could be quite interesting.

The saga of NYRA and New York State government has gone on for nearly 10 years. The "up and downs" have been documented in the media, with most times unfavorable light placed on NYRA. With the VLT's in place at Aqueduct, purses have risen the horseman and the state should be happy. But, yet a cloud hangs over the powers that run thoroughbred racing in this state. It's affected the Saratoga race meet in little ways this year. The state and NYRA have carded much more daily racing than ever. Through the first 30 days of the 2012 meet, there have been only two nine race cards. We have seen a large amount of beaten claimer races, especially for 20,000 (the lowest amount race) at the Spa.

With today's Travers Stakes, the sign of the times with the way thoroughbred horses train and race is more visible than ever. We have plenty of two year old races during the Saratoga . Most of the juvenile races that used to start in Mid-April are now starting later in June or even at Saratoga . The modern day trainers don't want to race the young horses much as two year olds. With that said, most horses going into the Triple Crown events the next year, have very little foundation. The Kentucky Derby in recent years has looked more like a non-winners of two allowance race. For the first time in recent years, we do not have a Triple Crown race winner in the Travers Stakes.

Both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness winners and runner-up has been retired (I'll Have Another & Bodemeister) also the Belmont Stakes winner and runner-up are not racing today (Union Rags 'retired' & Paynter 'injured') In the field of 11 Travers runners this year, only five have had Triple Crown - grade I experience. The only one that even hit the board was Atigun (3rd in the Belmont ) With large lackluster fields like in 1990 (Rhythm) 2000 (Unshaded) 2008 (Colonel John) and 2010 (Afleet Express) this year may top those races.

I see a group of three year old horses assembled that are very close to each other in talent. This makes for a great betting affair where the favorite should be no lower than 3-1. But, this is Saratoga "the crown jewel of racing" we should have had at least a one of the Triple Crown race winners. In past Travers, horseman pointed for this event. The importance of this race today, really doesn't bare much with the Fall stake races leading up to the Breeder's Cup. Also in the past, Saratoga 's rich tradition was upheld with 24 days of great racing and 9 race cards most of those 24 days. That has also changed. So, what I fell in love with 25 years ago, has evolved into something much more different. The buildings and history still remains during the race meet. But, the horses and tradition has changed. Too many races, race days and quality horses have gone to the wayside. But, like after one race is finished, there always a next one! Only it just doesn't have the same feeling......anymore.

Mark Hoffman's 2012 graded Travers Stakes selections

Street Life (#5) Lezcano / Brown (5-1)

My favorite three year old colt of 2012 won the restricted Curlin Stakes here on a sloppy, sealed track as a prep for this race, I always said that the longer he goes, the better chance he has for victory, unfortunately this race lacks speed.....he'll have to be on his "A" game to show his late closing kick.



Alpha (#6) Dominguez / McLaughlin (5-2)

Got an easy lead and wired the field in the Jim Dandy Stakes, he may get the same chance to do it again, the BIG difference today is that he'll be racing an eighth of a mile more, legitimate favorite.



Fast Falcon (#11) Alvarado / Zito (20-1)

No factor in the Jim Dandy Stakes, may have not cared for the sloppy racing surface, his two Belmont races show me that he has a good late kick, should have no problem getting the mile and a quarter distance, gets the Zito respect in this race....at a price!



Nonios (#10) Velazquez / Hollendorfer (4-1)

2nd best in the Swaps Stakes and Haskell with triple digit Beyer speed figures in both races, can set the perfect stalking trip, let's see if he takes to the Saratoga strip!



Neck n' Neck (#8) Goncalves / Wilkes (9-2)

Chased Alpha around the track in the Jim Dandy Stakes, his two previous races at Churchill Downs gave him big figures, gets the mid-pack trip.



Five Sixteen (#2) Napravnik / Schettino (15-1)

Was 2nd best behind Street Life in the Curlin Stakes, was a nice price to fill out my exacta there, Rosie stays aboard this runner.



Atigun (#7) Smith / McPeek (12-1)

No factor in the Jim Dandy Stakes, even 3rd in the Belmont Stakes and Mike Smith new in the irons today, chance to hit the board.



Golden Ticket (#3) Cohen / McPeek (20-1)

Late entrant to the race, 2nd best on the Derby day undercard in optional claimer, another who be close to the pace, gets the "acid" test today versus this group.



Stealcase (#4) Bridgmohan / Casse (15-1)

No factor in the Haskell at Monmouth Park finishing a well beaten 3rd, hard to tell what running style he'll have today, last two showed no early foot & three starts back was much closer to the pace, big longshot.



Liaison (#9) Bejarano / Baffert (8-1)

The last Baffert three year old runners standing....... he was well thought of as a juvenile, but really never panned out, I would be SHOCKED if he gets Baffert a win today over his stablemates who are NOT here; Bodemeister & Paynter.



Speightcity (#1) Ortiz / Contessa (30-1)

Hasn't been seen since the Withers Stakes......in February! returning off that long layoff and had the distinction to win a mile & an eighth route race here as a two year old last year, very tough spot for return!

The Alabama Stakes...... just as big as The Travers!

Considered by some racing historians as the most revered and tradition rich stake race for fillies, the Alabama Stakes run today is just as popular to the male counterpart next weekend; The Travers Stakes. The second oldest continually run race for females (The Ladies Handicap is the oldest - 1868) the Alabama was first contested in 1872, when August Belmont 's Woodbine, won the first running. A staple on the Saratoga stakes schedule, during World War II is was relocated to Belmont Park . The race was originally named after William Cottrell of Mobile , Alabama . Cottrell was to modest to have a race named after him, so it was re-named after the state he was from; Alabama . I tried to find out more information on Mr. Cottrell, but none was found, expect he was a big thoroughbred horse racing fan.

The Alabama had many famous fillies win this race throughout it's long history. Many of these winners also have had races named after them; Gamely, Tempted, Busanda, Vagrancy, Top Flight, Maskette and Beldame. This three year old race for fillies has become the third and final leg of the American Triple Tiara, with the Acorn Stakes and Coaching Club American Oaks the first two legs. The mile and a quarter distance has been the mainstay distance for this event for most of it's 144 runnings.

The 1987 edition of the Alabama Stakes was the first grade I event that I witness in person at Saratoga, 25 years ago. That year, Up the Apalachee was the upset winner. She paid $15.80 and defeated the D.Wayne Lukas entry of Without Feather & Fiesta Gal who went off at 2-5. Also in the field that year was Kentucky Oaks winner; Buryyourbelief who was owned by local connections, Dana Bray Jr. Trainer Shug McGaughey has won this race four times (Classy Cathy, Versailles Treaty, Heavenly Prize & Pine Island ) and I was in attendance for Pine Island 's impressive victory and last Alabama Stake I saw in person. Hall of Fame trainer; H. Allen Jerkens won back-to-back editions in 1992 & 1993 with Sky Beauty and November Snow and again in 2004 with Society Selection. Jockey's Mike Smith and Jerry Bailey won three straight Alabama Stakes, with a grand total of five wins for Bailey and four for Smith in it's history.

But, the most memorable Alabama Stakes that I witness was in 1999, when the great filly; Silverbulletday won by nine lengths on a drizzly Saturday afternoon. It was quite a sight to see her demolish the field and go on that year to win top honors as the best three year old filly with a Eclipse Award. It was also one of the best days I had handicapping with six winners out of ten races. This year's Alabama Stakes attracts a field of seven three year old fillies: the Black Eyed Susan winner; In Lingerie; who recently finished third in the Coaching Club American Oaks, Uptown Bertie; the Iowa Oaks winner at Prairie Meadows, Zo Impressive; winner of the Mother Goose Stakes at Belmont Park, Questioning; who won the Coaching Club American Oaks here on opening weekend & Grace Hall; won the Delaware Oaks in her last start and was third in the Kentucky Oaks. But my top selection is from a trainer who was already mention as a top conditioner in this race. Sea Island; trained by Shug McGaughey recently won a optional claimer here going a mile and a eighth at 15-1. Today, in her toughest race to date, she stretches out a eight of a mile more and comes into the race with a bullet work at the Saratoga training track. My second selection is the "horse to beat" and class of the field; Grace Hall. Her 105 Beyer speed figure is the best in this field.