NYRA Holidayfest selections ....... the ATP finale for 2011

With this being the last "big" graded stakes weekend in New York and the last "At the Post" column for 2011, we are going to do a old fashioned handicapping selections for the four stake races on the Aqueduct card. We have two evenly matched stake races for the two year old colts and fillies, plus a three year old stake for fillies and the last grade I on the NYRA circuit for 2011. The four stake races comprise the popular "Grand Slam" wager at NYRA, where you choose a horse to finish "in-the-money" the first three legs of the wager (6th, 7th, 8th) and in the final leg (9th) your selection must win to complete the bet. I give out my top two selections in each race, horses to use in exotic & multi-race wagers and a Grand Slam play.



The first of the four stake races is for the two year old fillies; the Demoiselle at the route distance of a mile and a eighth. A field of 10 are entered with a entry and the group assembled has no standout runner. All of these runners are trying this distance for the first time in their career and breeding may play a big part in the outcome of this race. With that said, I'm selecting on top a runner who is bred to get the added distance of ground. Captivating Lass (#2) draws the rail and this is her second career start after breaking her maiden in debut at PARX going two turns. Her sire was AP Indy and dam was Folk, both were winners going two turns and this distance. Plus the Darley Stable connections mean business with future stakes runners. For 2nd, I'm going with another offspring of AP Indy racing from the far outside post; Indyniable (#9). She recently broke her maiden in a second career start at Keeneland going seven furlongs on the polytrack track surface. She tries dirt for the first time and stretches out. Disposablepleasure (#8) and Lady Cohiba (#1) are your exotic & multi-race runners.



The boys are up next in the Remsen Stakes; same distance, same number of runners and just as wide open. Again I'm going with a AP Indy runner who is a half brother to Preakness Stakes winner; Shackleford. Stephanoatsee (#6) after stumbling at the start, broke his maiden in his 2nd career start in a one mile off-the-turf event. His trainer knows how to get them to the winners circle with winning this year's Kentucky Derby with Animal Kingdom. In the runner-up spot, I'm selecting a horse who has already won at this distance. Speightscity (#9) was no factor in the Breeder's Cup Juvenile at 42-1, but broke his maiden at Saratoga in a rare mile and a eighth race. Managed Account (#7) and Our Entourage (#4) are the runners to use underneath.



The final grade I stake in New York is the Cigar Mile and this year we have a short elite field of seven entered with an entry that was scratched from Thanksgiving day's Fall Highweight race (Calibrachoa & Caixa Eletronica ). I'm going with the horse I picked just a few week's ago in the Breeder's Cup Classic; To Honor and Serve (#5). He tired at 10-1 with a good effort forwardly placed and has two victories over the Aqueduct main track. Haynesfield (#3) is the "horse to beat" and my 2nd choice. Second best in this race last year, he won the state bred Empire Classic in his last start.



The last of the four stake races is Gazelle Stakes for three year old fillies at the same distance as the Demoiselle and Remsen Stakes (mile & a eighth). Awesome Feather (#7) is my top selection coming off a return to the races victory at Belmont in a overnight stake. It was her first start of the year and first for new trainer Chad Brown. Draw It (#5) is my second pick and has finished as the runner-up four straight times, the logical place horse! Horses for exotic and multi-race runners are; R Gypsy Gold (#2) and Love and Pride (#8).



The Grand Slam ($1.00 plays) for the four stake races are the following; 2/9 - 4/6/7/9 - 5 -7 : ($8.00) 1/8 - 4/9 - 3/5 - 7 : ($8.00) 2 - 9 - 3/5 - 2/8 : ($4.00) total : ($20)

My thoughts of 2011 ........ and what could be improved for the future of racing!

With this being the second to last column for "At the Post" in 2011, I just want to give my "two cents" about the racing year to this point and direction it may be heading into 2011. I've been following the sport as you all well know, for 25 years. I missed the "heyday" of the mid 70's and started getting involved in a era of change. One of the major "changes" was the focus from "on track" attendance to the simulcast era. As I told you before, I can remember when there was just a "blue & white" screen at home from OTB and delayed race calls. Now, there are upwards of 30 tracks a day to choose from starting at noontime until the wee hours of the morning from Australia . At the branches, it's changed too. Many have closed or become "self-service" and the focus is on more online accounts through the computer. I got no problem with this wave. Everything you need is online, information is available from many places and it's much more easier with a click of a box to put in your wager and have the amount in your account. This direction is just fine with me.

The "on track" racing in general, must focus on less for the future. We have way too many racing dates, which makes small betting pools with the horse population down. The main focus should be in New York , March until the end of November. The racing dates after Thanksgiving weekend, should decrease. Personally, I think racing at NYRA during the winter months should only race three days a week (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) with ten race cards. In this day in age, the are plenty of opportunities for the low level, claiming trainers at places like PARX and other east coast tracks to race their runners. I don't usually play "day to day" from here until spring arrives. I know with the VLT's in place at Aqueduct, this will never happen. But, playing the same horses at the same level two or three times in a few weeks, it's my type of wagering excitement.

My biggest pet peeve this year is the way trainers bring their horses along the Triple Crown trail. It's gotten to the point that the Kentucky Derby is no different than an entry level non-winners of one race. In the past, solid two year old form meant something leading into next year. These days, it means nothing. A perfect example was this year's Triple Crown races and the horses that won them. Three different runners and the ONLY one three year old horse this year to win two grade I races; Caleb's Posse (King's Bishop & BC mile). No other horse could string two winning races in stakes all year long. Stay Twisty came the closet to that, but some say he's "just" a New York loving horse. At one time, the Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown races meant something. Today, that is another story.

Another thing that bothers me is the negative light on the sport from it's "high profile" players and not the horses. Whether it's Rick Dutrow or the stewards at Churchill Downs , these important individuals have to give a good light to our sport. If someone didn't known anything about thoroughbred racing and saw what goes on with said individuals, those people may steer clear of it. I know horse racing is not immune to controversy. But, people may think twice about investing their hard earned money into something they may think is shady.

But, all is not bad. We have the best race meet in the world for 40 days each year here in our own backyard; Saratoga. We get new people involved in the sport through partnership and owning horses. We have the BEST organization in wagering with Capital OTB. And most of all, we get to see the most exciting animals performance on track in giving us thrills each time they are in the spotlight. Other than those few things, I STILL love this sport!

Another exciting Breeder's Cup weekend!

This year’s Breeder’s Cup World Championships lived up to all the expectations and drama. The two day event had its share of stories, many quite surprising. What was “billed” as a showcase for the ladies and “over hyped” three year old colt, fell somewhat short of expectations. Even my prediction of a “euro” sweep in the turf races was a little bit off. But, one thing is for sure…..if you had the “right” horse on either day, you were quite well rewarded.

The six races on Friday, started out very good in the recently added “new” race; the Juvenile Sprint with an “odds-on” favorite winning from well known connections. One of three “cold” exactas chosen by me came out with Secret Circle at 2-5, dusting a field of young runners sprinting. I tabbed the European filly for second; Shumoos at 15-1. It was a modest $28 exacta and got the day off to a good start. After the next two races with longshots that I didn’t figure, we saw great performance from the two year old filly star; My Miss Aurelia. She remained undefeated with a score over another classy two year old filly; Grace Hall. It look’s like again next year that the “girls” will be the highlight makers with this performance. We ended Friday with an impossible longshot winning and a champion three year old filly that could make a slight case for Horse of the Year honors. In the Filly and Mare Turf, once again this year we had a longshot in Perfect Shirl victorious. Winless in 2011, she was one of two Woodbine shippers to do well during the weekend. In the “Ladies” Classic, it was another “cold” exacta picked by myself when Royal Delta bested fellow three year old; It’s Tricky ($32). With that victory, Royal Delta wrapped up top three year & older filly and mare championship honors.

The card on Saturday was a lesson of the “hard to come up with” horses with a parade of longshot winners. It started with the Marathon , were another “winless” horse for 2011 won the race. Rank outsider; Afleet Again paid $85 to win and was the first of many high price runners to score on the second championship day. My top pick in the Juvenile Turf (Wrote $25.20) got the Europeans finally in the win column. If you told me that the winner of the Turf Sprint would have been the ONLY winning favorite on the card Saturday, I wouldn’t have believed you. But, Regally Ready got the job done at just over 2-1.

My big score of the day was in the Dirt Mile, where the two three year olds that I picked ran one/ two for a $112.80 exacta. Caleb’s Posse, the only two-time grade I three year old winner this year, defeated Preakness longshot; Shackleford going away in the stretch. His effort was the most impressive of any on the 15 race Breeder’s Cup card either day. It was quite the “feel good” story with St. Nicholas Abbey won the Turf with trainer Aidan O’Brien’s eighteen year old son; Joseph aboard. Upset in the Juvenile was in order when the nearly “white” colt; Hansen ran away from the field and held off the very wide late charge of the even money favorite; Union Rags.

But, the “out of left field” or no chance in my book winner of the day was in the Turf Mile. With Goldikova and Gio Ponti the headliners, it was 64-1 longshot; Court Vision scoring with the second biggest upset in Breeder’s Cup history. I wrote about this horse in my first column of 2009 and said that he would be a “future” champion on grass. He never panned out that year or last year and saved the “future” prediction for today, long after I gave up on him and scored at this monster price. The parade of longshots lead up to the main event; the Breeder’s Cup Classic. Here it was to be a showdown of Havre de Grace and Uncle Mo. Instead it was between former jockeys in a relationship. Drosselmeyer who won the 2010 Belmont Stakes ran down Game On Dude at the wire and gave Mike Smith the victory over his former girlfriend; Chantal Sutherland. Once again, I had the wrong Bill Mott horse, as I liked To Honor and Serve in the race. It was a fitting end to a very pricey racing day where the "illogical "longshots won the championship races.

Mark Hoffman's 2011 Breeder's Cup selections - day #2 "Championship day" (11/5)

Breeder's Cup Marathon

Cease (#9) - lightly raced gelding broken his maiden at Saratoga by daylight in the mud, followed that up with a sloppy track win there and just missed in a grade II test at Hawthorne Park, taking a shot with him since he can lay close to the pace.

Harrison's Cove (#7) - European invader from the O'Brien barn tries natural dirt for the first time, shows he can get the distance after winning his last start going a marathon distance in a field of 18.

Exotic and multi-race runners : Brigantin - Eldaafer - A.U. Miner


Breeder's Cup Juvenile Turf

Wrote (#5) - European invader finished 3rd last time out in grade II event with a bit of trouble, morning line price is right & breeding with connections has got it!

State of Play (#14) - perfect 2 for 2 in career at Saratoga , hasn't raced in two months and far outside post is a bit of concern.

Exotic and multi-race runners : Lucky Chappy - Finale - Animal Spirits


Breeder's Cup Sprint

Euroears (#1) - throw out Vosburgh effort after poor start and no factor in the race, had a monster work at Santa Anita last Sunday (57.4) best of 67 at 5 furlongs, alert start this time he'll be tough to beat!

Jackson Bend (#5) - shows up here after deciding to skip the Dirt Mile, chased Uncle Mo last time out in the Kelso going a mile at Belmont, I'm not sure turning back to six panels is his best distance.....but is in razor sharp form.

Exotic and multi-race runners : Big Drama - Amazombie - Aikenite


Breeder's Cup Turf Sprint

Caracortado (#13) - this west coast runner turns back to this five furlong sprint distance today after closing in route turf races, with a quick dash in this race......his closing kick from the outside may run them down late.

Broken Dreams (#3) - this 5 yr.old mare comes into this race off a victory going slightly longer on the Santa Anita downhill turf course, she has closing kick too & is a "live" longshot in this wide open event.

Exotic and multi-race runners : Regally Ready - Havelock - Hoofit


Breeder's Dirt Mile

Caleb's Posse (#8) - even 3rd last time out in the Indiana Derby stretching back out after two sprint victories, faces older horses for the first time, timid selection here.

Shackleford (#2) - finished in front of top pick in same race, also faces older for the first time and should set the perfect trip behind the speed, dangerous here.

Exotic and multi-race runners : Trappe Shot - Jersey Town - Tapizar


Breeder's Cup Turf

Sea Moon (#7) - this lightly raced 3 yr.old recently finished 3rd in a group I event with a troubled trip, relishes a distance of ground & should be tough with clean trip.

Await the Dawn (#6) - distant 3rd behind some of Europe 's best turf runners (Twice Over & Midday), won previous four starts before that effort.

Exotic and multi-race runners : Sarafina - Midday - St. Nicholas Abbey


Breeder's Cup Juvenile

Union Rags (#10) - monster effort winning the Champagne Stakes going one turn at Belmont Park, this undefeated son of Dixie Union has been spectacular in his last two starts and is my BEST BET on today's Breeder's Cup card.

Daddy Long Legs (#11) - this European runner has dirt breeding on both sides and opts this spot over the Juvenile Turf one, price in this spot much like the other European runners in the Juvenile races.

Exotic and multi-race runners : Alpha - Crusade - Speightscity


Breeder's Cup Mile

Goldikova (#1) - the darling of the Breeder's Cup mares, is three for three stateside with three Breeder's Cup Mile victories, this will be her final career start and should go out a winner!

Courageous Cat (#3) - just missed last time out in the Woodbine Mile caught at the wire, lightly raced this year, he's been pointed to this race and should be a square price.

Exotic and multi-race runners : Gio Ponti - Byword - Strong Suit


Breeder's Cup Classic

To Honor and Serve (#13) - well thought of as a two year old and early into his 3 yr.old season, he got hurt and missed the Triple Crown races, he returned to the races at Saratoga and needed his first start back and then won for fun next out, recently won the Pennsylvania Derby and draws the far outside post today, may get overlooked here & certain to be a price!

Havre de Grace (#10) - the darling "filly" of the Breeder's Cup tries to emulate what Zenyatta did two years ago and become the third straight filly & mare possibly to win Horse of the Year with a victory in the Classic today, she should be right there......but, I question whether she can get the mile and a quarter distance. I will be rooting for her though!


Exotic and multi-race runners : Uncle Mo - Stay Thirsty - Flat Out

The 27th Breeder's Cup World Championships ...... one man's opinion!

Today is the World Series and Super Bowl of thoroughbred racing; the Breeder's Cup. Nine championship races today with 105 horses running on both dirt and grass going seven different distances. A lot to comprehend, a lot of days going over the pre-entries. With many horses cross entered, it just makes things even tougher. It's work going over each of the fields, but well rewarded even if you hit one race with payoffs. This is what we wait for all season and here it is.

The "ladies" had their day yesterday, unfortunately the filly and mares are regulated to the first day of the championships. This was mostly likely for when Zenyatta was racing and we had the Rachel Alexandra craze. Time to put the "Ladies Classic" back on the Saturday card and return the name of the race to the "distaff". We also have to get ALL the races shown "live" The first race of today; the Breeder's Cup Marathon, will not be shown on either ESPN or ABC. Instead, it will be shown on TVG which is only available by satellite. Hopefully, locally that Capital OTB television will show the race "live" since the major networks won't.

It's my opinion that the Europeans will make a BIG impact on this year's Breeder's Cup. They have a good chance in five of the nine races today. With trainer Aidan O'Brien having more starters in this year's Cup than Todd Pletcher, this should tell you something. The "Euros" are not afraid to run in the marathon, all the Juvenile races and are "head and shoulders" the best in the grass races. Even in the dirt races, many of their runners have "dirt" breeding. It wouldn't surprise me if the horses "across the pond" win possibly a half a dozen of the championship races.

We will see some new exciting faces for sure this weekend. Young runners like; Secret Circle, Elusive Kate, Grace Hall and My Miss Aurelia (from yesterday) and State of Play , Union Rags and Creative Cause today. Renaissance runners like; Jackson Bend, Get Stormy and the NY bred; Compliance Officer lead the way of horses who have gotten better this year. But, it's the different story lines with horses and people who capture the imagination every year at Breeder's Cup time.

Can Big Drama defend his Breeder's Cup Sprint title after being lightly raced this year and missing his last prep race before today? Just how big will be the payouts in the Turf Sprint race, since there is no clear cut favorite. My guess is a exacta half a grand with a double digit payout for the winner. Just who will get the lead in the Dirt Mile which is another evenly matched race for the middle distance horses. It would not surprise me if the Europeans cover the first four spots in the Breeder's Cup Turf. The lack of North American turf runners the past few years has moved this race from the second to last, to mid-card. But, the highlight today will come down between the two female runners in the two last races.

Goldikova and Havre de Grace are looking to make history today. In the Breeder's Cup Mile, Goldikova seeks her fourth straight victory in this race. No other horse has won this many Breeder's Cup races. She still is the "horse to beat" in that race and it will be her final career start. The Breeder's Cup Classic once again will have a "ladies" flavor for a third year in a row. It's Havre de Grace, won has already beaten the boys this year. She tries to beat them again and lock up Horse of the Year honors. We have many things and angles to choose from this year and most certainly we'll get exciting results.

Mark Hoffman's 2011 Breeder's Cup selections - day #1 "Ladies day" (11/4)

Breeder's Cup Juvenile Sprint

Secret Circle (#6) - this son of Eddington is two for two winning both starts by a combined 12 and a half lengths, the Bob Baffert trainee towers over the field and is my BEST BET on Friday's BC schedule.

Shumoos (#5) - a European import, this "dirt" bred runner tries the surface for the first time, trainer does well with these types and will be a price underneath the logical favorite in this race.

Exotic and multi-race runners : Seeker - Vexor - Trinninberg



Breeder's Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf

Elusive Kate (#10) - this European runner seeks fifth straight win today, has won on "firm" ground in France and is the "horse to beat" here in this spot.

Dayatthespa (#2) - lightly raced NY bred trained by Chad Brown recently set the pace in Woodbine turf stake at this distance while yielding late, has tremendous upside at 12-1 morning line odds.

Exotic and multi-race runners :
Dear Lavinia - Somali Lemonade - Stopshoppingmaria


Breeder's Cup Filly & Mare Sprint

Switch (#6) - California based runner just missed in Keeneland sprint last time out, was 2nd in this same race last year, lukewarm choice in this evenly matched field.

Pomeroy's Pistol (#12) - ran career best last time out at Belmont Park, only concern here is her poor performance over the track this spring in the Eight Belles Stakes, only one of two out-of-the-money efforts.

Exotic and multi-race runners : Turbulent Descent - Her Smile - Tanda


Breeder's Cup Juvenile Fillies

Grace Hall (#5) - this undefeated daughter of Empire Maker won the grade I - Spinaway at Saratoga and most recently a two-turn stake at Delaware Park, definitely the "horse to beat" here in this spot.

Questioning (#1) - another European import with dirt breeding; Hard Spun out of a Seeking the Gold mare, once again looking for a price underneath one of the logical top three picks.

Exotic and multi-race runners :
My Miss Aurelia - Say A Novena - Weemissfrankie


Breeder's Cup Filly & Mare Turf

Announce (#6) - Juddmonte English bred is eight for ten lifetime and just missed last time out in France going a similar route distance, connections make the choice here.

Nahrain (#5) - undefeated three year old filly beat top selection last time out, European shippers have the edge over the stateside grass runners here.


Exotic and multi-race runners : Stacelita - Aruna - Misty for Me


Breeder's Cup Ladies Classic

Royal Delta (#6) - chased Havre de Grace last time out first time versus older runners, her best effort today puts her in the winners circle.

It's Tricky (#3) - runner up in last two races as the post time favorite, faces older for the first time today, when she fires her best shot...... is tough to beat.

Exotic and multi-race runners : Plum Pretty - Miss Match - Ultra Blend

The direction of Breeder's Cup - one man's opinion

I believe there used to be a commercial that said; "you've come a long way baby". That could apply to the Breeder's Cup World Championship races. Created in 1984, this year marks the 27th edition of thoroughbred racing's greatest day. For many years, the day consisted of seven grade I races at different racetracks across the country. Though the years, we've seen many great thoroughbreds win on this championship day. But like many things today, the traditions of the past change and evolve throughout the years.

It also mark's my 25th anniversary of playing these championship races. Back in 1986, there were seven races at Santa Anita Park and at Capital OTB, we were only able to wager on four of the races because of simulcast restrictions at the time. Back then the concept was new and exciting. But, as the year's have moved on, the races have increased, the event has become two days and the race sites have decreased. The Breeder's Cup of today is nothing like what was presented back in 1984.

This year the Breeder's Cup World Championships are now 15 races more than doubling since the first year. The increase of races also has made the cup a two day event. But, the day of championships has been held at only two venues the past four years. This is a trend that many have been questioning and raises the answer whether the Breeder's Cup is losing it's luster for it was really created all those years ago.

Almost every category in racing is covered by the 15 races. With just two races for the two year old runners at one time, it has now increased to five and covering dirt, turf for both sexes and this year a sprint race. The number of pre-entries was a record this year and with the amount of races, also comes many horses that are crossed entered in different events. What once was a chosen few group of horses for seven races, has become a huge event for anybody who nominates their runners to the cup.

It's has made the "event" into a wagering smorgasbord with a lot of ways to stretch your wagering dollar. It's become a nine race daily card of the stars, but does it really show the "true" champions of the sport with so many options. I can live with all the races and with 25 years experience in wagering strategy, I know where and when to pick my spots. The thing that really bothers me though is the lack of racing venues that the Breeder's Cup appears at in recent times. I am sorry, but just racing at Santa Anita and Churchill Downs just doesn't cut in for me.

The event was made to showcase the best horses in a calendar year. Of course there are many different categories and also many different racetracks. But, all the "powers to be" focus on are two, when in year's past the event was spread all across the country. They raced in New York at Belmont and Aqueduct in 1985. Racing came from Gulfstream on several occasions. Even tracks like; Arlington , Monmouth Park , Lone Star Park and Woodbine had a shot to host the event. But, the last few years have ONLY focused on the west coast (Santa Anita) and Churchill Downs where the event will be held this year for the third time in five years. It's time to get back to the revolving host racetracks like the past, to generate interest other than these two spots.

I will be playing next weekend the 15 championship races because I love the sport. It's my opinion in the long term that the Breeder's Cup World Championships should hold the line at 15 races and start getting back to the various different tracks throughout the country. Watering down the sport's biggest day should'nt be done by the people in charge of bring new fans into the sport. So, let's stop with all the races and showcase all the "other" great racetracks throughout the country.

Charismatic & Chris.......rewind and remembering

This past Tuesday evening, I watched the ESPN special about Charismatic, his jockey; Chris Antley and their story. It's been over 12 years since the D.Wayne Lukas trained colt had the "fairytale" story during the 1999 Triple Crown season. A horse who ran for a claiming tag early in his three year old season and then winning two-thirds of the Triple Crown (Kentucky Derby & Preakness). The whole story was two-fold though, about this horse who many thought wasn't good enough to win a grade I race and his jockey; Chris Antley, a talented jockey with "personal" demons that haunted him.

A week after Chris died nearly 11 years ago, I wrote a column about the tragedy. It chronicled his rise to stardom, billed as the "next" Steve Cauthen and his success racing in New York which all came in his early 20's. Talent, success and exposure made it very rough on this young man in this sport. Unfortunately like many others who achieve this stature, sometimes all of it can be trying on an individual. Turning to drug use in 1988 became his downfall, but he battled back and soon regain that top form as a jockey by winning the 1991 Kentucky Derby aboard; Strike the Gold. His career as jockey had it's "ups and downs" during this time period, but Antley stayed "clean". It would be weight issues that plagued him in the late 90's. But once again, he conquered them and was blessed with getting the mount on Charismatic in the spring of 1999.

The ESPN depiction of the story was done quite well. Interviews with the trainers around Charismatic, horse racing people who followed the story and Chris Antley's friends who could give insight on how Chris handled this fame once again in his life. I found the discussions with former jockey; Gary Stevens quite interesting. He brought out the "zest" that Chris had for being so fortunate on riding Charismatic in the Triple Crown races. It was truly a "fairytale" story in every sense. A Hall of Fame trainer, who had his share of winning championship races. A colt who didn't show the caliber of Lukas' previous thoroughbreds, but out ran that form. A jockey, who his was a champion and with a world of talent. But, had his own problems personally which unfortunately overshadowed his great talent. That spring of 1999, they were both on top of the world. But soon like a thoroughbred race it's self, it ended with the results no one wanted to see.

Watching the presentation was very bitter sweet for myself. Of course knowing the outcome is what made it very tough. Tying into the story, the "highs and lows" of our sport unfortunately go hand in hand. The older I get, these sad stories of real life affect me. I never thought at the time, that Charismatic had ANY shot of winning the Kentucky Derby, let alone being a Triple Crown contender. I was a huge fan of Chris Antley as a jockey, right at the time I began showing interest in the sport. The Chris Antley going in that Triple Crown season of 1999 wasn't the same Chris I remembered in the late 80's. But, seeing the story again this past Tuesday night put it all into perspective once again.

We all go though tough times in our life and sometimes we even hit "rock bottom". The key is to always try and pick up yourself and do your best to overcome these things. For some it's easy and others, not so. But for a brief moment in time, a horse with "little" talent and a jockey with a "world" of talent got together and were successful. We were very lucky to see this happened and on the flip side, unfortunately see what real life brings. Life is never easy and this story
showed us both sides, the good and the bad.

Time has run OUT for Mr. Dutrow.....

Usually when I write my weekly column, I like to keep the subject matter "upbeat" and I try to shy away from controversial stories pertaining to our sport. This has been the route I always tried to go, looking at the positive in the world of thoroughbred racing. I tried to stay away from subjects like the plight of NYRA the past decade and direction of racing in regards to legal and illegal drug use. I handled the NYRA situation as kindly and diplomatically as possible. Today, I'll attempt the same in regards to racing and drug usage by one it's leading trainers.

It was announced this past Wednesday, that thoroughbred trainer; Richard "Rick" Dutrow Jr. will be banned in the state of New York as a trainer for ten years with his license revoked. A three member board of the state wagering commission voted unanimously against him and barred him from reapplying during the ten year period. A lifetime ban was considered, but this was the ruling instead. The board ruled that Dutrow was "inconsistent with the best interests of racing" with his activities as trainer.

An appeal has already been put forward by his attorneys in regards to this finding and a motion has been filed seeking a stay in the ruling. Another part of the ruling has Dutrow barred from any racing facilities in New York for 10 years. His attorney; Michael Koenig said the panel ruling was "vindictive and heavy-handed" "contrary to the facts, contrary to the evidence and contrary to any notion of fundamental fairness or due process." This current ruling may put an end to his training days that have been marked by 64 rule violations throughout the years. They varied from minor issues to major medication violations. His past record and the way he has handled it publicly hasn't helped him out either. He is known for his defiance when he was accused of such violations and not afraid to speak out about it to the media. He has had personal problems also, that put a "bad light" on himself as a trainer.

His "ban" in New York state isn't the first state that has done this. Last year, Dutrow was not allowed to race in Kentucky and he has been the "poster child" for what is wrong with thoroughbred racing nationwide. It been said, until the "powers to be" in racing come down hard on him, racing will continue to have a "black eye" and the integrity of the game will be in question. The "straw" the broke the camel's back was on positive violation of a horse last Fall for butorphanol, a powerful painkiller in the post race sample and the discovery of a hypodermic needle in his barn. This got the process rolling in NY for him and may have ended his trainer career permanently.

A lot can be said for his track record to date, the violations, the arrogance when confronted with them. His record with improving horses under strange circumstances. He's NOT the only trainer with questions surrounding his runners, but they way it's been handle by himself has hurt him in many ways. We have a sport that has been under a microscope for many years. Unfortunately, more bad comes out, than good all the time. I like reporting on the good and try to do that most of the time. This is one of the "bad" and don't take pleasure in talking about it. I think time has run out on Rick Dutrow. Too many things have happened and now he has to "face the music". The sport needs to more forward and it should be without Mr. Dutrow.

Can HAVRE de GRACE make it 4 fillies in a row????

This past Saturday afternoon, another filly took a big step toward achieving greatness in the thoroughbred racing world and following the path of two great filly and mares the past two years. Havre de Grace, the four year old daughter of Saint Liam (2005 Breeder's Cup Classic winner) and trained by Larry Jones won the Beldame Handicap and is now headed to this year's Breeder's Cup Classic at Churchill Downs on November 5th. She defeated four other foes on a muddy sealed track by eight and a quarter lengths going the mile and an eighth stakes distance. It was one of the most impressive efforts on the Super Saturday card and now raises the question whether Havre de Grace will be soon mention in the same breath as Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta. Possibly becoming the third straight filly and mare to win Horse of the Year honors.

With her victory Saturday, she has won five out of her six starts this year, with her only defeat to Blind Luck in the mile and a quarter Delaware Handicap in which she was 2nd by a nose. She defeated older colts and geldings at Saratoga in the grade I - Woodward Stakes (the same race Rachel Alexandra won in 2009). Last year, she played second fiddle to Blind Luck in two of three starts against each other when trained by Anthony Dutrow. This year they were one for one against each other, but won't face each other again this year. Because, Blind Luck was no factor last Saturday in a stake at Santa Anita and will miss the Breeder's Cup Distaff because of that effort. So, now Havre de Grace is the top filly in the land and also the leading Horse of the Year contender. But, how does she rate against the last two filly and mares who won this top award?

Let's first look at their campaigns leading toward this year end honor. Rachel Alexandra had a stellar three year old campaign which she was eight for eight and defeated the "boys" three times in 2009. While some thought the undefeated Zenyatta deserved Horse of the Year honors that year, the stretch of eight tough races in a row far eclipse the west coast mare that year. She did return in 2010 for four starts, but wasn't the same horse and that three year old campaign must have taken a toll on her.

It's pretty clear what Zenyatta accomplished last year enroute to her 2010 Horse of the Year honors. She had won 14 straight races and still undefeated going into the year. But, it was her narrow lost in the Breeder's Cup Classic to Blame that vaulted her to year end honors. It just goes to show that, not going out on a winning note and just missing the year before as the best horse when winning the year's biggest race is "payback".

This brings us to Havre de Grace and her year so far in 2011. Last year she played 2nd fiddle to Blind Luck in three year old filly of the year honors. This year, with the three year old colts being average at best and the old male handicap horses being virtually non-existent, she has inherited a good position to win this year's award. She's been on a roll since stepping away from her home base at Delaware Park , found an easy spot versus males (much like Rachel Alexandra did in 2009) by racing in the Woodward Stakes. She won that race and just like the two previous fillies who were champion, defeated males in her quest. Two years ago, Rachel had Zenyatta as her foe and last year, Zenyatta had Blame. This year, Havre de Grace has.......who???? If she can win the Classic, Havre de Grace belongs right up there with the great Rachel and Zenyatta!

SUPER SATURDAY @ Belmont Park

Today is Super Saturday at Belmont Park , the "big" graded stakes day with races that may have implications for the Breeder's Cup coming up in a few weeks at Churchill Downs . Five grade I races and one grade II make up the lineup which may have runners for six different Breeder's Cup races. Even though some of the races have short fields, we get some of the locally based top stakes runners and some new faces from across the country. This is the biggest event at Belmont Park this Fall and we get to see the best older horses in the country.

The first two legs of this day start on the turf going a route distance for the girls and boys. The 5th race is for the filly & mares going a mile and a quarter on grass in the Flower Bowl Invitational. A field of eight are assembled with runners who have raced at Saratoga this past summer with the exception of the outside horse and morning line favorite; Stacelita #8. She was the grade I winner of the Beverly D. Stakes in her last start at Arlington Park . She will be tough to beat again versus her seven foes off that effort and gets top billing here. For second, I'll be using the rail horse; Deluxe #1 trained by Bill Mott. She was a fast closing 2nd in her U.S. debut going a mile in a overnight stakes at Saratoga . Today she stretches out in distance and should improve off that effort. Superfecta and multi-race runners are; Emerald Beech #3 and the state bred Gitchee Goomie #5. In the 6th race we have the male equalant going a mile and a half on the weeds; the Joe Hirsch Turf Classic Invitational. A small field is assembled, again with a prohibited favorite in Cape Blanco #1. The morning line odds-on favorite comes off winning efforts in grade I competition since coming stateside. Again, the favorite is my top selection here and for second and third I'll use both Christophe Clement runners; Winchester #5 & Grassy #6.

Up next are two races for the sprinters and milers who are quite not up to the Breeder's Cup Classic distance. The 7th race is the Vosburgh Stakes for sprinters going six furlongs. A field of seven are entered with an entry and is the biggest field of the day. Not to sound like a "broken" record, but my top pick is (again) the possible favorite for the race. Trappe Shot #8 just missed last time out in AG Vanderbilt Stakes at Saratoga . Today with a better set up, he should be able to handle this group. His two main opponents, my selections for 2nd and 3rd are a seasoned veteran making his first NY appearance; Euroears #4 and last year's Breeder's Cup Sprint champion; Big Drama #6 who makes only his third start of the year. Next up is an interesting race going a flat mile; the Kelso Stakes (8th). Formally raced on grass, we get a short field of only five and the return of Uncle Mo #3 making his first start versus older horses. This time around, I'll try to beat him at the 4-5 morning line odds and go with the rail horse; Jersey Town #1. The winner of last year's Cigar Mile at Aqueduct, he gets the call here as the "price" in the race. For 2nd and 3rd, I'll use Uncle Mo and the "renaissance" horse Jackson Bend #2.

The final two races showcase horses for the Distaff and Classic. In the 9th race; the Beldame Invitational which is a mile and an eighth, the prohibited favorite is Havre de Grace #5 and should be. She beat the "boys" last time out in the Woodward Stakes at Saratoga and after today, should have a date (again) versus the "boys" in the Breeder's Cup Classic. For 2nd, I'll use the three year old filly; Royal Delta #2. In the finale, the premier race for the older males at Belmont is the Jockey Club Gold Cup at a mile and a quarter. The leading three year old colt; Stay Thirsty #4 takes on his elders for the first time. He has become the top three year this past summer and with the weight allowance here, he gets the call for me. The "horse to beat" and my 2nd choice is part of the entry; Flat Out #1 who rallied last time out versus Havre de Grace in the Woodward Stakes. Drosselmeyer #5 can round out your trifecta.

Exciting news for the future...and a exciting horse "on track"

The importance of thoroughbred racing on television has been on the decline in recent years. In racing's "heyday" the sport was widely televised on the major networks. But, early on in this decade the sport has faded even with all the stations available on cable today. But through the MSG network in 2010, the races during Saratoga were televised and with this brought an renewed interest in a major network covering the sport of kings.

The past Saratoga meet, the VERSUS network (on cable and owned by NBC) partnered up with NBC in covering each of the Saturday stake races from the Spa. With the success of this past season, there is a new two year agreement between NYRA and NBC sports for racing at Saratoga through the 2013 season with the most added "live" coverage ever. It will include three hour long shows on NBC and five on VERSUS spanning seven weekends in total.

The "tentative" schedule released by NBC and what will be called; the NBC Sports Network next year (formally known as VERSUS) is the following for August dates; August 11th - 6pm to 7pm (NBC Sports Network) August 12th - 4pm to 6pm (NBC Sports Network) August 18th - 5pm to 6pm (NBC Sports Network) August 25th - 4pm to 6pm (NBC) and September 1st - 5pm to 6pm (NBC) earlier dates in the meet will be announced later.

Every so often, an exciting thoroughbred comes along. Usually, such a horse is one that has the spotlight like during the Triple Crown races, is an older handicap runner that has made a name for himself or like in recent years, a exciting filly or mare the captured the hearts of the sport (Rachel Alexandra and Zenyatta). In this case, it's a filly that races on the "proper" surface and is well bred with a famous father and mother. This "gray" streak as NYRA race caller; Tom Durkin called her this past weekend, likes to win and in dramatic fashion.

Winter Memories, the daughter of El Prado and the dam of Memories of Silver has become one of the most exciting runners on the NYRA circuit. She has had an excellent record on grass the past two years and one of her highlights was a race this past summer at Saratoga . Coming into the Saratoga meet, this three year old runner had finished no worst than 2nd in her five lifetime starts. When she was entered in the grade II - Lake George Stakes on the grass going a mile and a sixteenth, she was the odds-on favorite. This filly likes to race from the back of pack and she did not disappoint with a furious late charge and drawing off late by over four lengths. It was an "eye opening" effort that visually was one of the best during the 2011 Saratoga meet.

Her next start a few weeks later at the Spa, wasn't as good. She got a "yielding" turf course and was caught behind horses and didn't show her usual late charge. So, going into her race this past Saturday there were question marks whether her form was tailing off. In the grade I - Garden City Stakes at Belmont , again she was the favorite and this time we saw the "real" Winter Memories. Rating in the back of the pack, she sat chilly almost to the eighth pole and then unleashed her charge from behind horses while tipping out wide in the stretch. She motored past her rivals and like a "gray streak" won in style. When a horse like this who makes that "monster move" like Winter Memories does and rallies from the clouds, it brings excitement to the sport. She's not a household name, but she should be. You gotta see her to believe it!

North.....to Woodbine!

This weekend we turn our racing attention, north of the border at Woodbine Race course just outside of Toronto and the three stakes they have carded for tomorrow on grass. These races will play a pivotal role for the upcoming Breeder's Cup Turf races at Churchill Downs on November 4th & 5th. The Woodbine turf course is one of the finest in North America . Today's races are for filly and mares going a mile an a eighth, a mile and a half for older horses and a mile on grass; the Woodbine Mile which is sponsored this year by Ricoh.



The first of the stake races is in the 5th; the grade II - Canadian Handicap for fillies and mares going a mile and an eighth. The winner of the Diana Handicap at Saratoga is my top pick from post #13; Zargora. She comes off that victory in fine form for trainer; Chad Brown and should have no problem negotiating the same distance she won at in her last start. Woodbine based trainer; Mark Frostad has three runners entered here and one is my second selection; #3 - Magic Broomstick. She has only one start this year and it was a eight and half length victory in allowance company going a mile on yielding turf. You may get a square price on her in this field of 14. Horses to use underneath and in your exotic plays are; #6 - Bay to Bay, #8 - Shared Account & #9 - Never Retreat.



Older colts go in the 8th race; the grade I - Northern Dancer Stakes at a mile and a half. This is a prep race for the Canadian International on October 16th. My top selection here is #4 - Wigmore Hall. This European import recently raced in the Arlington Million where he rallied for 4th going a mile and a quarter. Today he stretches out a quarter of a mile more and faces a little softer field here. For second, I'm going with the California invader; #2 - Bourbon Bay . This consistent runner has six victories in 12 starts the past two years and in the money four other times. Exotic and multi-race runners are; #6 - Seaside Retreat and #8 - Al Khali.



The feature race of the day is the 10th; the Ricoh Woodbine Mile going the classic distance on the grass. My top selection here is coming off a grade I win at Hollywood Park and has been pointing to this race. Courageous Cat #4 - trained by Bill Mott has only made two starts this year, but won both as the odds-on favorite. Today a victory puts him the "horse to beat" possibly for the Breeder's Cup Mile. For 2nd, I'm going with the "classic" turf miler from Europe , #9 - Side Glance. This consistent runner has finished no worst the 3rd in his last nine starts. Horses to use underneath my top two selections are; #5 - Right One, #10 - Kara's Orientation and #12 - Court Vision, last year's winner and goes out first time for new trainer; Dale Romans.

The 2011 SARATOGA MEET ....... in the books!

The 2011 Saratoga race meet is in the books and for a second straight year it was very successful one on all fronts. It was another 40 day meet (39 really because of Hurricane Irene) and with the extra days added, the handle and attendance was not hurt. Also, the quality of racing was much better than at the Belmont summer meet or Monmouth Park this summer. Mostly full fields (especially on grass and in the claiming races) was the rule of thumb. This year there was a plethora of two year old races, since there seems to be a limited amount carded at Belmont Park and the juveniles get started later every year. With the closing of New York City OTB, on track attendance has increased at Belmont Park this year. With the meet moving to Saratoga for six weeks, those numbers continued to go up with simulcast wagering at Belmont Park . The New York Racing Association and their leaders can be very proud once again for the product they put "on track" during the "Summer Place to Be" at the Spa.

We saw some exciting horses racing the last 39 days also at Saratoga . Older handicap runners, top turf horses and those young two year old horses were all a part of an exciting stakes schedule that PJ Campo put together for the race meet. The gritty, sometimes wacky It's Tricky showed she would win at any cost in the Coaching Club American Oaks, a few week's later; Royal Delta would turn the tables on her with a late explosive winning move in the Alabama Stakes. But, maybe the "best" three year old filly could have been; Turbulent Descent, who bounced back to her winning ways in the Test Stakes for sprinting fillies. On the three year old boys side, there was just one word to say my friends; Stay Thirsty. He captured BOTH the Jim Dandy Stakes and Travers Stakes and most likely locked up three year old championship honors. Don't forget either; Caleb's Posse, who also had a three year old sprinter double with victories in the Amsterdam Stakes & King's Bishop Stakes.

The older filly and mares had an surprising star in the front-running; Ask the Moon, who also captured both major stake races (the Ruffian Handicap & Personal Ensign) for the Distaff division. Turf runners like; Winchester , Winter Memories, Emerald Beech were the stars on the "proper surface" winning key turf stakes at the Spa this season. For the older handicap runners saw two horses have a "renaissance" turn in their careers. Both Tiznow and Jackson Bend both came back to the races with great wins and now possible contenders for Breeder's Cup race championships. The "babies" are always in the spotlight and this year is no different. We saw exciting "future" stars like; Overdriven, My Miss Aurelia, Union Rags, Grace Hall and Currency Swap show their wares in winning stakes at Saratoga this meet. But, it was a filly that captured the hearts of Saratoga racing season and SHE is the best horse in training at the moment. Havre de Grace took on the "boys" in the Woodward Stakes and just like Rachel Alexandra did two year's ago, she beat them!

It was also another good year for myself with my Saratoga daily selections for the RECORDER. We broke the hundred win barrier for a second straight year with 101 winners and a $700 ROI for those winners picked. Plus, on the radio-side; we had 10 winners from my "Horse to Beat" play of the day for WCSS 1490am each week day. But, most of all personally for me; it was a "winning" season nearly from start to finish with my "personal" bankroll. I was only down $3.00 at any point for the 39 day meet and showed a profit at the end. When you can say that you; finished "in the black" during a race meet, you've really accomplished something!

The TRAVERS aftermath and how REAL life changes everything

This past week was one of mixed emotions to say the least for me and many others. It was nearly 10 years ago, when I wrote about the events of September 11th, 2001 and how they affected me and the thoroughbred world. This past week, it hit near home with the onslaught of Hurricane Irene and it's effects on our surrounding area. It was especially telling that it happened during Saratoga 's biggest weekend of the meet; the Travers. It was one of "highs" and then "lows" and it all happened in a 48 hour period.

NYRA had a great Travers day card with full fields and great horses entered. We saw some very impressive efforts and crowned a three year old champion named; Stay Thirsty. The weather for the day was fabulous and the crowd came out to see the best three year old horses in training race for the prize. In the end, the "underdog" horse; Stay Thirsty was the winner and everybody got the effort they wanted. The 2011 Travers lived up to expectations and everybody was happy. But, things would change in less than 24 hours for many in our area and that short lived excitement came to an abrupt end.

NYRA President and CEO, Charlie Haywood along with other officials decided to cancel the Sunday race card because of the impending storm. It was a good choice, because during the night, Irene's wrath made the capital region it's target with wind and lots of rain. This hurricane was everything the meteorologists had predicted. While the wind and rain wasn't too bad where I live on the "Sand Flats" just outside Fonda, to east and south the conditions were quite dangerous. It was only the beginning though of a nightmare week for the people of Montgomery County and beyond.

My internet cut out around noon on Sunday, just after I completed Monday's Saratoga selections. With the internet not working, I stopped at my place of employment to fax my selections to the RECORDER. Just before I left my department, I got everything off my office floor JUST in case there was a threat of flooding like in 2006. That summer flood destroyed everything in it's path on Park Street in Fonda, including most items in my office (mail room). That year, quick thinking got me to remove one of the most important things in the job I do. That was the mail processing machine. This time around though, I wasn't so lucky!

I gave a look at the machine and thought; this couldn't happen again. How wrong was I. Early Monday, I drove down Hickory Hill Road and when I reached the peak that overlooked Fonda, I saw the worst. The banks of the Mohawk River had overflowed again and when I reached the stoplight by Stewarts, it was deja vu all over again! The water surrounded the county public works building and all of Park Street for a second time in just over five years. It was something I thought I would never see again, but I was wrong. The next three days gave some of the people from Fonda and to the east a nightmare that will live forever in their minds. Flooding all along the Mohawk, destroying everything in it's path and a traffic tie-up never seen before on nearly every road for miles. When this happened five years ago, everybody pulled together and we got back on our feet again and survived. I'm sure the same will happen again, but it's really tough when it happens again so soon! In thoroughbred racing we have "up's and down's" and in life the same is true. This hurdle we will clear and the good life will return.

The 2011 TRAVERS STAKES....and other 3 year old stuff!

At the beginning of the three year old campaign in January, there was only one colt that was on everybody's mind. His name was Uncle Mo, and many thought that he would be the superstar of 2011 and quite possibly be the "next" Triple Crown champion. His juvenile campaign was the best in years and no other two year old matched up to him. But, like how the racing game changes......so do horses going from one year to another.

Uncle Mo's three year old season came to a screeching halt. A liver aliment right after his dull Wood Memorial effort took him off the Derby Trail and put on the shelf for the entire spring into the summer. The overall class of this year's three year old group took a major hit when he was gone. Wide open; horses like Animal Kingdom, Shackleford and Ruler On Ice came to the forefront with victories in the Triple Crown races. All these horses were longshot winners and after the Belmont Stakes, many thought the class of 2011 was mediocre at best.

But, new faces like Coil came on to the seen and the sprinter three year old group showed promise and overshadowed the classic distance runners. While in most year's the attrition from the Triple Crown trail takes a toll on the sophomore runners, this year many have made it this far and even though no one has taking a leadership role, the group assembled here for today two three year old races is quite good.

Between today's King's Bishop Stakes for the three year old sprinters going seven furlongs and the Travers Stakes for horses with Breeder's Cup Classic aspirations, we get the "cream of the crop" of best three year old runners. Only lacking; Animal Kingdom, Nehro and The Factor (who is racing on the west coast this weekend) we get all the major players.

In the King's Bishop Stakes, horses that didn't fare well stretching out in route distances along the Triple Crown trail have turned back in distance today and some have had success in doing so. Flashpoint, Caleb's Posse, Dominus and now possibly Runflatout have become better horses since finding their best distance. These horses today now face, Uncle Mo; who himself is on the comeback trail and returning sprinting for bigger things down the road. These horses didn't pan out on the Triple Crown trail, but found their niche here.

While Uncle Mo will try to prove himself again, another ten three year old colts will try to make their mark "going the distance" and look for possible year end honors. The usual suspects have made it this far, only lacking the Kentucky Derby winner; Animal Kingdom, Shackleford (Preakness winner) Rule On Ice (Belmont Stakes winner) Stay Thristy (Jim Dandy winner) and Coil (Haskell Stakes winner) are all here for this year's Mid-Summer's Derby. There are six "new shooters" trying to make a name for themselves too in the race today. Once what was thought to be a lack luster group has become quite an intriguing bunch of horses.

With the return of Uncle Mo and a three year old championship most liking on the line today in the Travers, all is forgiven by me when I stated that this group of three year old wasn't very good right after the Belmont Stakes. They have come together and hopefully will stick around the remainder of this year and more importantly, next year as older horses. Saratoga brings out the best in racing and this year brings together a pretty good bunch of three year old horses!

THE SELECTIONS......

Stay Thirsty (#9) Castellano / Pletcher (5-2)

Here is the Repole Stables runner.....who; broke his maiden "before" his much heralded stablemate here at Saratoga, who.....won a graded early season stake "before" that well touted stablemate, who.....raced and placed in a Triple Crown race unlike his better know stablemate and today; steps out of the "shadow" of the before mention; Uncle Mo and becomes the leading three year old of 2011!

Raison d' Etat (#6) Castro / Mott (10-1)

Recently chased runaway Pletcher runner (Turbo Compressor) in overnight stake here going a route distance, this well bred son of AP Indy out of the dam; Sightseek may have his "coming out" party today, bullet work for his graded stakes debut.

Shackleford (#10) Castanon / Romans (9-2)

The speedy son of Forestry tries again to take them wire-to-wire coming from the far outside post today, just missing in the Haskell Stakes.....a victory here could give him votes for top 3 year old colt of 2011.

Malibu Glow (#5) Maragh / Weaver (20-1)

Sharp allowance race win here going a route distance, a "live" longshot to play in a race that is wide open.....after you get past the four "usual" suspects!

Coil (#7) Garcia / Baffert (3-1)

The Haskell Stakes winner and Bob Baffert runner who has had a shroud of controversy surrounding him whether he would start in this race, answered the question of "natural" dirt in last start at Monmouth and now, tries to become the top dog of this year's three year old group, trainer uncertainty bothers me.....

Ruler On Ice (#4) Valdivia / Breen (6-1)

Ran an even race last time out in the Haskell Stakes at Monmouth, I'm STILL in the belief that the "sloppy" track for the Belmont Stakes moved him WAY up for that race, until he can reproduce that effort on a fast track......I'll pass!

Bowman's Causeway (#1) Dominguez / Brown (12-1)

Recent runner-up in Canada's 2nd leg of their Triple Crown; the Prince of Wales Stakes at Fort Erie racetrack, local boy from my mom's hometown of Mechanicville N.Y. tries to upset here......unfortunately, he doesn't match up well here!


Rattlesnake Ridge (#2) Velazquez / McLaughlin (8-1)

Just got up late in the Long Branch Stakes at Monmouth which is a prep race for the Haskell, faces toughest field yet and is an "underlay" at his morning line odds.

Moonshine Mullin (#3) Wilson / Baker (20-1)

Was a no factor 2nd behind Stay Thirsty in the Jim Dandy Stakes at 37-1, nothing special in that effort and today REALLY gets tested versus the best 3 yr.old runners.

JW Blue (#8) C.Velasquez / Dutrow (20-1)

Beaten a head & neck at Delaware Park in last two starts, only shows a allowance & maiden victory, blinkers OFF today.

The ALABAMA Stakes......just as equal to the TRAVERS!

Today is the top three year old race for the fillies; the Alabama Stakes. A race rich in tradition, today is the 131st running going a mile and a quarter over the Saratoga oval. I've gone to quite a few stakes races at Saratoga , but this was the first grade I that I attended in 1987. That year, a horse named; Up the Apalachee won the race and I believe one of the owners lived here locally in the Capital District area. I got my first taste of "big" Saratoga crowds that day! Three year's later in 1990, we saw a tour de force by one of the most talented three year old fillies ever in Go For Wand. The next few years, we saw a "who's who" of great fillies captured this historic race.

Trainer Shug McGaughey, who was pretty good with three year old fillies got Versailles Treaty and Heavenly Prize to win this race three years apart. In between those two horses, legendary trainer; "The Chief" H. Allen Jerkens won this race with November Snow and Sky Beauty. The latter, was quite an sensation in New York winning races. You could say she was the female version of Easy Goer at NYRA tracks. There have been major "upsets" in this race also. Pretty Discreet; the mother of both Discreet Cat and Discreetly Mine, won this stake in 1995 at odds of 42-1. But, the Alabama I recalled the best was just one year after I started writing for the Recorder. It was an "off" track that day and Silverbulletday crushed her rivals as I watched high a top the Saratoga spires on the roof. That was one of my defining moments at Saratoga through the years.

The list since then has gone on and on, so the Alabama Stakes is a highly regarded to the colts version of this race; the Travers. Today is no exception! Six runners are entered today and coming from different directions throughout the country. Royal Delta (#1) recently ran third in the Coaching Club American Oaks here at Saratoga going a mile & an eighth. She really was no factor in that race and seems to be a enigma of sorts. Pinch Pie (#2) will be the "rank" outsider in this race. All three victories for her have been on the grass, but her trainer; Anthony Dutrow is batting 44% at Saratoga and 34 % overall for the year. Plum Pretty (#3) should be the pace setter again today. She couldn't hold off the horse just outside of her (It's Tricky) last time out in the CCA Oaks and today goes an extra eighth of a mile. Will she control the pace slower today and enhance her chances? It's Tricky (#4) has come into her own in the last two starts and could be considered the modern day version of Sky Beauty, because of her liking of the NYRA tracks. St. John's River (#5) is a intriguing horse of sorts. She has the "mile and a quarter" distance written all over her. She got up in the last jump her most recent start in the Delaware Oaks at a mile and sixteenth. The field is rounded out by Canada 's, Queen's Plate winner; Inglorious (#6). While she defeated the "boys" last time out, all her victories have been on a synthetic surface. Her other two races were at the Fairgrounds and weren't that bad.

While we have a short field, it is full of many different facets. Proven horses over the course and new shooters trying to gain that "black" type - grade I victory. We may or may not get our next, Sky Beauty or Pretty Discreet. But, the Alabama Stakes is the rich tradition that doesn't take a back seat to the Travers Stakes.

Arlington Million day selections 2011

Today, we're going to give a look at the stake races card for Arlington Park and their Million day races. There are four stakes races on the "proper surface" (turf) and I'll be giving my four selections in each race. It's an added bonus to my usual Saratoga fare for this time of the year.

The first race (7th) is for three year old fillies going a mile on the turf; the Hatoof Stakes. A full field is assembled with no clear cut favorite entered. Since I am a big fan of trainer Christophe Clement, I'll pick on top the #1 - Race to Urga. With only two lifetime starts; a win and a second, she has the best upside of this group of runners. For 2nd, the Eddie Kenneally second time U.S. runner; Lily Again #12 looks like she can improve back on grass off of her main track try last time out. For your "exotic & multi-race" plays use #7 - Holidayonthefarm and #11 - Notassharpasuouthink.

The 8th race is the Secretariat Stakes for the three year old males going a mile and a quarter on the turf. Top pick here is, #9 - Wilcox Inn, the recent winner of the American Derby , the mile & three sixteenths prep for this event. Winning by four lengths, he looks to have the advantage over the European shipper; #3 - Treasure Beach who is my 2nd selection. Use in your plays also; #2 - Ziyarid & #7 - Banned.

The Beverly D. (9th) is one of the premier races for filly and mares on grass. Eleven runners are assembled here with no clear cut favorite. My top pick is #3 - Fantasia, trained by Jonathan Sheppard. Winner of a recent stake race at Arlington , she has kept good company and has the nice juicy morning line price of 6-1. For 2nd, #5 - Dubawi Heights has reeled off four straight victories in a row on the west coast at shorter distances. At 10-1 morning line odds, she provides good value. For your "exotic & multi-race runners": #1 - Stacelita and # 7 - Cheetah.

The Arlington Million, a race rich with tradition is the 10th race for horses going the mile and a quarter distance. Here, Gio Ponti (#5) is the morning line favorite. He has tons of "back class" and deserves this morning line odds. But, with only two victories in his last 10 starts, he's worth a shot against in the "top" spot. My pick here is, #7 - Cape Blanco, who is the horse that defeated him last time out in the Man 'O War Stakes at Belmont Park . I'll "box" him with Gio Ponti and use underneath these two runners; #1 - Rahystrada and #4 - Zack Hall , the European invader.
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Stay Thirsty......the "racehorse" my friends!

This past Saturday, the traditional prep race for the three year old males was run at the Spa. The prep race; the Jim Dandy Stakes, named for the 100-1 longshot who defeated Triple Crown winner; Gallant Fox in the 1930 running of the Travers Stakes. This year, the Triple Crown trail had a "standout" leader just a few weeks before the running of the Kentucky Derby . His named was Uncle Mo, who was trained by Todd Pletcher for Repole Stable. He WAS head and shoulders over all other three year old runners at the time. Even though there was "another" three year old in the same barn, named; Stay Thirsty, he was only second fiddle behind his well known and well met stablemate. That would soon change.....well, maybe it took a few months!

Now, with a few weeks before the "Mid-Summer's Derby ", the Travers Stakes, Uncle Mo is NOT the most interesting three year old horse in the world. That title goes to the appropriately named; Stay Thirsty. Now, HE is the most interesting three year old in the world! He broke his maiden at Saratoga , just like his better known stablemate.....but, not in the same style! He ran second behind the horse that Uncle Mo beat a few weeks later at Belmont Park in the Champagne Stakes; Boys from Tosconova. He would win the Gotham Stakes on the Aqueduct "Inner-track", while his "better" stablemate, Uncle Mo would fail to win a stakes prep race. He was starting to show interest as possibly the "most interesting three year old" in the world.

While questions arose whether Uncle Mo would make the Kentucky Derby , Stay Thirsty would compete in the Florida Derby and then be the stable bearer at the Kentucky Derby for Repole Stable. The stage was set for Stay Thirsty to come out of the shadows of Uncle Mo. Interesting to say the least, but there was a bump in the road. Shipping from the "dead of weather" in the northeast to sunny and warm Florida meant a not so good effort in the Florida Derby . With "Mo" not making it to Louisville , Stay Thirsty (my friends) would be his replacement.

I even gave him a chance to run well going the mile and a quarter distance the first Saturday in May. I thought he was a good "longshot" play, but he was no factor in the "Run for the Roses" and it looked to be back to the drawing board for him. But this most interesting journey returned in the final leg of racing's Triple Crown. Five weeks later, Stay Thirsty returned in the Belmont Stakes, the "Test of Champions". Who would have thought that THIS Repole runner would be representing the stable in this race. But, Stay Thirsty became the "most interesting horse" in the race with a narrow defeat at 17-1 in the Belmont Stakes. Now, who is the most.....well, you know what!

This past Saturday, Stay Thirsty stamped himself as the "leading" three year old male when he won the Jim Dandy Stakes in convincingly style. Stakes placed as a two year old, stakes winner as a three year old with a grade I placing, Stay Thirsty has become the "most interesting horse" in the three year old category. His "bigger" stablemate has a lot of catching up to do. On the road to recovery, Uncle Mo in my opinion is second fiddle behind his stablemate now. The rolls have reversed and Stay Thirsty is the leader. He is the new version of Cat Thief, another runner from the past who wasn't really thought of until he won the Breeder's Cup Classic in upset fashion. Stay Thirsty is the leader in the clubhouse going into this year's Travers and the spotlight is him. Out of the shadows and into the light, he is the "most interesting horse .....in the world!" Remember, STAY THIRSTY ......my friends!

They're off & running @ Saratoga.......flying start!

Well, week #1 and then some is in the books, once again the racing carded at Saratoga is bar none and the opening card was just an indicating of that. It was just a "little hot" but, my morning got started early with my good friend; Mike Villa at his house just a few blocks from the track (lucky guy). We looking at the days card then headed over to the track. Between the time I left my car outside the track and the first race, I must have ran into at least a half dozen of my fellow horse racing friends. After narrowly missing in the opener with Fizzano at 7-1, my "Horse to Beat" play of the day came through in the fourth race. Valiant Passion (who I tabbed at 30-1 here last year). She returned to the races, proved that she "loves" the Spa and is back, ready for stakes action with her victory. Later in the afternoon, Pure Gossip reprised a Valiant Passion effort and with the same. longshot price ($78.00) as my 2nd choice in the 7th race. In the opening day feature, Todd Pletcher picked up right where he left off last year with Georgie's Angel in the Schuylerville Stakes for two year old fillies. Just like the card, day #1 was great!

Saturday's card was a "headbanger" to say the least. Other than Bob Baffert's west coast shipper in the 3rd race (Saddleranch) the races were wide open and very tough to decipher. In the 7th race, a maiden special weight event; the post time favorite was 9-2 in the betting. The day was topped off with five horse, evenly matched field in the TVG Coaching Club American Oaks. It's Tricky narrowly defeated Plum Pretty at the shadow of the wire and now will be heading to the Alabama in a few weeks.

On Sunday, Dee Tee Stable's maiden gelding; Lloydobler made his first appearance at Saratoga and was the first time I saw him in the flesh. Although he didn't race that well, it was an exciting day with my good friend; Dave Scott and the rest of my partnership friends seeing him run at the Spa. Oh, by the way....Todd Pletcher won the feature again with a two year old. Will, Overdriven be this year's version of Uncle Mo ? He did sure look good in winning the Sanford Stakes.

Monday, the rains came during the 2nd race and while it cooled things off a bit, I remained "hot" with my most profitable day of the meet so far. Could have even been more better, but late scratches and races off the turf hinter my exotic payouts. The first four days of what some call the "mini" meet was good for my bankroll and kept me "above water" early into the meet.

Starting the first full week on Wednesday, we saw two explosive efforts. When Overdriven won the Sanford Stakes on Sunday, the horse he ran down in his maiden breaker was returning in the 3rd race. JC 's Pride won the race in impressive style and also set a track record at Saratoga for five furlongs. Later on in the card, the best three year old turf filly showed why she is just that. Winter Memories came from the back of the pack while getting checked on the far turn and rallied to victory. While drawing away in the stretch, she was "geared down" and under wraps. This effort may be the best at the Spa all season long. The first six days of the meet, the racing was great as usual and the bankroll is looking good going into the weekend. I love this time of the year and we're off to a good start. Hopefully more to come at the Spa.

My "Saratoga Statement" ....... thoughts on 25 yrs. of lovin' the track!

The "summer place to be" Saratoga is among us; 40 days of the best racing in the country, right in our backyard! This year's Saratoga season means especially more to me, because it marks the 25th year of myself following the sport of thoroughbred racing and also going to Saratoga racecourse. The other night, while thinking back about the last 25 years; a lot of memories returned. I sat down and as they were fresh in my mind, I wrote what I call my; "Saratoga Statement". I always like to tell a story about things and memories of the past, when it comes to my life experiences. Many times, people are amazed how I can remember certain things, times and places. I guess they made an impression in my mind, so it's easy to recall them. So, I tried in a short way to describe my Saratoga experience and the memories I had the last 25 years there and with the people who mean most to me. Here is my little "statement" I hope you enjoy it.


"Well, this opening day begins my 25th year of going to my most favorite place on the earth; Saratoga Racecourse. If you asked me that question before I started to work for Montgomery County , I would have said; "huh"???? You see I had NO interest in horse racing before then. But, it has become a ritual for myself ever since then. I've been handicapping every Saratoga race since 1988 and in print since 1998, it's something I find challenging and enjoy to do. I've seen great thoroughbreds like; Easy Goer, Point Given and Rachel Alexandra win at this historic track. I've spend many nights handicapping the daily 9 (or 10 plus) races, made many trips on route 29 east or route 67 to the Spa, through any type of weather. I've met many great people throughout the years and even had a horse; race and win at the Spa. That was one of the best moments and was memorable. Last year when Ausable Chasm broke her maiden for Dee Tee Stables the day after the Travers, I was thrilled to no end! Then, there was the time in 2008 when, Sumwonslovesyou; our first horse for the stable, was the post time favorite in a race at Saratoga, this I'll never forget. But, most of all, it was all the times throughout the years that I spend with family and friends at Saratoga that meant the most. These days were most special to me! My dad; Bill Hoffman was my companion at the track until he past away in 2008. He was the biggest supporter of me and my love of thoroughbred racing, I missed the trips with him here very much, I owe a lot to him. There are all the times with my friends from Fort Plain, heading to the track and enjoying the day. Most recent years, with my Dee Tee Stables partners at the Carolina Bar-b-que and seeing our horses race. But, the person who I've spend the last 20 years with is the one who I owe the most. She has taken up with my wins, losses and would-have & should haves. She is the "love of my life" Karen. You see, she was like me and didn't know anything about horse racing until she was introduced to it. She became a fan and like me and fell in love with the sport. With her support throughout the years, my life during July and August really has been enjoyable with her by my side. Everybody knows that this is a special time of the year for me and my involvement with this sport. It's the one thing that I can say that I am most proud of in my life. There are not many things I'm good at, but thoroughbred racing and Saratoga is my life each and every summer. I'm a lucky guy to be blessed with the passion for it! It's now post time........let's try and get a few winners and have fun!"

The anticipation for SARATOGA is at a fever pitch!

Anybody who knows me or is a friend of mine on Facebook, can tell that I'm very excited for the upcoming Saratoga race meet. I've been counting down the past month with videos from Saratoga on my home page and now, we're less than one week away. This year marks the 25th year of myself following the sport of thoroughbred racing. I've been handicapping the race meet since 1988 and here in the Recorder since 1998. Last year was my best year with winners (119) and overall one of my most enjoyable meets. I also got my first "winners circle" photo when, Ausable Chasm broke her maiden the day after the Travers Stakes. Coming off such an fun race meet, it will be tough to top the success. But, my attitude toward Saratoga 2011 is a good one and it's a time in my life where I'm striding for my very best and out to prove a point. Hopefully, the next 40 days my work will be proven out.

Two events leading up to next Saturday are on tap, tomorrow is the 31st annual Saratoga open house. A Saratoga tradition, it offers a full day of attractions, games and activities for ALL ages. Presented by Hannaford Supermarkets, a major partner with Saratoga racecourse this season, it will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and admission and parking are free. The popular Jockey Autograph Book will be available for the first time this season with a voluntary contribution to benefit the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund. The autograph books will be distributed on track by Hannaford Supermarkets. The 20-page book features a full page for the top 12 leading jockeys by the number of wins at Saratoga in 2010, along with photos and fun facts for each. Also, The National Steeplechase Association will get a jump on the racing season by presenting three hurdle races and one on the main turf. No pari-mutuel wagering is available on these races which get underway every 45 minutes beginning at 1:30 p.m. The backyard will play host to a variety of activities including pony rides, inflatables, face painting, caricatures and a petting zoo. For those looking forward to the upcoming meet, Saratoga 2011 season passes will be available for purchase at the Grandstand Customer Service Center. The passes, $75 for clubhouse admission and $35 for grandstand, are good for the entire 40-day Saratoga meet, including Travers Day on Saturday, August 27.

One day before the meet starts, Hannaford Supermarkets will invite racing fans to meet Saratoga ’s world-class jockeys and obtain their signatures at 95 Weibel Avenue store in Saratoga Springs on Thursday, July 21 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The autograph session will feature Saratoga ’s top three jockeys from 2010; John Velazquez, Javier Castellano and Ramon Dominguez. Velazquez, won this year’s Kentucky Derby, captured the 2010 riding title at Saratoga with 57 wins followed by Castellano with 54 wins and Dominguez with 46 victories. Several other of Saratoga ’s leading riders will also be in attendance. Hannaford Supermarkets is the official sponsor of the 2011 Jockey Autograph Book. The autograph books will be available at the signing with a voluntary contribution to benefit the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund (PDJF). This marks the first time since introducing the Jockey Autograph Book that fans will be able to pick up a copy outside of the race course. There also is a surprise in store for 20 lucky owners of the new Jockey Book. Hidden exclusively in the pages of the Jockey Books that are at Hannaford stores are a total of 20 golden tickets. Each golden ticket will entitle the holder and three companions to a complimentary breakfast with the jockeys at Saratoga Race Course on Wednesday, August 31.

I will be handicapping the 40 day race meet each race day in the Recorder and my column will appear on Saturday as usual along with both Saturday's and Sunday's selections. During the week, I'll be giving out my "selection of the day" on 1490am WCSS at 8:15am during Mike Mancini's morning show. You'll have wall-to-wall coverage of the 2011 Saratoga meet each day here at the Recorder and hopefully the success of last year will continue this year. I'm ready for it, are you?