REDBOARD the race @ Saratoga........ why not with the 10 a day!

Very rarely do I make analysis of a typical everyday race after it is run. The term "redboard" is used when describing what went on during the race and why the winner was victorious. We go over the major races and stake races, but seldom do I look at a everyday race, after it's run. With coming up for ideas in writing my weekly column, sometimes it's tough. This time of the year, I'm really busy with handicapping the daily races at Saratoga . With my column once a week, I talk about the upcoming stakes for the weekend or the past week's races. This weekend, the major stakes races are quiet and the past week at Saratoga kind of uneventful. So, we'll review a race ran this past week at Saratoga and my opinion on the outcome results. Hope you enjoy my "redboard" analysis.

On Thursday afternoon in the feature race, with had New York bred three year old fillies racing in the Statue of Liberty division of the New York Stallion Series at one mile on the Saratoga Inner-Turf course. Restricted to N.Y. breds who sires stand in New York , a field of nine were entered with two scratches. The first scratch drew in Stock Fund, a maiden and the other scratch was I Bet Toni Knows, who was the favorite as they went to post. In my analysis of the race; my top selection was Manero, who set the pace in her last start at Belmont Park in a similar restricted NY bred race sprinting seven furlongs on the Inner-Turf course downstate. With the expectation of one start as a three year old, she shown speed in all her turf races. Last year, before she broke her maiden, she lacked any early speed on the weeds.

Let off at solid 4-1 odds, even after the late scratch of the favorite; Manero was far back in the early running. Actually, 24 lengths off the lead at the three quarter mark of the race, only beating one horse. Then she put a furious late charge, fanned five wide as she entered the stretch. At the wire, she got beaten by a nose in a head shaking effort in my opinion. When I did my analysis in my daily selections, I looked at all her starts as a three year old, especially her last two. She shown speed on the front end, near the pace speed and ideally would be the "one to catch" in my opinion. But, in the running for some reason, jockey Jose Lezcano had her way, way off the pace. Actually, she ran like my 2nd selection; I Bet Toni Knows who was a late scratch. The winner; My Jopia had the perfect stalking trip as the slight 2nd choice and wasn't the "post time" choice over the actual one; Why Take a Chance. This cause trouble for some who used the 29-1 longshot in the finale; Warrior Up in late pick 4 plays.

But I couldn't figure out for the life of me, why Manero was not on or near the lead. It was clear that the horse was well meant with her furious close and nearly got up in victory. But, did the jockey or her connections try another plan after the late scratch of the favorite? It was very frustrating as a bettor and handicapper how the race unfolded for her. Sometimes in races when the speed needed horse, stumbles at the start and doesn't break cleanly, the trouble gets the runner a excuse for not doing well. But this time around, I couldn't have called the running by Manero today by any cost! Next time out, she'll likely be the favorite in the same or similar state bred condition. But, today was the day I need the "speedy" Manero to be victorious. Instead, I got a closing effort that EVERYONE will be betting next time out!

The 2012 edition of the WHITNEY STAKES

Today is one of the staple races at beautiful and historic Saratoga; the Whitney Stakes. Through the years, this mile and an eighth test has been the biggest summer race for the older colt handicap division. Named after the family who was so influential with American thoroughbred racing and especially at Saratoga , Eclipse winning horses of this race which started in 1928 are; War Admiral, Tom Fool, Kelso and Dr. Fager. I was very fortunate to see the great Personal Ensign defeat the boys and remain undefeated in her career back in the 1988 edition of this race. A year later, another Phipps / McGaughey flag bearer won this event and was the last three year old colt to do so. In 1989, New York 's own; Easy Goer used his Whitney Handicap victory as a prep race and stepping stone for his Travers Stakes victory later on in the meet.

Criminal Type won this race in 1990 and was named "Horse of the Year" later on in the season. Famous Belmont Stakes winners won this race the following year like; Colonial Affair, Victory Gallop, Lemon Drop Kid and Medaglia d'Oro. Horses that used the Whitney along the way as a prep for atheir Breeder's Cup Classic victory were; Awesome Again, Invasor and Blame. Even New York bred runners have done quite well in this race. The great gelding; Commentator won this race as a four year old in 2005 and again as a seven year old in 2008. I was fortunate to see this old warrior break his maiden at Saratoga and could have been one of the best horses I saw in person win his first career race!

Today's edition, nine horse entered coming from all across the country. The nine runners are coming in from five different venues for today's prestige race ( Monmouth Park , Belmont Park , Churchill Downs , Woodbine & Prairie Meadows) . We have four horses who have won a graded stake in their last start (Rule, Hunter's Bay, Ron the Greek & Fort Larned) . My top selection in this race is a runner who is going to try achieving a "hat trick" of older handicap race victories. Ron the Greek, trained by Bill Mott has become a different horse since switching to his barn (4 wins and 3 second place finishes). Most recently, he won the Stephen Foster Handicap at Churchill Downs going this same, mile and an eight distance and two starts back won the San Anita Handicap at a mile and a quarter. Both of these races are the premier older horse race at those venues.

For second, I'm going with the Shug McGaughey trainee; Hymn Book. Since this trainer has been one of biggest money makers for me this year, I'll include this closer. He won the biggest older handicap race at Gulfstream Park this winter; the Donn Handicap going the same distance. Horses to use underneath Ron the Greek & Hymn Book are; Rule, Caixa Eletronia and Flat Out (who also now trained by Bill Mott).

The first 12 days of this year's 2012 Saratoga meet have really improved for myself the past week. The McGaughey trainee; Sea Island scored at 15-1 in last Thursday's 2nd race stretching back out to a route distance. This was a tremendous overlay in my opinion. In the 2nd race on Saturday; Charming Kitten lived up to her grass billing in victory, but it was the runner-up; Fire Guard at 30-1 who keyed the $115 exacta payout! Finally, in the overnight stake on Sunday (Nani Rose) trainer Bill Mott celebrated his birthday again with a victory by Alaura Michele at 6-1 and my 2nd place horse; Sweet and Lovely keyed a $153 exacta "cold". I know a very prominent Amsterdam resident who did quite well with my selections in that race!

How I long for the days of; 9 races, 24 days and TOP quality Saratoga racing!

One week of the 2012 Saratoga meet in the books, it was a little different for me than in past years. The "quietist" surrounding the beginning of the meet, with the state take over (behind the scenes) has made this year's Saratoga , somewhat average without the usual "big" opening. Opening day had the usual glitches, problems with the sound on the PA system, water in the bathrooms with low pressure and the new "Wi-Fi" wireless system not working in all areas. Little problems that weren't major problems, like the tote betting system going down like a few years back. The weather was the best in quite a few years and a good solid, comfortable crowd came out for opening day. These things are just part of opening day and with 39 more after that, all things considered it went well. But, the lack of NYRA being out in full force on opening day was noticeable to me.

The early morning of opening day, I usually watch the local television news stations to see there coverage of one of the bigger events in the Capital District each summer. This year, there were "spoke people" for what was going on about the leading up to Saratoga , but they were new faces and not the usual suspects. After all, with state government getting involve with thoroughbred racing in this state and all the "evil" things that NYRA has done, we saw a new spin on the 40 thoroughbred meet.

The driving force I noticed was played up by the VLT's that are finally running at Aqueduct and how much more the purse will bring horsemen from all across the country to Saratoga. This has been really going on since the beginning of the year. Higher purses during the Aqueduct Inner-track meet had full fields and big payouts to the horsemen who stayed in New York during the winter months. In reality, we saw the same old horses, race three or four times a month and soon making several starts which meant runners taking turns, beating each other during the dead of winter. There were times where wagering in New York became very dull and monotonous. Since Saratoga has expanded to 40 days from the original 24 and the race cards from nine a day to ten and sometimes 11, the racing product will be affected in quality because of quantity.

More isn't better when the cash is out there, the cards fill up and the top horses have many places to go during the summer months to race. Two years ago, Monmouth Park had incredible purses that were partially funded by the state. A lot of that money, went into the stake racing program. Here at Saratoga , we had the usual amount of stake races and ALL top quality. But, it seems because of the many avenues for top horses to go, the extra money in New York benefits the "cheaper" horses. Maybe it's me, but 40 days and cheaper races have taken away the "aura"of Saratoga .

Saratoga is noted for it's stake races almost everyday, two year old racing and turf racing on it's two grass surfaces. But, many races are carded with large fields of horses who would have NOT raced at Saratoga , 15 years ago. This is mainly a product of the 40 day meet. If the weather cooperatives, there will be many grass races carded with full fields and horses not under 3-1 odds. It's the non-winners of one lifetime racing for 20k that I think, should just race downstate. Saratoga is about tradition, the best horses from top connections with championships to be won in the Fall. But, now that we've going "40" and ten plus races a day.....the "cheaper" races will reign. This is a trend that will continue, especially when it's about the almighty dollar when it comes to the state. Let's hope that is the ONLY thing that will change at Saratoga . When they start tinkering with picnic area and other Saratoga traditions, then it will show for ALL the public to see!

Twas the Night Before Saratoga by Mark Hoffman

It was the night before Saratoga , as I prepared for the meet
My computer was buzzing, even my wireless mouse.
The past performances were printed with care,
In hopes that the "racing gods" would treat me fair.

The entries were nestled all in their post positions,
While visions of winning tickets, danced in my head.
Mamma watching the "Lifetime" network and me with my racing form,
We just settled our brains for a long Saratoga meet.

When on my computer, there rose such a dilemma
I sprang from my chair to see what was the matter.
Away to the entries I flew like a flash,
Tore open the running lines and marked up the paper.

The sunset of the hot day
Gave the thought of the races tomorrow.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a moral "lock" in tomorrow's feature race.

With a little known jockey, so lively with weight,
I knew in a moment he must be real quick.
With buzz from the start, the bettors they came,
And like a rocket he broke, so speedy from the gate.

He got clear of the leaders and away he went.
From the top of the stretch, his steed was in the lead.
Now dash away, dash away from them all and away he went.

As he left his opponents in the dust, like a wild hurricane fly,
When he got to the finish on his mount, I reached to the sky.
So in the grandstand, the crowd did cheer.
With the victory in hand, and the bettors that were happy as dear.

He returned to the winner's circle and did the crowd roar.
I got out my winning ticket and cashed out my score.
Back through the paddock, the winner was going .
And his body all tarnished with dirt and sweat.
with his saddle was no longer flung on his back,
And he looked like a winner, proud from the pack.

His eyes, how they twinkled and so did mine!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And his head stood proud, as he headed back to the barn.

His bit was no longer held tight in his teeth,
And the smoke, was left on the track.
He had a broad face and was full of muscle.
That shook when he whined, so full of trouble.

And I saluted when I saw him, and was full of myself!
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon told me everything I know, I had chosen the best!

He spoke not a word, as he walked into the distance
And filled all the winners, cash in their pockets
I gave him a nod, and back to the barn he went.

I said to myself, with endearment to my pick .
God, I love this game and will never quit.
So, Saratoga is here......for the next 40 days
Happy Spa to all, and cash tickets all day!

What's in store for SARATOGA 2012 - on and off track!

We got thrown a curve ball this year leading up to the biggest racing meet of the season; Saratoga. The information has been coming to us in bits and pieces since the spring, but one thing is for certain; the 40 days of thoroughbred racing at Saratoga means the most for NYRA and racing in the country. I'll give you the "highlights" on what I've learned and what to look forward to starting July 20th through Labor Day.

We first learned late last winter that the stakes purse structure at Saratoga would be increase for the upcoming meet. With all the hoopla about take-out and money lost for NYRA, it's nice to see that the organization is putting cash toward it's premier meet. This will lure horsemen from all across the country for NYRA's great stakes scheduled. The stakes schedule will include several key stakes that also have great meaning for this year's Breeder's Cup events in the Fall. Four events will have a point system for the winners and horses finishing in the money that will gain those horses entrance into the Breeder's Cup stakes. The four races are; the Whitney Handicap (8/4) for older stake horses, the Ballerina Stakes (8/24) for filly & mare sprinters, the Personnel Ensign Handicap (8/26) for older filly & mares going a route distance and the Three Chimney's Hopeful Stakes (9/3) for the two year old colts.

Racing at Saratoga will also be showcased on network television throughout the meet. The NBC Sports Network (locally on channel 44) will be presenting five graded stake races on their network. They'll be on Saturdays and one Sunday. Starting on Saturday, August 11th - the Fourstardave Handicap on the grass from 6pm to 7pm on the NBC Sports Network, Sunday, August 12th the next day - the Adirondack & Saratoga Special from the young two year old runners same time as the above and also on the NBC Sports Network, on August 18th - the Alabama Stakes (for 3 yr.old fillies) and the Sword Dancer Invitational (older grass runners) 5pm to 6pm on the NBC Sports Network, the biggest day of the meet August 25th Travers day from 4pm to 6pm on NBC (locally on channel 13) and will showcase the Ballston Spa on the grass, the Test Stakes & King's Bishop Stakes (for 3yr.old sprinters) and of course; the Travers Stakes - Mid-Summer's Derby. Rounding out the Summer at Saratoga schedule is the Woodward Stakes on Saturday September 1st on the NBC from 5pm to 6pm.

Giveaways always play a big part of the Saratoga season. These were announced the day that NYRA used to have the annual Saratoga press conference. First up is the Saratoga Baseball Cap on July 29th (Sunday) a sharp, two toned hat which may be the best that they have given away yet! On Sunday, August 12th there is a new item; Saratoga Picnic Mat which is a nice foldable pack and is in the iconic Saratoga traditional colors. Sunday, August 19th a Saratoga Pilsner Glass is the special giveaway. We round out the list of giveaways on Sunday. August 2nd the final Sunday with the classic Saratoga Fleece Blanket in the Saratoga red with logo. Missing for the first time in over 25 years, the famous Saratoga T-shirt giveaway.

Special event days fill the Saratoga schedule throughout the meet. There is Family Fun Fridays, each Friday of the meet. The Travers Festival from August 18th through the 26th. Party at the Spa with a later post times on July 27th (second Friday) and August 31st (last Friday) of the meet. Also, the Final Stretch Festival from Saturday, September 1st through closing day; Labor Day - September 3rd. Other daily events are; Hats Off to Saratoga (7/20 to 7/22), College Day (7/27), Mid-Summer Saint Patrick's Day (8/2), Galloping Grapes event (8/5), Fabulous Fillies Day (8/17) and Veterans Day (8/29).

These are just a few things going on during the 40 day race meet at beautiful and historic Saratoga Race Track, try to get out to the track at least once during this premier meet!

Horses who won at Saratoga in 2011 & have raced in the last 6 months

It's Tricky - grade I winning filly is the top prospect for Godolphin Stable

Rule - hard hitting older handicap runner from the Pletcher barn, recent stakes winner

Currency Swap - grade I winner here last year in the slop, pointed for the King's Bishop

Turbulent Descent - west coast wonder last year, now transferred to the Pletcher barn

Funky Monkey Mama - hard hitting ALWAYS hits the board, watch in mid/ high price claimers.

Vexor - 3 yr.old colt trained by John Kimmel, watch in sprints

Big Blue Kitten - recently tried group race in Europe , watch back on the weeds here

Australis Princess - multiple winner at the Spa the last two years, gutsy statebred

Caixa Electronia - hard hitting runner from the Repole / Pletcher barn, watch sprinting or route races in stakes company.

Union Rags - won last year here in the slop, Travers main goal for the Belmont Stakes winner.

Compliance Officer - just missed in graded stake on the weeds at Belmont, hard hitter!

Gitchee Goomie - statebred older turf mare, always a danger in grass races to finish ITM

La Reine Lionne - sharp turf filly from the Chad Brown barn, watch in grass stakes

Those Wer the Days - the little known half-brother to Kentucky Derby winner; I'll Have Another, watch on grass or dirt.

W.W.'s Lady's Man - hard hitting claimer won in slop here last season and has been a multiple winner over the track.

Hungry Island - graded stakes winner on the weeds for Shug McGaughey & the Phipps barn, possibly pointed for the Diana Handicap.

Cease - marathon runner from the Kentucky circuit, watch in route races here

Mabou - claimed from jump race here last summer, recently prep on the weeds at Belmont .

To Honor and Serve - graded stakes winner hasn't bounced back yet this year, may get overlooked at the Spa.

Fizzano - multiple statebred winner here last year, watch in those optional claimers here!

Stay Thirsty - will be making third start off a layoff next time he races, most likely here!

Kid Kate - Chad Brown's hard hitting dirt sprinter, won here the past two years.

Risky Rachel - was favored last time out over above horse in overnight stake at Belmont .

Jackson Bend - classic sprinter / mile from the Zito barn, may stretch back out to a route also.

Saratoga Snacks - lightly raced runner from the Sciacca barn, ONE that will be bet!

Grace Hall - top notch two year old filly last year, hasn't been seen since the Kentucky Oaks though.

There was Fourstardave before, Funny Cide later..... but, in between; Thunder Rumble!

It's hard to believe that it has been 20 years since I had one of my most successful and fun race meets at Saratoga . 1992 was quite a year in thoroughbred racing for myself. That year I tabbed the horse that would eventually win the Breeder's Cup Classic (AP Indy), I was starting my 2nd year with Nick Kling on our public access show the "original" Down the Stretch and was doing quite well with my "horses to watch "list and that summer, marked the first year that I took my new family; Karen, Joshua and Nicole to Saratoga during August.

We first went to what was called; the Wait Trials at the Saratoga training track, this was the prelude to what is now, the Saratoga Open House before the meet starts. It was the first time I went and enjoyed the day with my family and hospitably that then trainer; Billy Sise showed us at his barn. The kids really loved it and in a few weeks, we would go to see the ponies do their thing in the afternoons. Now, going to the track for a nine year old and seven year old could prove interesting! But, we picked the first Sunday of the meet and went with my parents.

It happened to be the day of the Jim Dandy Stakes, which was a prep for the Travers. The class of '92 three year olds had some very good runners like; Dixie Brass, Pine Bluff , Alydeed and a little N.Y. bred named; Thunder Rumble. He had a decent spring that year and was going to be pointed toward the Kentucky Derby . But, much like AP Indy, a injury caused a change of plans for him. So, his trainer; the late Richie O'Connell got him ready for the big two three year old races at the Spa. Coming into Saratoga off the layoff and being a statebred racing in graded stakes company, he got overlooked in the wagering.

Now up to this point in the day, I had my most successful day of wagering at Saratoga in the six years that I had been going. My bankroll was up over $300 my the mid-race card and the smart bettor I am, decided to quit while I was ahead that day. But, my stepson wanted me to play him a horse in the Jim Dandy field. That horse was Thunder Rumble and the reason was, he liked the name! Well, I put $2.00 across the board for Joshua and the N.Y. bred won the race and paid over $50 to win! That made a little boy, VERY happy! For the first time at the track as a family, was quite an experience and still 20 years later, we make at least one trip as a group there.

That year, Thunder Rumble would go on to archieve the elusive Jim Dandy / Travers victory double by also winning the Mid-Summer Derby at 7-1. He became in a short time one of the most popular N.Y. breds, right up there with the likes of the"Sultan of Saratoga "; Fourstardave. He would go on in the Fall and race in the Breeder's Cup Classic and return the following year to Saratoga and capture the Saratoga Cup Stakes. After his racing career, he went to the farm and now resides just a few miles from the racetrack at Old Friends Farm, in Middle Grove off of route 29. I got to see him two years ago in his own paddock and he looked lively as ever at the age of 21.

We've had a lot of great N.Y. bred horses throughout the years. Whether it was Fourstardave or later the 2003 Kentucky Derby winner; Funny Cide, that day nearly 20 years ago, a N.Y. bred named Thunder Rumble made a kid from Fonda N.Y. very happy! That's what going to the racetrack does; gives us lasting, wonderful memories.