Monday, August 24, 2009

"Rachel" to the Woodward

Woooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!! Yes Yes YES! Rachel is confirmed to be going to the Woodward Stakes on Sept. 5 to face older males. I knew they would pick this race but still I was nervous they wouldn't. No filly or mare has won this race ever. If she does boy...she is going to be more special if that's even possible. She's going to be facing males like Da'tara, Bullsbay, It's a bird, Cool Coal Man and Asiatic Boy.

http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/52259/rachel-alexandra-to-woodward
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Thursday, August 20, 2009

Something to get excited about

At first I thought this race wasn't as special as everyone else was making it out to be. But then I saw the replay. And wow...what a performance from an up and coming 2 year old colt called D'Funnybone. Could be a Derby contender next year. He's one to watch now.


I expected a Dashing Debby victory only to be surprised and see Worstcasescenario as the winner of the Adirondack Stakes Wednesday.
A very nice leggy filly but she has the most odd pedigree.
Her dam did nothing much as a racehorse and I've never heard of her sire. Hopefully she will fill out some more and continue on her winning ways.
Have a great evening!
Kirsten
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Sunday, August 16, 2009

Weekend stakes recap

What great racing we had this weekend. Here's a recap of the races.

Jacques le Marois in France
Goldikova, the winner of last year's Breeders' Cup Mile wins the Jacques le Marois in France.

Monmouth Oaks at Monmouth Park
Just Jenda makes it look easy in the Monmouth Oaks.

Sword Dancer Invitational at Saratoga
Telling shocks at 33-1 odds and the old iron horse Better Talk Now second.

John C. Mabee at Del mar
Magical Fantasy reels in Patricia's Gem and Gotta have her to win the John C. Mabee

Longarces Mile at Emerald Downs
Assessment puts in another shocker this weekend by winning the Longarces Mile over favored Awesome Gem. (Disappointed with Awesome Gem here.)

Lots of winning longshots this weekend huh? I'm really disappointed with Awesome Gem. Thought that race would have been easy for him. Magical Fantasy, Just Jenda and Goldikova did make up for that though with their wins. I'm absolutely tickled pink with Better Talk Now's performance. I've always been on his bandwagon and even though he didn't win second is pretty good for a guy his age.
Have a great evening!
Kirsten

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Friday, August 14, 2009

Recap of Zenyatta's race and more



Wow it's been awhile since I've posted here. Still haven't buckled down enough to post at least every week. LOL. Ah well.

AsI watched on Calracing the warmup before the Clement Hirsch there was one horse that stood out to me besides Zenyatta. It was an Irish bred five year old who had group placed in France beforehand by the name of Anaaba's Creation. She was looking good and I had a twinge of fear that if one horse was going to beat Zenyatta today it would be her. And I was almost right. An overconfident ride by Mike Smith along with the short stretch of Del mar was almost the undoing of Zenyatta's 12 race winning streak. It was a pulsating stretch drive. I doubt that she could have gotten beat by the way she still had her ears pricked in the photo. It was the way Mike Smith rode her that almost got her beat. Zenyatta, being the big muscled mare she is, takes awhile to get going and Mike didn't give her enough time to rev up. Hopefully he won't underestimate the competition next time out. Including the terrible ride he gave Mine that Bird and now Zenyatta? Three strikes and you're out.

Now this weekend's racing isn't as exciting but it does have some familiar faces.

Just Jenda looms large in Monmouth Oaks.

Sword dancer features some old favorites.

Awesome Gem favored in Longarces Mile.

John C. Mabee looks wide open.

Goldikova expected in Jacques le Marois in France.

Also Rachel puts in Rachelesque work and Summer Bird hates the grass.
Can't say I'm not surprised that Rachel's connections are considering the Woodward and going against older males. If she doesn't go to the Breeder's Cup then winning the Woodward would be a great place to go to lock in Horse of the year honors.

Charitable Man unsure on Travers.

Thorn Song out with foot abcesses.
Also check out Thorn Song's last race in the Eddie Read. It's a wild one on the first turn.
NTRA is a great place to watch videos on races your missed as well.

Whew! It's hard to catch up on all of the news when you've been gone. Now I'm going to start my picks and get back to you guys later! Have a great day!
Kirsten
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Sunday, August 2, 2009

Rachel destroys Haskell field




Another win under Rachel's belt. Now if only Zenyatta's owners would get them together in a race! Rachel is definitely the best horse in America right now. No doubts in my mind.
Go Rachel!
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Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Rachel to Haskell

http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/51676/rachel-alexandra-headed-to-haskell

Woot Woot! Back against the boys now! Can't wait to see this race and the next matchup of Mine that Bird and Rachel.

Sorry about not posting as frequently but I have been very busy having fun in the warm weather up here. I'll try to buckle down and post more now.

Just thought I would post these websites for you guys to visit for racing news when I don't post.

http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/

http://www.drf.com/

http://www.bloodhorse.com/

Have a nice evening!
Kirsten
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Sunday, June 28, 2009

Rachel and Zenyatta both winners

Results of Mother Goose Stakes
1.Rachel Alexandra
2.Malibu Prayer
3.Flashing

Holy cow...she hasn't lost any of her run has she? She is just not normal and like I said before the Oaks she is a FREAK! She won by 19 1/4 lengths after being eased.Words cannot describe this race so here's the replay.


Results of the Vanity Handicap

1.Zenyatta
2.Briecat
3.Dawn after Dawn
4.Hot n' Dusty
5.AllIcansayis Wow
6.Modification

Another win underneath Zenyatta's belt. I thought for a second she might get beat but then she kicked into gear and drew away with her ears pricked forward. God as much as I want to see her and Rachel meet half of me doesn't want them to. I don't want Zenyatta's streak to be broken and I don't want Rachel to get beaten. Well it might not happen so I have nothing to fret over now. Here's the replay for the Vanity.


Here is some other stakes results over the weekend.







In other news, sadly after the running of the Iowa Derby, Terrain who competed in this year's Triple Crown trail was humanely euthanized. Here's the story.

I feel so bad for his connections and I hope he rests in peace. I didn't want to end on a sour note so here's a story of Rachel settling into her Saratoga stall earlier today.

Have a great evening!
Kirsten
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Friday, June 26, 2009

Mother Goose and Vanity

*UPDATE- Don't Forget Gil and Hopeful Image scratched from Mother Goose. Rachel to face two now.*

I'm so pissed right now that they aren't showing either the Mother Goose or the Vanity on tv. And since I don't get HRTV or TVG I'll just have to settle for the computer replays. *Sigh* Oh well on to the picks.
The Mother Goose Stakes at Belmont Park
$300,000 G1
1 1/8 miles 121 .lbs all

1.Hopeful Image 30/1
2.Don't Forget Gil 15/1
3.Rachel Alexandra 1/5
4.Malibu Prayer 10/1
5.Flashing 4/1

Ha! Rachel has scared away most of her major competition here. Only four have come up to the plate. I'm guessing if she blows these guys outta the water no one is going to want to race against her soon in the filly division. Of course my pick is Rachel to win, Flashing to place and Don't Forget Gil to show.

Vanity Handicap at Hollywood Park
$300,000 G1
1 1/8 miles
.lbs
1.Dawn after Dawn 116 12/1
2.You lift me up 114 20/1
3.Forest Melody 113 30/1
4.Hot n' Dusty 111 30/1
5.Modification 114 12/1
6.Briecat 114 15/1
7.AllIcansayis Wow 113 6/1
8.Zenyatta 129 1/5
Zenyatta to win, Dawn after Dawn to place and Hot n' Dusty to show.
I'll be back tomorrow to post the replays hopefully, and give my opinion.

Have a great evening!
Kirsten


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Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Back with tons of racing news


Well it felt great to have a nice break. Now it's back to business. Here's some recent news headlines from the past weeks.

Rachel Alexandra passing on Breeders' Cup-






Sailor's Cap wins Poker against Kip Deville only to die in his stall a couple days later of Colitis X- http://www.drf.com/news/article/104854.html


Life is Sweet going against the boys-http://www.drf.com/news/article/104785.html

Whew...that's most of the major news stories for now. I'm already pumped for the Breeders' even though Rachel will not be there. I'm also excited for this year's Claiming Crown at Canterbury Park. I'm going again and it will be a blast. For those of you who don't know the Claiming Crown is like the blue collar version of the Breeders' Cup. It's for previous claimers to show their stuff. This weekend is going to be an awesome weekend for racing as well with Zenyatta and Rachel racing. Zenyatta is going into the Vanity Handicap and Rachel into the Mother Goose. They're both going to dominate. I'll be back to post my picks for this weekend's races and the lineups.

Have a great day!
Kirsten
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Tuesday, June 9, 2009

The "Other" Bird wins it. Summer Bird that is.

Link to the video here-http://www.ntra.com/video.aspx?id=39773



What a race! I thought Dunkirk had it untill I saw Summer Bird come up on the outside and go by him and Mine that Bird effortlessly. I wasn't surprised with this win as I had kept my eye on him but not so much as to pick him to win. I thought he would at least place fourth or fifth but not win. The other Bird won't be called the other Bird now I'm guessing.


It's too bad about Dunkirk though. Yesterday they found he had a non-displaced condylar fracture. Makes you think if maybe he hadn't hurt himself during the race maybe he could have fought Summer Bird off and won. Probably by the skin of his teeth though because Summer Bird was flying. Congrats to Tim Ice on his birthday Belmont win!
I also wasn't surprised Mine that Bird didn't do so well. It wasn't only Calvin Borel moving too early on him though. It was him being so wound up come race day. He was prancing and bucking and full of it coming to the paddock. Meanwhile at the Derby walkover he was as calm as a cucumber. I knew from that moment he wasn't going to turn in his best race.

Now that the Triple Crown has closed it's time to look ahead to the Breeders' Cup. I'll probably take a couple weeks off then start the Road to the Breeders' Cup blogginng! Have a great evening and start to a great summer!
Kirsten
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Saturday, June 6, 2009

Belmont Stakes and other stakes picks

*WARNING VERY LONG POST AHEAD* So since I have the time beforehand I thought I would post my picks for every single stakes race today at Belmont. The True North Handicap, Just a Game Stakes, Woody Stephens, Acorn Stakes, Woodford Reserve Manhattan Handicap and of course the Belmont Stakes. I'll start off with the True North.

The True North Handicap
G2 $250,000
Six furlongs on the dirt

1.Benny the Bull 123 .lbs 5/2
2.Silver Edition 114 .lbs 8/1
3.Two Step Salsa 119 .lbs 3/1
4.Sixthirteen 114 .lbs 12/1
5.Desert Key 115 .lbs 6/1
6.Fabulous Strike 122 .lbs 2/1

I like Benny the Bull here to win, Two Step Salsa to place, and Silver Edition to show.

Just a Game Stakes
G1 $400,000
One mile on the turf, 118 lbs. all except Forever Together 123 .lbs

1.Carribean Sunset 6/1
2.Raw Silk 10/1
3.Captain's Lover 8/1
4.I Lost My Choo 15/1
5.Forever Together 6/5
6.Modern Look 8/1
7.Diamondrella 8/1
8.My Princess Jess 5/1

I like Forever Together(of course) to win, Raw Silk to place and Diamondrella to show.

The Woody Stephens
G2 $250,000
Seven furlongs on the dirt

1.Regal Ransom 123 .lbs 2/1
2.Everyday Heroes 123 .lbs 2/1
3.This ones for phil 123 .lbs 7/2
4.Gone Astray 117 .lbs 15/1
5.Munnings 117 .lbs 4/1
6.Triumphant Flight 121 .lbs 15/1
7.Hello Broadway 117 .lbs 12/1
8.Kensei 117 .lbs 15/1
9.Hull 123 .lbs 3/1

I like Everyday Heroes to win, Regal Ransom to place and This ones for phil to show.

The Acorn Stakes
G1 $300,000
One mile on the dirt, all 121 .lbs

1.Casanova Move 6/1
2.Gabby's Golden Gal 15/1
3.Be Fair 12/1
4.Funny Moon 8/1
5.Doremifasollatido 6/1
6.Livin Lovin 15/1
7.Dream Play 6/1
8.Justwhistledixie 8/5
9.Four gifts 6/1

I like Four gifts to win, Justwhistledixie to place and Gabby's Golden Gal to show.

The Woodford Reserve Manhattan Handicap
G1 $400,000
One and one fourth miles on the turf

1.Court vision 120 .lbs 4/1
2.Optimer 110 .lbs 4/1
3.Champs Elysees 119 .lbs 12/1
4.Zambezi Sun 116 .lbs 12/1
5.Marsh Side 117 .lbs 20/1
6.Premium Gold 113 .lbs 20/1
7.Gio Ponti 120 .lbs 7/2
8.Wesley 116 .lbs 12/1
9.Senior 112 .lbs 50/1
10.Better Talk Now 117 .lbs 15/1
11.Cosmonaut 116 .lbs 6/1
12.Interpatation 114 .lbs 20/1
13.Lauro 117 .lbs 15/1
14.Cowboy Cal 120 .lbs 3/1

I'll pick Cosmonaut to win, Cowboy Cal to place and Court vision to show.

The Belmont Stakes
G1 $1,000,000
One and a half miles on the dirt, all 126 .lbs

1.Chocolate Candy 10/1
2.Dunkirk 4/1
3.Mr. Hot Stuff 15/1
4.Summer Bird 12/1
5.Luv Gov 20/1
6.Charitable Man 3/1
7.Mine that Bird 2/1
8.Flying Private 12/1
9.Miner's Escape 15/1
10.Brave Victory 15/1

This is a hard race to handicap but I have to go with Charitable Man to win, Dunkirk to place and Mine that Bird to show.

I'll have my post race analysis tomorrow. Have a great day of racing!
Kirsten
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Monday, June 1, 2009

Belmont and other updates



Rachel was confirmed that she will not competing in this Saturday's Belmont stakes. Jess Jackson said they want to give the filly a break and point toward the summer racing. I'm a little disappointed but they know their horse. I hope Rachel gets her rest and is pointed toward some more races against the boys!

Mine that Bird, Dunkirk and Charitable man have put in their last works before the Belmont. I have to say that I'm keeping my eye on Charitable Man. His sire Lemon Drop Kid won the Belmont and his Peter Pan win was nice. I think he's the one to beat at the moment with his running style suiting the pace scenario of this race. The only thing really going against Mine that Bird right now is the pace. With him being a late closer that isn't going to be as effective going a mile and a half. I'm not counting him out though. Dunkirk I'm a little iffy about. I'm not sure if he can get the mile and a half and he isn't carrying much flesh going into this race. He could surprise though. Some other horses to keep in mind are Flying Private, Summer Bird and the Zito horses, Miner's Escape and Brave victory. Zito has been lethal lately in the Belmont with Da' Tara last year and Birdstone, Mine that Bird's sire.

Also Rene Douglass is doing okay right now and his wife reports that "his mind is sharp." I hope for the best.

Friesan Fire was discovered last week to have a stress fracture in his left front leg and a secondary nondisplaced chip fracture in his right front fetlock and will now be out for a while. He had surgery on Friday. Hope he recovers well to come back to racing.

Have a great evening!
Kirsten
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Monday, May 25, 2009

Rachel and the Bird work

Rachel worked a half mile today in :50 1/5 over a sloppy Chuchill downs. Connections are saying that she is doing very well with Jackson stating "She acts like she can run through a brick wall." There is no decision yet on whether of not she will start in the Belmont. This work was supposed to cap their decision but they are still playing the we'll see how she is doing card. Jackson, her owner, has said that the decision could come later this week or as late as next Monday when her next work is slated. If Rachel skips the Belmont she would likely be pointed toward the Mother Goose stakes at Belmont on the June 27th. Jackson also declined to answer if he would run her in the Breeder's Cup at Santa Anita. He indicated that if she did run, it would be in the Classic and not the Ladies Classic.

Meanwhile Mine that Bird worked four furlongs in :51. Jockey Calvin Borel was aboard for the work and afterwards was questioned of his riding status in the Belmont. Him and his agent have not come to a decision on whether they will ride Mine that Bird, who is going to the Belmont, or Rachel Alexandra, who is questionable for it. After the work he and his trainer had this to say. “He went good, like his old self,” Borel said before Hissam added there would be no comment on the mount situation. "He worked super; he got over the ground good,” said trainer Bennie “Chip” Woolley Jr. “I am tickled with where we are right now. He’s been a little on the hook, so we’re just trying to get him to settle.” Mine that Bird is scheduled to work next Monday.

I had to mention Zenyatta's win in the Milady on Saturday.(See picture) She just keeps getting better and better. Mike Smith said he was numb when he got off of her from the victory. I can't wait to see this older mare go up against Rachel if they do. The young hotshot filly against the older mare.

Brass hat also had a nice race this weekend at Churchill with none other than Borel aboard. His trainer said he might now go back to the dirt.

Also check out Afleet Alex's 2 year olds racing. He has a filly called She's a Fleet racing today at Churchill against a half sister of his called Stormin' Maggy. Interesting to see this outcome.

I'd like to send my condolences to Rene Douglas and his family. I hope he is able to walk again after that terrible accident at Arlington.
Have a great evening!
Kirsten
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Tuesday, May 19, 2009

RACHEL ALEXANDRA rocks Preakness




Well as you all pretty much know by now, Rachel absolutely showed her guts on Saturday. She is a freak as I told you. A FREAK. I'd like to see Asmussen and Jackson give her some time to rest then point her towards the Travers and Breeder's Cup. But if they decide to run her in the Belmont I'll have no qualms about it. They'll know her condition far better than any of us. So in short, RACHEL is a freak and has shown her old owner fillies don't always have to run with fillies.

Meanwhile Mine that Bird solified himself as the best three year old male by coming in second to Rachel in a last charge. His win the Derby was no fluke. I applaud this little gelding and his efforts. Can't wait to see him in the Belmont and stretch out to a 1 1/2 miles.

Here is the full order of finish for the Preakness.

1.Rachel Alexandra
2.Mine That Bird
3.Musket Man
4.Flying Private
5.Big Drama
6.Papa Clem
7.Terrain
8.Luv Gov
9.General Quarters
10.Friesan Fire
11.Pioneerofthenile
12.Tone it down
13.Take the Points

Okay let's start off with horses that surprised me with their finishes. Musket Man has been nearly perfect so far. Never out of the money. He'll dominate if he returns to his home track and runs there. Flying Private and Big Drama also surprised me with their finishes. Especially since Big Drama reared in the gate and lost Johnny Velasquez. Now on the other hand, Friesan Fire was very disappointing. I had at least suspected him in the money but I guess not. Man, that Fairgrounds form is just not holding up lately in the Triple Crown is it? Pioneerofthenile's finish was what I suspected. He just is so big he doesn't really have the turn of foot that other horses do such as Mine That Bird. He's just another glorified synthetic specialist to me.

Well I probably won't be posting lately because of other things happening in my life. I'll try to post at least three more times before the Belmont. I'm excited. The Belmont is my favorite Triple Crown race.
Have a great evening!
Kirsten
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Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Preakness posts and odds


Well the 13 horse field for the Preakness stakes were drawn today. Here is the lineup.

The Preakness Stakes presented by Blackberry at Pimlico
G1
$1,100,000 1 3/16 miles
126 lbs for colts and geldings, 121 for fillies

1.Big Drama 10/1
2.Mine That Bird 6/1
3.Musket Man 8/1
4.Luv Gov 50/1
5.Friesan Fire 6/1
6.Terrain 30/1
7.Papa Clem 12/1
8.General Quarters 20/1
9.Pioneerofthenile 5/1
10.Flying Private 50/1
11.Take the Points 30/1
12.Tone it Down 50/1
13. Rachel Alexandra 8/5

Would you look at that? Rachel is the favorite over Mine that Bird AND Pioneerofthenile. Wasn't expecting that but hey, her victory in the Oaks was very impressive. I'll make my picks now while I'm at it. I'll pick RACHEL ALEXANDRA to win in impressive fashion, Mine that Bird to place and Take the Points to show.

Meanwhile in other Preakness news, on Sunday Pioneerofthnile's owner and Mine That Bird's half owner dropped their plans to keep Rachel out. I'm glad that they didn't go through with it but still, just coming up with that is so slimy. Also Mine that Bird arrived yesterday at Pimlico and today he galloped 1 1/2 miles over the surface. No rest day for him. Calvin Borel will also be getting off Mine that Bird and onto Rachel instead. I can say I can't blame him. I would do the exact same thing. Did you see her win? Amazing.

Well I might have another post between now and the Preakness but, for now have a nice evening!
Kirsten
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Sunday, May 10, 2009

Owners plot to keep filly out of Preakness



See the article here. http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/racing-news/2009/May/10/Owners-plotting-to-keep-Rachel-Alexandra-out-of-Preakness.aspx





What a disgusting, low, dirty trick. I know that this does happen in racing but this is just BS. They are just scared of facing Rachel Alexandra because they know she is going to give them a run for their money. Oh, and Mine That Bird's owner wants Calvin back on their horse instead of on Rachel Alexandra. That choice that Calvin chose the Oaks winner over the Derby winner should tell you something. Calvin even has repeatedly said that she is the best three year old this year. I've lost all respect for Pioneerofthenile's connections and now lost respect for Mine that Bird's owner. I hope Rachel gets in but if she doesn't then I hope Jess Jackson(her new owner that just bought her. He used to own Curlin.) points her toward the Belmont instead. She deserves a chance to beat the boys.





Here is the contenders for the Preakness stakes so far.



Mine That Bird
Pioneerofthenile
Big Drama
Flying Private
General Quarters
Hull
Musket Man
Papa Clem
Take the Points
Terrain
Friesan Fire
Rachel Alexandra


Have a great day!

Kirsten

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Monday, May 4, 2009

Mine that Bird soars to victory

Wow....that was an amazing race on Saturday!(Go to kentuckyderby.com to see it.) I swear I thought Pioneerofthenile had it in the bag when Calvin "Borail" Borel came through a tiny hole to win it. Congrats Calvin! He is one of my favorite jockeys to watch win. Not only does he own the rail but he is a hoot to see him after a huge win like that. All smiles and he is always just as estatic as ever. Puts a smile on your face. Anyways back to the horse. Mine that Bird just absolutely blew the other horses out of the water. What an extreme turn of foot that little gelding has. He is certaintly like this sire and grandsire.

His connections aren't the typical Kentucky Derby winning connections you would expect. They were dressed in cowboy boots and hats with jeans. I liked them. It's nice to see the little guys come up to win the big race. His trainer though is something else. Yes he had been rude to NBC's reporters but hey, he has a broken leg and who knows what kind of pain killers he's on. Also he seems to care a lot about his horse and thats how it should be. Kind of reminds me of Ruffian's trainer. Not sitting around talking to reporters when his horse needs him. They also scored points when on Sunday they brought the rose blanket to the Barbaro memorial statue outside Churchill Downs and placed it upon the statue for bystanders to take pictures. Then they handed out the roses to fans. How nice is that?

So all in all, yes I was a bit disappointed about the outcome but it was a great race and the best horse won. Now I'm not going to hand the Triple Crown to him but, he does have a shot. If he wins the Preakness in a couple weeks then he is definitely going to have the best shot so far. His father Birdstone upset Smarty Jones to win the Belmont Stakes in 2004. So you know he can get the distance of a mile and half. Now the Preakness is what I'm worried about. Pimlico tends to be speed favoring and that isn't going to suit his style of running. Well we'll see how he does. Only 12 days then it's time to the second leg of the Triple Crown!
Now for the full order of finish.
1.Mine That Bird
2.Pioneerofthenile
3.Musket Man
4.Papa Clem
5.Chocolate Candy
6.Summer Bird
7.Join in the Dance
8.Regal Ransom
9.West Side Bernie
10.General Quarters
11.Dunkirk
12.Hold Me Back
13.Advice
14.Desert Party
15.Mr. Hot Stuff
16.Atomic Rain
17.Nowhere to Hide
18.Friesan Fire
19.Flying Private
Now I was really impressed with Musket Man, Papa Clem, Chocolate Candy and Summer Bird's performance. A lot better than I thought they would do. Regal Ransom, Desert Party, Dunkirk, and Friesan Fire though really were disappointing. I do think Dunkirk and Friesan Fire did have excuses. Dunkirk did some kind of a freaky no one was near him but he stumbled, sort of thing then Prado completely rushed him into contention. Friesan Fire tore half of his foot off grabbing a quarter and Gabriel Saez just let him gallop out the race and didn't push him. (Gabriel was the same jockey who rode Eight Belles last year.) So I hope to see Dunkirk and Friesan Fire come back to win some more races. Saturday though, just wasn't their days. Desert Party and Regal Ransom just don't have any excuses. They just weren't good enough.
See you later to start handicapping the Preakness!
Have a great evening!
Kirsten
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Saturday, May 2, 2009

Breaking News: I Want Revenge scratched

I Want Revenge was scratched from the Kentuckky Derby this morning when a filling was found in his ankle. They jogged him on the blacktop and he jogged okay but the vet said the inflammation was still there.

Well this is a surprising development. The favorite scratched the day of the race. This Derby is just the Derby of scratches and dropouts isn't it? Oh well, at least they are being cautious with him and not running him when he isn't 100% fit. Well now my picks are Friesan Fire and Dunkirk.
Kirsten
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Friday, May 1, 2009

RACHEL ALEXANDRA one of the best fillies EVER

I'm so speechless right now about RACHEL'S win.(go to ntra.com and click on videos to view.) Just.....wow. I have to say this is the best filly I have ever seen in my life. She is better than Zenyatta, Ruffian and any of the other fillies in history. She has never been asked to do her best yet but she won the Kentucky Oaks by a 20 1/4 lengths. Calvin sat chilly the entire time. Just WOW. When she came around that bend and I watched as the other filly's rider was really riding her and Calvin just sitting chilly as can be and when she pulled away....It reminded me of Secretariat in the Belmont. God I wish she would have been in the Derby. But hey, they may be considering the Belmont so maybe she can tromp the boys there. I have never been so impressed with a horse since like this since Afleet Alex. This filly is not just a freak, she is a champion. We are looking at the best horse running this year. Just give her Horse of the Year honors now. LOL.


Kinda short but my picks for the Derby are I Want Revenge, Dunkirk, and Friesan Fire. Now only less than one day left till the Run for the Roses!

Have a great evening!

Kirsten
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Thursday, April 30, 2009

Kentucky Oaks and Louisville Distaff preview

Well only one more day till the big dance of the Derby. But first tomorrow we have the Kentucky Oaks with Rachel Alexandra and Justwhistledixie along with undefeated Breeder's cup Distaff winner Zenyatta coming back to match up with One Caroline an undefeated 4 year old grey mare. Let's start it off with the Louisville.

Louisville Stakes at Churchill Downs
Grade 2
$350,000 1 1/16 miles

1.Swift Temper 15/1
2.Zenyatta 4/5
3.Miss Isella 15/1
4.One Caroline 3/1
5.Unforgotten 20/1
6.Modification 20/1
7.French Kiss 30/1
8.Unbridled Belle 3/1

I had a hard time picking a favorite here. I loved One Caroline's romp last time out at Gulfstream(see picture above) but Zenyatta is also undefeated and won the Distaff last year and Older female of year honors. Sorry Caroline but Zenyatta, on paper, is the better horse here. I pick Zenyatta to win, One Caroline to place and I'll throw French Kiss to show. Now onto the major race for tomorrow.

The Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs
Grade 1
$500,000 1 1/8 miles 121 lbs. all

1.Tweeter 30/1
2.Be Fair 15/1
3.Stone Legacy 30/1
4.Gabby's Golden Gal 10/1
5.Justwhistledixie 5/2
6.Rachel Alexandra 3/5
7.Nan 20/1
8.Flying Spur 8/1

Of course I'll be picking RACHEL ALEXANDRA to romp here. I'll take Gabby's Golden Gal to place and Nan to show. Go Rachel!

Tomorrow is lady's day at the Downs so grab your hat and purchase yourself an Oak's Lily and tune in to the Kentucky Oaks. I'll have a recap tomorrow along with a preview of the Derby. Have a great evening!
Kirsten
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Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Win Willy out and Derby positions

Well this morning Win Willy was not one of the names placed in the Kentucky Derby starting gate. His trainer had his leg X-rayed where they found a suspicious looking line through this ankle. So in his best interest they didn't enter him. So now Nowhere to Hide takes his spot. Too bad. He was the hometown favorite for me because of his owner. Oh well, I am impressed on how many trainers and owners have passed on the Derby in favor of the horse's best interest. A big step up since last year.

The gate positions were secured this morning and I Want Revenge was secured favortism in the Derby at 3-1.

The 135th running of Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands
Grade 1 at Churchill Downs
1 1/4 miles
First jewel of the Triple Crown

1.West Side Bernie
2.Musket Man
3.Mr. Hot Stuff
4.Advice
5.Hold Me Back
6.Friesan Fire
7.Papa Clem
8.Mine that Bird
9.Join in the Dance
10.Regal Ransom
11.Chocolate Candy
12.General Quarters
13.I Want Revenge
14.Atomic Rain
15.Dunkirk
16.Pioneerofthenile
17.Summer Bird
18.Nowhere to Hide
19.Desert Party
20.Flying Private

Everyone is pretty much in a great spot for themselves and nobody should have any excuses about post position affecting their horse's running in the race. No one. I won't announce my picks yet. I'm having tough time to sorting through this competitive field. No on really sticks out for me yet. Also, how funny is it that WinStar Farm's entrys are 3, 4 and 5 in the gate right next to each other?

Have a great evening!
Kirsten
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Tuesday, April 28, 2009

3 days till Derby

Well lots of stuff has been happening since my last post over a week ago. Quality Road has dropped out of the Derby because of his second quarter crack. Square Eddie has dropped out because of some heat in his shin that he injured. Along with many of the Derby horses arrivals.

Okay let's start with a recap of what I think of how they are all working. Pioneerofthenile has impressed me with his workouts and liking to Churchill's surface. He definitely will not have the "he just didn't like the surface" excuse if he loses. I Want Revenge has also been doing very well over the track posting a bullet final work for today. Man he did it easily too. He might be the favorite come Derby day. Friesan Fire also posted a bullet work yesterday and he did gallop out a bit slow but when he went five furlongs in 57 4/5 you should be galloping out slower.

The rest of the contenders seem to be doing okay on the track but nothing real special compared to the three I mentioned. General Quarters looks a bit uncomfortable, especially when the track was wet and it's supposed to rain through Derby Saturday so not looking good. He has a weird way of running. Just check out the workouts on kentuckyderby.com and you'll see what I mean.

Now onto the dropouts. Quality Road was taken out of consideration Monday when he was sore in his right front hoof from the recent quarter crack. It's not life threatening or career threatening at all and he will probably be pointing toward the other Triple Crown races. Now I applaud Jerkens for doing this. I was worried he would push him to run but Thank God he didn't. I'm also relieved Square Eddie was taken out of the Run for the Roses today when his trainer Doug O'Neill discovered heat in his recently healed shin. Hopefully he'll point now for the Queen's Plate and not the Derby.

Here's the list now for the Derby in no particular order. The post draw will be tomorrow and if you go to kentuckyderby.com you can watch them post the gate positions during the draw.

Dunkirk
Musket Man
West Side Bernie
Chocolate Candy
General Quarters
Papa Clem
Mine that Bird
Flying Private
Mr. Hot Stuff
Summer Bird
Advice
Join in the Dance
Hold me Back
Regal Ransom
Pioneerofthenile
Friesan Fire
Desert Party
I Want Revenge
Win Willy
Atomic Rain

So far I like I Want Revenge, Win Willy, Friesan Fire, Dunkirk and Pioneerofthenile. Win Willy and Friesan Fire will like the track better if it rains which it is supposed to. But rain would not suit General Quarters whatsoever. I Want Revenge has the way more experience from his last race and has exploded onto the scene since his Gotham win. Pioneerofthenile is a win machine and has taken to Churchill quite well. Dunkirk also garnered some experience and was very impressive in that allowance win. All in all the Derby is going to to interesting.

Now in Oaks news Rachel Alexandra scared off many of her competitors and only seven fillies has stepped up to try to defeat her. It's almost a one horse field. They drew post positions today and here is the lineup.
1.Tweeter
2.Be Far
3.Stone Legacy
4.Gabby's Golden Gal
5.Justwhistledixie
6.Rachel Alexandra
7.Nan
8.Flying Spur

The only horses in this race that I think could possibly beat this freak is either Justwhistledixie or Nan.

Thought this was funny so I thought I would post it.

It wasn't Derby Fever that had the attention of FRIESAN FIRE (A.P. Indy) on Tuesday morning at Barn 45."He was on his toes before he knew Zenyatta (Street Cry [Ire]) was here," trainer Larry Jones said referring to the arrival of the undefeated champion mare who is housed seven stalls down from Friesan Fire. "He is quite taken with her."

How funny is that? Little ladies man. I guess he's into older mares.
Have a great evening!
Kirsten
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Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Pioneer & Rachel looking good



Just a short little post here. Pioneerofthenile is sure looking good going over Churchill. What a great workout he had earlier this week. Any doubt in my mind about his ability to handle the dirt is thrown out the window now. I'm still worried about him being able to calm himself at the beginning of the race. This quote from Bob Baffert especially has me worried.


"I didn't want to work him in company this morning, because we weren't looking to light up the board. He's already ready, and if I'd have put another horse with him, he'd have gone too fast. He's that competitive."

Yes it is a good thing for him to be competitive but not so competitive that when he sees a horse in front of him he bolts and tires himself out before the race has even ended. I'm probably overanalyzing this but it does worry me a bit.

Meanwhile in Oaks news, if Rachel Alexandra was going into the Derby she would be my pick! She has been doing amazing things in her works at Churchill. Energetic, constantly pulling at her reins, and just looking like she doesn't want to do anything but run. She is going to be hard to beat come Oaks day. I'm really excited to see her blow them all away. She is a FREAK. Yep I said the F word.

Have a nice evening!
Kirsten
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Sunday, April 19, 2009

Contenders work out

With only 12 days till the Derby and 11 Derby hopefuls currently at Churchill, things are getting exciting. I have to say that in the last four years of watching horse racing up to the Derby, this is the most competitive, deep field I've ever seen. This is going to be an amazing race and whoever wins is going to be even more heavily favored at Pimlico then usual.

Contenders that worked out today

Papa clem breezed a very easy five furlongs work over Churchill Down's surface. He was timed at 1:04 3/5. His breeze ranked 25 out of 28.

Chocolate Candy galloped 1 1/2 miles at Churchill. He is scheduled to have a work Tuesday with jockey Mike Smith aboard.




Desert Party and Regal Ransom rested and walked the shedrow after both turning in five furlongs works yesterday. Monday they are scheduled to jog.

Flying Private galloped this morning for trainer D. Wayne Lukas. He is being considered for the Derby at this point.

I Want Revenge jogged a mile and galloped a mile under exercise rider Joe Deegan. I Want Revenge is scheduled for his second work over Churchill Tuesday.

Musket Man walked the shedrow after recording a six furlongs work in 1:13.






Pioneerofthenile galloped under exercise rider George Alverez.

West Side Bernie galloped 1 7/8 miles with his trainer Kelly Breen up for the ride. Breen has yet ot finalize a workout schedule for his Derby hopeful.





In other news, Gomez picked Pioneerofthenile for his Derby mount Sunday. Ron Anderson, his agent, said it was the toughest decision he and Garrett ever had to make. I knew he would choose Pioneer. And why not? He has one two Grade 1's aboard him and a total of four races altogether aboard out of the four times he's ridden him. Also in Oaks news, Stardom Bound will not be racing in the Oaks. Her owners IEAH will rest her during the summer then bring her back for a fall campaign. I think this is kinda weird considering they just changed her jockey for the Oaks. But, I think it's a great idea to allow her to rest a bit. She just hasn't been herself lately. My favorite for the Oaks is RACHEL ALEXANDRA.

I'm so pumped. The waiting is going to suck but once it comes, oh it's going to be the best Derby I've ever watched.

Have a great evening!
Kirsten
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Saturday, April 18, 2009

Review of the Lexington Stakes


The Lexington was had a very surprising outcome. A seemingly easy walkover for Square Eddie was turned into a race where he was floundering near the end. Which wasn't so surprising considering that long layoff and lack of conditioning.


The Lexington Stakes

1.Advice
2.Conservative
3.Square Eddie
4.Masala
5.Pitched Perfectly
6.Jeranimo
7.Brave Victory
8.Parade Clown
9.Omniscient
10.El Crespo
11.His Greatness
Hull scratched

Well I struck out on this race. Square Eddie's connections were pleased by his performance and with him being #3 in graded earnings it wouldn't be a problem. I still don't think they should run him in such a big race this close to an injury such as a hairline fracture. Advice closed like a freight train in this race. I don't think he deserves a Derby shot but he's one to look out for other Triple Crown races or just later in other stakes. Garrett Gomez....(shakes head) he just is loaded isn't he?
Updated Derby top ten

1.I Want Revenge
2.Friesan Fire
3.Pioneerofthenile
4.Dunkirk
5.Quality Road
6.Musket Man
7.Desert Party
8.Win Willy
9.General Quarters
10.West Side Bernie

Okay I have to admit I have relooked over General Quarters race and I have started to like him a bit more than I did. So I thought I would give some support so to say. Tomorrow I'll update on some more Derby news but for now I'm exhausted from riding today.

Have a nice evening!
Kirsten
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Friday, April 17, 2009

Preview of Coolmoore Lexington

Now that the Derby is fast approaching there is only one real serious prep race that awaits. This is going to be the final chance for anyone to jump onto the Derby wagon. There isn't much in this field except for Square Eddie but, he suffered a hairline fracture in February and I have a feeling his connections are rushing him to just get into the Derby.

Coolmoore Lexington Stakes at Keeneland
Grade 2
$300,000
1 1/16 miles 117 lbs all except Square Eddie and El Crespo, 123 lbs.

1.Jeranimo 12/1
2.Omniscient 6/1
3.Pitched Perfectly 15/1
4.Brave Victory 8/1
5.His Greatness 20/1
6.Masalo 6/1
7.Conservative 15/1
8.Square Eddie 9/5
9.El Crespo 10/1
10.Parade Clown 15/1
11.Advice 10/1
12.Hull 12/1

Even though I don't agree with what Square Eddie's connections are doing, I'm picking him to win. I'll pick El Crespo to place and Omniscient to show.

Derby news

  • Garrett Gomez, the rider of both Pioneerofthenile winner of Santa Anita Derby, and Dunkirk runner up to Quality Road in the Florida Derby, will be announcing his choice for the Kentucky Derby mount on Sunday. (If you ask me I already know what horse he will be choosing by what each horse has accomplished.)
  • Quality Road breezed at Belmont and showed no ill effects from the quarter crack that was found after the Florida Derby. He worked six furlongs in 1:12.03 the fastest of the six moves at that distance.
  • Eibar Coa decided to ride Musket Man over General Quarters which left Julien Leparoux to take the ride on General Quarters for the Derby.
  • Friesan Fire breezed five furlongs in 1:00.40 at Keeneland on Tuesday and was rated the fourth fastest work that day out of 23 moves. Friesan Fire will be shipping to Churchill one week before the Derby.
  • Mafaaz after his disappointing effort in the Bluegrass will be skipping the Derby. He was recently moved to Kiaran McLaughlin's barn and will possibly stay in the U.S. and point for turf races here. His connections are also considering gelding him. (THANK GOD!!!! I knew this horse wasn't good enough to be in the Derby. I hated the idea of giving a European horse an automatic berth into our most prestigious race by winning a turf race in England. I mean, they don't give us an automatic berth into the Epsom Derby! Okay rant over.)
  • Pioneerofthenile posted a bullet work by drilling a half mile in :46.20 handily. On Thursday he, along with Chocolate Candy, arrived at Churchill Downs.
  • I Want Revenge breezed an effortless half mile at Churchill in :50.

Oaks News

  • Garrett Gomez picks up the mount from Mike Smith on Stardom Bound in the Oaks. IEAH's Mike Iavarone says it's not a firing of Mike Smith but a way for Stardom Bound to get used to a new jockey for he knows Mike Smith is committed to older female champ Zenyatta. (B.S, I think this is totally ridiculous that they are doing this. I think there is more to this than just the Zenyatta thing that Iavarone isn't telling.)
  • Thursday probable Oaks favorite Rachel Alexandra completed a six furlong work in 1:11.60 with "ease and without urging." says Calvin Borel her jockey.

Well enjoy that prep this weekend! It's on ESPN2 tomorrow.

Kirsten

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Monday, April 13, 2009

Old Fashioned injured out of Derby


Well I found out Saturday afternoon that Old Fashioned was injured during the running of the Arkansas Derby. He developed a non-displaced slab fracture to his front right knee. Though it isn't life threatening it is career threatening. Although many horses tend to come back to races fine after such an injury many don't compete at the level they had once competed at. He will be shipped to Lexington's Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital for treatment today. Larry Jones, his trainer had this to say.

"It's not life-threatening -- it should be okay," Jones said. "Career-ending is a possibility just because of the type of horse he is. But we'll see. We'll let them make that call."

Very sad indeed. Now with The Pamplemousse and Old Fashioned out of the Derby the Derby has lost most of it's pace. This is going to hurt Pioneerofthenile if he can't learn how to relax in the early stages of the Derby. It's also now up in air on who will be going to the lead. Amazing how in a couple days the whole complexion of one race can change like that.

Workouts

Square Eddie, April 11
Six furlongs
1.12:20 Breezing
Fast
Synthetics
6/20

Thought I should also post the updated graded earnings for the Derby.

1.
Regal Ransom
Saeed bin Suroor
$1,250,000
2.
Pioneerof the Nile
Bob Baffert
$1,193,250
3.
Square Eddie
Doug O'Neill
$774,981
4.
I Want Revenge
Jeff Mullins
$774,000
5.
Papa Clem
Gary Stute
$760,000
6.
Desert Party
Saeed bin Suroor
$641,667
7.
Quality Road
James Jerkens
$600,000
8.
General Quarters
Tom McCarthy
$595,645
9.
Friesan Fire
J. Larry Jones
$570,465
10.
Musket Man
Derek Ryan
$485,000
11.
Terrain
Albert Stall Jr.
$448,330
12.
Hold Me Back
Bill Mott
$438,000
13.
West Side Bernie
Kelly Breen
$385,160
14.
Chocolate Candy
Jerry Hollendorfer
$370,000
15.
Win Willy
McLean Robertson
$230,000
16.
Bittel Road
Todd Pletcher
$211,000
17.
Giant Oak
Chris Block
$169,256
18.
Dunkirk
Todd Pletcher
$150,000
19.
Mine That Bird
Bennie Woolley
$138,705
20.
Theregoesjojo
Ken McPeek
$133,063
21.
Flying Private
D. Wayne Lukas
$124,000
22.
Mr. Hot Stuff
Eoin Harty
$114,000
23.
Summer Bird
Tim Ice
$100,000
24.
This Ones for Phil
Richard Dutrow Jr.
$97,500
25.
Take the Points
Todd Pletcher
$85,000
Have a great evening!
Kirsten
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Saturday, April 11, 2009

Bluegrass & Arkanasas Review

Well the races were really interesting today. Here is the results.

Bluegrass Stakes
1:49.26, 1 1/8 miles, Track Fast

1.General Quarters
2.Hold Me Back
3.Massone
4.Terrain
5.Join in the Dance
6.Loch Dubh
7.Charitable Man
8.Mafaaz
9.Theregoesjojo
10.Patena
11.Cliffy's Future

Good effort from General Quarters to win. Hold me back did farely well though I wouldn't think of him as a horse with a spot in the gate. Mafaaz was disappointing but, with that automatic in he will probably continue on to the Derby. I really irks me that they did that whole automatic in to the Derby in Europe. Mafaaz does not deserve a spot in that gate in the Kentucky Derby and will now be knocking a more deserving American horse out of the race like Dunkirk.


Arkansas Derby
1:49, 1 1/8 miles, Track Fast

1.Papa Clem
2.Old Fashioned
3.Summer Bird
4.Win Willy
5.Flying Private
6.Flat out
7.Poltergeist
8.Captain Cherokee
9.Danger to Society
10.Ziegfeld


Papa Clem really battled Old fashioned and was able to win by a close margin. I don't think I'll be adding the Clem anywhere on my top 10 but it was a gutsy win. Old fashioned meanwhile might just be dropping like a stone in water. He just doesn't seem to want to relax and I was nervous two strides after the gates opened. He isn't going to win the Derby with that kind of running style. Sorry Old Fashioned but I have to agree with everyone else that you just are not the horse to win the Derby.



Updated top ten

1.I Want Revenge
2.Friesan Fire
3.Pioneerofthenile
4.Dunkirk
5.Quality Road
6.Musket Man
7.Desert Party
8.Old Fashioned
9.Win Willy
10.West Side Bernie

No major changes here. Well only three weeks till the Derby! It's closing in.
Kirsten
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Friday, April 10, 2009

Bluegrass Stakes and Arkansas Derby

More preps coming to you this weekend. Mafaaz, who won the automatic in to the Derby, will be running in the Bluegrass. Old Fashioned meanwhile, hooks up with Win Willy in the Arkansas Derby. Don't forget to catch this action on ESPN2 tomorrow!

Toyota Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland
Grade 1
$750,000
1 1/8 miles 123 lbs all

1.Patena 10/1
2.Join in the dance 10/1
3.Theregoesjojo 7/2
4.Cliffy's Future 20/1
5.Mafaaz 12/1
6.Terrain 6/1
7.Loch Dubh 50/1
8.General Quarters 15/1
9.Charitable Man 4/1
10.Hold Me Back 3/1
11.Massone 12/1

I'll be picking Hold me Back to win, Theregoesjojo to place and Cliffy's Future to show.

The Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn
Grade 2
$1,000,000
1 1/8 miles

1.Captain Cherokee 118 lbs 20/1
2.Papa Clem 118 lbs 6/1
3.Flat out 122 lbs 10/1
4.Poltergeist 118 lbs 20/1
5.Ziegfeld 118 lbs 12/1
6.Flying Private 118 lbs 6/1
7.Summer Bird 118 lbs 30/1
8.Old Fashioned 122 lbs 9/5
9.Win Willy 122 lbs 7/2
10.Danger to Society 118 lbs 6/1

I'll be picking Old Fashioned to win and be able to come back from his loss, Win Willy to place gamely and Papa Clem to show. I would have picked Win Willy to win but, even though he's a hometown favorite for me I promised myself I would give Old Fashioned one last chance before I wrote him off.

Have a great evening everyone and enjoy the preps!
Kirsten
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Monday, April 6, 2009

Quality Road succumbs to quarter crack


Quality Road the winner of this years Florida Derby has a quarter crack in his right hind leg.


Well this is a very interesting development. If I was Jerkens I would be doing exactly what he is doing. Waiting to see and if he can't get two works into him before the Derby then he's out. It does seem like a glimmer of hope for Dunkirk though. With The Pamplemousse out and now possibly Quality Road he could comfortably make the Derby. It all depends on the future preps now on the next Saturdays. A couple of longshots place really well and he could be out of it. Well that's horse racing or the Derby for that matter.

Kirsten
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Sunday, April 5, 2009

SA Derby review/The Mousse off trail

What exciting racing we had yesterday! Amazing, though the Pamplemousse and two others were scratched from the Santa Anita Derby yesterday morning it still was nice to watch.




Santa Anita Derby

1.Pioneerofthenile
2.Chocolate Candy
3.Mr. Hot Stuff
4.Take the Points
5.Feisty Suances
6.Unbridled Roman
7.Gallant Son

Very impressive race for Pioneerofthenile. Again he had to face a paceless race and Gomez had to press the pace. He definitely won't have trouble with a paceless race at the Derby though, he will have to deal with the dirt for the first time and I just don't think he can handle it.

Wood Memorial Stakes

1.I Want Revenge
2.West Side Bernie
3.Just a Coincidence
4.Atomic Rain
5.Imperial Council
6.Cellar Dweller
7.Lord Justic
8.Lime Rickey

An even more impressive race from I Want Revenge, stumbling at the start and being able to overcome that and win. Impressive ride from Talamo as well being able to sit chilly till the end. He just might make my number one with the Mousse now off the trail. The Pamplemousse was scratched from the Santa Anita Derby yesterday morning and now that they have x-rayed his legs it was found he had a lesion in his tendon. What a shame. I was so looking forward to seeing him win the Santa Anita Derby then go on and run in the Kentucky Derby. Oh well, I'd rather have him safe and sound then breaking down in a race.


In Oaks news, today Rachel Alexandra won the Fantasy at Oaklawn. Nice win for the filly and now it's on to Churchill Downs! Meanwhile Stardom Bound lost yesterday at Keeneland and finished third to Hooh Why, the winner. I'm beginning to get scared about this filly. She seems to have peaked too soon. She definitely won't be going into the Oaks as the favorite now.

Workouts

Flat out , April 4
Oaklawn Park
One mile
1.43:40 Breezing
Fast
Dirt
1/1


Square Eddie , April 5
Hollywood Park
Six furlongs
1.13:00 Breezing
Fast
Sythetics
13/19

Updated Derby top ten

1.Friesan Fire
2.I Want Revenge
3.Pioneerofthenile
4.Old Fashioned
5.Dunkirk
6.Quality Road
7.Musket Man
8.Desert Party
9.Win Willy
10.West Side Bernie

There is my updated top ten. I have to give POTN his props. He will be carrying SoCal's Derby hopes. Though I utterly dislike Baffert I think he has a real shot to win.
Have a nice evening!
Kirsten
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