The Song Has Ended But That Rhythm Lingers on…

Sunday September 2, 2012

Musings:

Closing the books on the 2012 Saratoga meeting is always a moment of mixed emotions. Paradoxically, these 40 days are never upon us soon enough, too long and exhausting with work and commuting, while passing so quickly. The rigor of handicapping 417 races over these 40-days takes its toll on the eyes, the psyche, and this aging body. As usual, there were more than a few tough beats nearing the wire and not enough bump ups in close photos. The old friends were back where they belong: Frankie, Chip and Vito in the Nelson Avenue parking lot, Mr. X in section F of the clubhouse, Brooklynites Ronnie and Danny in their lawn-chair box, Gene the Shoeman at the Paddock, Dave in Clubhouse Boxes, Henry back handling programs and Daily Racing Forms for NYRA, The Mig and Pedro in the Press Box, the West Point Thoroughbred crew rooting for their runners, Old Tom selling seats and sheets on the Nelson Avenue gate. I met a few new folks including former trainer and jockey agent, Carmine Desciora, Mike DeAnzeris from Embrace the Race, Mark the Fire Officer, Lydia in NYRA Programs, and NYRA COO Ellen McLain. The weather cooperated, horsemen filled races, good juveniles made their debuts for top trainers, the Gravedigger buried a few more short-priced favorites, the same top trainers vied for the training title, the same long-shot trainers sent out long odds winners (Roy Lerman, Glen DiSanto, John Hertler), the same jockeys battled for the title (sort of battled, that is), the main track played fairly throughout the meet, and the turf courses were hard and firm, playing less kindly to closers but not biased beyond the break-take hold-go slow early-sprint late race shape one could rarely figure.

Today is the Labor Day Picnic and Getaway Day. NYRA will be packing its boxes while the races are in progress. There will be hugs and handshakes but this is a bittersweet ending to the 149^th Saratoga meeting. As NYRA and the City if Saratoga Springs prepare to celebrate 150 years racing at Saratoga in 2013 (www.saratoga150.com), Governor Cuomo will announce appointees to a newly constituted Board of Trustees. He has said that after three years, New York racing will be “returned to private control.” I’m not sure that means control will be returned to NYRA, the current franchise holder. Several years ago there was fierce competition among bidders for the franchise to run racing in New York, a process that ultimately awarded stewardship over Thoroughbred racing to the New York Racing Association. Frank Stronach’s Magna Corporation, Empire Racing, and Friends of New York Racing were among the non-winning bidders. The odds are reasonable that when the three-year period of State control ends, New York Racing will be up for bid again. Wow, what irony should control of New York racing move from the NYRA to FONY.

Thanks to you who have taken the time to click and read this blog. I would appreciate any feedback and constructive criticism. You can reach me at trkfacts@nycap.rr.com.

Luck…and may they all come home same.

Winding Down…

Thursday August 30, 2012

Another great day to be at the Spa.

A better than expected crowd of about 80 attended the Racing Fan Advisory Council hearing after the last race at the Carousel. The panelists were there to listen and paid attention as fans commented. Concerns were expressed about the Governor’s takeover of the NYRA Board and how that might affect the future of racing, the lack of access to the Oklahoma and backstretch areas to fans, tickets, sound system, and other ambiance aspects of Saratoga racing. All in all the meeting was good; the report and action, if any, on the recommendations…that’s the rub.

Third:

Archwarrior (1-4), a big, strapping colt reputed to be a very fast horse, stalked Transparent, loomed, forged ahead, cleared and won under mild encouragement. Certainly looks capable of stretching out to longer distances.

Fourth:

Royal Rhiannon (9-5) is sent from the bell, sets a strong pace pressured by Glorious View, leads gate to wire holding that one at bay. Villanesca (7-1) is off poorly, moves up into the fast pace and weakens in a useful debut. She wants longer.

Fifth:

Favored Sounds of the City is the best closer behind silly fractions set by Margaret Lilian. Lady Rizzy needs retirement.

Sixth:

Chifa, in from the AE list, goes gate to wire and just holds off the late rush of Make Me a Prophet (15-1). This was a weak and slow group. Dutrow favorite Agualinda shows nothing.

Seventh:

Lea (2-1) broke his maiden impressively and repeats for Chad Brown after stalking pace setter Change of Command throughout, rolling past that rival to the wire. Presumptive (33-1) wins the battle for pace over the bar-shoed Best Actor. Second choice Quantity was empty.

Eighth:

Discreet Marq hated the slop on debut but loved the firm turf going gate-to-wire and running far away from these. Favored Live Life Fast, bet off decent turf works, chases throughout and lands the place.

Ninth:

Furious finish by Phil Gleaves Miami Cat (7-2), who outran three rivals to the wire. Film Shot (10-1) finishes well up the inside for the place. Yari chased the pace and held well.

Tenth:

Balance the Books catches the well-bred Joha late for trainer Rick Violette.

Eleventh:

She Gets It is just too much for these. Belongs to Dixie finishes well.

More Bombs Away…

Wednesday August 29, 2012

Musings:

Under the old paradigm of 9-race cards, NYRA has run the equivalent of a 47-day meet in regularly carding 10, 11 and 12-race cards. Like in Field of Dreams, if you race from Saratoga, they will wager.

No complaints from me on the DQ in the second, as the stewards made the correct call. Congrats to Carlos Martin, one of the good guys.

Big $17.00 payout on McGaughey runner Norumbega when favored Thane flops.

Hearts of Red ($25.60) as the longest price in the race swallows the battling favorites cutting back in distance. Tough to have.

Ridiculously tough to find the four that finished 1-2-3-4 in the Seventh for a $96k superfecta. Wish my phone number, address, or quick pick was 3-8-4-9!

Corinzia ($25) was haveable and logical in the finale  following a strong turf work. Add the fact that Andy Serling pushed the horse and Maggie Wolfendale pushed the appearance and this one was bettable in a chaotic race.

First:

Darley Stable second-out runner Thane, stretching to 9-furlongs for the first time, opens at 1-9, closes at 1-4, stalks perfectly but hangs late and barely holds the place over Western Sadler. Good trip effort from winner Norumbega; deecent debut after poor start for Taken by the Storm.

Second:

Favored Smoke Town sets the pace and falters, second choice Brother Bob moves up and hangs in the lane. Carlos Martin debut runner Scofield is well-bet off a big work, is soundly bumped in the stretch run and moved up on the dq of winner Brazillian Court.

Third:

Weekend Hideaway (3-5) toys with these as Cay to Pomeroy wilts setting a pressured pace after bumping Slot Play at the start, and Mr. Rodrigueez chases and hangs. Slot Play passes the tired chasers.

Fourth:

Turnback Hearts of Red (11-1) stalks outside in the clear just off a 3-way duel, clears and draws far away. North Freeway is the surviving speed.

Fifth:

Brickyard Kitten, in from the AE list, races wide throughout, and holds well but weakens and loses to a perfect inside trip winner in favored Fredricksburg.  Summer Shiner rallies boldly again but races greenly and fails to threaten the winner.

Sixth: Swift Warrior (4-1) gets a perfect inside trip under Jose Espinosa and runs past pace setter Yield Bogey. Favored Right One fails to fire. Beau Choix needs much more pace.

Seventh: Debut runners from Jonathan Sheppard(???) and Mark Hennig (??????) run 1-2 and deliver a $454.00 exacta. Favored Emotional Kitten folds and second choice Zadina is without finishing kick.

Eighth:

Chad Brown Irish import Watsdachances runs them down late. This private purchase is a harbinger of Euro performance in the Breeders Cup. Favored Top Tier Lass was dueled into submission.

Strong pace sets the table for Chad Brown’s Watsdachances (7-2) and the closers who battle to the wire and Broken Spell.

Ninth:

Wishingonadream (31-1) open up a 12-length lead, fold in the lane and is swallowed by classy Gimmee Credit. Short-priced chases fold and are passed by Cinnamon Beach (45-1) and Dugan (14-1) with the aforementioned pace setter lasting for 4^th in a huge superfecta.

Tenth: She Be Bunny steps out to a clear lead, bottoms out all but favored Passionate Gold but both are run down by Corinzia (11-1), aTom Bush first-time turfer with a Fucillo-huge turf work.

Post-Travers Week…

Monday August 27, 2012

Musings:

9,915…that ‘s Monday’s on-track attendance figure.

The week after Travers at Saratoga Race Course belongs to upstate handicappers and racing fans. Most of the out-of-town “shippers” have packed and departed. Picnic tables, grandstand and clubhouse seats, even a few clubhouse boxes are available to locals. The lines of Alabama and Travers are gone; the treat of being shut out at the windows on a bet is gone; little to no waiting at Shake Shack, Carolina Bar-B-Q, Moe’s, or Dunkin Doughnuts. In six days, we’ll all have a year of seasons to endure before racing returns to this grand venue to celebrate 150 years of Thoroughbred racing (see http://www.saratoga150.com) So, get up off the couch, out of the living room or man-cave, pack the family or pick up a few buddies, drive past your local OTB and make a trip, another trip, or your last trip of the year to Saratoga Race Course.

Race Recap:

First:

Favored Spinit to Winit stumbled at the start bumping Bit Bustin into Roses for Romney. True Fortune made the lead along the inside pressed by Carla’s Sweetrevenge and Polan, forged ahead and held Polan safe to the wire. Bit Bustin settled at the rear, was sked in the lane and finished well while racing greenly an failing to change leads till very late.

Second:

Federation (4-5) stalked the modest pace while under a hard hold, moved to the lead entering the stretch, shook The Underling late, then cleared. Prize Catch, at the rear throughout, finished well form off the pace to dead heat Arch Support (29-1). Federation was the best of these but might be vulnerable against tougher.

Third:

Favored Agillion (4-5) rallies well, but just too late to catch stalker Effie’s Trinket. That one stalked pace setter My Smartness, pulled ahead and just held to the wire.Myhorsw

Fourth:

Widlcat Aly (8-5) and Magnificent Mia (7-1) exited the same race where both raced against a severe speed bias. Wildcat Aly stalked the pace and pulled clear; Magnificent Mia raced greenly in the stretch but kept on to pass favored Victoria Lynn for the place.

Fifth:

Favored Let Us Have One may have run the best race but settled for 2^nd to a later rally and sustained drive by O’Frederika. The former battled in between rivals and emerged to resist the winner into deep stretch.

Sixth:

See Me Proud (10-1) raced as the lone closer in this field, rallied boldly around the turn and out gamed Myhorseofcourse (12-1) to the wire. Favored English Major (4-5) comes up dead empty, another heavy Todd Pletcher favorite who fails to deliver.

Seventh:

Neon Moon and Judy G. battle each other into submission setting the table for Michael Matz first-timer Sensational Appeal (15-1). Speaking Role rallies for second.

Eighth:

Comandante has too much speed for Shot Rock, put that rival away only to be caught at the wire by John Velazquez and Leap.

Ninth:

Go Unbridled (5-1) for Allen Jerkens settles back behind a solid early pace and roars by the weakened speeds. Opus A (8-5) set the pace, repulsed Harbor Mist and a middle move from Great Gracie Dane but had nothing left for the winner.

Tenth:

Only three horses covered in the Pick-6 for over $290k and favored Loud Pipes is not one of the three. The safest bet might have been a win bet on all three and ride with the “live” tickets. Filly Miss Suwanee broke on top and never looked back, chased from afar by Loud Pipes.

Willy Beamin…

Sunday August 26, 2012

*** The Willy Beamin victory for trainer Rick Dutrow Jr. has been a source of consternation controversy, and conversation. Dutrow wins races, and one must assume, given the scrutiny he is under over his current sustained legal battle and impending 10-year suspension, that he is racing clean. His meet record through Sunday is 41 starts with 5 winners (12%) and 23/41 in-the-money (56%), but is telling when examined in the context of his win percentage over the prior six Spa meets: 2006 (21%), 2007 (25%), 2008 (23%), 2009 (20%), 2010 (19%), 2011 (18%). Note the steadily declining win percentages, with the current meeting his lowest in seven years.

 

Statistics are predictors, not determiners, and the irony lies in the fact that trainers don’t study their stats; they just train and do. That said, Rick Dutrow, Jr. wins races. For that reason, he has, and continues to have, owners. I’ve always believed a trainer’s most important task is to determine a horse’s best distances, surface, class level and tracks…then get the horse to those spots as race-fit as possible as often as possible. Dutrow does just that. With the information explosion, handicappers and owners have become much more aware of trainer stats as a sign of trainer ability and intent, and to a large degree, less concerned about the horse. How good is a trainer in this particular spot, making this particular move? How successful has the trainer been with this move, with this horse, on this circuit or track? Dutrow has some compelling stats, one supporting the fact that his horses are capable of repeating big efforts on short rest. The question with Willy Beamin: was the Albany Handicap an effort or merely a public workout? Willy Beamin was ambitiously spotted in the Grade 1 King’s Bishop, and Dutrow generally spots horses not only where they can compete, but where they can win without delivering a top or career best effort. Dutrow’s stats said Willy Beamin would be a contender. However, smoke, smoke from the firestorm of controversy surrounding him while being accorded the full due process to which he is entitled, engulfs every horse he enters that must be handicapped. And he wins races. I don’t fault any one for betting or using this horse. I have picked and bet a few of his runners this meet. But, I was not prepared to bet Willy Beamin, a NYbred $25k claimer, in a Grade 1 stake against several proven Graded stakes competitors, back on only three days rest, statistics be damned. Here’s trainer Nick Zito after the King’s Bishop: “I don’t know why I always have to be in the middle of something,” said Zito. “Yesterday, I finished second in the King’s Bishop, and [Dutrow] runs the horse back in three days. I don’t know. Here’s the odds. They tell you, ‘OK, Nick, you’re going to beat Currency Swap, Doctor Chit, Trinniberg, etc., etc., but you’re going to lose.’ I would say, ‘How much do you want to bet?’ We lost. That’s racing. That’s what makes it so incredible. Things you see every day that you don’t see in any other sport.”  And that’s why, smoke or not, we are engaged in this game.

 

***The Racing Fan Advisory Council will hold a fan forum Thursday August 20, 2012 at the Saratoga Race Course in the Carousel immediately following the last race of the day. DRF;s David Grenig will host and moderate a panel comprised of Chairman Patrick Connors from Albany law School, Michael Amo fromThorofan, Allan Carter from the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, and Kelly Young from the New York Farm Bureau. If you have ever called in to Trackfacts “Live” or sent an e-mail with an issue or concern about racing in NY, you ought to find a way to be in attendance and be heard. I’ll be there; stop by and say hello.

 

*** Jockey John Velazquez is riding extremely well since returning from his injury. Who knows how tight the race for leading jockey might have been had he began the meet in top shape? That by no means is intended to take anything away from the numbers Ramon Dominguez has put up this meet.

 

Race Recap

First:

I did not like the favorites here but failed to pick the correct no-favorites. Classic Fashion and The Sliver Machine vie, Who is Lady chases but Speedy’sGal (7-1) emerges as best in a bad field.

Second:

Big maiden win for Al Stall, Jr.’s Sign (10-1), who rated, moved and drew far, far, far away form Pletcher debut runners Honor Bright (10-1) and Marcellina d’Oro.

Third:

White Sangria (9-2) set the pace but favored Thescreenisred is easily best under Ramon Dominguez. Linda Rice firster Talmadge Hill proved best of the rest.

Fourth:

Fiddler’s Afleet rallies outside and passes weakened speedsters. Favored Sailmate finishes well but too late. Pacesetter Johannesburg Smile last for 3^rd. Be Bullish stalks outside but comes up empty under Dominguez.

Fifth:

Ramon Dominguez guides favored Mr.Cowboy to the wire as tons the best of these for trainer H. James Bond. Forget the rest.

Sixth:

Heidi’s Holiday rallies from off the pace after a three-way pace battle. Long shot Stellerite (30-1) sucks up for 2^nd. Roddy Valente’s Stone Broke, a May foal, delivers a good debut effort and will win soon.

Seventh:

Wide open tote board with three evenly bet co-choices Half Lucky (5-2), Mr. E. Philip (3-1), and War Hitch (3-1).  Half Lucky is more than half empty; the others run 1-2.

Eighth:

Class dropper Screenplay (2-1) put away Ronin Dax to win off as tons best; Recharged (32-1) rallied boldly under Maylan Studart for the place. Sr. Henry has trouble at the start and altered course in the late running.

Ninth:

I like Bombaguia at the price last time but thought this a tougher group. Wrong. He sits a perfect trip, rolls by fading pacesetter Followmyfootsteps and holds off the favorite.

Tenth:

Pletcher gets another double-digit winner in Love and Pride. Blinkers came off, she rated kindly, was hooked and passed by the very good Royal Delta (4-5) but came again under another Hall of Fame ride by John Velazquez. This winner led to a $76k Pick-6 carryover.

Eleventh:

Missed this one. Second starter Disco Rico (6-1) showed speed on debut going 7 furlongs, broke well clearing the field and was gone on the cutback to this 5 ½ furlong turf dash.

Luck…and may they all come home safe.

Post Travers…

Travers Day August 25, 2012

Musings:

Zagora was marvelous, Contested overcame some adversity, the King’s Bishop and the Travers were strange.

Now don’t get me wrong, as I picked and bet against the more logical horses in the two late stakes races today, but I did not expect what I see as somewhat bizarre outcomes in the King’s Bishop and Travers Stakes. Rick Dutrow, Jr. is sure to lose his license at some point, but he just keeps winning. I did not care what his stats are off short rest, this was the Grade 1 King’s Bishop for crying out loud. I would not bet the NYBred Willy Beamin in this spot with your money. That is not to take anything away from those of you who did. In fact, I received a call immediately after the race from a  friend who caught both the $376 exacta and $3,500 trifecta. I congratulated him on the score then asked…”HOW!” The short story is that he “fished” with a very wide net and was blessed with luck. It’s good to be lucky, and, oh yeah, bud, why didn’t you call me BEFORE the race?  And Golden Ticket’s dead-heat winning effort brings to the fore the notion of “uncoupled” entries from the same trainer or owner. The rule, of course, is to bet the longer odds runner, which so proved the case here. Uncoupled entries are good for the game; we have to handicap and make a decision. Sometimes, as in this case, the outcome is a headscratcher.

I know many of these are developing horses with room for improvement, but how do we explain the poor performances of horses like Trinniberg and Currency Swap in the King’s Bishop? Trainer Terri Pompay said of Currency Swap that he’s a big horse who prefers running outside horses rather than in cramped quarters on the rail. Did the jock know? Excuse. Maggie Wolfendale, NYRA’s paddock personality, reported that Trinniberg did not look is competitive self. Maggie is very good in an inexact science. Excuse. How do we explain the complete failure of Nonios, Neck ‘n Neck, Liason and Street Life? I know…the randomness and variables of the game over which no one has control. Excuse.

No one I spoke with thought this Travers was worthy of the name, but if they run the race someone has to win and you can’t blame the ones who show up. Kieran Mclaughlin deserves kudos for keeping Alpha sharp enough to repeat his effort in the Jim Dandy. He appears to be the strongest 3-yo left standing. I thought him vulnerable at short odds. You have to give Nick Zito tremendous credit for both Fort Loudon and Fast Falcon. I liked both in their previous races but went other ways yesterday. My erroneous decision-making. Still, I’m speechless about the efforts of Golden Ticket, believable only in the context of non-efforts from horses that faced better all year and posted significantly better figures. Yes, he was rested and working well. Yes, he was an improving sort with room for further improvement. Yes, he was second a neck in the Grade 2 Tampa Bay Derby, But he was still eligible for Non-winners of 1 other-than allowance company.

I conclude noting that optimism returns with 10 races on the Sunday card.

Race Recap:

First:

Brigans (1-2) presses the pace then is pressured into the stretch before clearing and holding Jeter at bay. The pace was strong in this 7-furlong heat where the field went 6 panels in 1:09.11, and early indication that the track will carry speed today.

Second:

Honorable Dillon (5-2) refuses to load and delays the start, breaks sharply to press Hot West, draws ahead, and then holds off the Pletcher favorite Delholme (6-5).

Third:

As I suggested yesterday about the rails coming down on the main turf, Slamarama (5-1) makes the lead into the clubhouse turn pressed by favored Chuckle, continues on to set moderate middle fractions before drawing clear in the lane. Chuckle folds and both Saint Vigeur and Secretive finish well. Put both on your watch list.

Fourth:

Another great ride by Ramon Dominguez from post 10 on 4-5 Cinematize, who sets the pace and keeps on going. Bonita Sonata, exiting the same race as the winner, runs 2^nd at 22-1.

Fifth:

Rigby, a Dominguez-ridden favorite from post 12, stalks outside, forges ahead rounding the turn and draws clear of second choice Reload. A crush of horse press the pace, setting the table.

Sixth:

Favorites fail to fire and Summer Fun (11-1) for George Weaver runs by Worthwhilepursuit and debut runner Wave Theory. Weaver has had a terrific meet, especially over turf.

Seventh:

Alarmed Ndangerous (25-1) bulls his way off the rail and runs by Kharafa (6-1) and favored Gossib Column. The winner broke his maiden last out and was stepping up in class.

Eighth:

Optimizer gets back to turf for D.Wayne Lukas and his class dominates these on the front end over a speed favoring turf course.

Ninth:

Summer Soiree sets an honest but unpressured pace while Zagora (7-5) sits a perfect rail trip behind chasers Tapitsfly and Thundering Emila, moves boldly and runs away from a closing Hungry Island, setting a new course record. That runner just needs more pace to deliver her best. Summer Soiree holds the show.

Tenth:

Contested (1-1) is off poorly and raced behind sizzling splits, moves up and cruises by. Well Kept set the pace with Gypsy Robin (blinkers off) rating, pressing and holding on. NYbred Beautiful but Blue (9-1) gains show while the pace setter lasts for the super. Book Review broke at the rear and never threatened.

Eleventh:

Trainer Rick Dutrow, Jr. cuts Willy Beamin back from a winning effort going 9-furlongs in the Albany Handicap on August 22 to sit a perfect trip and emerge from the pack to score at 11-1. The pace was less rapid than expected. Trinniberg had nothing, and Currency Swap had dead aim from the inside but came up empty.

Twelfth:

Near incredulous finish in the Mid-Summer Derby with Golden Ticket (33-1) on the lead along the inside, favored Alpha (2-1) charging and Zito’s Fast Falcon (38-1) rallying on the outside. Golden Ticket dead-heats for the win with Alpha, California horses rail to threaten.

Thirteenth:

Three horse duel from start to finish with closer Kris Royal cruising by the battling leader in the shadow of the wire. Rollingwiththetide and Ruthless Alley are pace setters who are split by favored Night Site.

Travers…

Friday August 24, 2012

Musings:

The rails have been out on the main turf course at 27’ for some time now, and I expect they’ll be down for the Travers card. Races 3, 6, and 8 are scheduled for the main. The first two are maiden special weight heats and the last sends older horses one mile and three-sixteenths. The paths nearest the hedge will be best, a near perfect green highway that will propel speed or carry the ground-saving stalker/closers.

Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez could have a very good Travers afternoon. He is named on some “live’ but pricey horses in the Pick-4 sequence of stakes races. Hungry Island is a contender in the Ballston Spa (9^th). She just needs an honest pace and should get if both Tapitsfly and Summer Soiree go. He is atop Gypsy Robin in the Test. That runner lost all chance at the start last out. Contested and Book Review look very tough in here, putting Gypsy Robin on the fringes but at fair odds. Agent Angel Cordero, Jr. booked him aboard Jonathan Sheppard’s once well-regarded Ever So Lucky, turning back from a route to this 7-furlong King’s Bishop. There is a ton of legitimate racehorse speed (Trinniberg, Doctor Chit, Gun Boat) and front-half stalkers (Currency Swap, Fort Loudon, Laurie’s Rocket, Unbridled’s Note) with Ever So Lucky as the lone closer. Ever So Lucky is slow on speed figures, but was up close going 9-furlongs in the Curlin Stakes over a track that favored closers. Lightly raced, he was a distant 3^rd behind Trinniberg (7-2) in the Grade 3 Swale at Gulfstream Park and this is his 3^rd race of this new form cycle, often a runner’s best effort. J.V. has Nonios in the Travers, a lightly-raced and improving colt who has trained exceptionally well in California. The Jim Dandy was run over a sealed, sloppy race track and results over such surfaces can be deceiving. Alpha had it his own way. Neck ‘n Neck was somewhat disadvantaged and should improve over a track that is fairer. Nonios can win and cap a Hall of Fame Saratoga for John Velazquez, a meet full of promise that was knocked somewhat sideways by his most recent injury.

 

Race Recap:

First:

Debut runner for local connections Lighthouse Bay took money, breaks on top to set a pressured pace but it is Magical Moon (8-5) who sweeps by the pace setters as if they were tied to posts and draws clear. Lighthouse Bay holds the place.

Second:

After an incident at the gate and a late scratch of Bozique favored No More Fives (8-5) breaks, clears, and drifts out while weakening but is not really threatened. Got the Distance chases home for the place.

Third:

Brilliant ride by Ramon Dominguez on Reserved Quality, who, after breaking outside to stalk behind the duel, darted to the inside and passed the field along the rail. Professor Fate and Fusa Code arrived late after passing the duelists.

Fourth:

Second choice Azasecret, a class dropper who had never lost on dirt, breaks on top, set the pace but has no resistance for Bridgetta (6-5). Ester’s Classy Lass removes blinkers and rates today, a suck-up second.

Fifth:

Image of Disco sets suicidal fractions, Barrel of Love chases, Hear the Footsteps rates. Barrel moves, Hear loses ground angling out around tiring Image, 2^nd choice Ampersand rallies up the rail to pass Hear, warrior Gimme Credit benefits from the pace to finish fastest. Good efforts from the top three.

Sixth:

Another set of suicidal fractions set the table for the very sharp Madam Giry (5-2) and Revenue (5-2). Catinatree, Precious Heiress & Button Sue battled each other into submission.

Seventh:

Sally’s Dream (8-1) chases favored Frivolous Alex, presses her from the outside, surges and holds off the closers. Little Red Rider is the best of the closers.

Eighth:

Favored class dropper Isn’tlovegrand holds off 20-1 closer Chernoby’s Hero. The latter was racing first-time for Linda Rice. Tough beat for that runner’s backers. The winner was claimed for $50k , laid off a month and in for $20k today. Connections earned $22k from the purse, whatever they made on the bet. They might be out on the horse if claimed for the $29k. Silver Timber needs retirement.

Ninth:

Turbulent Descent was never threatened in coasting to an easy win in the Grade 1 Ballerina.

Tenth;
Bluegrass Rumor (5-1) clears under a Joel Rosario and goes gate-to-wire. First out and on the hedge has been first home since the rails came down. Favored Let the Kitten Run chased but was unable to gain ground.

Luck…and may they all come home safe.

Pre-Travers…

Thursday August 23, 2012

Musings:

As a lead up to the Travers Weekend, yesterday’s card was a disappointment. First, the featured event, the Grade I NY Turf Writers Steeplechase, is scheduled as the opener. What a slap in the face to the National Steeplechase Association at a time when the Association is preparing for the inaugural Saratoga Steeplechase Festival on September 15. This is one time when an organization should not have listened to its customers, in this case pick-6 players, and done right by the Association.

Then, noon scratches reduced the second race to a field of six and the third to a field of four. Are you kidding me? How dare the Racing Secretary write races during this week that won’t or can’t fill? He’s supposed to know what’s in the barns and write races so those horses car run. But, after thirty days of 10, 11 and 12 race cards, why am I surprised. We’ll have to wait and see what the three mid-week post-Travers cards offer the bettor.

The Friday and Travers Day cards are both packed with horses. That’s good. Rain is nowhere near us in the forecast. That’s great! Let’s hope they all come home safe.

Whiimsical Travers Day Wagers:

Race 1: Exacta box Wishingonastar with Preachingtothedevil

Race 7: Exacta box Sneaky Kitten and Jet Set Cat

Race 11: #7 Ever So Lucky…get it?

Race Recap:

First:

A well-bunched but spread out field approached the final fence in the NY Turf Writers Steeplechase, and the sprint to the wire was marred by a spill that left third choice Demonstrative (5-1) a free and late win. Divine Fortune fell taking favored Left Unsaid to the ground with him.

Second:

Saginaw (1-9) stalks Itsagoodtendollars, powers by and holds chaser Private Tale safe. That’s essentially two walkovers for Saginaw this meet.

Third:

Field of four after scratches…Original Art breaks on top, rates on the lead and wins easily over chaser Crooked as Can Be.

Fourth:

Black Ace (10-1) successfully cuts back from Calder turf routes to run best late, passing the unlucky Torment, favored D’tiger and Spring Warrior.

Fifth:

Ramon Dominguez send Current design to the front, sets the pace chased by Southern Joy with favored Wandering Kitten stalking. That rival charges up in the lane, gets ahead of Current Design but is life an death tdo hold off loon ghost Bundestad.

Sixth:

Central Banker showed ability making two moves, dropping back after gaining position then coming on again for the win in a wide open betting race where there were two at 5-2 and two at 3-1

Seventh:

Joan’s Choice rockets to a long lead he cannot sustain. Golden Gulch surges past that rival but cannot hold off Mott’s Luna Victory.

Eighth:

Pianist (6-5) moves up to press pacemaker Kitty Wine, is out to a drive, reels that one in and forges ahead. Co-favorite Antonia Autumn rallies late for the place. Raise the Flag is too far back and needs an honest pace and a more fair turf course.

Ninth:

Gold Loves runs off loose on the lead, chasers weaken and favored Yes She Rules outbattles Donttangowithmango and Strikealinethruit to the wire.

It’s a turf RACE…

Wednesday August 22, 2012

Observations:

• The rail came down on the inner turf course and the inside was clearly the place to be. Find the speed or the horse to get the inside trip. The same will be true when they take the rail down on the Main turf course. Be warned and be prepared.
• Will someone please tell the jockeys that it’s a turf RACE and not a Gallupmhing event followed by a mad dash? It’s a distance race and not a stretch sprint. I know that sprinters accelerate early and then decelerate to the wire. And I know that the shape of a turf race is different, slower early and faster late. But how and why are so many turf routes run with such slow early fractions. 50.99, 49.98, 49.56, etc., etc., etc. Front runners no longer lead gate-to-wire while running. They’re hard held while ahead of other hard held rivals, gaining a tremendous edge on mid-pack and rear-half runners. Then it’s a one-furlong dash to the wire. I know I’m supposed to handicap the running styles and find the speed horses, stalkers and closers. I get the tactical nature of racing, but what good is that exercise when it’s open the gate…take hold…open the gate…take back and allow the other guy to have the lead. The jock on the #9 says to the jock on #3, “You take it.”…who responds,  “No, I’ll just sit here, let you go and hope to run you down.” It’s enough to turn me into a dirt sprint specialist and forever pass on turf racing.

Race Recap:

First:

Sire Invasor is 0/27 with debut runners but swift works and word of mouth have sent the money in on Saint Arthur who stands at 302 until late money lands on Goodtolook(7-5). That one breaks well, is pressured throughout by Sandy’s Slew (8-1) and weakens. Saint Arthur moves up outside but flattens in the lane. Winner Meet the Mets (7-2) stlks behind then professionally moves form between rivals to bet Sandy’s Slew.

Second:

Jess Not Jesse stalked outside looking a winner throughout and was best over Ziptronic and a fast closing Evacuation route.

Third:

Pletcher favorite Victory Island (7-5) shows nothing, looks choppy and ouchy, and in the lane finishing off the board while Class Action (5-2) stalks outside and holds sway over 35-1 Warrior Marie.

Fourth:

Adjacent is allowed to lope clear from post 7, set soft un-pressured fractions to the top of the lane, look beaten but re-rally to out game War Hugs and Sylvestris to the wire.

Fifth:

Flattermewithroses set the soft pace for all but Chad Brown uncoupled duo rallies powerfully with Bourbon Twist drawing far, far away as tons the best.

Sixth:

Ramon Dominguez sent Master Achievement (4-1) and never looked back. Favored Kitten’s Kid rated too far back and just past Knock Rock to get the place. Not the headiest of rides by Joel Rosario.

Seventh:

Coach A.J. cleared and just held off Boston Proper in a formful heat.

Eighth:

Pletcher’s Colony Strike (14-1) presses Bluember and Desert Storm with the latter folding when those two kick on. Colony Strike forges ahead and remains well clear of closing Washington’s Rules. Bluember suffers a catastrophic breakdown nearing the wire.

Ninth:

Willy Beamin is just too good for this group and will run back on Travers Day in the Grade 1 King’s Bishop.

Tenth:

Coral Glade popped and stopped. Race palace chased widest and weakened late. Krissy Kat enjoyed the best trip, got first jump on tiring leaders and held late running favorite Warm Glow safe in a tough heat. Good effort by Warm Glow against the grain of the turf course.

Luck…and may they all come home safe.

In And Around Saratoga…

Tuesday August 20, 2012

 

Musings:

 

Yesterday, I invited my wife to play tourist with me at Saratoga. The master plan: breakfast and workouts, cruise downtown Saratoga immediately following, zip back to the track for the early double and place a few late race wagers, a mid-afternoon off-track visit with friends, and a late lunch-early dinner in Saratoga before the drive home. While I know the track itself and my focus is on what takes place between Nelson and Union Avenues during the meet, I had no idea what to expect from the town during pre-track or race-track hours.

Humidity gone, the bright sun and crisp air made the arrival at the track all the more splendid. We arrived at 8:45 AM, after the renovation break and at the start of the second workout set, coffee and Breuggers in hand (I’m not so much a tourist to partake of the track breakfast buffet.). Mary Ryan held court announcing the arrival of horses, trainers and jockeys for the modest crowd. Horses walked, trotted, galloped and sped by, some alone, others often in the company of stable mates. Trainers Todd Pletcher and Bruce Levine clocked several of their runners, alternating their glance from binoculars to stop watches, clicking on and clicking off the furlong poles, staring intently at runners galloping out past the wire and around the far turn, extra furlongs not recorded on the worktab. For the life of me I cannot understand how the Equibase clockers make sense of the chaos, and this set was not at all crowded. I was struck by the cacophony of subdued conversations beneath Mary Ryan’s narration, with a back beat of hooves striking the ground.

By 10:00 we were parked and walking on Broadway, where breakfast lines for The Country Kitchen and Comptons still ran out the doors and into the street, and newly opened stores and boutiques prepared to welcome browsers and shoppers. We parked   across from the Court House, made our way south towards the Van Dam, crossed over and circled back north, passing the clothier Joseph A. Banks (can you hear that ad in your head?), stopped for coffee at the Uncommon Grounds and sat outside. Traffic along the street and sidewalk increased. A short-panted Saratoga Springs Police officer on bicycle ticketed cars foolishly parked in commercial unloading zones where street signs are somewhat confusing, runners made their way along the crowded sidewalk, compelling walkers to dart from their path. (I don’t understand why runners choose populated city streets for their morning jog.) Coffee, people watching and conversation completed, we made out way to our one planned stop, the Saratoga Olive Oil Company, a favorite for we of the big salad. The wide variety of flavored olive oils and balsamic vinegars have made dinners more interesting. I’m partial to Chipotle oil paired with oregano flavored vinegar. This trip I picked a Maple Syrup balsamic; some sweet to offset the hot. We took our goods, headed for the car and returned to the track

We were back in the Nelson Avenue parking lot by 12:00, in time for scratches, changes and Talking Horses. My beloved read; I re-checked the early double and confirmed they were a “pass” for me. I went through the rest of the card and made my wagers. There are pitfalls to betting early, but I had opinions later in the day. The opener was a short field with a solid favored entry from West Point Thoroughbreds. I took my wife to the clubhouse area to watch with the West Point partners. They cheer, they encourage, they “get into it”, and they won. Congrats. The second race, more contentious, was competitively run but marred by a breakdown and a nasty fall. We left the track to visit our friends. An eerie moment on Nelson when I quickly moved to allow a screaming ambulance to pass, knowing jockey Junior Alvarado was aboard. We learned today that he escaped serious injury. Not so the equine athlete, Pete’s Parlay. I know the connections. The horse won at a big price on the trainer’s birthday. How quickly things turn.

We travelled to nearby Wilton next. It was good the spend time with our friends. The Mrs. is well but, unfortunately, in decline and there are poignant moments of conversation while silently reflecting on what was and what will be. The circle of life does not belong to the Lion King alone. We laughed, ate sweet Italian pastry, drank more coffee, made a new friend, an in-law, received an invitation to visit again, and went our way.

Saratoga offers a wide variety of dining options. We frequent Pennell’s on Jefferson Street for Italian and John LaPosta’s Maestro’s at the Van Dam, our choice for this day. We arrived at 3:30 and opted for the bar and the lunch menu.  Leo, the silver-haired, bar tending horseplayer with quick wit and a quicker pour, welcomed us back, set up two glasses of fine Pinot Noire, took our order, and turned the tv to OTB. It was then I learned of late scratches, the main problem with betting early. A speed horse was scratched late from the sixth leaving Jimmy Simms, now the lone speed, a near mortal lock to win, and me a near mortal loser. After a half mile in 50 & change, I was dead. More Pinot, Leo! We ordered and snacked on fresh bread and flavored butter. Salad arrived (Caesar for me, Arugula for Mrs. Trackfacts), we conversed with the owners parents, up from Troy for dinner. We were finishing our entrees as they went to post for the seventh. I had a major opinion and made a substantial play on a Bill Mott horse, played exactas and protected should the horse run second. At 5-2 Geisha Gal tracked the pace in perfect position, led briefly between calls, battled to the wire with Holiday’s Jewel and just missed. More Pinot, Leo! I had protected with the winner and got out for the race; that and the Pinot softened the blow.

Some time later we paid our bill, bid Leo a good evening and made out way through light rain to the car. We headed for exit 13, a long ride through traffic with many lights. Throughout the afternoon I marveled at the number of people on the streets, in the shops, in the restaurants and not at the track. I came to understand that Saratoga is truly no longer a city beholden to the Race Course. The world of the Race Course and the world that the city fathers have created intersect, are certainly intertwined but also very much independent. Saratoga is a fine city with much to offer residents of the greater Capital District. It is now a year-round destination, with summer for the Symphony and the Ballet and Dave Matthews and the Beach Boys, and the Race Course, but it’s no longer your grandfather’s Saratoga and that’s good.