This year's Kentucky Derby winner is California Chrome, a Californian horse. He took a good position early on and galloped down the homestretch to win the 2 million dollar prize and the first jewel of the Triple Crown. California Chrome's dam is Love The Chase, a mare who had run poorly as a filly and was purchased for $8,000. When studying her pedigree, her owners noticed that she was a descendent of Mr. Prospector and Northern Dancer, so they decided to breed her. She was bred to Lucky Pulpit, a stallion with a $2,000 stud fee. Lucky Pulpit has won only three times out of twenty-two starts. Despite his poor racing career, he has a nice pedigree and is a descendent of A.P. Indy, son of Seattle Slew. He is also related to What A Pleasure, sire of Foolish Pleasure, and Mr. Prospector.
So far, California Chrome has a had a great career, especially since his Derby win. Maybe this year will be the year that the racing world gets another Triple Crown winner.
Showing posts with label Kentucky Derby. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kentucky Derby. Show all posts
Saturday, May 3, 2014
Friday, May 2, 2014
Kentucky Derby 2014
The Kentucky Derby, one of the biggest horse races in the United States, is coming up this Saturday, May 3rd, and while I am not a huge racing fan, I enjoy watching the it and the rest of the Triple Crown. I decided to list the competitors for this year in case anyone is interested. One named California Chrome even comes from California. I know who I'll be rooting for.
Vicar's In Trouble
Entry number one is Vicar's In Trouble, a bay colt who was sired by Into Mischief and was foaled by Vibrant. Into Mischief sired a couple of the horses that ran in last year's Derby. Also in his pedigree is Bold Ruler, Mr. Prospector, Raise a Native, and Northern Dancer. As a two-year-old he raced only twice, both in maiden races. He ended his season after breaking his maiden on his second race. This year, he has raced in three races: the LeComte Stakes, the Risen Star Stakes, and the Louisiana Derby. he won both the LeComte Stakes and the Louisiana Derby, coming third in the Risen Star Stakes.
Harry's Holiday
Harry's Holiday is by Harlan's Holiday and was foaled by Daisy Mason, an unraced mare with Stop the Music in her pedigree. Harry's Holiday also has Affirmed, Secretariat, Raise a Native, and Norhtern Dancer in his pedigree. He raced three times last year, breaking his maiden on his first race, then coming second and then first after that. As a three-year-old, he fifth in the Pasco Stakes, won a race at Turfway, came third in the John Battaglia Memorial Stakes, then second in the Horseshoe Casino Cincinnati Spiral Stakes. Most recently, he came thirteenth in the Blue Grass Stakes.
Uncle Sigh
Uncle Sigh is by Indian Charlie and was foaled by Cradlesong, who is by Pine Bluff. He is a descendent of Seattle Slew, A.P. Indy, Secretariat, Raise a Native, and other well-known racehorses. Last year, he raced twice, coming second in his first race and breaking his maiden on the next. This year he came second in both the Withers and Gotham Stakes, and came fifth in the Wood Memorial Stakes.
Danza
Danza, sired by Street Boss and foaled by Champagne Royale, is also racing in this years Derby. He has Damascus, Bold Ruler, and Mr. Prospector in his pedigree. In his career, he has only race four, breaking his maiden on his first go, the going on the come third in the Saratoga Special Stakes. This year, he came third in an allowance and won the Arkansas Derby.
California Chrome
The favorite for this years Derby is California Chrome, by Lucky Pulpit and out of Love the Chase. He is related to Raise a Native, Northern Dancer, Native dancer, and Buckpasser. As a two-year-old he came second in his first race, the won the next. He came fifth in the Willard L. Proctor Memorial Stakes, won the Graduation Stakes, then came sixth in both the Del Mar Futurity and the Golden State Juvenile Stakes. Then he won the King Glorious Stakes to end the season. This year he won the California Cup Derby, San Felipe Stakes, and Santa Anita Derby.
Samraat
Samraat was sired by Noble Causeway and foaled by Little Indian Girl. Also in his pedigree is Mr. Prospector, Northern Dancer, Secretariat, and Raise a Native. He broke his maiden on his first race, and went on to win an allowance and the Damon Runyon Stakes. This year he won both the Withers and Gotham Stakes, and came second Wood Memorial Stakes.
We Miss Artie
We Miss Artie was sired by Artie Schiller and foaled by Athena's Gift. He is related to Mr. Prospector, Raise a Native, Northern Dancer, Damascus, and Alydar. As a two-year-old, he broke his maiden on his second race, came sixth in the With Anticipation Stakes, first in the Dixiana Breeders' Futurity, and seventh in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile. In 2014 he came second in the Kitten's Joy Stakes, eighth in the Besilu Stables Fountain of Youth Stakes, and won the Horseshoe Casino Cincinnati Spiral Stakes.
General A Rod
General A Rod was sired by Roman Ruler and foaled by Dynamite Eyes, who was sired by Dynaformer. Raise a Native, Mr. Prospector, Native Dancer, and Northern Dancer are also in his pedigree. As a two-year-old he raced twice, breaking his maiden on his first time before coming second in an allowance race. This year, he won the Gulfstream Derby, came second in the Besilu Stables Fountain of of Youth Stakes and third in the Besilu Florida Derby.
Vinceremos
Vinceremos, sired by Pioneer of the Nile and foaled by Kettles Sister, and related to Mr. Prospector, Northern Dancer, and Bold Ruler, raced only once as a two-year-old, not breaking his maiden. As a three-year-old he went on to break his maiden, win the Sam F. Davis Stakes, come second in the Tampa Bay Derby, and fourteenth in the Blue Grass Stakes.
Wildcat Red
Wildcat Red was sired by D'Wildcat and foaled by Racene, and is related to Mr. Prospector, Secretariat, Raise a Native, Northern Dancer, and Damascus. In 2013 he raced three times, breaking his maiden in the first race, winning an allowance, and coming second in the Juvenile Sprint Stakes. As a three-year-old, he came second in the Gulfstream Park Derby, won both the Hutcheson and Besilu Stables Fountain of Youth Stakes, and most recently came second in the Besilu Florida Derby.
Dance With Fate
Dance With Fate, son of Two Step Salsa and Flirting With Fate, is a descendent of Seattle Slew, Northern Dancer, and Raise A Native. He broke his maiden on his second try, then came second in both the Del Mar Futurity and the Frontrunner Stakes, ending the season with an eighth in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile. Next, he won an allowance, came second in the El Camino Real Derby, and won the Blue Grass Stakes.
Chitu
Chitu, by Henny Hughs and Sea Gift, is a grandson of A.P. Indy, the son of Seattle Slew. He also Secretariat in his pedigree. Chitu raced twice last year, winning both a maiden and an allowance. This year, he came second in the Robert D. Louis Stakes and won the Sunland Derby.
Medal Count
Medal Count is by Dynaformer and out of Brisquette, by Unbridled's Song. He broke his maiden on his first try, the came fifth in the Bourbon Stakes and eleventh in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile. This year, he won an allowance, came fifth in the Besilu Stables Fountain of Youth Stakes, won the Transylvania Stakes, and came second in the Blue Grass Stakes.
Tapiture
Tapiture, son of Tapit and Free Spin, by Olympio, is a descendent of Secretariat, Raise A Native, Damascus, and Mr. Prospector. He failed to break his maiden, coming second, but raced in the Iroquois Stakes anyways, placing third. He came third in his next, but then won the Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes to end the season. This year, he won the Southwest Stakes, came second in the Rebel Stakes and fourth in the Arkansas Derby.
Intense Holiday
Intense Holiday is by Harlan's Holiday and out of Intensify, by Unbridled's Song. He also has Affirmed, Secretariat, and War Admiral in his pedigree. Last year, he broke his maiden second try, came fifth in the Foxwood's Champagne stakes and fourth in both the Nashua and Remsen Stakes. This year he came third in the Holy Bull Stakes, won the Risen Star Stakes, and came second in the Louisiana Derby.
Commanding Curve
Commanding Curve is by Master Command and Mother and is related to A.P. Indy, Seattle Slew, and Secretariat. He didn't break his maiden until his fourth try, ending the season. This year he came sixth in the Risen Star Stakes and third in the Louisiana Derby.
Candy Boy
Candy Boy, by Candy Ride and out of She's An Eleven, by In Excess, didn't break his maiden until his fourth. He then ended the season with a second in the CashCall Futurity. THis year, he won the Robert B. Lewis Stakes and came third in the Santa Anita Derby.
Ride On Curlin
Ride On Curlin, by Curlin and out of Magical Ride, by Storm Cat, a grandson of Secretariat, broke his maiden on his second try before coming fourth in the Iroquois Stakes and third in both the Foxwood Champagne Stakes and the Street Sense Stakes. This year, he won an allowance and came third in both the Southwest and Rebel Stakes. Most recently, he came second in the Arkansas Derby.
Wicked Strong
Wicked Strong, by Hard Spun and out of Moyne Abbey, by Charismatic, is another favorite for the Derby. He has both Secretariat and Alydar in his pedigree. He broke his maiden on his second race, then ran third in the Remsen Stakes. This year, he came ninth in the Holy Bull Stakes, fourth in an allowance, and won the Wood Memorial Stakes.
Pablo Del Monte
Pablo Del Monte, by Giants Causeway and out of One Hot Wish, by Bring The Heat, is related to Secretariat and Northern Dancer. As a two-year-old, he broke his maiden first try, won an allowance, and came fifth in the Generous Stakes. This year, he came fourth in the Gulfstream Park Derby and third in both the Hutcheson and Blue Grass Stakes.
Who do you want to win and do you think there will be a Triple Crown winner this year?
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| Vicar's in Trouble credit |
Vicar's In Trouble
Entry number one is Vicar's In Trouble, a bay colt who was sired by Into Mischief and was foaled by Vibrant. Into Mischief sired a couple of the horses that ran in last year's Derby. Also in his pedigree is Bold Ruler, Mr. Prospector, Raise a Native, and Northern Dancer. As a two-year-old he raced only twice, both in maiden races. He ended his season after breaking his maiden on his second race. This year, he has raced in three races: the LeComte Stakes, the Risen Star Stakes, and the Louisiana Derby. he won both the LeComte Stakes and the Louisiana Derby, coming third in the Risen Star Stakes.
Harry's Holiday
Harry's Holiday is by Harlan's Holiday and was foaled by Daisy Mason, an unraced mare with Stop the Music in her pedigree. Harry's Holiday also has Affirmed, Secretariat, Raise a Native, and Norhtern Dancer in his pedigree. He raced three times last year, breaking his maiden on his first race, then coming second and then first after that. As a three-year-old, he fifth in the Pasco Stakes, won a race at Turfway, came third in the John Battaglia Memorial Stakes, then second in the Horseshoe Casino Cincinnati Spiral Stakes. Most recently, he came thirteenth in the Blue Grass Stakes.
Uncle Sigh
Uncle Sigh is by Indian Charlie and was foaled by Cradlesong, who is by Pine Bluff. He is a descendent of Seattle Slew, A.P. Indy, Secretariat, Raise a Native, and other well-known racehorses. Last year, he raced twice, coming second in his first race and breaking his maiden on the next. This year he came second in both the Withers and Gotham Stakes, and came fifth in the Wood Memorial Stakes.
Danza
Danza, sired by Street Boss and foaled by Champagne Royale, is also racing in this years Derby. He has Damascus, Bold Ruler, and Mr. Prospector in his pedigree. In his career, he has only race four, breaking his maiden on his first go, the going on the come third in the Saratoga Special Stakes. This year, he came third in an allowance and won the Arkansas Derby.
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| California Chrome credit |
California Chrome
The favorite for this years Derby is California Chrome, by Lucky Pulpit and out of Love the Chase. He is related to Raise a Native, Northern Dancer, Native dancer, and Buckpasser. As a two-year-old he came second in his first race, the won the next. He came fifth in the Willard L. Proctor Memorial Stakes, won the Graduation Stakes, then came sixth in both the Del Mar Futurity and the Golden State Juvenile Stakes. Then he won the King Glorious Stakes to end the season. This year he won the California Cup Derby, San Felipe Stakes, and Santa Anita Derby.
Samraat
Samraat was sired by Noble Causeway and foaled by Little Indian Girl. Also in his pedigree is Mr. Prospector, Northern Dancer, Secretariat, and Raise a Native. He broke his maiden on his first race, and went on to win an allowance and the Damon Runyon Stakes. This year he won both the Withers and Gotham Stakes, and came second Wood Memorial Stakes.
We Miss Artie
We Miss Artie was sired by Artie Schiller and foaled by Athena's Gift. He is related to Mr. Prospector, Raise a Native, Northern Dancer, Damascus, and Alydar. As a two-year-old, he broke his maiden on his second race, came sixth in the With Anticipation Stakes, first in the Dixiana Breeders' Futurity, and seventh in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile. In 2014 he came second in the Kitten's Joy Stakes, eighth in the Besilu Stables Fountain of Youth Stakes, and won the Horseshoe Casino Cincinnati Spiral Stakes.
General A Rod
General A Rod was sired by Roman Ruler and foaled by Dynamite Eyes, who was sired by Dynaformer. Raise a Native, Mr. Prospector, Native Dancer, and Northern Dancer are also in his pedigree. As a two-year-old he raced twice, breaking his maiden on his first time before coming second in an allowance race. This year, he won the Gulfstream Derby, came second in the Besilu Stables Fountain of of Youth Stakes and third in the Besilu Florida Derby.
Vinceremos
Vinceremos, sired by Pioneer of the Nile and foaled by Kettles Sister, and related to Mr. Prospector, Northern Dancer, and Bold Ruler, raced only once as a two-year-old, not breaking his maiden. As a three-year-old he went on to break his maiden, win the Sam F. Davis Stakes, come second in the Tampa Bay Derby, and fourteenth in the Blue Grass Stakes.
Wildcat Red
Wildcat Red was sired by D'Wildcat and foaled by Racene, and is related to Mr. Prospector, Secretariat, Raise a Native, Northern Dancer, and Damascus. In 2013 he raced three times, breaking his maiden in the first race, winning an allowance, and coming second in the Juvenile Sprint Stakes. As a three-year-old, he came second in the Gulfstream Park Derby, won both the Hutcheson and Besilu Stables Fountain of Youth Stakes, and most recently came second in the Besilu Florida Derby.
Dance With Fate
Dance With Fate, son of Two Step Salsa and Flirting With Fate, is a descendent of Seattle Slew, Northern Dancer, and Raise A Native. He broke his maiden on his second try, then came second in both the Del Mar Futurity and the Frontrunner Stakes, ending the season with an eighth in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile. Next, he won an allowance, came second in the El Camino Real Derby, and won the Blue Grass Stakes.
Chitu
Chitu, by Henny Hughs and Sea Gift, is a grandson of A.P. Indy, the son of Seattle Slew. He also Secretariat in his pedigree. Chitu raced twice last year, winning both a maiden and an allowance. This year, he came second in the Robert D. Louis Stakes and won the Sunland Derby.
Medal Count
Medal Count is by Dynaformer and out of Brisquette, by Unbridled's Song. He broke his maiden on his first try, the came fifth in the Bourbon Stakes and eleventh in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile. This year, he won an allowance, came fifth in the Besilu Stables Fountain of Youth Stakes, won the Transylvania Stakes, and came second in the Blue Grass Stakes.
Tapiture
Tapiture, son of Tapit and Free Spin, by Olympio, is a descendent of Secretariat, Raise A Native, Damascus, and Mr. Prospector. He failed to break his maiden, coming second, but raced in the Iroquois Stakes anyways, placing third. He came third in his next, but then won the Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes to end the season. This year, he won the Southwest Stakes, came second in the Rebel Stakes and fourth in the Arkansas Derby.
Intense Holiday
Intense Holiday is by Harlan's Holiday and out of Intensify, by Unbridled's Song. He also has Affirmed, Secretariat, and War Admiral in his pedigree. Last year, he broke his maiden second try, came fifth in the Foxwood's Champagne stakes and fourth in both the Nashua and Remsen Stakes. This year he came third in the Holy Bull Stakes, won the Risen Star Stakes, and came second in the Louisiana Derby.
Commanding Curve
Commanding Curve is by Master Command and Mother and is related to A.P. Indy, Seattle Slew, and Secretariat. He didn't break his maiden until his fourth try, ending the season. This year he came sixth in the Risen Star Stakes and third in the Louisiana Derby.
Candy Boy
Candy Boy, by Candy Ride and out of She's An Eleven, by In Excess, didn't break his maiden until his fourth. He then ended the season with a second in the CashCall Futurity. THis year, he won the Robert B. Lewis Stakes and came third in the Santa Anita Derby.
Ride On Curlin
Ride On Curlin, by Curlin and out of Magical Ride, by Storm Cat, a grandson of Secretariat, broke his maiden on his second try before coming fourth in the Iroquois Stakes and third in both the Foxwood Champagne Stakes and the Street Sense Stakes. This year, he won an allowance and came third in both the Southwest and Rebel Stakes. Most recently, he came second in the Arkansas Derby.
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| Wicked Strong, credit |
Wicked Strong, by Hard Spun and out of Moyne Abbey, by Charismatic, is another favorite for the Derby. He has both Secretariat and Alydar in his pedigree. He broke his maiden on his second race, then ran third in the Remsen Stakes. This year, he came ninth in the Holy Bull Stakes, fourth in an allowance, and won the Wood Memorial Stakes.
Pablo Del Monte
Pablo Del Monte, by Giants Causeway and out of One Hot Wish, by Bring The Heat, is related to Secretariat and Northern Dancer. As a two-year-old, he broke his maiden first try, won an allowance, and came fifth in the Generous Stakes. This year, he came fourth in the Gulfstream Park Derby and third in both the Hutcheson and Blue Grass Stakes.
Who do you want to win and do you think there will be a Triple Crown winner this year?
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
California Chrome and Kentucky Derby 2014
This year's Kentucky Derby is fast approaching, and will occur on May 3, the first Saturday in May. As the date draws near, racing fans begin to wonder whether this will be the year we will have the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978. With the recent Santa Anita Derby, a favorite had already been picked for the Derby: California Chrome.
California Chrome is a chestnut colt sired by the 2001 Lucky Pulpit, a sprinter that won in mostly short races. His 2006 dam, Love the Chase, has names like Northern Dancer and Mr. Prospector in her pedigree, and other horses that suggest she may have passed stamina onto her son. For those of you who are interested, here is his pedigree.
California Chrome has only raced ten times, but placed first in six of those races. He broke his maiden in only his second race before running a few stakes races. In the William L. Proctor Memorial Stakes, he placed fifth. He next won the Graduation Stakes at Del Mar, placing sixth in his next two races, and ending his season with a victory at the King Glorious Stakes. This year, he has won all three of his races: the California Cup Derby, the San Felipe Stakes, and most recently, the Santa Anita Derby.
The second betting favorite is Vicar's in Trouble, whose sire is the 2005 Into Mischief, a stallion who did well as a two-year-old but was injured as a three-year-old. Nevertheless, he is becoming a successful sire. Vibrant is his 2002 dam. She raced a few times, winning a short sprints. His pedigree also includes stop the Music, Affirmed, Bold Ruler, Mr. Prospector, and Secretariat.
Vicar's in Trouble has raced five times, winning three of then and placing third in the other two. He too broke his maiden on his second race, going on to win the LeComte Stakes in his first race this year. He came third in the Risen Star Stakes, but won his most recent race, the Louisiana Derby.
Other Kentucky Derby prospects include Wicked Strong, Samraat, Constitution, Hoppertunity, Intense Holiday, Wild Cat Red, We Miss Artie, Chitu, Midnight Hawk, Ring Weekend, and more. I'm excited to see how this year's Derby turns out.
Also, in other news, I got a dressage book for my birthday today, so once I am done with it, I will review it on my blog.
California Chrome is a chestnut colt sired by the 2001 Lucky Pulpit, a sprinter that won in mostly short races. His 2006 dam, Love the Chase, has names like Northern Dancer and Mr. Prospector in her pedigree, and other horses that suggest she may have passed stamina onto her son. For those of you who are interested, here is his pedigree.
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| California Chrome credit |
California Chrome has only raced ten times, but placed first in six of those races. He broke his maiden in only his second race before running a few stakes races. In the William L. Proctor Memorial Stakes, he placed fifth. He next won the Graduation Stakes at Del Mar, placing sixth in his next two races, and ending his season with a victory at the King Glorious Stakes. This year, he has won all three of his races: the California Cup Derby, the San Felipe Stakes, and most recently, the Santa Anita Derby.
The second betting favorite is Vicar's in Trouble, whose sire is the 2005 Into Mischief, a stallion who did well as a two-year-old but was injured as a three-year-old. Nevertheless, he is becoming a successful sire. Vibrant is his 2002 dam. She raced a few times, winning a short sprints. His pedigree also includes stop the Music, Affirmed, Bold Ruler, Mr. Prospector, and Secretariat.
Vicar's in Trouble has raced five times, winning three of then and placing third in the other two. He too broke his maiden on his second race, going on to win the LeComte Stakes in his first race this year. He came third in the Risen Star Stakes, but won his most recent race, the Louisiana Derby.
Other Kentucky Derby prospects include Wicked Strong, Samraat, Constitution, Hoppertunity, Intense Holiday, Wild Cat Red, We Miss Artie, Chitu, Midnight Hawk, Ring Weekend, and more. I'm excited to see how this year's Derby turns out.
Also, in other news, I got a dressage book for my birthday today, so once I am done with it, I will review it on my blog.
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Mine That Bird
On May 10, 2006, a small bay colt was born in Kentucky out of Mining My Own, with the Birdstone being the sire. As a yearling, Mine That Bird was sold to a Canadian horse trainer, David Cotey, for $9,500 and put into training in Canada. He had a nasty temperament at first, so they gelded him not long after he went into training.
Mine That Bird began his racing career in Canada, winning four of six races, including the Silver Deputy Stakes, the Swynford Stakes, and the Grey Stakes, with jockey Constant Montpellier riding the gelding for the first two races and Chantal Sutherland aboard for the last four. By the end of his two-year-old season, he had become Cananda's Champion Two-year-old Male Horse of 2008.
After his successful first racing season, Mine That Bird was sold for $400,000 to a ranch in New Mexico and was put under the trainer Bennie "Chip" Woolley with the jockey Calvin Borel. He arrived just in time for the 2008 Breeders' Cup Juvenile, but finished last among twelve starters.
He didn't race again until 2009, during his three-year-old season. The season didn't begin with a any wins, starting with Mine That Bird finishing second in the Borderland Derby on February 28, then fourth in the Sunland Derby on March 29. Despite the losses, Mine That Bird qualified for the Kentucky Derby, which would be his first race that year outside of New Mexico. He arrived at the as an underdog, his odds being 50-1.
The night before the big race, rain poured down, leaving the track muddy and sloppy. Mine That Bird had trouble at the starting gate that race, leaving him eight lengths behind everyone else. By the time the rest of the pack was travelling down the backstretch, it seemed impossible for Mine That Bird to catch up. Calvin Borel urged the gelding onward, travelling along the inside rail to save time and distance. When Mine That Bird caught up with the rest of the pack, he zoomed passed them from the inside, taking the lead near the homestretch. Remarkably, he won by six lengths against horses whose odds were much better than his.
After his amazing performance in Kentucky, which many people considered a fluke, Mine That Bird entered the Preakness Stakes under the jockey Mike Smith since Calvin would be riding Rachel Alexandra. Mine That Bird again started out slow and came from behind to pass the rest of the pack, but he was unable to catch up with Rachel Alexandra. He finished second behind her by only a length.
Next, he entered the Belmont Stakes and was once again ridden by Calvin Borel. He came from behind, catching up with Dunkirk and Charitable Man near the end, but ended up third to Summer Bird and Dunkirk.
He then came third in the West Virginia Derby and ninth in the Breeders' Cup Classic, ending his career. Afterward, he was nominated as New Mexico's 2009 Horse of the Year.
Mine That Bird began his racing career in Canada, winning four of six races, including the Silver Deputy Stakes, the Swynford Stakes, and the Grey Stakes, with jockey Constant Montpellier riding the gelding for the first two races and Chantal Sutherland aboard for the last four. By the end of his two-year-old season, he had become Cananda's Champion Two-year-old Male Horse of 2008.
After his successful first racing season, Mine That Bird was sold for $400,000 to a ranch in New Mexico and was put under the trainer Bennie "Chip" Woolley with the jockey Calvin Borel. He arrived just in time for the 2008 Breeders' Cup Juvenile, but finished last among twelve starters.
He didn't race again until 2009, during his three-year-old season. The season didn't begin with a any wins, starting with Mine That Bird finishing second in the Borderland Derby on February 28, then fourth in the Sunland Derby on March 29. Despite the losses, Mine That Bird qualified for the Kentucky Derby, which would be his first race that year outside of New Mexico. He arrived at the as an underdog, his odds being 50-1.
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| Mine That Bird in the Kentucky Derby. credit |
After his amazing performance in Kentucky, which many people considered a fluke, Mine That Bird entered the Preakness Stakes under the jockey Mike Smith since Calvin would be riding Rachel Alexandra. Mine That Bird again started out slow and came from behind to pass the rest of the pack, but he was unable to catch up with Rachel Alexandra. He finished second behind her by only a length.
Next, he entered the Belmont Stakes and was once again ridden by Calvin Borel. He came from behind, catching up with Dunkirk and Charitable Man near the end, but ended up third to Summer Bird and Dunkirk.
He then came third in the West Virginia Derby and ninth in the Breeders' Cup Classic, ending his career. Afterward, he was nominated as New Mexico's 2009 Horse of the Year.
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Seattle Slew: Three-Year-Old Season
Seattle Slew, known as the "People's Horse," began his three-year-old season as a favorite for the Kentucky Derby. He first won a seven furlong race at Hialeah, running in the track record time of 1:20 3/5, followed by victories in the Flamingo Stakes and the Wood Memorial Invitational Stakes.
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| Seattle Slew after the flamingo Derby. (Credit) |
Seattle Slew banged his face on the starting gate right at the beginning, nearly throwing jockey Jean Cruguet. For the Moment took the early lead. Despite his slow start, Seattle Slew caught and passed the leaders within the first quarter mile, leaving the early leaders to fade away.
"He broke slowly. He was shut off immediately. He had to overcome adversity. And then he went on to do what he was supposed to do. That's the sign of a racehorse," said Billy Turner, Slew's trainer.
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| Seattle Slew winning the Kentucky Derby. (credit). |
Seattle Slew won the Preakness in the same manner two weeks later. He ran the fastest opening mile on record, easily passing Iron Constitution, Run Dusty Run, J.O. Tobin. After that, he almost effortless won the Belmont Stakes, becoming the first Triple Crown winner to win all of the classics as well. Furthermore, he became the first Triple Crown winner to be purchased at an auction. Eight others had been raced by their breeder and Sir Barton had been sold privately.
After his impressive victories in the Triple Crown races, many people offered to by him, including a $14 million from someone from Texas. Slew became so popular that his owners made tee-shirts, cocktail glasses, and rings featuring the young star. Companies, wanting to gain popularity, featured Slew in their advertisements.
However, the star didn't remain undefeated for long. Mickey Taylor and the rest of the crew raced him in the Swaps Stakes two weeks after the Belmont against Billy Turner's advice. Consequently, Slew lost to the English champion J.O. Tobin.
The Taylors and the Hills took a lot of criticism for Slew's defeat. When Bill Turner told the press that the star should have never entered that race, Mickey fired him. Then Slew suffered from respiratory infections and a near-fatal virus. Even so, he was name 1977 Horse of the Year.
Monday, May 20, 2013
Assault: Three-Year-Old Season
Assault began his three-year-old season with a victory at the Experimental Handicap, followed by the Wood Memorial Stakes.
In the the Derby Trial, he placed fourth, with Rippey, Spy Song, and With Pleasure in front of him. Fans began to doubt whether or not he had it in him to win the Derby.
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| Assault in the winners circle(photo credit). |
The Kentucky Derby came not long afterward. Lord Boswell was the betting favorite, and Assault was the fourth favorite. When Spy Song took and early lead, Assault followed close behind, catching him and winning by eight lengths, a distance that equaled the Kentucky Derby's longest length victory. However, he missed Whirlaway's time by over five seconds, running only 2:06 3/5.
Assault was made the betting favorite when he ran against Lord Boswell and eight others in the Preakness on May 11. Assault was boxed in early in the race, and was forced wide in the backstretch as he passed Natchez. All the way down the homestretch, he held the lead, with Lord Boswell four lengths behind him. Despite fatigue, he crossed the finish line a neck ahead of his rival.
Lord Boswell was the favorite in the Belmont Stakes in spite of Assaults victories. Fans believed that he was more suited to longer distances because of his near victory in the Preakness, especially since Assault had been exhausted at the end of the race. Assault was the second favorite.
Assault stumbled at the start, so Hampden took the lead right away. Assault didn't make his move until he neared the first turn, when he gave all he could, passing Natchez and winning by three lengths. Even though the race had been exciting, fans still doubted the seventh Triple Crown winner.
Two weeks later, Assault won the Dwyer Stakes, but his time was unimpressive, and fans just thought he was the best of that group of of three-year-olds. He next lost the Arlington Classic. When he returned to the barn, he was diagnosed with a kidney infection.
A month later, he was back on the track. He finished third behind Mighty Story in the Discovery Handicap, then second behind Mahout in the Jersey Handicap. On September 25, he met Stymie for the first time. Stymie was famous for winning from-the-behind, and his career had begun with cheap races, until he became Champion Handicap Horse in 1945. A rivalry was born from the day they first met.
Stymie won their first meeting, the Manhattan handicap, and Assault cam third. After losing by a neck to Bridal Flower in the Roamer Handicap, he once more challenged his new rival, this time in the Gallant Fox Handicap. Once again he came third.
In the Pimlico Special, the two met again. Eddie Arcaro, who was riding Assault for the first time, was told not to make a move until Stymie did. Assault ended up winning his first race since the Dwyer Stakes, beating both Bridal Flower and Stymie.
Assault won by two lengths in his final start that season, the Westchester Handicap. Despite his losing streak, he earned Horse of the Year honors and was named leading money winning. He had earned $424,195, and had won eight out of fifteen races that year.
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Count Fleet: Three-Year-Old Season
Count Fleet began his three-year-old career with an easy victory in the St. James Purse, a mile and seventy yards long race. Then he won the Wood Memorial, a mile and three-sixteenths long race, with a time of 1:43, making quality horses like Blue Swords and Slide Rule look cheap. However, in doing so, he banged his left hind leg, threatening his chances of entering the Kentucky Derby. Even so, he did race. Johnny Longden held ice of the wound the whole time, and Count Fleet won despite his injuries. Once again, Blue Swords came second and Slide Rule third.
The Preakness told the same story: Count Fleet first and Blue Swords second. The Blood-Horse magazine said, "If Count Fleet is the spectacular comet in the racing skies of 1943, then Blue Swords is the comet's tail."
Count Fleet ran in the Withers stakes between the Preakness and the Belmont. He won by six lengths, with Slide Rule, who had skipped the Preakness, second.
When the Belmont finally came, the owners of Blue Swords and Slide Rule decided to skip it, not wanting to be humiliated one more time. Count Fleet only had to beat two horses, which he did easily. In fact, he won by six lengths, becoming the sixth Triple Crown winner.
Count Fleet retired due to an injured fetlock soon afterwards. His retirement came as a relief to the owner of Blue Swords, who had been beaten several times.
He enjoyed great success at stud, producing stake winners and the 1952 Horse of the Year. Count Fleet passed away on December 3, 1973, and is buried at Stoner Creek.
The Preakness told the same story: Count Fleet first and Blue Swords second. The Blood-Horse magazine said, "If Count Fleet is the spectacular comet in the racing skies of 1943, then Blue Swords is the comet's tail."
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| Count Fleet in the winner's circle at one of the tracks he raced on(photo credit). |
Count Fleet ran in the Withers stakes between the Preakness and the Belmont. He won by six lengths, with Slide Rule, who had skipped the Preakness, second.
When the Belmont finally came, the owners of Blue Swords and Slide Rule decided to skip it, not wanting to be humiliated one more time. Count Fleet only had to beat two horses, which he did easily. In fact, he won by six lengths, becoming the sixth Triple Crown winner.
Count Fleet retired due to an injured fetlock soon afterwards. His retirement came as a relief to the owner of Blue Swords, who had been beaten several times.
He enjoyed great success at stud, producing stake winners and the 1952 Horse of the Year. Count Fleet passed away on December 3, 1973, and is buried at Stoner Creek.
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Preakness Stakes 2013
Just two weeks ago, Orb came from last to first in the Kentucky Derby, just as Secretariat always has done. Now it is time for the Preakness Stakes this weekend. Lots of talk has been going around about whether or not he will win the Triple Crown. If you're a racing fan, or are just interested, it is important to know what he is up against(to learn about the pedigrees of the horses that were in the Derby, see Kentucky Derby Part 1, Part 2).
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| Itsmyluckyday(photo credit) Itsmyluckyday did well as a two-year-old. He came second in his first race, a five furlong one, and won his second, a four furlong race. Then he placed third in the Tyro Stakes. Next he won both the Fasig Tipton Turf Dash and the Foolish Pleasure Stakes before coming sixth in Delta Downs Jackpot. He finished the season fourth in the Dania Beach Stakes. This year, he debuted with a victory in the Gulfstream Park Derby, followed by a second victory the Holy Bull Stakes. He then came second in the Florida Derby. Most recently, he came fifteenth in the Kentucky Derby. |
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| Govenor Charlie(photo credit) Govenor Charlie never raced last year, and was lightly raced this year. He only raced three times this year. His first race was a six furlong one at Santa Anita in which he placed second. The next was a one mile long race, also at Santa Anita, and he placed first. His most recent race is the Sunland Derby, one and one eighth miles long. He won that one, too. Though he doesn't have the experience that the others do, he certainly has the talent. His sire and dam are Midnightlute and Silverbulletway. |
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| Oxbow(photo credit) Last year, Oxbow only raced five times. He came seventh in a five and a half furlong race at Saratoga. Following that, he ran three seven furlong races, coming fourth in the one at Keeneland and third and first in the two at Churchill Downs. Afterwards, he placed fourth in the CashCall Futurity. He started this year's season with a victory in the LeComte Stakes. Then he placed fourth in the Risen Star Stakes, second in the Rebel Stakes, fifth in the Arkansas Derby and sixth in the Kentucky Derby. |
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| Will Take Charge(photo credit) Last year, Will Take Charge came fifth in a five and a half furlong race at Saratoga before winning a seven furlong race at Keeneland. Then he came thirteenth in the Kentucky Jockey Club. Next he finished second in the Remington Springboard Mile. This year, he won the Smarty Jones Stakes, came sixth in the Southwest Stakes, then won the Rebel Stakes. He came eighth in the Derby. |
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| Mylute(photo credit) Last year, Mylute began his career with third place in a five and half furlong race at Churchill Downs. Then he came second in the Praire Gold Juvenile, another five and half furlong race, and first in a six furlong race at Arlington Park. After that he came fifth and second, respectively, in the mile long Arlington-Washington Futurity and the Jean Lafitte Stakes. He then came third in the Delta Downs Jackpot, first in a mile and seventy yards race, seventh in the Risen Star Stakes, second in the Louisiana Derby, and fifth in his most recent race, the Kentucky Derby. |
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| Departing(photo credit) Departing is one of the three horses entering in the Preakness that never made it to the Derby. He raced only once last year, coming first in a six furlong race. This year, he came first in a one mile and seventy yards long race, and in the mile long Texas Heritage race. After that, he came third in the Louisiana Derby. In his most recent race, the Illinois Derby, he finished first. His sire and dam are War Front and Leave. |
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| Titletown Five(photo credit) Titletown Five never raced in the Derby. Maybe it is because he has not won a single race this year. He did, however, come fourth in the Derby Trial. He came ninth in this year's Louisiana Derby and second in a six furlong race in Oakland. Last year, he was luckier. He came second in a seven furlong race at Saratoga, and fourth in a five furlong race also at Saratoga. Before that, he came third in a four and a half furlong race at Churchill. His sire and dam are Tiznow and D'Wildcat Speed. |
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| Goldencents(photo credit) Goldencents is the type of horse that takes and early lead and tries to hold it wire to wire. However, he failed in the Kentucky Derby and placed 17th, with only two horses behind him. Most of his races have been done in California. He placed first in both the Sham Stakes and Santa Anita Derby at Santa Anita, but came fourth in the san Felipe Stakes, also at Santa Anita. In 2012, he came first in the Delta Downs Jackpot at Delta Downs and in a five and a half furlong race at Del Mar. His only race besides the Derby outside of California was the Foxwoods Champagne, at Belmont. |
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| Orb(photo credit) Orb has an excellent percentage of wins. All of them are at distances over a mile, which greatly affects his chances of being a Triple Crown winner. Three of his races are at Gulfstream, in the Florida Derby and the Fountain of Youth, while the other is at Aqueduct. He has place third in a seven furlong race, and fourth in a six and a half furlong race and in a one mile race at Belmont. And, of course, is his incredible win in the Derby. It was amazing to see him zip from last to first place in the mile and a quarter race to win by two and a half lengths. |
Whirlaway: Three-year-old Season
Whirlaway returned to the track in 1941. In his two races before the Kentucky Derby, he bore to the outside, afraid of the inner rail, which cost him the races. Because of that, Ben Jones trained him at home by running him between the rail and another horse. This may have made all the difference in the Derby.
Equipped with a modified one-eye blinker and an experienced jockey, Eddie Arcaro, Whirlaway ran a somewhat straight line, winning by eight lengths and running 2:01 2/5, a new track record. Then rumors that Whirlaway had been using drugs began to spread. Even the usually calm Ben Jones was angry at the serious accusations.
Nevertheless, Whirlaway proved himself in the Preakness Stakes. He was far behind the other horses after leaving the gate, and it seemed that he would not win. Then he made his move. He sped down the backstretch, passing every single horse for a win of five and a half lengths. It was incredibly breathtaking.
By the time the Belmont Stakes rolled along, people were scared of Whirlaway's bursts of speed, so only a field of four horses ran that day. Whirlaway's three challengers tried to upset his strategy by setting a slow pace early on, but Eddie Arcaro had anticipated that, and cruised along right past them. He became Calumet Farm's first of two Triple Crown winners(see Citation).
Whirlaway won several races after that. He beat Market Wise in the Dwyer Stakes, then won the American Derby, the Travers Stakes, defeated War Relic in the Saranac Handicap, and won the Lawrence Realization.
However, oddly enough, the best race of his career is considered Jockey Club Gold Cup. He and Market Wise had battled throughout the race at a tremendous pace, until Market Wise finally won by a nose, setting a new American record of 3:20 2/5 in the process.
Near the end of the 1941 season, Whirlaway was sent to the west cost to race there, but the bombing of Pearl Harbor cut the season to and abrupt end. He couldn't return home right away, because World War II travel restrictions. It wasn't until March the next year that he could finally leave.
Despite the restrictions, he was still successful, and was named 1941 Horse of the Year and Champion Three-Year-Old Colt.
Equipped with a modified one-eye blinker and an experienced jockey, Eddie Arcaro, Whirlaway ran a somewhat straight line, winning by eight lengths and running 2:01 2/5, a new track record. Then rumors that Whirlaway had been using drugs began to spread. Even the usually calm Ben Jones was angry at the serious accusations.
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| Whirlaway in the Kentucky Derby winner's circle(credit). |
By the time the Belmont Stakes rolled along, people were scared of Whirlaway's bursts of speed, so only a field of four horses ran that day. Whirlaway's three challengers tried to upset his strategy by setting a slow pace early on, but Eddie Arcaro had anticipated that, and cruised along right past them. He became Calumet Farm's first of two Triple Crown winners(see Citation).
Whirlaway won several races after that. He beat Market Wise in the Dwyer Stakes, then won the American Derby, the Travers Stakes, defeated War Relic in the Saranac Handicap, and won the Lawrence Realization.
However, oddly enough, the best race of his career is considered Jockey Club Gold Cup. He and Market Wise had battled throughout the race at a tremendous pace, until Market Wise finally won by a nose, setting a new American record of 3:20 2/5 in the process.
Near the end of the 1941 season, Whirlaway was sent to the west cost to race there, but the bombing of Pearl Harbor cut the season to and abrupt end. He couldn't return home right away, because World War II travel restrictions. It wasn't until March the next year that he could finally leave.
Despite the restrictions, he was still successful, and was named 1941 Horse of the Year and Champion Three-Year-Old Colt.
Monday, May 13, 2013
War Admiral: Three-Year-Old Season
In spring of 1937, War Admiral began his three-year-old season with a victory in a six furlong(1320 yards) at Havre de Grace. Then, after delaying the start of the Chesapeake Stakes by seven minutes, he easily won by six lengths.
After that was the Kentucky Derby. Once more, he delayed the start, this time by eight minutes. Even so, War Admiral took off, defeating a rival from his two-year season, Pompoon, by one and three-quarters lengths. Just after that, War Admiral headed to Baltimore for the Preakness Stakes.
In that race, Pompoon put up a fight. He caught up to War Admiral on the first turn, and the two battled it out from there. War Admiral came out victorious, winning the black-eyed susans, and that years Preakness is considered one of the most exciting in history.
Then came the Belmont Stakes, the ultimate test for a Derby and Preakness winner. Then, while War Admiral was battling into the starting gate, disaster struck: He had sliced of part of his right heel in his fight. His injury made him even less likely to win. However, despite his injury, he led from start to finish, tying the American record for one and half miles with a time of 2:28 3/5 and becoming the fourth Triple Crown winner. He made it look effortless.
Later that fall, after recovering from his injury, he easily won at Laurel. Then He and Seabiscuit, an older champion, were going to match race in the Washington Handicap, also at Laurel. Racing fans all over the U.S. eagerly anticipated the match race. Yet it never happened. Seabiscuit, who was poorly trained, was scratched at the last minute, and War Admiral was given the desired victory. He finished the season with a victory on the Pimlico Special.
War Admiral received Horse of the Year honors that year, but it was Seabiscuit who became the year's leading money winner. Seabiscuit had won just $2,080 more than War Admiral's $166,200.
After that was the Kentucky Derby. Once more, he delayed the start, this time by eight minutes. Even so, War Admiral took off, defeating a rival from his two-year season, Pompoon, by one and three-quarters lengths. Just after that, War Admiral headed to Baltimore for the Preakness Stakes.
In that race, Pompoon put up a fight. He caught up to War Admiral on the first turn, and the two battled it out from there. War Admiral came out victorious, winning the black-eyed susans, and that years Preakness is considered one of the most exciting in history.
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| War Admiral won the Preakness after battling for first place with Pompoon, a rival from his year as a two-year-old(photo credit). |
Later that fall, after recovering from his injury, he easily won at Laurel. Then He and Seabiscuit, an older champion, were going to match race in the Washington Handicap, also at Laurel. Racing fans all over the U.S. eagerly anticipated the match race. Yet it never happened. Seabiscuit, who was poorly trained, was scratched at the last minute, and War Admiral was given the desired victory. He finished the season with a victory on the Pimlico Special.
War Admiral received Horse of the Year honors that year, but it was Seabiscuit who became the year's leading money winner. Seabiscuit had won just $2,080 more than War Admiral's $166,200.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Omaha: Three-Year-Old Season
In 1935, Omaha began his racing season at Aqueduct, where he won, then moved on to the Wood Memorial. He came third by only a nose. Next he went to the Kentucky Derby as the second favorite, the favorite being Man o' War's daughter from Calumet Farms, Nellie Flag.
Also racing was the victor of that year's Wood Memorial,Today, and Hopeful Stakes winner Physic Bid, and Boxthorn, the third betting favorite. Omaha ended up taking the lead in the backstretch, winning by a length and a half. Nellie Flag had been caught in traffic, and consequently finished fourth behind Roman Soldier and Whiskolo.
The Preakness came a week later. Omaha almost effortlessly won by six lengths, with a horse known as Firethorn second and Physic Bid third. By the time the Withers Stakes came along between the Preakness and the Belmont, people began to question Omaha's ability to claim the Triple Crown, like his sire before him. Things became worse when he lost by a length and a half in the Withers Stakes.
On the day of the Belmont Stakes, when the track was slick and muddy, and the cloudy sky drizzled rain, making track conditions less than satisfactory, Omaha made an attempt to follow in his sire footsteps. The horse named Cold Shoulder took an early, followed by Firethorn. Firethorn led well into the backstretch. Then, in one last desperate drive, Omaha gave his all, passing the leaders and becoming the third Triple Crown winner.
In the Brooklyn Stakes, Omaha lost some of the respect he had just earned, as well as Horse of the Year honors. Then he won the Dwyer Stakes, equalling Man o' War's time of 1:49 1/5. After that, he defeat Black Helen in the Arlington Stakes, and broke Sun Beau's record with the time 2:01 2/5. He had finally gained the status of national hero. Yet in the process, he pulled up lame at Saratoga. He was later sent to England for his next season.
Also racing was the victor of that year's Wood Memorial,Today, and Hopeful Stakes winner Physic Bid, and Boxthorn, the third betting favorite. Omaha ended up taking the lead in the backstretch, winning by a length and a half. Nellie Flag had been caught in traffic, and consequently finished fourth behind Roman Soldier and Whiskolo.
The Preakness came a week later. Omaha almost effortlessly won by six lengths, with a horse known as Firethorn second and Physic Bid third. By the time the Withers Stakes came along between the Preakness and the Belmont, people began to question Omaha's ability to claim the Triple Crown, like his sire before him. Things became worse when he lost by a length and a half in the Withers Stakes.
On the day of the Belmont Stakes, when the track was slick and muddy, and the cloudy sky drizzled rain, making track conditions less than satisfactory, Omaha made an attempt to follow in his sire footsteps. The horse named Cold Shoulder took an early, followed by Firethorn. Firethorn led well into the backstretch. Then, in one last desperate drive, Omaha gave his all, passing the leaders and becoming the third Triple Crown winner.
In the Brooklyn Stakes, Omaha lost some of the respect he had just earned, as well as Horse of the Year honors. Then he won the Dwyer Stakes, equalling Man o' War's time of 1:49 1/5. After that, he defeat Black Helen in the Arlington Stakes, and broke Sun Beau's record with the time 2:01 2/5. He had finally gained the status of national hero. Yet in the process, he pulled up lame at Saratoga. He was later sent to England for his next season.
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Orb is 2013's Kentucky Derby Winner
In this year's Kentucky Derby, Orb came from fifteenth place to capture the Triple Crown's first jewel. It was amazing to watch!
See Kentucky Derby Contestants, Part 2
See Kentucky Derby Contestants, Part 2
Friday, May 3, 2013
Kentucky Derby 2013, Part 1
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| Normandy Invasion(for credit, click here) Normandy Invasion has a fair chance of winning. His pedigree is mixture of both speed and stamina. Tapit, Normandy Invasion's sire, has great stamina, while the speed comes from Boston Lady, his dam. Normandy Invasion is ranked 13. |
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| Overanalyze(for credit, click here) Overanalyze's pedigree offers some encouragement, but not much. His sire is Dixie Union, who is noted for winning the 1 1/8 mile Haskell.His dam has not been raced. Overanalyze is ranked 5. |
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| Palace Malice(for credit, click here) Palace was bred for longer distances. His, Curlin, was Horse of the Year---twice. Palace Rumor, his dam, has produced three registered foals. Palace Malice is ranked 12. |
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| Black Onyx(for credit, click here) Black Onyx's sire is Rock Hard Ten, and his dam is Kalhari Cat. It is very likely that he inherits enough stamina from Rock Hard Ten to perform well in the Derby. He has a ranking of 11 this season. |
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| Mylute(for credit, click here) Most people pass Mylute off as a sprinter, but there is more than what meets the eye. Midnight Lute, his sire, mostly ran as a sprinter. Even so, his trainer claimed that he was something more. He may have inherited stamina from his granddam, Winning Move, daughter of Strike the Gold. Strike the Gold was 1991's Derby hero. Mylute is ranked 15. |
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| Goldencents(for credit, click here) Goldencent's pedigree leaves most people uncertain whether he will perform well in the Derby. His sire, Into Mischief, only raced in seven furlong races as a three-year-old due to injury. Golden Works, his dam, only raced in a few six furlong races. Goldencents is ranked 3. |
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| Oxbow(for credit, click here) Oxbow, too, is well suited to run a mile and a quarter. His pedigree is marked with Breeder's Cup Classic winners, such as his sire, Awesome Again. Awesome Again is an outstanding sire, and has sired four Breeders' Cup winners. Oxbow is ranked 16. |
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| Golden Soul(for photo credit, click here) Golden Soul is good at the mile and a quarter, but his pedigree is marked with turf champions. Perfect Soul, his sire, was champion Canadian turf horse in 2003. On his dam's side are many European horses. Golden Soul is ranked 19 |
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| Revolutionary(for photo credit, click here) Revolutionary is a favorite among experts, and he inherits stamina from his dam, Runup the Colors. From his sire, War Pass, (War Pass was an undefeated two-year-old champion) he receives blazing speed. He is ranked 6. |
Monday, April 29, 2013
Sir Barton: Three-Year-old Season
In 1919, John Ross entered Sir Barton in the Kentucky Derby, not expecting him to win. In fact, he planned that Barton would actually lose so that the favored Billy Kelly would win. Barton's primary purpose was to take an early lead, tiring out fast Eternal and Under Fire so that Billy Kelly could take the lead and win.
However, the plan backfired. Billy Kelly failed to catch Sir Barton on the homestretch, and placed second, five lengths behind his stablemate. Eternal had finished tenth.
Then came the Preakness, only four days after the Derby. Sir Barton easily won by by four lengths, defeating both Eternal and Dunboyne, the previous year's Futurity Stakes winner.
After that, Barton once more defeated Eternal, this time in the Withers Stakes on May 24.
Next, he won the Belmont Stakes, effortlessly defeating the American time for a mile and three-sixteenths(the Belmont Stakes was only that long back then) with his time of 2:17 2/5. At the time, the three races(the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes) were not known as the Triple Crown. They were officially given that title in the 1930s. Even so, Sir Barton is still considered the first Triple Crown winner.
Sir Barton lost for the first time since his streak began in the Dwyer Stakes. Purchase, the first winner of the Jockey Club Gold Cup, defeated him. Billy Kelly, however, was becoming a top sprinter, and defeated Barton five times that season, including in the six furlong sprint at Havre de Grace. Barton avenged his defeat in the Potomac Handicap, despite his 132 pound burden.
He then finished second to The Porter, and third in the Havre de Grace Handicap, with Cudgel and Exterminator in front of him. In the Maryland Handicap, he beat the older Mad Hatter by two lengths. Mad Hatter then came back and defeated Barton in the next race, the Pimlico Autumn Handicap.
Barton made a come-back when he won the other two races in the Pimlico fall serial, defeating bother The Porter and Billy Kelly. With the three-year-old record of eight wins and thirteen starts, Barton received Horse of the Year honors
However, the plan backfired. Billy Kelly failed to catch Sir Barton on the homestretch, and placed second, five lengths behind his stablemate. Eternal had finished tenth.
Then came the Preakness, only four days after the Derby. Sir Barton easily won by by four lengths, defeating both Eternal and Dunboyne, the previous year's Futurity Stakes winner.
After that, Barton once more defeated Eternal, this time in the Withers Stakes on May 24.
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| Sir Barton after winning a race(click here for photo credit) |
Sir Barton lost for the first time since his streak began in the Dwyer Stakes. Purchase, the first winner of the Jockey Club Gold Cup, defeated him. Billy Kelly, however, was becoming a top sprinter, and defeated Barton five times that season, including in the six furlong sprint at Havre de Grace. Barton avenged his defeat in the Potomac Handicap, despite his 132 pound burden.
He then finished second to The Porter, and third in the Havre de Grace Handicap, with Cudgel and Exterminator in front of him. In the Maryland Handicap, he beat the older Mad Hatter by two lengths. Mad Hatter then came back and defeated Barton in the next race, the Pimlico Autumn Handicap.
Barton made a come-back when he won the other two races in the Pimlico fall serial, defeating bother The Porter and Billy Kelly. With the three-year-old record of eight wins and thirteen starts, Barton received Horse of the Year honors
Monday, March 18, 2013
Secretariat: the Kentucky Derby
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| I painted Secretariat running in the Kentucky Derby. |
When Secretariat was finally three years old in 1973, it was decided that he would participate in the Kentucky Derby, which is a part of the Triple Crown. The Triple Crown is a prestigious three race event specifically made for three-year-olds. It includes the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes.
The first race in the Triple Crown is the Kentucky Derby, a one and a quarter mile race held at Churchill Downs, Kentucky. It was in this race that Secretariat first made world history and shattered one of the many world records he would break.
At the beginning the race, Secretariat, as usual, was in last place. He then gradually passed many of the other horses. However, on the backstretch, a horse known as Sham(he and Secretariat were a favorite among fans) still held the lead, and many believed that he would win the Derby. Suddenly, Secretariat burst forward and passed Sham. He went on to win the race by 2 1/2 lengths with a time of 1 minute 59 seconds, a new track record.
His record still stands today, and he is remembered as a legend among horse enthusiasts. I believe that he is the most greatest horse that ever lived. I am sure that many of you agree with me.
Don't miss the other posts on the Triple Crown.
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