Racing Recaps

October 14, 2006
Racing Season 2008

-M. Schwartz

 
The Bell Rings Strong

Over the weekend Perfect Bell, the 3 year old filly from Rainbow, came back fighting after losing the American Triple Crown to Led Astray of Hopeful Farm. She was out to prove that the Belmont was indeed a fluke, and that she was still the Queen of Photo Finish, by winning the G1 Diamond Stakes (12 furlongs turf) decisively against older competition.

Determined not to be blocked again, Perfect Bell stalked Tranquil Scene around the long first turn at Ascot and the surged past the older mare and never looked back. She won by 6 lengths and shattered the track record, held by Memcay, by nearly 2 seconds. When she was spotted in the winner?s circle she looked like she had more to give.

Watch out for the fabulously fast filly from Rainbow, she looks tough to beat.

(By the way, the 2^nd place horse was Domitila ? yet another 3 year old filly? what are these owners feeding their 3 year old girls? and better question: Where can I get it?)

Don?t Lead Us Astray

Two days before Perfect Bell?s stunning victory, Led Astray also came home with a nearly 6 length win. This time this game chestnut filly from Hopeful Farm was dropped back to 9 furlongs in the G1 Swaps Stakes (Turf), after her win at the Belmont Stakes. She was the only filly in the race, but that didn?t seem to faze her.

She ran a perfect race, running about 4 furlongs off the pace for the first half of the race. By the end of the backstretch she started to close the gap from the leader and coming into the homestretch she was a neck in front. Then with the light touch of a whip from her jockey the Belmont winning filly surged past the boys for a 5 ? lengths win.

Led Astray is a wonderful filly, but we wonder if she wouldn?t do better at 10 furlongs +. Even though she pulled off a fantastic win, we believe that this star filly would do better at longer races.  

Watch for more Short 'Caps later this week!

A Note from Matt: I haven?t had a lot of time lately, as you have probably noticed. But these Short Cap?s don?t seem to take as long, and I thought something short n? sweet was better than a page that is never updated. If things start to slow down I?ll try to get back to recapping again!

September 10, 2006

2008 Racing Season

 - M. SCHWARTZ

This year should be one of the last years that we see such an outstanding crop of young fillies ? and what a year it has been so far. We have seen two races from both the U.S. Open Triple Crown and Filly?s Triple Crown and the fillies have dominated both events.

 Perfect Bell

Perfect Bell (Bellbuster x Perfect Arc), bred and trained by the esteemed stable Rainbow, is on her way to completing her crown. No, it?s not the Filly?s Triple Crown, but the Open Triple Crown. This young filly is not only dominating the open division, but she has also tackled older competition. In her second start of the year (G1 Caulfield Cup) this Bellbuster filly beat A Bus to the wire, before going on and beating all comers at the Kentucky Derby. With her win in the Preakness Stakes this filly is on her way to writing her name in Photo Finish history; if she is able to capture the third and final jewel she will become the 1^st filly to win the U.S. Open Triple Crown, and likely the Eclipse Horse of the Year.

Case Closed

 Case Closed (Dawn Patrol x Grinder?s Daughter), bred by Silver Creek Racing Stable and trained by Bally Doyle, is quite possibly Perfect Bell biggest threat. This filly made heads spin when she came home with two world records as a 2 year old. This filly hasn?t won a race since her last World Record performance last year, but placed 3^rd and 2^nd in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, respectively. She was running strong in the Kentucky Derby and perhaps extra distance will aid the late-driving filly; however, she will have to wait to challenge Perfect Bell, because she was injured in the Preakness Stakes.

Isca's Revenge
 

Isca?s Revenge (Revenge x Isca), bred and owned by Smokey?s Stable, has a tendency to come in second. As a two year old this Revenge filly placed 2^nd in the Breeder?s Cup Juvenile, and has placed 2^rd in the Toyota Blue Grass Stakes and Kentucky Derby. This filly hasn?t raced worse than 2^nd in any of her races, and should continue to do well throughout the year. Where she is going, we can not say, but wherever her owner decided to run her, we are sure that she will do well.

 Smart Habit

September 1, 2006

2008 Racing Season

Weeks 17-28; Race # 3171

 - M. SCHWARTZ

Those are the seven fillies that will be going to the post for the running of the 6^th-Photo Finish Kentucky Oaks. In the past we have had two Triple Crown winners ? Southern Charm (2005) and Madam De Francais (2006); perhaps one of these fillies will go down in PF history with the two great mares.

Broken Dream: By Stephen Got Even out of La Lagune (by Danehill); 12:7-3-1 $749,200. Raced 3 times at 1700 meters (8.5 furlongs) this year and has two firsts and a second, with times of 1:40.10 and 1:40.30. The only time she placed off the board was in the Las Virgenes Stakes earlier this year. We will be surprised if she isn?t near the front by race?s end.

            Days of Rest: 27 days

Led Astray: By Our Differences out of Astra (by Theatrical); 7:3-1-3 $922,500. In her last two races, Led Astray has come home with two wins. Her first start of the year she placed 3^rd in the Las Virgenes Stakes. Her last race was at 1800 meters (9 furlongs), and she beat Isca?s Revenge and Notice Me, two Kentucky Derby starters, with a time of 1:47.59. She makes a late charge and we will be very surprised if she isn?t near the front by the end of the race.

            Days of Rest: 20 days (Will this be a factor??)

Marscay?s Belle: By Bellbuster out of Marscay?s Princess (by Marscay); 13:0-1-4 $146,100. Earlier this year she had a time of 1:48.89 for 9 furlongs (The Florida Derby) where she placed 4^th of 4 starters. She raced against Smart Habit in the Fantasy Stakes, and was nearly 7.5 lengths back. Not expecting a win from Marscay?s Belle, but she may find herself in the money.

            Days of Rest: 28 days

Royal Hawk: By Hawk Wing out of Gourmet Girl (by Cee?s Tizzy); 12:2-4-2 $420,000.

This filly has raced lightly this season with only 2 starts as a 3 year old, in which she placed 4^th and 2^nd (of 2 racers). 9 furlongs may be to far for this filly at this stage.

            Days of Rest: 34 days

She?s A Prize: By Risen Star out of Natural Woman (by Naturalism); 9:0-0-0 $20,000. Here?s a filly who likes to finish 4^th; in her three starts as a 3 year old that is just what she did. Her best finish was in the G2 Davona Dale Stakes, where she ran a 1:41.15 for 1700 meters (8.5 furlongs). Here is another that could find herself in the money.

            Days of Rest: 34 days

Smart Habit: By Smart Strike out of Mannington (by Danehill); 9:3-2-2 $527,500. She has a record of 3:2-1-0 for the 2008 season, and this filly has beaten Broken Dream and Led Astray at 1600 meters (8 furlongs), where she set a Track Record (1:33.38). She also ran well in the Santa Anita Oaks where she placed 2^nd to Isca?s Revenge in the 1700 meter race (8.5 furlongs); she had a time of 1:40.34. She should be near the front by the end of the race.

            Days of Rest: 28 days

Vengeful Angel: By Revenge out of Fallen Angel (by Devil His Due); 4:0-0-0 $6,250. This filly only raced once this year where she placed fourth in the G3 Norman Robinson Stakes (2000 meters or 10 furlongs) with a time of 2:07.81. This Revenge filly is taking a big jump in class, and she shouldn?t be a threat.  

            Days of Rest: 48 days

 My Prediction:

Broken Dream, Led Astray, and Smart Habit will all find their way into the top 3.

A Fun Tidbit: All these fillies are player-based ?home-breds.? In fact, five are running for their Breeder?s racing stable; the only two that are not are Led Astray (bred by American Acres Stables) and Smart Habit (bred by Citadel Lodge).

Six horses ? four counties ? one hope.

Going down to post at Flemington, home of the Victoria Racing Club, Australia's racing ruling body, horses from all over the world were meeting to contest the G1 Victoria Derby.  The course was in perfect condition, being firm with just enough give to avoid jarring.  From England and representing Woodbury Stables, home of the mighty turf filly Tranquil Scene was Vivaldi who had been made the odds on favourite but looking worth every cent.  Following him down was the second favourite at 9-5, DG representing the home team of Thunder Lodge (home of the Mighty Thunder Arctic) with DJ of Port Pirie Racing (another home team contender) just behind but one of the rank outsiders at 16-1.   A newcomer on the international scene and making a rare venture down to Australia was Dalal of Yeguada Lore Toki who was 3^rd favat 9-2.  Making up the rest of the field was Donosti from another fledging stable, Spartan Racing of the USA and finally Witness at 11-1, representing the internationally renowned and respected KRF Stables, also from the US. Unusally the field was made up entirely of colts, despite its open nature - was it the presence of Vivaldi that had put them off?!

Quickly loaded into the barrier by the professional Flemington race hands the 6 horses faced a tough looking 1.56miles of unforgiving turf.

THEY'RE OFF!!! The crowd cheered,almost drowning out the sound of the bell.

Into the lead broke Vivaldi, closely followed by Definite Gem and Witness in 3^rd. Dalal was just 4^th with Double Jepoardy and Donosti just rating at the rear of the field but less than 6l off the pace.  The first 2 furlongs were taken in front of the packed grandstands before sweeping into the long back turn. As they entered the turn the field positions were only slightly altered, with Definite Gem having a narrow advantage from Vivaldi with Witness closer in 3^rd.  Dalal was hugging the rail in 4th and Double Jeopardy was a couple of lengths behind also on the rail.  Donosti was now 5l behind the pack but his jockey wasnt looking worried - yet.  All horses though were looking comfortable with the pace and ground.  As they made their way around the long turn, Definite Gem was a length or so up of Witness with Vivaldi just behind but running easy.  Double Jeopardy was moving up past Dalal and catching the back of the leading trio.   Donosti's jockey was trying to make his horse pick up the bit but was still dropping off the pace. 

Halfway around the turn and Vivaldi was moving alongside Definite Gem with Witness still scraping paint. Double Jeopardy was now in close attendance, Dalal was loping in 5^th with Donosti the same distance behind.

Exiting the turn and it was starting to become a battle up front with Definite Gem not wanting to give up the lead but Vivaldi equally determined NOT to let himself be in 2^nd place.  They were now nearly 5l ahead of Witness in 3^rd.

Down the back stretch and the crowd were glued to the big infield screen showing the two lead horses having a duel worthy of being described as a battle of giants.  Vivaldi now moved ahead but Definite Gem was still in close attendance but his jockey had a hairy moment when it appeared that Vivaldi moved in front but luckily the leader was a couple of lengths ahead so as not to cause any interference. Double Jeopardy was now back in 3^rd having kept the rails and Dalal was closing in 5^th and from the back Donosti was racing with a bit more enthusisam and appeared to be catching Dalal. 

Coming out of the back stretch and into the final home turn the positions remained unaltered but the crowd was waiting in anticipation to see which horse would strike for home first. Could Vivaldi  keep up the relentless and seemingly effortless gallop in front or would Definite Gem find an extra gear and sweep past? Or would one of the back markers make a dash for glory and take them all out?

5f to go and Vivaldi was cruising in front but behind him the pack was closing like vultures - none more so that Donosti who was making up ground hand over fist. Around the the turn and Vivaldi was 3 lengths ahead from Double Jeopardy who had moved past Definite Gem, Witness sitting in 4^th and Donosti now 5^th. Dalal was not out of it in 6^th.

Less then 4 furlongs to go and it looked like Vivaldi was being reeled in by Double Jeopardy who was now 2^nd. Witness and Dalal had both moved past a retreating Definite Gem who was now in 5^th. 

Coming out of the final bend and the crowd couldn't believe it ? 3 horses nearly in line -

Vivaldi ahead, in front of Witness with Double Jeopardy less than 1 length behind in 3^rd. A large horse blanket could have covered them!  Dalal was still 4 wide but making an impressive move. Down on the rails, Donosti's jockey was offering up a prayer to the god of racing space and praying that Vivaldi would start to tire and roll away from the rails to allow him to make his run.

600m to go and for the first time in nearly a mile Vivaldi saw another horse at eye level! Witness was taking the race to him! Now the jockey on board the British raider asked for a little more and  at the same time Witness received a slap behind. Dalal's jockey was having his prayers answered -   Vivaldi WAS rolling away from the rails and Dalal, now seeing daylight and the finishing wire, was in full flow.  He closed the gap in strides to take him alongside Vivaldi and Witness.  Donositi was looking a bit tired in 4^th having made herculean efforts to catch the pack around that final turn, Double Jeopardy was 6 lengths behind him and Definite Gem, after his earlier run was now trailing back in 6, some 16l off Double Jeopardy. 

The final two furlongs ? now the race was on and the crowd were almost silent in their eagerness to see what would transpire!

Vivaldi was still out in front, Dalal now at his hindquarters on the rail but Witness was now starting to drop off.  Donosti was rating in 4^th ? the rest, sadly today was not their day.

A furlong to go and Vivaldi's jockey said NOW! And the response was electric ? in a few strides he was 2, no 3 lengths ahead of Dalal who could find no more.  Witness was being caught by a rallying Donosti ? when would the wire come?!

And there it was ? Vivaldi flashing under it 3 lengths ahead of Dalal who was in turn a a short head in front of Donosti. Witness faded in the final furlong to finish a distance behind with Definite Gem and Double Jeopardy being allowed to come home in their own time. 

A TRACK RECORD!!!! The crowed roared their approval!! They had known they were witness a great race but not one of that quality. 

Afterwards, a very quiet and humble Martin Pennington, owner and trainer of Vivaldi told the press that his plans were still fluid for the colt but perhaps he would be looking at nice 12 furlong turf race back home in England.  

The other trainers offered no excuses and were all full of praise for the winner.

Finishing Times:

Horse Times:

 6 Vivaldi - 2:34.66 

 1 Dalal - 2:35.23 

 4 Donosti - 2:35.64 

 2 Witness - 2:35.80 

 3 Definite Gem - 2:40.31 

 5 Double Jeopardy- 2:42.21

August 19, 2006

Racing Season 2008

Weeks 13-14; Race # 3087

-M. SCHWARTZ

G1 The Dubai Juvenile ? Nad Al Sheba ? 6F? Fast Dirt ? 2 year olds

After a few controversial entries ? some reports say that owners of a pony, goat, and donkey tried to enter the first test for 2 year olds ? the field was settled at 15 colts and 5 fillies.

The morning was perfect as the 20 horses prepared to get ready for the running of the Dubai Juvenile. The sun was high in the sky and the track was lightning fast, everything was perfect for a good day for these inexperienced 2 year olds.

Inexperienced is quite accurate, for 6 horses went to the post for the very first time and 6 others had only raced once before. However, the morning line favorite was the unraced colt from KRF Stables ? Machete. Waltz on the Stars (Bally Doyle), Lazy Patrol (Smokey?s Stable), and Linkoping (Port Pirie) were off at 6:1. The filly Mental Edge trained by Bonai went off at 7:1, with Magic Waltz (Smokey) and the filly Money Maker (Pointgiven) at 10:1, and Hold That Train (Parklands) at 11:1. The rest were given prices were from 18:1 to 83:1.

Starters in Post Position:

Horse                           Stable                                       Odds

Magic Waltz                 Smokey?s Stable                      10:1

At the Buzzer                West Winds Farm                    29:1

St. Cay                         FDL Lodge                              61:1     FIRST START

Mental Edge (F)           Bonai Farms                             7:1
Money Maker  (F)       Pointgiven Stables                     10:1

The Color of Money     Alydar Stables                          48:1

Nothing Changes (F)    Long Island Hayburners            39:1     FIRST START

Silence in Scene            Rainbow                                  65:1     FIRST START

Hold That Train            Parklands                                 11:1

Waltz on the Stars        Bally Doyle                               6:1

Rolling Thunder            Fender Stables                         18:1

Machete                       KRF Stables                            7:2       FIRST START

Fuego Andino (F)         Establos Del Castillo                83:1     FIRST START

Thunder Heart              Lakeside Acres                        57:1

Lazy Patrol                   Smokey?s Stable                      6:1

Flying Home                 Thunder Lodge                        32:1

Invisible                        Spartan Racing Stables            26:1

Linkoping (F)               Port Pirie Racing                       6:1

Blushafter                     Thunder Lodge                        32:1     FIRST START

Seattle Nash                 Olmo Dorato                            46:1

The Start

Getting the 20 young two-year-olds ready for the start was no easy feat. Many were skittish and some had to be backed in. Many anxious minutes later all 20 horses were straight and ready to go.

At the break Rolling Thunder was the fastest out of the gates, but At the Buzzer was right there with him and soon took over Rolling Thunder?s short lead. However, At the Buzzer?s time up front was cut short by Machete, who in a few jumps took control of the lead. Waltz on the Stars, Silence in the Scene, and Mental Edge were all within 2 lengths of the lead, with the rest of the pack falling in behind.

With 4.5 furlongs to the finish Machete increased his lead by a length to At the Buzzer. 1 ? from Machete Rolling Thunder was a nose ahead of Waltz on the Stars. Just behind them, stalking the early leaders, were Silence in the Scene and Linkoping. In the back of the pack the jockey on Money Maker tried to navigate him around the field of horses. And Hold That Train was showing a bit of speed, but like Money Maker had 10 horses between them and the leader Machete.

The race was ? over and Money Maker had moved from 12^th to 6^th in an attempt to catch the golden chestnut colt from KRF Stables. The KRF colt, this first starter, had increased his lead over At the Buzzer by over 2 lengths, with Waltz on the Stars and Mental Edge along side. Starting to slowly move up was Linkoping, who sat 4 lengths back in perfect position to challenge the leaders for the drive to the finish.

With less than 2 furlongs to go and a few quick slaps from the jockey, Mental Edge starts to make his move on the leader and picks up ground. Does he have the speed to catch this inexperienced colt, who was fighting off the oncoming challenge? Money Maker has moved into 4^th in his stretch drive over a length behind Waltz on the Stars; however, a few meters later Money Maker looks to be in trouble. His jockey is asking for more speed, but he isn?t getting a response and the colt drops back.

The Finish

One furlong to go. Lazy Patrol and Thunder Heart are showing some closing speed, but they are 9 lengths behind the leader. Money Maker has dropped back to 6^th again, and is losing ground fast. Linkoping, now fourth, is desperately trying to gain ground on the three leaders and is slowly inching up on Hold That Train. But neither of them can catch Mental Edge who is 2 lengths behind Machete. Machete flashed under the wire with a time of 1:08.13.

The golden-chestnut colt from KRF won his first start in the Dubai Juvenile. Machete looks like he is a worthy son of his great father ? Revenge.

Matt?s Notable Mention: First on the list is Money Maker. He had a nice drive from the near the back of the pack and was working his way up. The suddenly, about 1.5F to the finish he suddenly drops back. He was in 4^th when he hit a brick wall and decided to quit. He ended the race 13^th, 24 lengths behind the Machete. The vet report was clean, so why the sudden stop?

Okay, wasn?t going to bring this up here? but on the topic of 1^st time starters. The plot thickened when Machete won the Juvenile. But here is my 2 cents, if you want to quit reading; I?ve given you fair warning?

Personally, I will not send an unproven runner into a $1,000,000 race, no matter if the foal?s sire was Pegasus or one of the horses from the Apocalypse. But that is what I would do. I believe that as long as the rules state that you can have a maiden runner in a G1, then fine. They are risking finishing off the board, as many first starters did in this race. However, they currently have the right to run in the race. Is it sportsmanlike? Who can say? How many horses have made their debuts in G1 or even G2 races? I?m sure more than this group of 2 year olds. If the Juvenile had only 20 horses originally entered, would we have had this debate? Maybe, possibly, but probably not to this scale.  In the end, we have to remember this? Photo Finish is a simulated game. It is not real. Things happen, and we may get upset. But, it is just a game. No harm, no foul. As I said before, in the end it is your decision what to do and where to send your horses. Just because our opinions differ doesn?t mean anyone is right or wrong.

Order of Finish

1.            Machete ? 1:08.13

2.            Mental Edge ? 1:08.47

3.            Waltz on the Stars ? 1:08.97

4.            Linkoping - 1:09.36

5.            Hold that Train - 1:09.95

6.            Rolling Thunder - 1:10.22

7.            Nothing Changes - 1:10.43

8.            Magic Waltz - 1:10.65

9.            Thunder Heart - 1:10.68

10.        Lazy Patrol - 1:11.23

11.        Seattle Nash - 1:11.82

12.        The Color of Money - 1:12.01

13.        Money Maker - 1:12.10

14.        At the Buzzer - 1:12.16

15.        St. Cay - 1:12.41

16.        Silence in Scene - 1:13.01

17.        Flying Home - 1:13.30

18.        Blushafter - 1:13.44

19.        Fuego Andino - 1:13.87

20.        Indivisible - 1:14.27

August 17, 2006
Racing Season 2008
Weeks 11-12; Race # 3072

Review of the G1 race known as The Cox Plate ?
by Nancy Newmarket

1 1/4m (10f/2000m) Turf ? Firm to Good for 3yr Old Up - $1.6million

Horse	Stable	Age/Sex
Double Jeopardy	Port Pirie Racing (AUS)	3
Memorabilia	Moose Hollow Farm (US)	4F
Moet	Thunder Lodge (US)	3
Perfect Goer	KRF Stables (US)	4
Smart Money	Bonai Farms (US)	5
Stardom	Spartan Racing Stables (US)	5
Tranquil Scene	Woodbury Stables (GB)	4F

At Moonee Valley in Australia, a group of horses were lining up to take part in one of the Australian racing seasons most prestigious races, The Cox Plate usually viewed as a warm up to their number one race, The Melbourne Cup. The horses lining up today included some of the worlds most respected turf racers from all across the globe. Smart Money, of the biggest money earners in the game and at 5yr possibly at his peak. Moet ? one of last seasons top 2yr olds colts on either surface. The fillies were well represented too, especially by Tranquil Scene ? Woodbury Stables globe trotting 4yr old mare who was most at home hearing her hooves rattle! The field was rounded off with Stardom (5yr colt), Perfect Goer (4yr colt) Memorabilia (4yr filly) and Double Jeopardy (3yr colt). Little Big Sky, representing the Italian stable of Olmo Dorto was scratched due to the firm ground.

Morning line prices had it between 3 horses ? Tranquil Scene at 6/5, Smart Money at 2/1 and Memorabilia at 3/1. Moet was not far off at 7/1 and the rest were available at prices from 12/1 up. Weights carried varied from the top weight of Stardom, Smart Money and Perfect Goer carrying 9st 1lb down to Moet and Double Jeopardy alloted 7st 9lbs (they being 3yr olds). Tranquil Scene and Memorabilia were both carrying 8st 10lbs as the assignable weight for 4yr fillies.

Post Positions were:

1 ? Stardom / 2 ? Smart Money / 3 ? Perfect Goer / 4 ? Memorabilia / 5 ? Double Jeopardy

6 ? Moet / 7 ? Tranquil Scene

Jogging down to the start, Tranquil Scene looked in perfect health and let her jockey know that today was a good day for her. Smart Money was behaving like the old hand he was but with a quiet confidence. Loading into the gate proved relatively easy with no horse causing problems, except for Memorabilia who backed out before being reloaded.

Out of the gate they broke to the roar of the packed grandstands ? Double Jeopardy just missed the break and was out the back whilst up front Moet was edged ahead of Perfect Goer with Tranquil Scene inches behind. On the rail Stardom was showing good early speed and Memorabilia was barely ? length behind. Smart Money's jockey was content to sit towards the rear of the pack and watch the race unfold.

After the first furlong taken in front of the grandstand the field started to edge towards the rail to save ground as the track sweeps into a wide bend. Tranquil Scene moved up to narrowly shade it from Moet, Perfect Goer still sat happy in 3^rd and Memorabilia just ahead of Stardom in 4^th. Smart Money was moving up to keep in contention but Double Jeopardy hadn't picked up and the crowd thought he was finding it all a little too hot for the young colt at this stage and was already 5lenghts off Smart Money.

Entering the first of the two turns, Tranquil Scene moved ahead by a widening length with Moet tracking Perfect Goer in 3^rd. As the field swept around the bend having gone just over 2f Tranquil Scene had found the rail and was stretching her advantage. Moet was being caught for 2^nd by a pack of three which included Perfect Goer, Memorabilia and Smart Money. Double Jeopardy had picked up the bit and had passed Stardom for 5^th. There was little over 6l covering the field. None of the jockeys seemed to be pressing panic buttons and all the horses were running well in themselves.

Out of the turn and the field was being reshuffled as horses gained more momentum. Tranquil Scene was still leading but her lead was down to just over 1l, as Memorabilia had slipped through the field to take over 2^nd from Moet and Smart Money was now rating comfortably in 4^th. Perfect Goer was just holding onto 5^th from Double Jeopardy who was now more comfortable with the pace and Stardom was dropping back.

As the field moved down the back stretch, it looked like THIS was the place that the race was gonna start in earnest. Tranquil Scenbe was barely ?l ahead of Memorabilia with Smart Money now in 3^rd making his famous stalking move. Moet was weakening as if something was amiss and Double Jeopardy was catching him up rapidly. Perfect Goer was still rating in 6^th and Stardom still kept up the rear position.

There were now three horses in line entering the home turn ? Tranquil Scene, Smart Money & Memorabilia. Double Jeopardy was now starting to gather them in and looked a danger if he could sustain the pace. For the first time in the race a horse was running eye ball to eye ball with Tranquil Scene and that horse was Smart Money!! Memorabilia was not giving in between these two protagonists in 3^rd and within strides, Tranquil Scene was back in 3^rd! The crowd could see the battle behind was hotting up too ? Moet a clear 4^th with Double Jeopardy, Perfect Goer and Stardom now all within 3l of the leaders.

Out of the turn and just over 2f to go ? who would be the first to be asked the question ? how much do you want to win? The three leaders were all horses renowned for their fighting qualities and all would be hard nuts to crack. Memorabilia was inching ahead by a nose, with Tranquil Scene fighting back on the rail into 2^nd and Smart Money less then 1l behind in 3^rd. Moet was giving his all and the rail seemed to be encouraging him into one final effort. Double Jeopardy, Perfect Goer and Stardom were still locked in the battle for 4^th and nothing separated them.

A crack of the whip and Tranquil Scene found her top gear and quickly moved 1l ahead of Memorabilia and Smart Money. Moet was creeping behind Tranquil Scene and Memorabilia with Smart Money 4 deep on the sweeping track but not giving in. Stardom was making his move from out of the back three and all the jockeys were now down in the ?drive? position.

1f to go ? 200m of pure adrenalin and that was just the crowd! Tranquil Scene now inched to a narrow advantage from Memorabilia with Smart Money just dropping off in 3^rd. Moet had found no more and dropped back very quickly with Perfect Goer and Stardom passing him.

1/2f to go ? Tranquil Scene pulled away with an impressive turn but just behind her Smart Money was showing all the reasons why he is considered a champion ? but would the wire come too soon? Both jockeys put down their sticks and asked both horses for the maximum effort with hands and heels - they could tell no horse had more to give. Memorabilia was just off in 3^rd and was was close as she was going to be to the two leaders. Perfect Goer had won the battle behind and was closing in 4^th. Double Jeopardy and Stardom were showing themselves to be worth of the field in 5^th and 6^th respectively but Moet was fading fast in 7^th and his jockey was easing him down in the last few strides.

SHE DID IT! In a fabulous performance Tranquil Scene had run to the top of her game and beaten Smart Money by a wide looking 2l who in turn was only a short head in front of Memorabilia. Despite losing the lead at the top of the home turn Tranquil Scene had dug deepest and clawed her way back to win a most thrilling race. Afterwards her trainer, Martin Pennington said it justified keeping her in training from her brilliant 3yr old season and she was now 2 from 2 this season. He was unsure of where to send her next but her long term goal could be the Breeders Cup F&M Distaff on Turf. The other trainers also expressed themselves to be thrilled with the outcome and said the way the race was run offered no excuses for any runner and that it had been a privilege just to watch such a wonderful mare in action.

Final Result:

1^st ? Tranquil Scene - 2:00.06

2^nd ? Smart Money ? 2:00.41

3^rd ? Memorabilia ? 2:00.56

4^th ? Perfect Goer ? 2:01.91

5^th ? Double Jeopardy ? 2:01.95

6^th ? Stardom ? 2:02.40

7^th ? Moet ? 2:02.98

NOTE ? Stardom was reported to have returned to his barn sore and the vet recommended 7 days of barn rest minimum before resuming light training.

August 17, 2006
Racing Season 2008
Weeks 11-12; Race # 3084

- M. SCHWARTZ

Post Parade:

From the paddock, nine horses made their way to the track, which ? after a sudden storm ? had become slow. The first to emerge was Case Closed, the filly from Bally Doyle. She turned a lot of heads when she broke two World Records at two years old. However, Case Closed is very finicky about her surface conditions and does not like the slow dirt. Next was the long shot grey colt from Goforwand Stables, I Dare You, who doesn?t like the slow surface, but should run ok in it. Third in the post parade was Magic Wand a colt from Bonai Farms. He hasn?t had a great record, but had just come off with a win in the G2 Rosehill Gardens and loves an off track. Morning After the colt from Firstholme was 4^th, was fresh from a second placing in the G1 Donn Handicap. From Thunder Lodge Silver Crown who only place out of the money twice, and is coming back from a win at 11 furlongs. Sixth in the parade of nine was True Ensign of Eureka Racing Stables. The colt is unplaced in 2008, but was 3^rd in field of 16 last year at the Hollywood Futurity. Lager Beer the grey colt bred by Beaver Stables has record of 3:1-1-1 for the 2008 season. The second filly of the race is 8^th ? Enlightenment from Watch this Space. She loves the off track; she is also coming off a win at 16 furlongs. Rounding off the parade of horses is Breeder?s Cup Juvenile winner Landmine, who is running under the color of FDL, his new owners.

The Start:

 Seemingly without a problem the started loaded the 3 year olds into the great, ready to send them off for the running of the United Arab Emirates Derby.

Morning After sprung from the gate and took control of the race early on, with Enlightenment right up with him.  Coming out of the turn, Morning After and Enlightenment were 5 lengths in front of the rest of the pack. Enlightenment was straining to try to take control of the race.

Behind them a duel for third was going on between the filly Case Closed and Magic Wand. Although it looked like Magic Wand was running very easily, his jock sitting still in the saddle. True Ensign was right there with them ? a length behind Case Closed and Magic Wand, and a mere length behind True Ensign ran Landmine, who seemed content where he was. On the inside ran Silver Crown, 3 lengths in front of I Dare You and Lager Beer, but well within 3 lengths of Magic Wand.

With a mile to go (8F), Morning After and Enlightenment increased their lead by nearly 8 lengths over the rest of the field. Enlightenment was still in a hard drive, but the filly was losing ground to the colt.

Magic Wand had a neck in front of True Enisgn who had taken over 4^th from Case Closed and looked to close in on Magic Wand. Landmine continued to 6^th, nine lengths off the leaders, but was making up ground. Silver Crown another length back and I Dare You and Lager Beer 13 and 14 lengths off the front runners.

Half a furlong later, True Ensign took over 3^rd from Magic Wand and Landmine was closing in on them. Up ahead 8 lengths Morning After increased her lead over the tiring filly, who was still being pushed to her breaking point.

With six furlongs to the finish, main pack was starting to catch up to the early leaders. Landmine was starting to make his move, moving up into third a neck in front of True Ensign. They were 6 ? lengths off of Morning After and 4 ? lengths off of the slowing filly Enlightenment.

Entering the final turn with 5 furlongs to go, Landmine had nearly caught Enlightenment. Morning After was given a short rest, to prepare him for the oncoming charge, for the BC Juvenile winner was only 4 lengths behind. True Ensign, Magic Wand and Case Closed were all within 9 furlongs of the leaders, and in a good position to challenge them. Silver Crown, I Dare You, and Lager Beer were 11, 12, and 15 lengths off of Morning After.

220 yards later, Landmine had caught Enlightenment and was starting to close in on Morning After. True Ensign and Magic Wand were 3 lengths back, but were starting to close in, with Case Closed 2 lengths behind them.

Coming out of the turn Landmine was ? a length away from away the lead from Morning After. The early battle from Enlightenment was really starting to tell, but she, like all the horses, were not running all out; the only difference is that she had spent much of her energy in the early stages.

Two furlongs to the wire, Landmine had taken control of the race and was a length ahead of Morning After. Enlightenment still hung to third 2 lengths in front of Magic Wand and four in front of True Ensign and Case Closed. However, Case Closed was starting to make her move.

With just furlong to the finish Landmine was running easily 2 ? lengths in front of Morning After. Magic Wand and Case Closed were working hard to catch Landmine before the finish. Lager Beer had started to make his move, along with True Ensign. But would anyone be able to catch Landmine before the finish?

In the final furlong Case Closed move swiftly trying to get her nose in front of Landmine. But she ran out of ground, and Landmine (who was not extended), won 1 ? length in front of the late charging filly. Magic Wand came third with another late charger Lager Beer finishing fourth.

Matt?s Notable Mention(s): A few horses to mention today. Landmine looks like a great buy from FDL Lodge; he looks ready to take on all comers. He won easily and wasn?t extended for a great part of the race. Case Closed was a game little filly, and perhaps needs more distance to perform at her very best. She runs from far back and is a closer, perhaps more distance would aid the WR holding filly. We also wonder if Morning After would do better at sprints and mile races. He gamely ran well in the early stages of the races. On a final note, a nice final drive by Lager Beer. But in the end, we are just here to report on races, where you run them is up to you.

Order of Finish

1. Landmine - 2:01.71
2. Case Closed - 2:01.95

3. Magic Wand - 2:02.89

4. Lager Beer - 2:03.33
5. True Ensign - 2:03.76

6. Enlightenment - 2:04.37

7. Morning After - 2:04.49 (Sore for 3 days)

8. Silver Crown - 2:07.10

9. I Dare You - 2:07.77 (Sore for 3 days)

August 16, 2006
Racing Season 2008
Weeks 11-12; Race # 3078

- M. SCHWARTZ

On March 22, six horses lined up for one of the biggest races of the season ? The Dubai World Cup. At post time it was a perfect day for racing, the dirt strip was lightning fast, as were the six who went to the post.

Two three year olds Notice Me, the filly from FDL Lodge, and King of the Sea, a colt trained by Thunder Lodge, took on the older racers. Among them were Take a Gander winner of the Breeder?s Cup Classic from Moose Hollow Farm and the notable Lazy Loper from Bonai Farms. Hideaway from Rainbow looked to improve on his 2^nd place finish last year, and finishing off the card was Pegasus Song the 2 time Eclipse Winner from Goforwand.

In no time the starter had all the horses lined up at the gate, all ready to bring home the big check of $3.6 million dollars to the winner.

Pegasus Song from the outside post position broke the fastest, and her jockey took her to the front of the pack; he obviously had instructions to take control of the race early on. Lazy Loper broke well and stayed in a comfortable second ? 1 ? lengths back. Notice Me had a short lead over King of the Sea for third. Hideaway trailed the field behind Take a Gander who was 5 lengths off the lead but in good position.

Coming out of the first turn, Pegasus Song still head on to her comfortable lead, and Take a Gander had slid into the third place, ahead of Notice Me and King of the Sea respectively. Hideaway was 10 lengths back, but he started to close the gap.

With 7 furlongs to go, Hideaway continued to close in on the rest of the field, but the positions had not changed. Lazy Loper was 2 lengths from the leader, but was running fairly easily, with Take a Gander inching up on the Loper.

Two furlongs later and as the pack entered the final turn, Hideaway slipped in front of King of the Sea. But, Pegasus Song continued to hold on to her lead, with Lazy Loper and Take a Gander coming up from behind. Notice Me had held her comfortable 4^th and looked to be in a position to challenge the leaders.

Coming out of the turn Lazy Loper started to move up on the leader, with a line of horses behind him - Take a Gander, Notice Me, and Hideaway ? with King of the Sea just behind the trio.

With just 2 furlongs to go, Lazy Loper was just over a length behind Pegasus Song. Four lengths back Notice Me took the third spot from Take a Gander, with King of the Sea in fifth. None of the horses were out of it yet, as they were all within 6 lengths of the leader.

440 yards to go. The horses were all being pushed into the final drive to the finish. But Pegasus Song was not to be denied today - she started to pull away from Lazy Loper ? she won with a wire to wire run nearly 3 lengths in from of Lazy Loper.

Matt's Notable Mention: Watch out for Notice Me the 3 year old filly from FDL. In the final few furlongs she was inching up on the two leaders. This little filly popped out of nowhere to finish a very respectable 3^rd. Her first two starts of the season were in a Maiden and an Allowance. And before this finish she had a record of 11:1-1-2 with $77,900. This year she has raced three times, she has a win, a second, and a third ? from a Maiden, Allowance, and the Dubai World Cup respectively. Was this race just a fluke at the right time? Or is FDL cooking something up behind closed doors? Only time will tell... but the 3 year old filly from FDL has certainly caught our attention.

Order of Finish:

Pegasus Song - 1:58.28
Lazy Loper - 1:58.73
Notice Me - 1:59.15

Take a Gander- 1:59.16

King of the Sea - 2:00.34

Hideaway - 2:01.33