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Horse Racing questions and answers

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  • str
    SBR Posting Legend
    • 01-12-09
    • 11884

    #11446
    Just a heads up to those that might play at Oaklawn.

    Like I said in Pigpens thread, watch the days where all inside or all outside horses seem to dominate the day.

    When those that ran poorly , especially when expected to run well, run back, you might want to give them a 2nd look.

    Consider it info that most do NOT have.

    Any questions about that, fire AWAY.

    gl.
    Comment
    • str
      SBR Posting Legend
      • 01-12-09
      • 11884

      #11447

      I had a harsh “what if” thought about the one minute cutoff for CAW rapid fire betting when I heard it. I feel it should be more like 2-3 minutes for rapid fire bets. But that’s not the point.
      From my limited understanding, I see NYRA making a move to help the everyday fan. Those everyday fans make the game go. Without them, the game is over.

      Is any other track doing that? Honest question. I don’t follow the game well enough anymore to know.
      But if the answer is pretty much no, then what every fan should consider is taking their business to the track that is showing an effort to help them. What a loud and clear message that would be.
      Don’t think every jurisdiction won’t be paying close attention because they will.

      Support this change and stop supporting places that don’t and your voice will be heard loud and clear.

      Something for everyone to consider. In many businesses money talks but no more so than in horse racing parimutuel.

      I hope everyone considers this.
      Good Luck.
      Comment
      • str
        SBR Posting Legend
        • 01-12-09
        • 11884

        #11448
        In case you folks wonder if horses know it’s game time.

        Oh my girl remembers #exracehorse #ottbhorse #racehorses #ottbpolohorse
        Comment
        • str
          SBR Posting Legend
          • 01-12-09
          • 11884

          #11449
          I am saddened to announce that Vincent “Jimbo” Bracciale passed away unexpectedly this afternoon.

          Jimbo won over 3,500 races and rode and won on the great Ruffian.

          He was a longtime friend. We won together when I was a groom and as a trainer.
          Just a heck of a guy.
          The track will feel a little emptier without you Bo.
          Comment
          • JBEX
            SBR Posting Legend
            • 01-02-12
            • 23948

            #11450
            Originally posted by str
            I am saddened to announce that Vincent “Jimbo” Bracciale passed away unexpectedly this afternoon.

            Jimbo won over 3,500 races and rode and won on the great Ruffian.

            He was a longtime friend. We won together when I was a groom and as a trainer.
            Just a heck of a guy.
            The track will feel a little emptier without you Bo.
            sorry about the passing of your friend str..even though he didn't realize it at the time (what the horse would become) what a great memory to look back on
            Comment
            • Easy-Rider 66
              BARRELED IN @ SBR!
              • 02-14-12
              • 36988

              #11451
              Originally posted by str
              I am saddened to announce that Vincent “Jimbo” Bracciale passed away unexpectedly this afternoon.

              Jimbo won over 3,500 races and rode and won on the great Ruffian.

              He was a longtime friend. We won together when I was a groom and as a trainer.
              Just a heck of a guy.
              The track will feel a little emptier without you Bo.
              my condolences STR,
              Comment
              • str
                SBR Posting Legend
                • 01-12-09
                • 11884

                #11452
                Thanks guys.

                It is tough seeing so many friends start to pass on but it's the circle of life I guess.

                When I think about it, I don't think your friends really completely die until you and everyone that knew them do. When I remember people, places, and things in my mind, they are still alive. It's like a scene from a movie in your head. After the hurt of them being gone sinks in and then starts to fade, the good times seem to stick around in your mind and you can play them over and over as you choose.

                Maybe that is the reward we all get for being around people we liked and loved.
                Comment
                • batt33
                  SBR Hall of Famer
                  • 12-23-16
                  • 6086

                  #11453
                  Originally posted by str
                  thanks guys.

                  It is tough seeing so many friends start to pass on but it's the circle of life i guess.

                  When i think about it, i don't think your friends really completely die until you and everyone that knew them do. When i remember people, places, and things in my mind, they are still alive. It's like a scene from a movie in your head. After the hurt of them being gone sinks in and then starts to fade, the good times seem to stick around in your mind and you can play them over and over as you choose.

                  Maybe that is the reward we all get for being around people we liked and loved.
                  amen
                  Comment
                  • str
                    SBR Posting Legend
                    • 01-12-09
                    • 11884

                    #11454
                    I saw where Rudy Rodriguez is under HISA scrutiny and he is getting blasted on social media.
                    it’s sad how little people really know about racing and the drugs, horsemanship or the lack there of . All they can know is what they read . Unfortunately, most of it is terribly wrong.
                    Without knowing all the details this sounds too me that Rudy made a mistake by doing what was once upon a time, what some people did but HISA has rules in place to prevent what ultimately seemed to happen. ( At least I think it did).
                    Whatever the case, the knives are out and he is getting marked as a drug trainer who cheats and learned his cheaters ways from Rick Dutrow.

                    it is unbelievable to me that some people, the public, will read something and take it as gospel and never bother to find out the truth. Just smear the guys and screw it. Run their name through the mud. I guess that’s the world today .

                    Folks, I know that family and trainers tree from the Dutrow barn and abusing horses and drugging horses are not even a thought much less a reality.
                    It’s a shame that media can paint someone with a brush and the paint lasts forever. It’s fine if it’s the truth but not when it’s not even remotely close to the truth.


                    Comment
                    • batt33
                      SBR Hall of Famer
                      • 12-23-16
                      • 6086

                      #11455
                      Commissioned Workout Report



                      Commissioned breezed a solo five furlongs in 1:02.20 this morning at Santa Anita Park under assistant trainer Juan Landeros. While he received an official clocking of five furlongs, your colt left from the half-mile pole and the final furlong of this breeze was technically one furlong past the wire, which you will see was simply a gallop out.

                      Potentially being his final breeze--if racing proceeds on Dec. 26 with the expected rain--trainer Dan Blacker did not want to do too much this morning with him and naturally with him still being on the immature side, he does not put as much into his works being by himself compared to in company as we have seen over the past few weeks. That is not a negative, simply the fact of the difference in his works visually and from a time perspective being solo versus in company. We are still very excited for the future of this colt, but would not be shocked if he’s a race or two away from realizing what racing is all about. He may also very well show off his talent and thrive in the race atmosphere, but these are things we won’t know until race day. Joe Moran provides some additional thoughts, which can be heard in the audio update above.

                      We will follow up once entries are official for opening day and keep you all abreast of any changes if weather does indeed affect racing next Friday.
                      158
                      Kinda interesting if you just look at the workout final times instead of watching videos ...
                      Comment
                      • batt33
                        SBR Hall of Famer
                        • 12-23-16
                        • 6086

                        #11456
                        Originally posted by str
                        I saw where Rudy Rodriguez is under HISA scrutiny and he is getting blasted on social media.
                        it’s sad how little people really know about racing and the drugs, horsemanship or the lack there of . All they can know is what they read . Unfortunately, most of it is terribly wrong.
                        Without knowing all the details this sounds too me that Rudy made a mistake by doing what was once upon a time, what some people did but HISA has rules in place to prevent what ultimately seemed to happen. ( At least I think it did).
                        Whatever the case, the knives are out and he is getting marked as a drug trainer who cheats and learned his cheaters ways from Rick Dutrow.

                        it is unbelievable to me that some people, the public, will read something and take it as gospel and never bother to find out the truth. Just smear the guys and screw it. Run their name through the mud. I guess that’s the world today .

                        Folks, I know that family and trainers tree from the Dutrow barn and abusing horses and drugging horses are not even a thought much less a reality.
                        It’s a shame that media can paint someone with a brush and the paint lasts forever. It’s fine if it’s the truth but not when it’s not even remotely close to the truth.

                        Kinda like the current political climate....
                        Comment
                        • str
                          SBR Posting Legend
                          • 01-12-09
                          • 11884

                          #11457
                          Originally posted by batt33
                          Commissioned Workout Report



                          Commissioned breezed a solo five furlongs in 1:02.20 this morning at Santa Anita Park under assistant trainer Juan Landeros. While he received an official clocking of five furlongs, your colt left from the half-mile pole and the final furlong of this breeze was technically one furlong past the wire, which you will see was simply a gallop out.

                          Potentially being his final breeze--if racing proceeds on Dec. 26 with the expected rain--trainer Dan Blacker did not want to do too much this morning with him and naturally with him still being on the immature side, he does not put as much into his works being by himself compared to in company as we have seen over the past few weeks. That is not a negative, simply the fact of the difference in his works visually and from a time perspective being solo versus in company. We are still very excited for the future of this colt, but would not be shocked if he’s a race or two away from realizing what racing is all about. He may also very well show off his talent and thrive in the race atmosphere, but these are things we won’t know until race day. Joe Moran provides some additional thoughts, which can be heard in the audio update above.

                          We will follow up once entries are official for opening day and keep you all abreast of any changes if weather does indeed affect racing next Friday.
                          158
                          Kinda interesting if you just look at the workout final times instead of watching videos ...
                          Nothing says professional to me more than a well written, knowledgeable write up. You folks that own these horses in this syndicate are treated to solid, informative and professional write ups. You being at the barns over the years allows you to see this.

                          This syndicate group is totally on point . I respect the heck out of that Batt. There was not all that much of that in my day. And when it appeared, that outfit had success.
                          if I see or read something that I feel is disingenuous, I would PM you and let you know. So far, I have not. That in itself speaks volumes IMO about the character of this syndicate.

                          Good Luck with this guy.
                          Comment
                          • str
                            SBR Posting Legend
                            • 01-12-09
                            • 11884

                            #11458
                            Originally posted by batt33

                            Kinda like the current political climate....

                            So true !

                            I need to stay away from that thread. Posters in there can type anything and usually do. Quick to judge you as with them or against them.
                            Not many want to read what you have to say. They just want to know if in their mind, are you friend or foe.

                            Kind of sad to see people act like that but it’s the way it is. I’m best off to not even look. It’s just that there is so much hypocrisy in there that now and then I react.

                            I saw your post. That’s an incredible story about your family. A lot to be real proud of Batt.

                            You would think that stories like yours would maybe move a needle in some of their heads but I don’t think they even see it. Just like or hate and that’s really not for me.

                            All the best to you and mom/ dad. Hope you guys have a great Christmas together.

                            Comment
                            • batt33
                              SBR Hall of Famer
                              • 12-23-16
                              • 6086

                              #11459
                              Originally posted by str

                              Nothing says professional to me more than a well written, knowledgeable write up. You folks that own these horses in this syndicate are treated to solid, informative and professional write ups. You being at the barns over the years allows you to see this.

                              This syndicate group is totally on point . I respect the heck out of that Batt. There was not all that much of that in my day. And when it appeared, that outfit had success.
                              if I see or read something that I feel is disingenuous, I would PM you and let you know. So far, I have not. That in itself speaks volumes IMO about the character of this syndicate.

                              Good Luck with this guy.
                              Thanks STR!
                              The one thing I found interesting was the "official clocking" vs what the horse actually did... If I wasn't part of this horse I would have never known. I just wonder how many other times this happens.
                              Comment
                              • batt33
                                SBR Hall of Famer
                                • 12-23-16
                                • 6086

                                #11460
                                Originally posted by str


                                So true !

                                I need to stay away from that thread. Posters in there can type anything and usually do. Quick to judge you as with them or against them.
                                Not many want to read what you have to say. They just want to know if in their mind, are you friend or foe.

                                Kind of sad to see people act like that but it’s the way it is. I’m best off to not even look. It’s just that there is so much hypocrisy in there that now and then I react.

                                I saw your post. That’s an incredible story about your family. A lot to be real proud of Batt.

                                You would think that stories like yours would maybe move a needle in some of their heads but I don’t think they even see it. Just like or hate and that’s really not for me.

                                All the best to you and mom/ dad. Hope you guys have a great Christmas together.
                                Thanks STR! yeah I kinda knew better than to be in that thread....
                                and all the best to you and your family! Merry Christmas!
                                Comment
                                • str
                                  SBR Posting Legend
                                  • 01-12-09
                                  • 11884

                                  #11461
                                  Originally posted by batt33

                                  Thanks STR!
                                  The one thing I found interesting was the "official clocking" vs what the horse actually did... If I wasn't part of this horse I would have never known. I just wonder how many other times this happens.
                                  It happens often enough at every track that I see it as necessary to the overall understanding of any particular TRACK or SURFACE Batt.

                                  This is why I have spoken so much about watching every race, with no opinion, and just see what jumps out as very helpful or not at all helpful. It doesn't happen every race or maybe everyday. But sometimes it happens 3-4 times in a day. You never know. So you just watch and learn.

                                  I used to keep a folded up piece of paper in my pocket where I would write down horses names and race each day. Didn't really have time to spend on any one horse in that moment, but would record all the replays from Md. and watch them in my office at the track the next morning between sets going out or after 10AM when the track closed. In time, I had a library of replays.
                                  Probably spent an hour a day doing that. Until about 1991, that was always for claiming horses down the road if they were placed with a price tag I thought was appealing. Never for betting. I just didn't care about that angle as I was totally intrenched in what I was doing as a trainer. After I decided ( about 91 or 92) that I was done with the track but would stay on for an undetermined period of the time, I still did claiming but added betting in order to supplement my income. A stay at home wife and three kids ages 6,8, and 10 is pricey.
                                  This was NOT for betting on my horses, but betting horses that were unable to run their best from problems with trips, bias, rider, whatever. I had more time to do so because I did not have the clientele and therefore the money to claim horses everyday.

                                  I still needed income so I improvised. Don't get me wrong, I LOVED claiming horses everyday. It was my everyday life for 15 years and I would probably still be doing it today.
                                  But I did not have the backing to do so and could not gamble by claiming my own horses with money I needed to pay the bills for myself, my wife and my kids. So I divided my work hours into finding value on any horse that showed it to me but in many casers, other PLAYERS did not see. That went on for about 7 years until my mom passed away. After that, my exit strategy kicked in and a little over a year later, I walked away.

                                  Tha1t's what illegal drugs and practices on horses on the backside did. Basically, I fell out of love with what I deemed as the rest of my life prior to 1991. But, life throws you curve balls. And as my favorite coach Earle Elliott taught me, keep you weight back, see the ball, hit the ball. So that's what I did.
                                  Man I loved Earle as did many other kids my age. Our hero.
                                  Comment
                                  • batt33
                                    SBR Hall of Famer
                                    • 12-23-16
                                    • 6086

                                    #11462
                                    Originally posted by str

                                    It happens often enough at every track that I see it as necessary to the overall understanding of any particular TRACK or SURFACE Batt.

                                    This is why I have spoken so much about watching every race, with no opinion, and just see what jumps out as very helpful or not at all helpful. It doesn't happen every race or maybe everyday. But sometimes it happens 3-4 times in a day. You never know. So you just watch and learn.I used to keep a folded up piece of paper in my pocket where I would write down horses names and race each day. Didn't really have time to spend on any one horse in that moment, but would record all the replays from Md. and watch them in my office at the track the next morning between sets going out or after 10AM when the track closed. In time, I had a library of replays.
                                    Probably spent an hour a day doing that. Until about 1991, that was always for claiming horses down the road if they were placed with a price tag I thought was appealing. Never for betting. I just didn't care about that angle as I was totally intrenched in what I was doing as a trainer. After I decided ( about 91 or 92) that I was done with the track but would stay on for an undetermined period of the time, I still did claiming but added betting in order to supplement my income. A stay at home wife and three kids ages 6,8, and 10 is pricey.
                                    This was NOT for betting on my horses, but betting horses that were unable to run their best from problems with trips, bias, rider, whatever. I had more time to do so because I did not have the clientele and therefore the money to claim horses everyday.

                                    I still needed income so I improvised. Don't get me wrong, I LOVED claiming horses everyday. It was my everyday life for 15 years and I would probably still be doing it today.
                                    But I did not have the backing to do so and could not gamble by claiming my own horses with money I needed to pay the bills for myself, my wife and my kids. So I divided my work hours into finding value on any horse that showed it to me but in many casers, other PLAYERS did not see. That went on for about 7 years until my mom passed away. After that, my exit strategy kicked in and a little over a year later, I walked away.

                                    Tha1t's what illegal drugs and practices on horses on the backside did. Basically, I fell out of love with what I deemed as the rest of my life prior to 1991. But, life throws you curve balls. And as my favorite coach Earle Elliott taught me, keep you weight back, see the ball, hit the ball. So that's what I did.
                                    Man I loved Earle as did many other kids my age. Our hero.
                                    Thanks for sharing STR!
                                    Comment
                                    • str
                                      SBR Posting Legend
                                      • 01-12-09
                                      • 11884

                                      #11463
                                      Merry Christmas to everyone here at SBR and especially to those that have read and supported this thread over the years.

                                      Here's hoping that all your wishes come true.
                                      Comment
                                      • str
                                        SBR Posting Legend
                                        • 01-12-09
                                        • 11884

                                        #11464
                                        I saw a question about athletes and gambling and thought I would share my response here:


                                        When you work in a sports related industry and there is gambling readily available, we can become somewhat immune to life's reality's if you are not careful.
                                        I'm talking about, " In The Moment". Not a well thought out decision at all. Quite the opposite. It is not that hard to fall into a situation that then, once you are in it, it escalates.

                                        After a while, you start to take things that are happening to you for granted and because a part of that active life you live is somewhat of a fairytale anyway, you can find yourself riding that wave and not stopping to consider what would happen if that was ever exposed or if the wave ended.

                                        A lot of the responses in here are from a very practical view. And they are mostly correct IMO. Why would anyone do something so stupid as to fix an event or gamble while participating?
                                        Well, it doesn't happen overnight, but sometimes people just wander off course. They are living large, fans love them, they get a ton of attention, and then... the wrong situation gets presented to them and they don't stop to realize what they are risking.

                                        Those that present these opportunities have NOTHING to lose in most cases. And if they do, let's face it, they are just not that in tune with reality. Subsequently, people sometimes make a bad decision that over time gets worse and then their world comes crashing down on them.

                                        We have all seen it so many times we wonder why it keeps happening. I'll tell you why.

                                        A lack of teaching kids at a very young age, and continuing to pound into their heads that what they have is something that can be taken away in an instant. Society is now doing that with drinking and driving as well as many other bad decision bumps in the road that will no doubt be available for athletes or people in a position to manipulate sporting outcomes. But we need more. Much more!

                                        Without education from the beginning as well as awareness to the pitfall, this will continue to happen. Any person in a position to manipulate any outcome is vulnerable to a bad decision based on money, the excitement of the moment and many other things. The only constant within this is the regret and shame that follows when things get exposed.

                                        This education in awareness while mandatory in some places like the NFL for instance, needs to be EVERYWHERE. As it stands, It is NOT. Until it is, it will continue to ruin lives and make fans skeptical of results as well they should be.

                                        Hope that helps some of you better understand what really happens behind the scenes. And sadly, what is not happening enough to educate those that are a part of any pari-mutuel or sports arena that has wagering attached to it.
                                        Comment
                                        • str
                                          SBR Posting Legend
                                          • 01-12-09
                                          • 11884

                                          #11465
                                          Just saw yet another trainer, this time in New Mexico, just got 4 years for an Albuterol positive .
                                          It’s always a little happier new year when another cheating no talent trainer tests positive for that garbage.
                                          Cheaters SUCK !
                                          Comment
                                          • str
                                            SBR Posting Legend
                                            • 01-12-09
                                            • 11884

                                            #11466
                                            DIANE CRUMP. Ever heard of her? For those that have, you probably expected this . For those that have not, if you like horse racing, please go read the Daily racing form piece or whatever you can find.

                                            She died yesterday at age 77. She was the first female jockey to ever compete. She paved the way for every female rider that has ridden.

                                            I could go on and on but read what a real writer has to say about her.

                                            Too me, she was a true hero.
                                            Comment
                                            • str
                                              SBR Posting Legend
                                              • 01-12-09
                                              • 11884

                                              #11467
                                              Today is going to be a tough one. A celebration of life for Vincent Bracciale Jr. will be held today at 1PM at Laurel. Vince (Jimbo), was loved throughout the community. He was THE jockey in the room that everyone looked up to for a long time. He passed away in his sleep a couple of weeks ago. Funeral was private but today everyone gets to show their love and appreciation for him.

                                              I could type till my fingers cramped up about Jimbo, a guy I met my first week on the track in 1972. My first impression of him was that he was really nice, humble, and always willing to help someone out. That never changed.

                                              So many stories I could tell but today I'm just not feeling it. This sucks. Guess the only thing I am happy about is that I had a chance to meet him, ride him, get to know him, and laugh with him and cry with him. He was one of the pall bearers for Dick Dutrow when he passed. That day was tough as well.

                                              You guys would have really liked Bo.

                                              UGH.
                                              Comment
                                              • JBEX
                                                SBR Posting Legend
                                                • 01-02-12
                                                • 23948

                                                #11468
                                                Originally posted by str
                                                Today is going to be a tough one. A celebration of life for Vincent Bracciale Jr. will be held today at 1PM at Laurel. Vince (Jimbo), was loved throughout the community. He was THE jockey in the room that everyone looked up to for a long time. He passed away in his sleep a couple of weeks ago. Funeral was private but today everyone gets to show their love and appreciation for him.

                                                I could type till my fingers cramped up about Jimbo, a guy I met my first week on the track in 1972. My first impression of him was that he was really nice, humble, and always willing to help someone out. That never changed.

                                                So many stories I could tell but today I'm just not feeling it. This sucks. Guess the only thing I am happy about is that I had a chance to meet him, ride him, get to know him, and laugh with him and cry with him. He was one of the pall bearers for Dick Dutrow when he passed. That day was tough as well.

                                                You guys would have really liked Bo.

                                                UGH.
                                                hope it was a nice rememberance of him str .. be cool to hear some of those stories when you feel up to it .. sure I and others in here would enjoy them
                                                Comment
                                                • str
                                                  SBR Posting Legend
                                                  • 01-12-09
                                                  • 11884

                                                  #11469
                                                  Originally posted by JBEX

                                                  hope it was a nice rememberance of him str .. be cool to hear some of those stories when you feel up to it .. sure I and others in here would enjoy them
                                                  Thanks JBEX. Yes, it was a tremendous showing of love and support for Vincent Bracciale Jr. Otherwise known around the track as simply "Jimbo". I have attended probably a dozen or so of these since I left the game and I found it quite fitting that I saw more people at this event than I have ever seen before. The entire turf club was packed with people.
                                                  I will come back and remember a couple of things soon but I found out when I was there that Greg McCarron, a fixture in Md. for decades passed away after suffering a fatal heart attack the same day as Jimbo's gathering. Kind of knew something might be wrong when Greg , his wife Darlene and their son Matt were not in attendance. No way Greg and the family would have missed that.

                                                  So here we go again. Saying goodbye to another Md. fixture from the 70's and up. Chris, his younger brother wrote a great tribute this morning about his older brother, mentor and hero on Facebook.

                                                  This is a real down moment for the Md. racing fraternity. I'll post more later. Kind of numb right now.

                                                  Thank you all for reading. I truly appreciate you all.
                                                  Comment
                                                  • JBEX
                                                    SBR Posting Legend
                                                    • 01-02-12
                                                    • 23948

                                                    #11470
                                                    deaths do seem to happen in bunches .. very sorry

                                                    without cheating did greg do some analysis for tv..seem to have some vague memory of that ?


                                                    here's bracciale riding ruffian in the 74 spinaway

                                                    Comment
                                                    • str
                                                      SBR Posting Legend
                                                      • 01-12-09
                                                      • 11884

                                                      #11471
                                                      Originally posted by JBEX
                                                      deaths do seem to happen in bunches .. very sorry

                                                      without cheating did greg do some analysis for tv..seem to have some vague memory of that ?


                                                      here's bracciale riding ruffian in the 74 spinaway

                                                      https://youtu.be/_N3fZS6JswM?si=PVCIv7dKSAOV7MUB
                                                      Wow. Great memory JBEX !

                                                      Yes, Greg was on the pony on the track during warm ups when they first started doing that.

                                                      Awesome race by Ruffian. I know I've said it before but her race prior to to that one was at Monmouth Park when I was up in that stand they run by at the 5/8ths pole, was the catalyst that made me decide to try and become a trainer. Her eyes when she went by me were magical. Greatest female horse I ever saw. Only Secretariat makes me hesitate to not say greatest horse ever.
                                                      Too me, it's really a dead heat.
                                                      Comment
                                                      • JBEX
                                                        SBR Posting Legend
                                                        • 01-02-12
                                                        • 23948

                                                        #11472
                                                        Originally posted by str

                                                        Wow. Great memory JBEX !

                                                        Yes, Greg was on the pony on the track during warm ups when they first started doing that.

                                                        Awesome race by Ruffian. I know I've said it before but her race prior to to that one was at Monmouth Park when I was up in that stand they run by at the 5/8ths pole, was the catalyst that made me decide to try and become a trainer. Her eyes when she went by me were magical. Greatest female horse I ever saw. Only Secretariat makes me hesitate to not say greatest horse ever.
                                                        Too me, it's really a dead heat.
                                                        here's that race



                                                        Comment
                                                        • str
                                                          SBR Posting Legend
                                                          • 01-12-09
                                                          • 11884

                                                          #11473
                                                          Originally posted by JBEX
                                                          About 10-11 seconds after the break, they go by the green and white poll. Just across the track is the 5/8ths pole gap. ( you can see the off color green tarp on the swinging gate of fence so as to not have a horse shy away from the color deviation.
                                                          Just before the gap is a stand that backstretch workers could climb a ladder and stand and watch the race.
                                                          I had to run the feed that day so I was back at the barn and walked up to see the race.

                                                          Her eyes when she had poked her head in front as they went by were literally on fire ! I can still see them. I'll never forget it. it was THAT, that told me I , have to try and become a trainer and train that. Less than two years later, the dream became a reality.
                                                          I get chills just typing this and thinking about it. It was incredible.

                                                          Thanks JBEX !!
                                                          Comment
                                                          • str
                                                            SBR Posting Legend
                                                            • 01-12-09
                                                            • 11884

                                                            #11474
                                                            And there you have it.

                                                            Been going on since the very late 80's.

                                                            They weren't the lone rangers.

                                                            Comment
                                                            • str
                                                              SBR Posting Legend
                                                              • 01-12-09
                                                              • 11884

                                                              #11475
                                                              I was at Laurel Park yesterday trying to push along an idea I have for retired backstretch workers. More on that as it gets traction.
                                                              ( I can't believe nobody has thought of this before now but it is a complete no brainer for those less fortunate folks that worked their hearts out at the track for decades.)
                                                              And while there, they ran the 1st race, and it was a golden rail. Even watched the replay to be sure. Old habits die hard I guess. Lol.

                                                              Had to leave after the 2nd but no doubt, the inside was VERY favorable. Makes perfect sense with no racing for several days, and extreme cold and snow in the forecast.
                                                              If anyone is interested, go back and watch the replays. According to the charts the rail lasted about all day and I am sure you can find some outside trips that figured to run big and mysteriously did not fire. It would behoove anyone looking for horses to play back ON or AGAINST to watch those races and makes some notes.

                                                              Hope that helps . If you do, I have no doubt it will.
                                                              Comment
                                                              • JBEX
                                                                SBR Posting Legend
                                                                • 01-02-12
                                                                • 23948

                                                                #11476
                                                                was thinking if the tragic breakdown of ruffian didn't happen and she ran as a 4 year old in 1976
                                                                and then retired probably be bred to northern dancer (condidered one of the greatest sires of all time ) ..wouldn't be secretariat as he's by bold ruler and ruffian's paternal grand sire is also ..if that was the case can only imagine the anticipation of seeing that foal ..what kind of bloodlines could be passed forward ..possibly breed shaping stuff ... it's a shame on that front also
                                                                Comment
                                                                • str
                                                                  SBR Posting Legend
                                                                  • 01-12-09
                                                                  • 11884

                                                                  #11477
                                                                  Originally posted by JBEX
                                                                  was thinking if the tragic breakdown of ruffian didn't happen and she ran as a 4 year old in 1976
                                                                  and then retired probably be bred to northern dancer (condidered one of the greatest sires of all time ) ..wouldn't be secretariat as he's by bold ruler and ruffian's paternal grand sire is also ..if that was the case can only imagine the anticipation of seeing that foal ..what kind of bloodlines could be passed forward ..possibly breed shaping stuff ... it's a shame on that front also
                                                                  No question JBEX. One thing I learned over years of watching the breeding end of things was seemingly the GREAT mares while running would be disappointing broodmares plenty of times. I think the logic was that they were so dominant while competing, the foals they produced were a cut below more often than not. While it seems weird, Zenyatta comes to mind more recently.

                                                                  But no question that the possible under achieving offspring who were fillies, could then throw a monster when it was their turn to be a broodmare. Wasn't that Spectacular Bid?? Can't remember for sure.
                                                                  Such an inexact science. But I distinctly remember seeing that occur several times early in my career, enough to have me form that opinion and I never changed off of that.

                                                                  So often times, the under performing offspring would then be bred because she just couldn't run but had top tier pedigree, and she would throw a G-1 winner.
                                                                  Kind of amazing but I think it can show us that the strain of being the best can not necessarily carry to the next offspring, but skip a dam and show back up when that dam has babies.
                                                                  Tough business. Probably tougher than running them. Hindsight definitely 20-20 in that arena.

                                                                  Thanks JBEX.
                                                                  Comment
                                                                  • JBEX
                                                                    SBR Posting Legend
                                                                    • 01-02-12
                                                                    • 23948

                                                                    #11478
                                                                    Originally posted by str

                                                                    No question JBEX. One thing I learned over years of watching the breeding end of things was seemingly the GREAT mares while running would be disappointing broodmares plenty of times. I think the logic was that they were so dominant while competing, the foals they produced were a cut below more often than not. While it seems weird, Zenyatta comes to mind more recently.

                                                                    But no question that the possible under achieving offspring who were fillies, could then throw a monster when it was their turn to be a broodmare. Wasn't that Spectacular Bid?? Can't remember for sure.
                                                                    Such an inexact science. But I distinctly remember seeing that occur several times early in my career, enough to have me form that opinion and I never changed off of that.

                                                                    So often times, the under performing offspring would then be bred because she just couldn't run but had top tier pedigree, and she would throw a G-1 winner.
                                                                    Kind of amazing but I think it can show us that the strain of being the best can not necessarily carry to the next offspring, but skip a dam and show back up when that dam has babies.
                                                                    Tough business. Probably tougher than running them. Hindsight definitely 20-20 in that arena.

                                                                    Thanks JBEX.
                                                                    no problem str

                                                                    yes no matter how good the bloodlines (and that would be as good as it gets) no guarantee she produces a runner and believe you're right about zenyatta not producing anything special..but as you said if it's a filly and not a great runner she could produce one .. guess you keep that in mind if you're the breeder.. be nice,of course, if the foals a runner but still possibilities breeding her if she's not .. sure there's some truth to what you said about it happening (not a runner) more often than most would think



                                                                    Comment
                                                                    • str
                                                                      SBR Posting Legend
                                                                      • 01-12-09
                                                                      • 11884

                                                                      #11479
                                                                      I formally wrote a letter to the MTHA, Md’s th bred horseman’s assn. in hopes of starting a retirement fund for those career backstretch workers who are retired or unable to continue to work.
                                                                      The fund in theory would be funded by guaranteed loans that would be available to be called back at any time.
                                                                      No need to go through it all now but hopefully it would be available to any fan that wanted to participate. It would include an interview/ Q and A with current and former trainers, jocks and workers. It would also include access to the paddock before the first race, winner’s circle, the track itself, the starting gate, press box, view from the announcer booth, etc.
                                                                      All access. This would be free. With the hope that fans would either donate, or, pledge any amount of money for whatever length of time they choose to go to a fund that is fully guaranteed by the US govt.
                                                                      Backstretch visits, barn area visits, jocks room, you name it.
                                                                      This fully guaranteed loan would help retired race track heroes. Those grooms, walkers, exercise riders, etc. that dedicated their lives to the game.

                                                                      I realize people might look at this like a novelty or nonsense but… I’m old enough to remember the first Super Bowl and all the talk was “. It was nonsense and would never be a real thing.

                                                                      What fan of a sport wouldn’t want to get a picture taken in the Laurel winners circle? The same circle where Secretariat, and many of the greatest horses to ever race stood?
                                                                      Ever walked out on a field where your team plays baseball, football, or any sport ? I have and the kid in you comes out instantly. Line up to kick a field goal in a stadium. Stand in the same batters box as you hero did? I have. It’s incredible!

                                                                      I am working to get this from a thought to reality and I’m close. And every dollar it can generate will go to those that made the game go but now find themselves in need of help.
                                                                      More as this evolves but I’ll die trying. Just like they did when they worked there.

                                                                      Thanks for reading.
                                                                      Comment
                                                                      • Optional
                                                                        Administrator
                                                                        • 06-10-10
                                                                        • 62993

                                                                        #11480
                                                                        Originally posted by str
                                                                        I formally wrote a letter to the MTHA, Md’s th bred horseman’s assn. in hopes of starting a retirement fund for those career backstretch workers who are retired or unable to continue to work.
                                                                        The fund in theory would be funded by guaranteed loans that would be available to be called back at any time.
                                                                        No need to go through it all now but hopefully it would be available to any fan that wanted to participate. It would include an interview/ Q and A with current and former trainers, jocks and workers. It would also include access to the paddock before the first race, winner’s circle, the track itself, the starting gate, press box, view from the announcer booth, etc.
                                                                        All access. This would be free. With the hope that fans would either donate, or, pledge any amount of money for whatever length of time they choose to go to a fund that is fully guaranteed by the US govt.
                                                                        Backstretch visits, barn area visits, jocks room, you name it.
                                                                        This fully guaranteed loan would help retired race track heroes. Those grooms, walkers, exercise riders, etc. that dedicated their lives to the game.

                                                                        I realize people might look at this like a novelty or nonsense but… I’m old enough to remember the first Super Bowl and all the talk was “. It was nonsense and would never be a real thing.

                                                                        What fan of a sport wouldn’t want to get a picture taken in the Laurel winners circle? The same circle where Secretariat, and many of the greatest horses to ever race stood?
                                                                        Ever walked out on a field where your team plays baseball, football, or any sport ? I have and the kid in you comes out instantly. Line up to kick a field goal in a stadium. Stand in the same batters box as you hero did? I have. It’s incredible!

                                                                        I am working to get this from a thought to reality and I’m close. And every dollar it can generate will go to those that made the game go but now find themselves in need of help.
                                                                        More as this evolves but I’ll die trying. Just like they did when they worked there.

                                                                        Thanks for reading.
                                                                        I like the thought but can see some objections coming back to you about funding the management of a fund and who chooses who qualifies and for how much.

                                                                        The beneficiaries contributing in some way to qualify might get past some of that potential push back.

                                                                        I hope you make it happen.
                                                                        .
                                                                        Comment
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