Barbaro Updates: 875 - 1133

Update 1133: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (sunday 
night).  Mrs. Jackson just called and she had just visited Barbaro.  All 
remains the same.
update 12:10 pm, monday, december 4

Update 1132: No Barbaro update yet this morning.  It was a chilly morning 
at Fair Hill, bright sky but a brisk wind.  I rode six, which is a 
comfortable number in the winter I think.  Hawty Creek went out back for a 
jog around, she felt good after her work over the weekend.  I took one to 
the synthetic (Tapeta) track.  
The track just seems to get better.

Tim breezed a couple of horses yesterday on the synthetic track.  This was 
the first time he had breezed on the track and he breezed Whos Happy and 
Real Lace.  Both went very well I think.  Tim thought the track felt great 
for the respective breezes (Tim rode both of them).   Tim did mention 
Michael Dickinson was again at Fair Hill yesterday to see how the track 
was, as was someone from Philadelpia Park.  This evening temperatures are 
supposed to plunge into the 20s so that will present a nice early test to 
the track in the morning.

Keep calling.  Eddie Kilroy left this in the comments (timestamp 12:23 
pm):

Hey HORSES!!! Today's the BIG ONE!!! CALL!! CALL!!
CALL!!! GET YOUR GRANMA TO CALL. SLAM the SENATORS! We have to get S1915 
to the floor this week. Frist is getting heat from the Walking Horse 
people, which you know is strong in his home state, so work him hard, My 
listeners or pro active on this issue. I expect them to work hard today. 
You folks are so special, being FOBS, as I am. So let's do for Barbaro and 
his Buds. By the way Dean and Eric are looking at digital imagings of two 
of our horses that have some lameness problems. Your good thoughts are 
appreciated. Eddie Kilroy
XM Satellite Radio

Update 1131: The Barbaro update should be sometime later this morning.  
Not much horseracing news as things are definitely quietening down on that 
front this time of year.  Our last major race coverage of the year will be 
the Hong Kong Vase, which is this weekend.  Ouija Board looks in good 
order as she prepares for this race, which is her final race: BOARD 
FLYING AHEAD OF FINAL TEST.  

I wanted to thank Jen for providing the Barbaro updates on sunday.  After 
I quickly went into Fair Hill to take care of Hawty Creek, I took the day 
off and headed up to New York City.  While doing that I was hoping the 
Jackson's would call with updates (thank you!) and Jen was very happy to 
post them to the site after I called them in.  My visit to New York was 
great.  Oddly as I was leaving I was on the subway, I looked over and 
thought I recognized someone.   I leant over to my friend and said "I 
think I know that guy"  ... just as "that guy" leant over and whispered to 
his wife "I think that's Alex Brown".     Small world, Victor was an MBA 
student at Wharton when I used to work at Wharton.

Time is now very short, Congress is returning, the next few days are super 
critical in our quest to have congress vote and pass the anti horse 
slaughter bill.  We are operating under the notion that today is a 
national call-in day, inspired by "Fan of Barbaro" Cathy, working with 
Eddie Kilroy.  Please call, fax etc. and have your friends do the same.

Update 1130: Mrs. Jackson did visit Barbaro this morning (sunday morning) 
and all remains well. She had called to let us know. 
updated 11:00am

Update 1129: Mr. Jackson called earlier this morning to say that he and 
Mrs. Jackson visited Barbaro Saturday afternoon after they had returned 
from Kentucky. Barbaro was able to get a chance to get outside to graze. 
Mrs. Jackson is planning on visiting Barbaro again this morning so I may 
get another update after that visit.
updated sunday 8:30am

Update 1128: Still no Barbaro update for the weekend.  It is possible this 
may become the norm over the weekend at this stage.  Of course I am still 
hoping for an update sometime today.  Here is another article on the 
Jackson's from friday evening's charity auction: Jacksons Honored 
at Record TCA Auction.  It includes the following excerpt:

"All we did this year was follow the leader, and the leader was Barbaro," 
declared Gretchen Jackson to great applause. "He has brought the horse 
community together and for its welfare."

Graham Motion has a nice graded stakes winner waiting for him when he 
himself moves down to Florida: Ballast 
makes the grade in Tropical Turf.

Emily writes an excellent (and somewhat amusing) post on How 
it feels to gallop on the new Tapeta.  The Bloodhorse has an editorial 
on more global considerations of synthetic tracks: Spanning the 
Globe.  The article actually finishes up discussing the issue that 
American horses rarely travel overseas to contest global racing events.  
We saw this in our coverage of the Japan Cup and Melbourne Cup (and likely 
the Hong Kong Vase which we are covering for next weekend).

Update 1127: Today's Barbaro update is prooving elusive, but I am still 
hopeful there will be an update later.  I asked Jean (Fan of Barbaro, 
provider of the "Grow Hoof Grow!" poster that was hanging outside New 
Bolton, and featured in the ESPN piece prior to the Breeders' Cup) if she 
could replace the poster with a new one, as it was wearing out due to 
weather.  She Fedex'd me a new version and I just drove over to hang it 
up.  It looks great, although a little lonely (it is the only poster 
hanging on the gates at this point).

ShelleyA's Mr. Boxcar just ran second in a stake at Philadelphia Park (8th race), very 
impressive!  I am glad to see Victor Molina was aboard (Red Aspen's 
regular rider).  The Jackson's Stormy Kiss was third at Aqueduct.  Ramon Dominguez, 
riding at Aqueduct,  must think he is back at Delaware Park!

Barbaro Vigil 7 pm (east coast).  Wherever you are, whatever you are 
doing, spare some time for Barbaro.

Update 1126: When I spoke to Mrs. Jackson yesterday, she was on her way to 
Kentucky.  Of course I should have known why, but had forgotten!  Here it 
is: Auction 
benefits equine charity.  Thoroughbred Charities of 
America's annual event had moved to Kentucky for the first time this 
year.  The article includes a nice  photo of the Jackson's and the 
following excerpt:

Gretchen Jackson said it had been "an incredibly emotional year" for her 
and her husband, who live five minutes from the New Bolton Center where 
Barbaro is being treated. She visits him a couple of times a day, "just to 
see how he's doing."

Sometimes when she's feeling sad, she sits in the stall and talks to him, 
she said. "Just being around him is very calming," Jackson said.

The Jacksons and the "Barbaro team" of doctors and nurses from the 
University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine were honored last 
night. Accepting for the school's New Bolton Center was dean of Penn Vet, 
Joan Hendricks.

"Through and through a young stallion, a handful," Hendricks said of 
Barbaro. She described the look in his eyes after the injury: "If he 
hadn't had the bright eyes, everybody would have stopped."

Update 1125: Despite the dire predictions for the weather this morning, it 
turned out to be a beautiful morning.  There were a few horses working for 
the first time on the synthetic (Tapeta) track.  It looked like all worked 
well.  The odd thing is, when you are on the dirt track you really cannot 
hear the horses galloping on the synthetic track.  I assume that is a good 
thing.  I galloped one over it a little later in the morning and the track 
was still quite consistent.  It does not require a maintenance break, 
which is also a nice feature (you don't have to time your sets to avoid 
the break).

Hawty Creek worked 3/8ths this morning, and went very nicely.  We had some 
visitors who were here to watch.  Her owner (who used to be a trainer) and 
her breeder were also here to watch her go.  She went in company with 
another horse of Tim's, it was a nice easy work.  Anyway, all in all a 
very pleasant (suprisingly so given the weather forecast) morning to be 
outside and enjoying life.

Update 1124: As we know, Russell Baze broke Laffitt Pincay's record 
yesterday.  This is of course well covered in the racing press:
9,531: Baze new No. 1
Baze Becomes 
Racing's All-Time Leading Rider!
Baze 
overtakes Pincay with record victory
Baze's 
record more Ripken than Rose

Here is the Barbaro 
"Life a Series of Small Steps" in China!

A "Fan of Barbaro" had this letter published: Letter: 
Save horses from slaughter.  Feel free to comment.

I believe the Barbaro update today won't be until late in the day.

Update 1123: It was nice to watch the winners' circle celebrations for 
Russell Baze on HRTV (not sure what they thought of Russell's headware).  
Both Greg Gilchrist and Harry Aleo were present for the celebrations.  It 
just seems that everyone thinks very highly of Russell, a good person and 
a family person.  As Tom Chapman put it "9531 and counting".  Very cool.

Update 1122: Congratulations to Russell Baze, winning the fourth at Bay 
Meadows with an inspired "wait and wait and up the rail" ride on Butterfly 
Belle.

Update 1121: Russell Baze is currently 0 for 2 on the day, to break 
Pincay's record he needs one win.  Follow Russell's 
progress here.

Barbaro is getting coverage in Jamaica.   
I also think this article was in a China paper. If anyone has the link, 
please post in the comments.

Update 1120: I just called Mrs. Jackson and Barbaro had another 
comfortable night (thursday night).  

This morning was a little dreary (but warm), but it does seem the rain is 
now really starting to move in.  Tim has a runner this afternoon at Laurel 
(Gatornation) so hopefully the weather is not too aweful.  I rode a couple 
of horses on the new synthetic track this morning (Tapeta).  It just 
simply feels good underneath you, and it is very consistent.  It seems 
everyone's feedback remains positive, although a few have decided to wait 
to provide a more concrete verdict when we get some cold weather.    
Anyway, so far so good for sure.  Michael Dickinson was again at Fair Hill 
to observe and get direct feedback.

Yesterday I mentioned that horsehats had a new Barbaro hat (update 1115): 
Barbaro Fund Hat.  
I noted the hats were limited edition, here is more detail (comment from 
superfecta 2:56pm):

In case you were wondering about the Barbaro hats, they are making 400 and 
we've already reserved 50 of them here at work, so ordering sooner rather 
than later is the way forward.

Keep up the good work!

Update 1119: The 
Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Vase, to be run next sunday, December 10, is 
the final big global race we will follow.  Among the runners are the globe 
trotting Ouija Board, third most recently in Japan, and (also the globe 
trotting) Collier Hill, who most recently won the Canadian International 
under regular jockey Dean McKeown.  Ouija Board arrived in Hong Kong 
shortly after her third place in the Japan Cup, Collier Hill arrived this 
morning.  I called Dean McKeown to catch up quickly on Collier Hill.  He 
said he has been training well.  Dean will actually arrive in Hong Kong on 
tuesday to help with the final preparations of Collier Hill, and assuming 
I can connect to his cell phone, will provide us some updates.  Dean did 
mention that these two met in Dubai early in the year.  Collier Hill beat 
Ouija Board in that race.  Dean noted that Fallon came in for some 
criticism for his ride (Fallon won the Hong Kong Vase on Ouija Board last 
year) but Dean thought it was more to do with it being very early in the 
year for Ouija Board.  Clearly we are now at the end of the season, and of 
the two, Collier Hill will be the fresher.  It should be a great race.  
More information and updates on the race to follow.

I caught up with Barclay Tagg.  Both Showing Up and NoBiz are now relaxing 
in Florida after their tremendous weekend exploits.  They won't be running 
for a little while so will be kept ticking over under light exercise.  
Stormy Kiss, Jackson's runner tomorrow is ready, and as I called was being 
visited by the acupuncture lady.

No Barbaro update yet, but will endevour to get one later.

Update 1118: Russell Baze tied Laffitt Pincay's record yesterday: Baze Ties 
Pincay's All-Time Win Record! and here is the card for today.  
He has seven mounts including some favourites.

Fair Hill has Xchanger in today in a million dollar race: Officer 
Rocket, Xchanger to meet in $1-million Delta Jackpot.

It seems a bit dreary out this morning (although warm).  I am guessing the 
weather will mean riding on the new Tapeta surface!  The Barbaro update 
will be later this morning.

Update 1117: Russell Baze won the sixth at Bay 
Meadows to draw level with Pincay.  Tim won the third race at 
Laurel with first time starter Jaunty Gale.  Congratulations to Gerry 
Goswell.  

Update 1116: Russell Baze has one winner to equal Laffitt Pincay's record.  
Check his 
progress here.

Update 1115: Horsehats have been working closely with the Jackson and 
Churchill Downs to create a limited edition hat with all profits to the 
Barbaro Fund.  Here is the offer: Barbaro Fund Hat.  
Although the site does not mention the number of hats available, I do know 
it is limited.

Big plans for Showing 
Up highlights not only Showing Up (his plans for next year and some 
troubles they experienced at Hollywood Park on sunday), but also ShoBiz 
and Stormy Kiss (another Jackson horse scheduled to run this weekend at 
Aqueduct).   

Update 1114: Eddie Kilroy has returned and left the following comment 
(timestamp: 12:28 pm)

Good Morning Barbaro and all of you. Sorry I've been absent for so long. 
The move from N. VA to the new ranch in Texas was long. So happy to hear 
the great reports on big guy. Also, I'd like to urge everyone to fight for 
S1915. Take a page from Barbaro, DON'T GIVE UP!!! Remember, so many 
thought HR503 would never get a vote. We showed them a trick, and we can 
do it again. We have to stay comitted and SLAM THEM SENATORS!!! I have a 
fire burning with my listeners, and come Monday we'll be adding more fuel. 
Willie, Bo Derick, and you can be the voice for all equine. I know you 
won't weaken. Let's KICK BUTT Monday!!! God Bless.
Eddie Kilroy, "WILLIE PLACE" XM Radio

Monday has been designated FOB call-in day.

Update 1113: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (wednesday 
night).  Mrs. Jackson called, and she had just received a call from Dr. 
Richardson.  I was heading to the track as Mrs. Jackson called, on my 
second set.  I was on Real Lace going to the newly opened Tapeta track.  Graham Motion's 
string were just coming off as I was going through the tunnel to the 
track.  I asked Graham what he thought.  He said it was "good".  I asked 
his riders who were equally positive.  Others I asked were also positive 
in the praise for the new surface.  I galloped Real Lace a mile and a half 
on the surface and was impressed.  It was nice and even, and had nice 
spring to it (not too much)  ... like riding on a great grass surface.  We 
will of course see how it responds to adverse weather in the next day or 
two (rain, rain).  Michael Dickinson was at Fair Hill this morning asking 
trainers and riders alike for their feedback.   He asked me, I responded 
positively and expressed my wish that dirt tracks were going to be a thing 
of history.   

Update 1112: Going local, we have this from Delaware Online: Barbaro 
improving, to get special shoe.  It quotes Kathy Anderson in places, 
including:

Anderson said she is starting to see the old Barbaro come through.

"His disposition has actually improved so much," said Anderson. "He has a 
lot more confidence and can walk around so much better. He is a happy 
horse. He was very unhappy, yet courageous, there for a while."

Going global (New Zealand) we have: Barbaro has helped 
many other horses.  This includes quotes from this site regarding 
Edgar Prado's most recent visit.

The Barbaro update should be later this morning. Keep calling.

Update 1111: Maybe not today for Russell Baze ?  Through race 7 he 
has been blanked.

Kathy left this message in the comments (timestamp 11:31 pm):

Thank you for the Pretzels,
Thank you for the homemade yummy candy,
Thank you for the delicious cakes and brownies today!!!
What a wonderful treat for all the staff at New Bolton!
Happy Holidays!!!!!!
Thank you for all the nice baskets and bags for Barbaro and all the 
animals at New Bolton Center

I am guessing (actually I know) gifts arrived today for the staff at New 
Bolton.  Kathy Anderson was unable to visit Barbaro today.    

Update 1110: This is cool: Barbaro as 
an SI Sportman of the Year candidate, and this is not 
so cool: Kieren Fallon in further trouble.

Update 1109: This morning was very foggy, and almost muggy.  Seven sets.  
For my last set I took another "first time starter" to the track ... Gator 
Nation's two year old half sister.  She was very well behaved doing one 
turn of the track.  The synthetic track, which I had heard was to open 
today, is now scheduled to open tomorrow at 6:30 am. This opening I guess 
may be dependant on a noon inspection by Michael Dickinson.  

Kathy Anderson said she might be going over to visit Barbaro later today.  
If I can, I will try to catch up with Kathy later to see if she was able 
to visit.

Update 1108: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (tuesday 
night).  I heard from Mr. Jackson, who had heard from Dr. Richardson.  The 
Jackson's also visited last evening, as usual, and Barbaro was 
comfortable.
update 9:30 am, wednesday, november 29

Update 1107: Russell Baze is three wins from setting an all-time record 
for number of wins by a jockey.  Here is a 
transcript of a chat Russell had with Bloodhorse yesterday.  It 
includes the following excerpt:

Russell, first of all I'd like to say you are a great jockey. You've 
ridden many winners obviously. Who is the best horse you have ever ridden?
Baze: I've been on a lot of really great horses. Lost in the Fog was the 
one who did the most outstanding things for me.

Fair Hill has a runner in a million dollar race on friday: Officer 
Rocket, Xchanger to meet in $1-million Delta Jackpot.  Good luck to 
Xchanger!

Here are some more pictures of Showing Up at Hollywood 
Park.

Again, the Barbaro update will be after training hours.  Keep 
calling.

Update 1106: As noticed by a few people in the comments, the New Bolton 
release notes only a light cotton bandage supporting Barbaro's right hind 
leg (makes no mention of splints).  When I visited Barbaro I also noticed 
this.  I decided not to mention it at the time, I thought I would wait for 
New Bolton to make this information available.

Update 1105: The New Bolton update for Barbaro: Barbaro steadily improving

Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro continues to improve following the removal 
of his right hind leg cast on November 6,  according to his medical team. 
"Barbaro is steadily gaining strength on his right hind limb now that it 
is out of the cast," said Dr. Dean W. Richardson, Chief of Surgery. "He is 
only wearing a very light cotton bandage on that leg and both walks and 
stands well on it."  Barbaro's lower right hind leg had been in a cast 
since surgery at Penn's George D. Widener Hospital following his accident 
at the Preakness on May 20.  "Radiographs of his fractured lower limb were 
taken yesterday and look excellent," said Dr. Richardson.

Barbaro's left hind foot, which had laminitis, continues to improve.  "The 
left hind foot is improving gradually and has a long way to go although 
his comfort on that foot remains surprisingly good," said Dr. Richardson. 
"Barbaro's attitude and appetite remain excellent, and he still takes 
short walks outside to graze each day if the weather permits."

The next update will be posted on Tuesday, December 12, unless there is a 
significant change in Barbaro's condition.


Update 1104: For Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year, would you vote 
for Barbaro 
or Dr. 
Richardson ?  Both appear to have compelling cases.  December 4 we 
will know.

Update 1103: It has taken a long time,  and who knows, it might be 
temporary, but as I type this site is on the first page of search results 
on google for both Barbaro 
and barbaro.

Alie, from Kennett Florist left this upbeat comment (timestamp: 5:36 pm):

Hello All
What a beautiful day here in Kennett Square. I just returned from NBC. 
They were very busy. Lots of people coming in and out. The mood was 
extremely up. I was greeted by happy faces & even a couple hugs. Mrs. 
Jackson was visiting & had her bag of grass, for the boss horse. She is 
just a wonderful lady. I talked to Dr Sweeney we decided where the tree is 
going to go, in the lobby. Have a great day.
God Bless
We Believe
Alie

Update 1102: Mrs. Jackson just called.  Barbaro remains comfortable.  Mrs. 
Jackson had just visited.  He was laying down as she was leaving.  Of 
course she brought him his cut grass.  There will be an update today from 
New Bolton.

I did see Peter early this morning before he left for Florida.  He will 
take a couple of days off as he, Kim and Nicholas get re-situated for the 
"winter".  It is a lovely day today again at Fair Hill (and New Bolton I 
assume).  I don't think it could be warmer for this time of year.  Seven 
sets, and I was wishing I had not had the long johns on later in the 
morning.
update 12:30 pm, tuesday, november 28

Update 1101: Sue McMullen is keeping up with Ouija Board's travels:

Ouija Board has arrived in Hong Kong safely and is reported to be in fine 
fettle ahead of her bid to win the Hong Kong Vase, one of the Cathay 
Pacific International races on December 10. She won this race last year 
and it will be her final appearance on a racecourse. Ouija's amazing run 
to claim third in the Japan Cup behind what is for many people the world's 
best turf horse, Deep Impact, adds yet another glittering result to her 
resume and when she bows out in a couple of weeks time, racing will 
certainly miss her. Described as positively thriving on all the travelling 
she does and being in new places, this incredible mare is now on her last 
jaunt and it will be interesting to see how she eventually settles down to 
a serene life in the paddocks. 

Update 1100: Another great article, this one documenting Barbaro's 
journey: Barbaro: 
America's Horse Continues to Beat the Odds Six Months Later.  It 
includes the following excerpt:

Regardless of whether Barbaro is able to recover sufficiently to cover a 
mare and produce colts and fillies, his sad injury has brought about some 
remarkably positive events. Through Alex Brown's postings on Fair Hill 
trainer Tim Woolley's website at http://www.timwoolleyracing.com, 
thousands of the popular bay colt's fans check in each day hoping to read 
of any change, positive or negative, in his condition. They maintain a 
lively comment board and refer to themselves as "Friends of 
Barbaro"--FOBs. This band of fervent animal lovers has become a force to 
reckon with as far as mobilizing the public and elected officials 
regarding animal-friendly issues such as recent anti-horse slaughter 
legislation. And the horrific and highly-publicized injuries of Barbaro 
and dozens of other thoroughbreds recently have led track owners to 
consider using new, improved materials such as Polytrack. 

Keep up the good work "Fans" of Barbaro and keep calling!

Jeannette received a Call 
from Harry J. Aleo--Lost in the Fog.

The Barbaro update will again be after training hours.

Update 1099: Arlington may go with a synthetic track as soon as their next 
summer meet: Arlington 
may go synthetic.  This would be fantastic!  Fair Hill's sythetic 
track (Tapeta) may open on 
wednesday.  A tractor keeps going round and round on it during morning 
training (its inside the dirt track which we are currently using), lets 
hope it is doing what it is supposed to be doing.  Speaking of wednesday, 
that may also be the day Russell Baze breaks the record: Baze Collects 
Two Wins in Rain Sunday.

Finally, Delaware Park had a bad meet: Delaware has drop in 
handle.  Some might suggest if they had a sythetic track, it would 
help with their entries, which in turn helps with their handle ...

Update 1098: I just spoke to Peter, who visited Barbaro after work today.  
He was upbeat.  He groomed him etc.  I am guessing this will be Peter's 
last visit before he heads to Florida, which is as soon as they get the 
remaining horses loaded onto the horse van tomorrow morning.

Lor in PA wrote this article for the Patriot News:  
Horses were never meant to be raised for food.

For those having trouble with the previous Japan Cup video, here is 
another: JRA Japan 
cup Nov.26.2006 (well worth seeing).

Sue McMullen sent this e-mail regarding Kieren Fallon's attempt to acquire 
a jockey's license for the last major international race meet (which we 
will cover) in Hong Kong:

As anticipated, the Licensing Committee of the Royal Hong Kong Jockey Club 
has now turned down Kieren Fallon's application to ride at the Cathay 
Pacific International race meeting on December 10.

Kim Kelly, Stipendiary Steward and Secretary to the Licensing Committee 
said in a statement to media that 'although it was not appropriate for 
them to comment on Kieren Fallon's pending criminal proceedings relating 
to horse racing integrity in the UK, the decision not to grant him a 
license was consistent with HKJC's previous decisions not to permit 
jockeys who were subject of law enforcement investigations to ride in Hong 
Kong pending the outcome of those investigations.'

So one of Flat racing's finest horsemen will have to sit it out for the 
last major meeting of the year and this decision, although not a surprise, 
saddens many of his admirers in Europe who believe a man is innocent until 
proven guilty. 

Update 1097: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (sunday 
night).  Mrs. Jackson just called, and she had just visited.  Of course I 
had to congratulate her on their wonderful victory yesterday!  They took 
the "red eye" back last night.
update 12:10 pm, monday, november 27

Update 1096: No Barbaro update yet this morning.  It was a busy morning 
this morning at Fair Hill.  Eight horses to ride, a couple of new ones 
(green two year olds).   It was also a gorgeous morning, withe a lovely 
sunrise mixed with a low lying fog.

Redaspen looks well after her race this weekend.  I also caught up with 
Lil Klesaris who said their horses came back from their exploits in good 
fettle.  Miraculous Miss will now have some time off.  She has had a long 
season, interrupted by the horrific gate incident in the Acorn.  
Diabolical will also have a couple of months off (I think).  They were 
very happy with him, he ran huge (just getting beaten by the Breeders' Cup 
sprint champion), and came out of the race well.  Kong is King also ran 
well, with blinkers on.  Of course he had to face what might be the best 
two year old in the country in NoBiz!  I'll try to catch up with Barclay 
in the next day or two to get reports of his two massive runners over the 
weekend.  

Update 1095: Here are a couple of reports of Showing Up's dazzling 
performance in the Hollywood Derby yesterday where he shattered the Stakes 
record on the turf at Hollywood Park:
Showing Up 
Good as Billed in Hollywood Derby
Showing 
Up continues turf dominance in the Hollywood Derby

We also have pictures: "Showing 
Up" wins the Hollywood Derby.

For those (many) of us who missed the Japan Cup late saturday night, early 
sunday morning, here 
it is (found on equidaily.com).  
I just love listening to the roar of the crowd as Deep Impact begins to 
make his move.  Ouija Board ran a fantastic race in defeat (update 1090).

The Barbaro update will be after training hours again this morning.  
Keep calling.

Update 1094: Showing Up bolted up!  Perhaps he made a move a little too 
soon, switched back off at the quarter pole for a few strides, then fired 
up again and went by them.   By far the best!  What a weekend for Barclay 
Tagg, and congratulations to the Jacksons!

Update 1093: Unfortunately Brother Derek had to scratch out of today's 
Hollywood Derby: Brother Derek 
Scratched Due to Colic Attack.  Sounds like just unfortunate timing, 
but nothing too serious.  Linnie posted in the comments (timestamp: 9:53 
pm) an experience at Calder races yesterday with other Fans of Barbaro.

Wonder if racing is popular in Japan, check this photograph 
from yesterday's Japan Cup.  About 115,000 were in attendance to watch 
Deep Impact's win.

Update 1092: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (saturday 
night).  I just received a call from Mr. and Mrs. Jackson's daughter who 
was on "visit duty" while the Jackson's are in California for Showing Up's 
race.  Michael was also visiting at the same time, and Barbaro got to go 
outside to graze.
update, sunday, 12:15 pm, november 26  

Update 1091: A lovely morning this morning at Fair Hill.  I went in a 
little late (7 am), rode a couple on the track, and then grazed Hawty 
Creek.  Very peaceful.  As I was grazing Hawty Michael Matz was spreading 
grass seed close to his barn.  Likely one of the last things to be done as 
they begin to wrap everything up at Fair Hill and head south.  Michael 
only has a few horses left here, and I assume many of those ran yesterday.  
He will close up his barns early next week and head south.  He did mention 
to me he was going to visit Barbaro this morning.

Redaspen looked well in her stall.  Tim said she ate up everything last 
night and is pretty perky this morning.  All good signs.  When I was on 
the track I saw (the other) Tim, Barclay's Fair Hill assistant.  I asked 
Tim what Barclay had to say after NoBiz's performance yesterday.  Tim said 
Barclay was happy!  Of course another big day for their stable today in 
California.

Here are a few links to the big races yesterday:
Cigar Mile:
Discreet Cat stays 
perfect in Cigar
Discreet Cat 
Fired Up in Record Cigar Mile
Discreet 
Cat impressive winner of Cigar Mile

Remsen:
'Nobiz' dominates 
Remsen
Nobiz Like 
Shobiz Hits Big Time in Remsen
Nobiz 
Like Shobiz romps in Remsen

De Francis Dash:
Thor's Echo helps Eclipse 
chances
Thor's Echo 
Makes Case in De Francis Dash
Thor's 
Echo adds De Francis Dash score to burgeoning resume

Update 1090: Sue McMullen reports on Ouija Board's third in the Japan Cup:

What can  you say about this mare? Even her most ardent fans knew it was a 
tough call for Ouija to take on not only Japan's best boys, but a 'boy' 
who is arguably the best in the World, just a few short weeks after 
regaining her crown in the BC Filly and Mare. Deep Impact restored his 
reputation with an emphatic win, sending a one hoof gesture to those who 
said this scintillating son of Sunday Silence might have lost his zest for 
the game. The poor tactics and abysmal management of his attempt on the 
Arc were not his fault. Even a superstar needs a good support crew. He 
will have one more run in Japan before heading off to stud.
 
Ouija ran her heart out as usual, putting her head down, battling all the 
way to the line to finish a very gallant third and just missing out on 
second place to Dream Passport. Dettori heaped praise on her saying she 
just found the long uphill finish too much in the dying strides. To run 
third in this race so soon after her victory in the BC is an accolade in 
itself and she loses absolutely nothing in defeat. It only serves to show 
what an amazing creature she is. You may recall in our preview of this 
race that it is extremely tough to win with a gruelling stretch and 
sticking to her task in this company to claim third is awesome. If she 
comes out of this race well and continues to look good, she heads to Hong 
Kong and will make her final appearance on the racecourse on December 10.
 
Heart's Cry trailed in tenth and was clearly not himself. 

Here is Sportinglife's report: IMPACT 
CLAIMS CUP GLORY.  

The final big race of the weekend of interest is at Hollywood Park today 
(sunday): Showing Up has 
much to live up to.  Let's hope the Jackson's Showing Up can continue 
his tremendous year.  The "interesting" contender will be Brother Derek, 
in his first attempt on the turf.  They last met in the Kentucky Derby, 
watching Barbaro gallop down the lane!  Clearly Showing Up has shown he 
loves the turf.

Update 1089: Some great racing this afternoon as we thought.  I will only 
note a few of the races here, and will gather some internet links to some 
of the races in the morning.

Redaspen I thought ran a very good race in the April Run, finishing 
fourth.  It seemed the pace was slow up front which did not particularly 
suit her.  She tried to come up the inside going down the backside, and 
that was not going to happen.  She then needed to hold up and then make a 
run around the outside.  She made up a lot of ground late to finish a very 
respectable fourth.  She cooled out well and I believe that is it for her 
this year.  She will get the winter off and come back for a spring / early 
summer campaign once the turf season reopens.  She has had two wins this 
year, including a stakes win, and pushed her earnings over the $200,000 
mark with her fourth today.  A great prospect for Tim and Equivine Farm 
next year.

Diabolical ran a great race for Steve Klesaris to finish a very close 
second to Thor's Echo in the Grade 1 Francis Dash.  Thor's Echo is the 
first Breeders' Cup winner to run back and win, but he really had to dig 
in to hold off Diabolical.  That was close to being Steve Klesaris' first 
Grade 1 winner!

Michael Matz's Street Sounds was impressive in her win in the Selima 
Stakes.

NoBiz Like ShoBiz, very impressive in his win in the Remsen.  To me he 
still looks big and green, which only bodes well for his future.  

Discreet Cat, what can you say ?  He shipped here from Dubai, got sick and 
missed the early races in the US this year.  If he had not, his campaign 
could have been entirely different.  He won impressively today in a short 
field, but the fractions were ridiculous, and he accomplished them 
ridiculously easily.  He was just very impressive.

Tonight we have Ouija Board running in the Japan Cup, lets hope she can 
follow Thor's Echo's lead and become the second Breeders' Cup winner to 
return to the winners circle.

Update 1088: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (friday 
night).  Mrs. Jackson called about about 10:30 am this morning as she was 
leaving New Bolton.  She had her usual morning visit with Barbaro 
delivering hand cut grass from the farm.  I was grazing Hawty Creek when 
Mrs. Jackson called.  Hawty had her first little work this morning, it was 
untimed but close to an open gallop for 3/8ths of a mile.  She handled it 
very well.

As I suspected it was a busy morning this morning.  I rode eight, five of 
which did some kind of work.  Two went to the gate.  When I was on Hawty 
Creek a loose horse was galloping at us.  Fortunately no harm was done.  I 
also watched Red Aspen getting ready and being loaded on to the van to 
ship down to Laurel.  Lets hope she runs her race, I think running her 
race will make her very tough.  She seems to always get overlooked in the 
bigger races, and no doubt this is her biggest test, but her beyer of 93 
last time, and 91 the time before that she ran on the turf makes her fit 
righ in there.  Good luck Victor Molina.  

Update 1087: The Barbaro update will again be after training hours this 
morning.  This morning is likely to be quite busy, a combination of good 
weather (good track) and a saturday means there will be a lot of horses 
breezing etc.

The big race yesterday, The Clark Handicap at Churchill Downs, was won by 
the tongue-wagging Premium Tap: Premium 
Tap dominant Clark Handicap winner.

Update 1086: I just spoke to Peter who had heard from Michael after his 
afternoon visit with Barbaro.  Barbaro remains comfortable and Michael did 
get him outside (it was a lovely afternoon).

A nice profile on Ouija Board's 
"lass".

Update 1085: This weekend is turning out to be another full of great 
racing interests.  Sue McMullen highlighted the major global race, the 
Japan Cup, which features Ouija Board and Deep Impact among its 11 entries 
(update 1083).  Here 
is a short update from Dunlop's yard.  

Barclay Tagg has a cross country double attempt with NoBiz Like ShoBiz in 
the Remsen on saturday ('Nobiz' running with eye on 
Derby) and Showing Up in the Hollywood Derby on sunday (Showing Up Not 
Alone in Hollywood Derby).  I just spoke to Barclay and both horses 
are training well, looking good and feeling good.  

Closer to (our) home Laurel has a tremendous card 
tomorrow.  Highlights include Tim's Red Aspen in the April Run Stakes, 
Diabolical taking on Thor's Echo in the Dash and Miraculous Miss in the 
Stefanita.

Michael Matz has Chelokee in the 5th at Churchill 
Downs on saturday (he also has a few running at Laurel) and Discreet 
Cat meets a short, but decent, field in the Cigar Mile (Discreet Cat primed for 
hardest test.)

Update 1084: Another comfortable night last night for barbaro (thursday 
night).  I just spoke to Peter who confirmed.  Michael is on his way over 
to New Bolton as I type (1:05 pm) to visit Barbaro.  
update 1:05 pm, friday november 24

Update 1083: The latest Barbaro update is proving elusive, although I did 
talk to Peter and either he or Michael will visit today, so I will be able 
to follow up later.  Peter did assume all was well.

Sue McMullen sent this commentary on this weekend's major global race, the 
Japan Cup:

There's a fascinating clash in prospect in Sunday's Group 1 Japan Cup, the 
most prestigious race in Japan, run over 12 furlongs on turf, with the 
reigning queen of racing fillies, Ouija Board hot foot from her victory in 
the Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare, once gain taking on the boys, as she 
will face Japan's top colts Deep Impact and Heart's Cry. 
 
Beaten in this race last year, suffering the same bad luck as she had 
experienced in the BC, the team have changed tactics for Ouija this year 
and sent her direct from the US to Japan, rather than taking her home 
first. It made sense as she would hardly have had time to unpack her 
suitcase before setting off again. But she's had plenty of time to settle 
at Fuchu, Tokyo's racecourse and as reported here already, via a link to 
trainer Ed Dunlop's website, she is looking very well and up to her racing 
weight. She certainly pleased Frankie Dettori in a recent piece of work, 
and was bucking and squealing afterward demonstrating her wellbeing.
 
This year's time lapse between the BC and the Japan Cup is a week less 
than normal, but as Ed Dunlop himself said, she is a 'strange horse' in 
how she seems to bounce back from some gruelling battles and with the 
usual caveat that she will tell them when it's time to call it a day, she 
is certainly giving every impression she will serve it up to the boys on 
Sunday. But Team Ouija know the task she faces and although Ed Dunlop is 
confident she is well in herself, he cannot be entirely confident of the 
outcome as her main rivals are two of the world's best colts, arguably the 
very best.  
 
Deep Impact was stripped of his third place in the Prix de l'Arc de 
Triomphe having tested positive for a prescribed medication to help a 
minor respiratory problem, which his handlers had not withdrawn in time. 
The Sunday Silence colt ran brilliantly to finish third on a course that 
was totally unlike anything he had experienced and off a slow pace 
unsuited to his style of running. Many observers wondered why they had not 
given the horse the benefit of a prep race at Longchamp, to give him a 
feel of the track and a 'pipe opener', which might have seen a different 
outcome at the finish. But how much worse it would have been to be 
stripped of a victory in the Arc and it has to be said that his 
connections let him down. So Japan's top horse has a  point to prove on 
Sunday.
 
Joining him in the line-up will be another son of the peerless Sunday 
Silence, Heart's Cry, who went down a whisker in a photo to Alkaased last 
year. On their home territory and a familiar track, these two will be 
tough nuts to crack and Deep Impact is showing renewed zest for the game 
and training very well now he's shaken French turf off his hooves.
 
First run in 1981, the Japan Cup was established as an invitational event 
to attract the best horses in the world to take on their best horses, a 
bold move at a time when Japan's racing empire was in its infancy in terms 
of being a world player. The first two runnings were won by American 
horses, Mairzy Doates and Half Iced, followed by Pay The Butler in 1988. 
America's fourth and most recent Japan Cup victory came in 1991 when the 
legendary Charlie Whittingham saddled Golden Pheasant to win, a fitting 
victory given the dominance and influence one of his most famous charges 
has had on Japanese racing, with a son of Sunday Silence, Special Week, 
winning in 1998. The race is now firmly established as one of the premier 
fixtures at the end of the season, along with the Arc and the BC and is 
the penultimate leg of the World Series Racing Championships, attracting 
runners from all over the world with a reputation for being a tough race 
to win. Other notable victors include the English-trained Jupiter Island, 
Singspiel, Pilsudski and Alkaased, Japanese victors El Condor Pasa and 
Zenno Rob Roy, Italian-trained Falbrav (before he relocated to England), 
New Zealander Horlicks and Better Loosen Up from Australia. Underlying the 
race's reputation it is interesting to note that aside from talent, a 
prime characteristic of the winners is they were known to be very tough as 
the race has witnessed some real battles in the long stretch finish.
 
Only 11 contest this year's renewal, with Ouija joined from Europe by 
Freedonia, trained by John Hammond (an English trainer based in France) 
who, like Deep Impact, will want a fast run race. A late maturing filly, 
Freedonia has quite a bit to find to live with Ouija but she stays well. 
Ed Dunlop is hoping for a steadier pace than last year so the brilliant 
mare can show her closing speed. The word at the course is that Japanese 
Tosen Shano O will act as pacemaker for stablemate Swift Current, so he 
could set a good pace.
 
What a prospect. Good luck and safe racing to all of them. Currently third 
in the market here behind hot favourite Deep Impact and Heart's Cry, Ouija 
has it all to do in arguably her toughest race to date.

Update 1082: Coverage of Barbaro in the UK continues: Life 
a series of small steps for Barbaro.  The following are a couple of 
excerpts:

"It's amazing," she said. "I could say he's a splendid-looking horse. He 
has a presence to him. He has a very noble, gallant look about him when 
he's on the track, but it has to be more than that.

"I think people saw everybody support the horse and love it through its 
injury rather than discarding it," said Jackson. "Everything is disposable 
in society now and maybe people saw this as something that isn't 
disposable. It's valued."

and

Richardson remains guardedly optimistic about Barbaro's chances of 
survival.

"He's in the process of regrowing his hoof," he said. "And that's not a 
sure-fire proposition that it occurs adequately on any horse at any time. 
He has a long way to go. He is certainly not out of the woods. But we're 
hopeful." 

For those new to horse race handicapping, this will help.  
The Barbaro update should be available after training hours this morning.

Please read this poemTwas 
the Night Before the Auction, and keep calling!

Update 1081: Pictures that go with the two most recent Philadelphia 
Inquirer articles:

A 
visit with Barbaro (taken sunday november 19.  Note the grass bag I 
tried to describe in update 1080)

Fair 
Hill's New Track (these images accompany the synthetic track article 
from tuesday of this week).

Update 1080: My visit with Barbaro from yesterday 
(wednesday, november 22,  5-6 pm):

I was to meet Mrs. Jackson at 5 pm in the lobby area of New Bolton.  I had 
not yet met Mrs. Jackson, so not only was this my first visit with Barbaro 
since the Preakness, but also the first time to meet his owners.  I got 
their five minutes early, and waited a short time in the lobby area 
rereading many of the get well wishes that are ever present.  Right at 5 
Mrs. Jackson arrived.  She knew who I was, and of course I knew her 
immediately.  No awkward moment and very quick introductions.  Mrs. 
Jackson gave me a signed win picture of the Kentucky Derby and was just 
effusive in her praise for our site and all that we have done (basically 
she put me at ease straight away).  We went in the direction of Barbaro (a 
quick hello to Kathy Freeborn) and passed by Dr. Sweeney's office.  Mrs. 
Jackson introduced me to Dr. Sweeney and we had a very short (nice) chat.  
We reached the ICU and had to put on our ICU clothes at which time Mr. 
Jackson arrived.  He then signed my win picture (it is signed by Mr. Mrs. 
Jackson,  Edgar Prado and Michael Matz ... i'll get Peter to sign it too 
before he leaves to Florida).   As we got ready to see Barbaro we 
continued a conversation that actually went on for the entire hour.  Mr. 
and Mrs. Jackson were just very easy to talk with and we talked about many 
things, ranging from travel (I described my love of New Zealand) to 
horse-related issues (horse slaughter etc.)

We entered the ICU and the first thing we did was attend to a baby goat, 
with its mother.  It was tiny and precious.  Anyway, that did not take 
long, we ventured over to Barbaro's stall (I may get this wrong but the 
ICU seemed to include about four stalls, two on either side, with a large 
middle  ... kind of like a hospital with a large reception area in the 
middle and private rooms on the outside.)  It is a well lit area and seems 
(obviously) very clean etc.  Mrs. Jackson had brought with her a large 
carrier-type bag full of freshly cut grass.  We got to Barbaro's stall and 
opened the door a little ... Barbaro was turned away from us, and it took 
a little coaxing to get him to turn around and come to us.  Once he did, 
he was very happy to see the grass.  He munched away, and we stood 
watching him while also intermittently petting him on the head etc.  You 
can imagine he would pin his ears back,  pretend to flash his teeth a 
little, and then get back to munching on his grass ... then look up to us, 
prick his ears etc. etc.  Basically you have to be careful with him,  but 
when careful, and showing him the respect he requires, he is very happy.  
He also got to eat a red apple (crunch, crunch, crunch and it was gone) 
and a few spearmint mints (the green ones).  He clearly loved those and 
was not happy about waiting until the wrappers were removed!  We must have 
stood next to him at the front of his stall for a good 30 - 40 minutes as 
we chatted away.  Barbaro then moved to another part of his stall.  I got 
to see the what are now almost white markings on his near (left) side.  
Nothing to worry about there.  His tail is still short, but again, this is 
simple cosmetic stuff, and the tail will grow out.  Michael had clearly 
already visited as his bandage on his left hind leg was clean and had been 
recently reset.  Shortly before we left Barbaro did lay down, conveniently 
close to where the remainder of the grass that Mrs. Jackson had gathered 
was laid.  You can tell he really looks after himself by the way he was 
laying down.  Barbaro is clearly a smart horse who seems to understand his 
current predicament and what he needs to do to get through this.

Overall Barbaro looked well.  His coat is clean, shiny and almost summery.  
I know he is groomed regularly and this must help.  His eye is clean and 
his weight looks great.  I really think he looks like a horse in a race 
barn when you simply look at his body and up.  He is big!  I know Michael 
Matz thinks he has grown taller, but simply put, he is a big horse.  He is 
also smart.  Adapting to his current situation is pretty amazing for a 
three year old colt who only knew about running (and running very well).  
Simply put, I am in awe of Barbaro and all he has endured.

A couple of other notes about our conversations.  We mentioned the Florida 
Derby, apparently Edgar told the Jackson's Barbaro was only playing in 
that race.  He saw some construction (I guess on the inside) and was not 
focused on what he should be doing.  In the Kentucky Derby Mrs. Jackson 
said Barbaro hardly sweated in his effort, he did it so easily.  Mr. 
Jackson agreed.  Both Mr. and Mrs. Jackson were  curious as to how I would 
continue the  updates once Michael and Peter head south.  They volunteered 
to help me get updates if necessary.  We also discussed the relationships 
both Michael and Peter have with their horse, and how things will be 
different when they leave for Florida.  

All in all, this was an experience.  I met two people and a horse, each of 
whom seems to be all that is good about life. 

Update 1079: It is unlikely there will be a Barbaro update today.  I went 
over to Michael Matz's barn after I was finished this morning (no dirt 
track today, so work was in the shedrow) and Michael was already on his 
way to Kentucky to saddle Sangrita.  I chatted with Peter for a while.  
Peter is not planning to visit and does not anticipate hearing anything 
(assuming all remains well).  Peter did note that Chelokee is running on 
saturday, at Churchill.  They also have plenty of runners at Laurel on 
saturday, and I think maybe Aqueduct.  I shedrowed a couple for Tim 
earlier in the morning.  Red Aspen (who I do not ride) is also in on 
saturday, in the April Run Stakes at Laurel.  The Laurel card 
looks awesome!  

Russell Baze is getting close to setting the record for most wins by a 
jockey: Four-Bagger 
Moves Baze to Within 7 of Record.  It is nice to see the current 
record holder supporting Baze in his quest: Jockey 
Baze deserves to break all-time win record, Pincay says.  This article 
also notes Baze's best horses:

Baze called 2005 champion sprinter Lost in the Fog the best horse he ever 
rode, while also mentioning graded stakes winners Hawkster, Super Moment, 
Simply Majestic, Great Communicator, and Event of the Year.

"Because of the campaign [Lost in the Fog] put together, few horses would 
have been able to ship as much as he did and run as well as he did on so 
many different surfaces," Baze said. "He was just a fantastically talented 
animal."

Finally the Jackson's Showing Up is in California: Showing Up 
Ready for Hollywood Derby; Derek Confirmed.  The following is an 
excerpt:

"He's laid back in his stall but aggressive in his races," said Robin 
Smullen, assistant to trainer Barclay Tagg, after jogging the chestnut 
colt once around the main track. "He's not hard to ride, but wants to get 
it done."

Lael Stables' Showing Up, victorious in six of eight starts - including 
three-for-four on turf - can enhance his reputation among the nation's 
turf elite in the 1 1/4 mile-mile grass test.

The colt, seeking his second grade I victory after accounting for the 
Secretariat at Arlington, has won in five different states.

"He's well-traveled and handled the flight well," said Smullen. He is 
scheduled to school at the gate Thursday. 

Robin is another x Fair Hill rider.  I will plan to put together something 
about my Barbaro visit yesterday a little later.

Update 1078: A great way to start thanksgiving: Few limits for 
Barbaro's many fans.  This Mike Jensen article notes a few of our 
regular visitors and contributors.  The following are excerpts:

A "classical modern" dancer with several choreographed works reviewed in 
the New York Times, Martita Goshen has an idea for her next solo 
performance already percolating.

She doesn't yet know what form it will take. She just has a theme.

"I'm deeply inspired by the horse Barbaro, and his integrity, and the 
people around him caring for him," Goshen said. "That's a big tableau. How 
I pull it all together in less than an hour, it will be fascinating."

and

"Everybody talks about Barbaro's will to live," Smoliak said. "Well, guess 
what, there are horses standing on the slaughter line, they have the will 
to live, too. We just don't know them."

He is still a full-throttle fan of Barbaro's, looking for news about the 
horse every day. But he watches more C-Span, too.

"Barbaro has had an effect on people," Smoliak said. "The bottom line, I'm 
a better U.S. citizen because of him."

and

"The energy field of a horse is as big as a barn - compared to most of us 
lowly humans with our fields out about a 'wingspan,' " Somano said in an 
e-mail.

She started doing distance healing on Barbaro the day of the Preakness, 
she said, and has continued it every day.

"I know it might sound 'out there' to those not familiar with this work 
and the credentialing back of it," Somano said. "I assure you, though, I 
am about as conservative and levelheaded as any practitioner can be 
working in an unconventional field.

The Barbaro update this morning will hopefully come sometime mid-morning.

Update 1077: Another comfortable day for Barbaro today.  I know, I saw!  
My first visit thanks to Mrs. Jackson.  I spent more than an hour with 
Barbaro, talking with Mr. and Mrs. Jackson.  I will post more tomorrow 
about the visit, but most importantly he (Barbaro) does look great.  His 
coat is shiny, he has a clean eye and great weight.

Update 1076: WGAL Channel 8 did a follow up piece last night on horse 
slaughter: Follow 
Up: Horse Slaughter (usual warnings apply, but well worth seeing).  It 
includes a great profile on Lost and Found 
Horse Rescue to which many of you contributed for my birthday last 
week.  I am also in it very briefly.  Thanks again to Lor in PA for 
helping get this coverage and to Susan Shapiro for making it happen.  
Keep calling.

Update 1075: Sue McMullen just sent this e-mail regarding European runners 
at Hollywood Park this weekend:

Friday's Citation includes Rob Roy, formerly with Sir Michael Stoute, who 
is now in training with Neil Dysdale in the hope he will have better luck 
in the US. Rob Roy missed the kick in the BC Mile but finished very 
strongly and should have gone closer. Also in the Citation line-up is 
Godolphin's Ashkal Way, plus some former English-trained horses, Three 
Valleys, Rebel Rebel and Bravo Maestro.
 
The Hollywood Derby includes the improving Dark Islander, son of Singspiel 
who got better with age and scored his greatest victories, including a 
Japan Cup, as an 'older' horse. Trained by John Hills, who saddles Clinet 
for the Matriarch Stakes, Dark Islander won the Grade Two Oak Tree Derby 
at Santa Anita and it will be interesting to see if he can step up again 
and run well in this field.
 
Ivan Denisovich, who missed the cut in the BC Mile, also runs in the Derby 
and Ballydoyle will be hoping for a big run from him to pay for all the 
air fares as he travelled home after his abortive attempt at the BC, then 
went back to the US to run in California. This will be another encounter 
with Showing Up who has already beaten him, in the Grade 1 Secretariat 
Stakes at Arlington.

As noted Neil Drysdale now trains Rob Roy.  Neil is one of the leading 
trainers in the US (trained Fusaichi Pegasus etc.), an englishman and also 
a new father!  Neil 
once had a string of horses at Fair Hill.  I freelanced for him a little. 
His assistant trainer, John "the quiet man", who ran the shed at Fair Hill 
and is still with Neil, also worked for Mercy Rimell, just before I joined 
Mercy's stable for my first job in racing.  

I saw Michael Matz in the local sandwich shop (Prizzios).  He is planning 
to see Barbaro this afternoon and take him outside.  He will be at Fair 
Hill in the morning before heading out to Kentucky to saddle Sangrita 
tomorrow afternoon.

Keep calling.

Update 1074: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (tuesday 
night) and chilly morning this morning at Fair Hill.  I saw Michael Matz 
coming on to the track for my second set. Michael also noted Barbaro is 
now weighing in at 1,135 pounds.   As I suspected it was a pretty busy 
morning, and it also looks like the guys working on the Tapeta surface 
(the track inside the main dirt track) are moving right along too.  About 
2/3rds of the track now has the new surface laid on top of whatever else 
they needed to put down.  I am wondering if they will finish it before the 
rain comes!  
updated 10:30 am, wednesday, november 22

Update 1073: I am guessing Michael Matz will be heading back to Churchill 
Downs this week: Prep win 
good sign for Sangrita.  If Sangrita can win this grade two stake for 
Michael's wife, D.D., then Michael will have had a great year at Churchill 
Downs.  Actually I guess he already has had a great year there, but this 
would be icing on the cake.  

Del Mar has gone with the 
Polytrack.  It will be installed in time for their summer meet, which 
like Hollywood Park, is ahead of their mandated schedule (end of year, 
2007).  A short excerpt:

"Polytrack is going to make our racing surface a safer place for our 
horses and riders," said Joe Harper, Del Mar's president and general 
manager, in a statement. Work is expected to begin on the one-mile main 
track in January, pending final approval.

The Barbaro update will likely again be after training hours this morning.  
It is likely to be busy this morning in anticipation of some very wet 
weather coming through later today and tomorrow.  Lets hope we do not get 
all the rain they expect so racing can stay on the turf this weekend (Red 
Aspen).

Update 1072: I just spoke to Peter (5:40 pm) and while he had not heard 
from Michael yet this afternoon he knows Michael was visiting Barbaro.  
Peter assumes all is well given that he had not heard anything.  

Fleet Indian has undergone surgery: Fleet Indian Has 
Fetlock Fused, Injury Occurred in Breeders' Cup and it is sad to 
report that Diesis has been euthanized: Champion 
and pensioned sire Diesis euthanized at age 26.  Diesis was a great 
racehorse and sire.  

Update 1071: A few links of interest.  The first looks at the journey of 
Mike Rea.  It provides much background of Mike's life, and is within the 
broader context of the Barbaro connection: Beyond 
Brokenness....  The second contrasts Fair 
Hill and Philadelphia Park.  And finally, here's Barbaro's 
Baby Brother (note: a couple of months old I guess).

Update 1070: I just spoke to Andy Durnin at Hollywood Park.  He breezed a 
few horses this morning on the Cushion Track and was happy with the 
surface.  Lets hope the woes of the weekend are behind them.

Alie from Kennett Florist left this comment (timestamp: 6:01 pm):

I just return from NBC. All was great. Everyone happy & excited to see 
treats for man & Horse. There was a stampede by the staff, for the carrot 
cake, and chocolates. Corrine & I served it up.
I talked to Mrs. Jackson as I was going in. What a wonderful lady. The 
weather is sunny but a little cool. I would think the big guy will get out 
today. Have a good day. God Bless.
We Believe
Alie
KF 

Update 1069: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (monday 
night).  I saw Michael Matz as I was leaving the track from my first set.  
He had heard from Dr. Richardson.  It was a chilly morning this morning 
for sure.  Long johns are now required wear.  

I caught up with Barclay Tagg by phone.  Showing Up boarded a plane at 
8:30 am this morning to head to California for the Hollywood Derby on 
sunday.  He worked yesterday, I think in about 1: 02.  A nice easy work to 
set him up for the weekend.  NoBiz worked on sunday for his race on 
saturday (The Remsen).   Barclay said it was a good work, he walked 
yesterday and galloped this morning.
update tuesday, november 21, 10:45 am

Ouiji Board is now 
in Japan getting ready for her race this sunday, the Japan Cup.  Our 
final piece of stakes news for the weekend races, Red Aspen worked 
yesterday in preparation for the April Run Stakes at Laurel.  She worked 
well (under Tim as usual).  The April Run Stakes will likely be her 
biggest test to date. 

Update 1068: A great article on synthetic tracks by Mike Jensen: Barbaro 
injury a 'wake-up call'.  Much of the article includes quotes from 
Fair Hill people Kathy Anderson, Michael Matz and Graham Motion. (Michael 
Dickinson used to train at Fair Hill and owns the tapeta surface which 
Fair Hill is putting in place.)  Here are a couple of excerpts:

Asked about the possibility of local tracks such as Philadelphia Park and 
Delaware Park going to an all-weather artificial surface, Motion said, " 
They'd be foolish not to jump on the bandwagon. Delaware has struggled 
with their entries all year. It changes it around. All of a sudden, if 
they get a Polytrack surface, they become the track that everybody wants 
to run at. It's that simple, really.

"I can't believe it wouldn't be worthwhile for them to do it. They go from 
being a place that's struggling to fill the entries to a place where 
everybody is going to want to be."

"Bigger fields means bigger handles," said Matz, who conditioned Round 
Pond to a victory in the Breeders' Cup Distaff, becoming the first trainer 
since D. Wayne Lukas in 1999 to have a Kentucky Derby winner and a 
Breeders' Cup winner in the same year. "Bigger handle means more people 
coming out to watch the races. And eventually, more people go to the 
casino. I just wish they would look at it that way."

and

There are a lot of angles to consider - tracks in England tried a number 
of surfaces before hitting on the preferred one - but Motion said he sees 
one ultimate bottom line. He pointed to a newspaper on his desk at Fair 
Hill with a photograph of Pine Island off her feet rolling on her back 
during the Breeders' Cup. It was an image used in newspapers all over the 
country.

"Look," Motion said, "this is what we're trying to get away from."

The Barbaro update this morning may be delayed to after training hours, I 
am not sure yet.  Please keep calling.

Update 1067: I spoke to Peter Brette earlier this evening who had heard 
from Michael who visited Barbaro this afternoon.  Michael had Barbaro 
outside.  It was another upbeat report.

Update 1066: A thorough article on the problems Hollywood Park is having 
with its Cushion Track :Track maintenance problems 
persist.  It is refreshing to see how open they are about the problems 
they are having and how they believe the problems are attributed to their 
own efforts at maintaining the track, rather than the product itself.  
Lets hope they move up the steep learning curve quickly.  I was told this 
morning the track was in good shape for training.  

Update 1065: A wonderful article from the Baltimore Sun celebrating 
Barbaro's six months of recovery: Still 
legging out life as long shot.  It includes the following excerpts:

When the demands that come with owning Barbaro become too much, Gretchen 
Jackson simply goes to see her horse.

"I go there and just sit down in the bedding in his stall and talk to 
him," she said last week. "He's a very gentle stallion. He allows me to be 
able to do that, and I find it very relaxing. I look at those legs and 
think about what they were able to do, to think how they carried him to 
victory in the Kentucky Derby."

and

"He bit me accidentally one day. I know it was an accident. He was as 
surprised by it as I was. He tried to put his head on my chest to say he's 
sorry."

McCafferty paused and smiled a little sheepishly.

"People say, 'What is she talking about?' But it was in his eyes. It was, 
'Oh my gosh, I didn't mean it.' ... He's just a cool horse with a unique 
personality."

and

As for today, on the six-month anniversary of Barbaro's arrival at New 
Bolton, Jackson said nothing special is planned.

"It's the same as any other day," she said. "We're all just going to keep 
plugging along."

...but of course Edgar surprised everyone with a visit!

Update 1064: Mrs. Jackson just called to thank everyone for your continued 
efforts to move the anti-slaughter bill forward.  

I did ask her about Edgar's visit.  She mentioned that when she was with 
Edgar visiting Barbaro Barbaro was lying down, feet forward eating the 
grass Mrs. Jackson brought along.  Edgar was able to sit down next to 
Barbaro and talk to him.  In Mrs. Jackson's words ... he loves the horse, 
its a true relationship!

Update 1063: Its six months since the Preakness, six months of recovery, 
and Barbaro had a special visitor this morning ... Edgar Prado.  I believe 
this was Edgar's fourth visit, and Edgar actually provided me with this 
morning's update.  Edgar noted Barbaro had put on a little weight (since 
his last visit), had a bright eye, and was actually trying to bite him a 
little!  Edgar then waited around to meet with Mrs. Jackson, who visited 
Barbaro with cut grass etc.  Barbaro was more tranquil during that visit 
(according to Edgar).   I actually drove over to New Bolton to meet Edgar.  
He was with his wife Lillian and son Luis.  He was very relaxed and happy 
to see Barbaro.     

Update 1062: The early update is again from Michael's visit last night 
(sunday 6 pm visit).  Michael was again positive in his assessment of 
Barbaro when he visited.  I saw Michael as I was finishing up my first set 
and coming off the track.  

It is a nice crisp morning this morning.  As I was coming out on my first 
set I noticed a heron  wanting to share the pond, adjacent to the 
horsepath I use, with the many geese.  Of course this created quite a lot 
of noise.  Red Aspen is scheduled to work after the break.  She is 
pointing for a stakes race at Laurel this coming weekend.

Update 1061: The Hollywood meet did race sunday after problems with the 
track were addressed saturday morning: Hollywood Races 
Sunday After Addressing Cushion Track Complaints.  Lets hope this is a 
problem that is resolved.  The Fair Hill Tapeta track should be in place 
within the next couple of weeks, especially if we have some dry weather.

Russell Baze is now only eleven winners shy of Laffitt Pincay's all time 
mark of 9,530 winners: Baze Teams With 
Hollendorfer for Triple.  Barring accidents I am guessing Baze will 
eclipse the record before I gallop my first horse on the Tapeta surface!

We had a Fair Hill visitor on saturday, although I confess she did not 
visit the barn.  This is her report (posted in Barbaro 
Updates: 136 timestamp 5:10 am):

I spent a magical morning at Fair Hill Training Center Saturday. (Sally, 
the manager and Alex were both so patient and helpful with emailing me 
regarding a possible visit). As I was driving to the Center during a 
crimson sunrise, I drove past woodlands, ponds with geese, meadows, heard 
morning birdsong....and that was only the beginning. As I arrived and 
looked down the hill in the early morning light, I could see two horses 
and riders on the track for their morning workout. I walked down towards 
the track and found a nice spot to absorb the incredible privelege of this 
experience. This spot happened to be where each set entered the track from 
their barns. I was so close, I could look into the horses' eyes as they 
walked within a foot of me, I could hear the horses breathing, their 
hooves hitting the plush deep cushion of dirt track and I even had the 
privelege of hearing the riders talk with their mounts. I was struck by 
the beauty of these magnificent creatures...their athleticism, unique 
personalities and amazing training. Each rider greeted me with 'Good 
Morning' despite their busy workday and it was easy to discern their 
proficiency and how incredibly tuned into their mount each rider was. It 
was like watching the horse and rider move smoothly as one. It was so 
amazing to be so welcomed and able to get so close to such incredibly 
talented horses and people. One trainer asked me if I was cold because it 
was a bit colder than it had been recently. My honest answer was "I am too 
awestruck to be cold". I stayed until the track equipment came out to 
groom the track after the morning workouts were over and it seemed like I 
was there five minutes at most. I bet it sounds like I am totally 
enamored...I will simply have to go back again soon before I suffer 
withdrawl!

I was spotted on TV in Oklahoma (posted in Barbaro 
Updates: 136 timestamp 4:36 am):

Hey, Alex! Our local ABC affiliate just ran an anti-h/s story. They 
mentioned Barbaro, and you, Alex, were interviewed.

Afterwards, they ran the 2 OK senators' numbers for people to contact. 
Fantastic!

I am not sure when the Barbaro update will be this morning, but hope it 
will be before 9 am.

Update 1060: Peter called, he visited Barbaro earlier this afternoon 
(sunday afternoon).  Another upbeat report.  Peter changed Barbaro's 
bandages, took him out to graze and gave him a good grooming.  Barbaro 
remains comfortable.

Update 1059: Another lovely tribute to Barbaro.  

Update 1058: Trouble at Hollywood Park with its new Cushion Track: Hollywood track closed for 
training.  It is apparently uneven in patches.  A Todd 
Pletcher-trained horse broke down on the track this morning (it was open 
for training for the first hour, until about 7am).  A grader is currently 
on the track (8:40 am California time).  My understanding is the track was 
great up to the point the meet was opened, at which time it was rolled to 
get more speed. 

Update 1057: I caught up with Michael Matz as I was grazing Hawty Creek.  
He confirmed Barbaro had another good day yesterday (saturday).  I think 
it was a pretty good week all around for Barbaro.  I am not sure when 
today's update may appear, Dr. Richardson is still away.   Of course as I 
was grazing Hawty Creek I spotted Round Pond getting turned out in the 
paddock.  She sure does act like a champion, very full of herself!  

This is the time of year that many of the racing outfits migrate south.  
Michael and Graham Motion are two outfits that set up stables at Palm 
Meadows, in Florida.  Michael ships his entire stable down there, Graham 
leaves a barn of horses at Fair Hill (splits his stable).  Vans have been 
leaving Fair Hill all week shipping horses down to Florida.  Some of 
Michael's help are also already down in Florida.  I believe he will remain 
at Fair Hill for about another week and then all will be done at Fair Hill 
for Michael until the spring.   Of course I will need to figure out a new 
means of getting Barbaro updates when they do finally leave, but 
anticipate getting a once a day update to not be a problem.

It is sad to report the fatal injury of Mountain General, who ran in the 
first race at Aqueduct yesterday (saturday).  He had served racing well.

Tributes for Desert 
Orchid continue in Britain over this weekend.  

Update 1056: Peter Brette just left a voice message that he did visit 
Barbaro today (saturday afternoon) and all was well. He took him out for a 
nice pick of grass. Basically, it was another upbeat message.

A nice day at Delaware Park this afternoon. Good to watch Ramon Dominguez 
ride three winners (one was an easy win for Michael Matz). I saw Ramon's 
wife sharon and had a quick chat with her. Also saw and thanked Ramon for 
his support of the website. While I knew Sharon because she used to gallop 
for Graham Motion at Fair Hill, I had never met Ramon until today.

It was good to get to Delaware Park for the final weekend and got to say 
good-bye to people heading south for the winter. I am now in the Delaware 
Handicap Room (bar) where all the colors and names of the winners of the 
Delaware Handicap are displayed. This includes Blessing Angelica who won 
in 1971 and 1972. She is the grand dam (mother's mother) of Hawty Creek.

Update 1055: No update from Peter Brette yet but he is planning to visit 
Barbaro sometime this afternoon. I'll try to get a report later after 
Peter's visit.

Update 1054:  As suspected the rest of the morning (except Hawty Creek) 
were all works, and each horse actually worked  pretty well.  It is a 
lovely morning.  I went to see Round Pond grazing in her paddock and 
Better Talk Now, as he was going out hacking.  I believe this is the last 
time he will be ridden for a little while.  I am now planning to go to 
Delaware Park, a friend has a runner in the stake, and it is Delaware 
Park's closing weekend.  I will also endevour to get a Barbaro update 
sometime either late morning or early afternoon.

Update 1053: I saw Michael Matz as I was going on to the track on Rocky, 
my second set. Michael said that when he saw Barbaro last night, he was in 
good order. So, another upbeat day to report yesterday. It's a crisp, 
gorgeous morning...a little cooler but looks like it's going to be a 
bright, sunny day. The dirt track has recovered nicely from all the rain 
and there are lots of horses out working this morning. When I saw Michael 
I was on my way to work Rocky from the gate. He broke out nice and sharp 
in company and then worked 3/8ths without breaking a sweat. A very nice 
work from the gate. 
updated saturday 7:30am

Update 1052: This week we had the passing of a true champion, who was 
loved by a nation: Dessie 
in the famous five.  Russell Baze also continues to close in on a 
remarkable record: Baze 15 From 
Pincay After Friday Night Win. I am still amazed he 
spoke to us about Lost in the Fog (LITF) on the night LITF was 
diagnosed with cancer and while Russell had just ridden seven consecutive 
winners without mentioning the feat.

It looks like Brother Derek is taking a liking to the turf: Turf seems to agree with 
Brother Derek.  He is due to work on sunday in preparation for the 
Hollywood Derby, which will include the Jackson owned, and Barclay trained 
Showing Up (who we know loves the turf).

Here is the web version of my most 
memorable birthday gift, and again, the Barbaro update this morning 
will be a report from last evening.

Update 1051: I just spoke to Peter who had spoken to Michael, who visited 
Barbaro this afternoon.  Barbaro remains comfortable and got to go out 
today and graze.  Another good report.  

Alie from Kennett Florist had this to report in the comments (timestamp: 
6:30 pm):

NBC is a great place today. Everyone was in good moods. The cupcakes were 
a big hit. The weather today is soooo nice. You don't even have to wear a 
coat. Barbaro & the donor horses got treats too.
Alex, have a great birthday- cheers.
Alie 

Alie ... I did!  I spent most of the afternoon reading the many birthday 
cards I have received.  Some very kind words, thanks.

Update 1050: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (thursday 
night).  I just spoke to Peter (12:05pm) to confirm.

Fondmort continues to improve: Fondmort 
up and on the mend.  This short article includes a nice photograph of 
Fondmort, his trainer Nicky Henderson and the staff at the equine 
hospital.  It remains a day-to-day situation.

Bernardini versus Barbaro for three year old of the year.  The topic of 
conversation is heating up.  Here is one vote for Barbaro (from someone 
who does not get to vote but ...): Vote here is for 
Barbaro.

Update 1049: Dr. Richardson is at a conference for a couple of days so the 
morning update will be from Michael's visit the evening before.  I saw 
Michael coming off the track from my first set and he said Barbaro was 
well last night.  Michael also got to see his left hind foot and expressed 
satisfactioon with what he saw.  The rain seems to have cleared out and 
there is a nice cloudless sky this morning.  Lets hope we have some dry 
weather now.  I am about to get on Chappy.
update friday, 7 am

Update 1048: My birthday party was fantastic, what a great surprise last 
night, and your generosity appears unbounded!  Included in the gifts was a 
lovely album which I am sure will take me a nice long time to read 
through, a Fred Stone print of Barbaro, and very generous cheques for Freedom Hills and Lost and Found Horse Rescue Foundation.  
The latter I am particularly psyched about given their recent needs noted 
here: Help 
needed now.  I'll need to call them this morning and alert them to 
your funding.  Wendy 
took pictures.

As I noted yesterday, Graham Motion trained his 1,000th winner: Trainer 
Motion reaches 1,000-win milestone.  Here is the quote from Graham:

"It was nice to have it happen here," Motion said. "It is pretty nostalgic 
because this is where I started. I was actually driving around the 
backside earlier on and went by my old barn.

"It was nice to do it here with Adrian, who has been with me from the 
start," Motion added. "It is not something you aim for but it is neat to 
do it. I have had backing of some tremendous owners throughout the years 
and the owners that got me started were right here in Maryland."

I also wanted to note there is a charity auction this saturday being held 
to support the MO horses that many here have also been supporting.  The 
following is some text that explains what is happening with the auction:

The St. Louis Horse Heroes Charity Benefit will be held Saturday November 
18th at the Lakeside Cafe at the St. Louis Zoo.  Doors open at 6:30pm with 
a live auction at 9:00pm.  ALL proceeds from this special event will 
benefit the Humane Society of Missouri, Missouri Equine Response Service, 
and the Eureka Fire Department Mounted Search and Rescue Team.  Call Dawn 
or Lori at Homestead Equine 636-451-4655 to RSVP, make a donation, or to 
bid on any of the donated items available.  Charity dinner and auction 
event tickets are $65 per person. 

On September 27th a double decker semi carrying 42 horses bound for 
slaughter over- turned in the median on I-44 near St. Clair, Missouri.  
The Humane Society of Missouri’s Longmeadow Rescue Ranch was called and 
immediately dispatched a team of veterinarians and volunteer rescue 
workers from Missouri Emergency Response Services to help free the 
severely injured horses.  Twenty six horses were rescued and all have 
experienced severe trauma, including cuts, lacerations of their legs, head 
trauma and partial paralysis.  They are being medically cared for and 
rehabilitated so they will now have a second chance at life.  St. Louis 
Horse Heroes is a non-profit organizations formed by a group of veterinary 
professional in the St. Louis area including Homestead Veterinary 
Hospital, Foxcreek Veterinary Hospital, Equine Medical Associates, and 
Mid-Rivers Equine. 

Subsequent to receiving the above notice I am told that they are at 
capacity with the attendance of the event (great news).  If you want to 
see a list of items and bid, contact Dawn or Lori at the above number.

Dawn had sent me a couple of Barbaro hats for Michael to sign, they will 
be auctioned off.  I also contacted a friend of mine who works for Godolphin.  They sent over a jacket 
(signed by Frankie Detorri), a pen and hat.  I have bid on those gifts!

The Barbaro update should be before 9 am.

Update 1047: Wendy's report from her visit to Fair 
Hill this morning.   Make sure to check the 
photos.

Update 1046: I just spoke to Peter who had spoken to Michael who visited 
Barbaro earlier this afternoon.  Peter said Barbaro remains comfortable.  
Peter was pretty upbeat.

Update 1045: When I was at Graham Motion's this morning Sue noted Graham 
was two winners shy of the 1,000 mark.  Well according to Sue's News Graham has now 
reached 1,000 winners with two more winners today, Everyman and Lucky 
Bachelor.  Both winners ridden by Ramon Dominguez.  Congratulations to 
everyone at the Motion barn!

Update 1044: A quick update on the Fair Hill Breeders' Cup horses.  As I 
was grazing Hawty Creek, Round Pond was turned out in one of Michael's 
paddocks.  She looked very calm and happy with her head down grazing.  All 
was peaceful ... until someone came to catch her and bring her in.  Then 
she started performing, I am guessing she just was not yet ready to return 
to the barn.  

I went over to Graham Motion's barn once I was done.  Lisa was finishing 
tacking up Better Talk Now and took him out for a very light jog in the 
fields out back.  I walked out to watch along with Sue, Graham's office 
manager.  He was very relaxed and happy, picking grass along the way as he 
was walking out and back from his short exercise.  Sue actually maintains 
a news section on Graham's site: Sue's news.  The november 14 
entry includes pictures of the now retired Film Maker!

Update 1043: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (wednesday 
night). I saw Michael Matz as I was coming on to the track for my second 
set on Chappy. He had heard from Dr. Richardson. I was the first out this 
morning on the track just after six am and the moisture laying on top of 
the sealed track reflected the moon and a bit of the sunrise which in turn 
provided a nice source of light. I did also see Barclay Tagg as I was 
coming off the track on my first set. He is pleased with both Showing Up 
and NoBiz as they prepare for their respective stake races next weekend. 
Barclay said NoBiz is scheduled to fly to Hollywood Park on Tuesday.
updated thursday 7:15am



Update 1042: The weather will determine the timing of the Barbaro update 
this morning.  While it does not appear to be raining this minute, it is 
forecast to do so.  If training is not effected by the rain, the Barbaro 
update should be before 9 am. 

Noting the weather impacting training, we are still awaiting the 
completion of our synthetic training track (Tapeta).  It should be complete 
by the end of this month, but of course the weather may also impact the 
completion date.  The surface has recently been introduced at the Godolphin training center in Dubai: 
Godolphin opens synthetic 
training track. I am really looking forward to not having to gallop on 
a sloppy hard dirt race track! 

It is nice to see the traveling queen Ouija Board has been voted European 
Horse of the Year: Ouija Board 
Honored With Second Cartier Horse of the Year Award.  She is now 
preparing for the Japan Cup, to run a week on sunday.

Keep calling!

Update 1041: No update this evening.  I was out for dinner when I usually 
get an update.  I did want to mention that Ramon Dominguez, who rode five 
winners from five rides on monday actually extended it to a seven race win 
streak early on tuesday.  That was his record for consecutive winning 
rides, so congratulations to Ramon.

Update 1040: I caught up with Kathy Anderson this morning, who visited 
Barbaro yesterday.  She also gave an upbeat assessment.  She was present 
when they were changing his bandages (on his right hind) and thought 
Barbaro looked good.  She also noted Barbaro has been moved to a new 
stall, a little larger, which he seems to appreciate.  Michael also told 
me this morning that Barbaro did go out yesterday. 

Update 1039: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (tuesday 
night). I saw Michael Matz on my second set jogging Rocky. In fact, when I 
came on the track, Michael said he hadn't heard yet. But as I completed my 
first turn, he was able to relay the positive news. I am now jogging my 
second mile on Rocky and watching Graham Motion's horses gallop by. It's a 
foggy, soupy day at Fair Hill.
updated wednesday 6:55am

Update 1038:  Hard Spun won his second race at Delaware: Hard Spun's 
victories get colt some attention.  This will be his last start at 
Delaware, the meet is all but over.  I had neglected to mention that 
Kentucky Derby favourite Sweetnorthernsaint also ran at Delaware a few 
days ago: Sweetnorthernsaint 
glides and again the field was short.  I am sure Steve Klesaris did 
not expect to have to face the Derby favourite with Master of Disaster.  
Final piece of racing news,  Brother Derek may try the 
turf, I assume they know who may be Showing Up for that race!

Hopefully the Barbaro update will be before 9 am again.
Keep calling.

Update 1037: I just spoke to Peter, who visited Barbaro this afternoon.  
He was upbeat (Peter).  He gave Barbaro a good grooming, although he did 
not take him outside as it is still pretty damp around here.

Here is an update on Fleet Indian: Fleet Indian 
Continues Stall Rest.  Ouija Board has now arrived in Japan as she now 
prepares for the Japan Cup, a week on sunday: Ouija arrives in 
Japan.

Update 1036: New Bolton's Barbaro update:  
Barbaro doing well after cast-removal:

Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro continues to improve following the removal 
of his right hind leg cast last week, according to his medical team. 
"Barbaro's strength on the right hind limb has been gradually improving," 
said Dr. Dean W. Richardson, Chief of Surgery. "It is normal to be a bit 
stiff and weak after being in a cast for a long time; however, he is 
capable of bearing full weight on the previously fractured right hind leg 
even without the supporting soft bandage." 

Barbaro's lower right hind leg had been in a cast since surgery at Penn's 
George D. Widener Hospital following his accident at the Preakness on May 
20.

Barbaro's left hind foot, which had laminitis, continues to improve. "The 
left hind foot continues to slowly grow but still has a very long way to 
go," said Dr. Richardson. "Barbaro's attitude and appetite remain 
excellent, and he still takes short walks outside to graze each day if the 
weather permits."

The next update will be posted on Tuesday, November 28, unless there is a 
significant change in Barbaro's condition.

Update 1035: A quick update from Delaware Park.  Ramon Dominguez had five 
rides yesterday, and five winners!  The two year old Hard Spun is running 
today at about 3:30 pm.  He is being touted as a horse to follow by the 
media, who will likely be in attendance today.

Update 1034: New Bolton will have a release out on Barbaro today.  I just 
called to confirm.  

Here is Desert 
Orchid's 1989 Cheltenham Gold Cup win, that was so lovingly described 
in update 1028 by Sue McMullen.  It goes without saying that the media 
coverage he has been getting on the national news in the UK (and BBC 
America last night) is a strong signal this horse was loved by a nation.

Update 1033: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (monday 
night). I saw Michael Matz as I was coming out on Hawty Creek to take her 
out back as my third set. Michael had heard from Dr. Richardson. 

I caught up briefly with Graham Motion while on my second set jogging 
Chappy back before her gallop and while they haven't made a final 
decision, it looks very unlikely that Better Talk Now will run again this 
year. It is more likely that he will take the winter off before beginning 
his campaign again next year.
updated tuesday 7:25am

Update 1032: Another lovely tribute to Pine Island: Pine 
Island, and her legacy will continue: Phipps Reinforces 
Commitment to Research Following Pine Island's Injury.

Following Desert Orchid's passing yesterday, he is in all the national 
newspapers in england this morning, making the front cover of a few.  Here 
is a piece from the Daily 
Mail.

The Barbaro update should be before 9 am this morning.  Keep calling.

Update 1031: I just spoke to Peter who had heard from Michael who visited 
Barbaro this afternoon.  While he was not able to go outside (due to the 
dreary weather) he does remain comfortable.  

Update 1030: Frank DeFord offers his vote for Sports Illustrated's 
Sportsman of the Year: My 
Sportsmen: Roy & Gretchen Jackson, Michael Matz.  The article ends:

But in saving Barbaro, the Jacksons and their trainer made so many people 
care -- even people who never paid much never mind to horse racing. They 
embroidered their sport with goodness and nobility and made us all see 
that sometimes dreams can come true -- even if it wasn't the dream we 
first had in mind. Barbaro didn't win the Triple Crown. Because of the 
people who loved him, he won life.

Update 1029: Barbara Livingston has created a Pine 
Island Album.  She sent me the link along with this message:

This album was so tough to put together...

I'll never forget photographing this large, kind lady.  People who didn't 
see the beauty in her face didn't look closely.  Her brilliant, large eyes 
were so trusting and content, reflecting the love she felt from those 
around her.  Her actions were proud and comfortable, her manner quiet..and 
all wrapped in a most beautiful oversized package. 

A girlfriend who worked with her called Pine Island "Big Moose" in the 
affectionate way possible.  I thought of her as a gentle giant.   Everyone 
at her barn adored her and showered her with affection - which she happily 
accepted.  While her long ears swept forward for peppermints, they also 
pricked at any gesture of kindness. 

It's amazing to think of what she accomplished this year - and, to think, 
she was still learning about the game.  She was such a shooting star.

We are heartsick for the Phipps' family, Claiborne Farm's staff and the 
McGaughey crew. 

Update 1028: Britain will morn the sad lose of Desert Orchid who passed 
away at the age of twenty seven today.  Sue McMullen sent this e-mail:

There will be tears shed today all over the UK and beyond with news of 
Desert Orchid's death. Mercifully, he died peacefully in his sleep, aged 
27 and wouldn't have known anything about it. He leaves so many indelible 
images having made National Hunt racing in the UK his personal stage and 
since his retirement in 1991 he made numerous personal appearances, at 
racecourses that were the scene of his greatest triumphs and at charity 
events to raise money.

It would be impossible to do him justice in a few short paragraphs and 
there will be numerous tributes to him in the trade press outlining his 
versatility, the different distances he won over, his four King George 
chases and Cheltenham Gold Cup, Whitbreads, the weight he carried, his 
bravery and the following he had. So I thought I would share my own, 
favourite memory.

He lived a good life, doing what he loved to do, but I nevertheless feel 
very emotional today as he has been part of my life for so many years. I 
was at Cheltenham in 1989, the day he won his Gold Cup. I recall shaking 
with nerves beforehand as 'Dessie' always hated Cheltenham. His greatest 
victories, apart from that one, were at right-handed tracks and the big 
question was, how would he cope being there again? It was desperately cold 
and grey, with the snow-capped hills of Prestbury in the background 
providing a natural amphitheatre to the drama that was about to unfold on 
the course. It was so wet they had to inspect at noon to see if racing 
would go ahead, even the fire service had to pump water from the course. 
50,000 people packed the stands, straining to see what the iconic grey 
horse could do but what a dilemma for his adoring owner Richard Burridge. 
This was no longer just about a course Dessie hated, but horrendous 
conditions that would make it even worse for him. 

Those of us who were there that day will never forget it and I swear that 
when he jumped the last fence, upsides the mud-loving Yahoo, 50,000 people 
gave Desert Orchid wings and carried him up that gruelling, Cheltenham 
hill. Always flamboyant and a show-off over his fences, he responded to 
the greatest cheers and screams that Cheltenham racecourse has ever 
witnessed, before or since, and it was purely Dessie's iron will, bravery 
and total inability to allow another horse to be ahead of him, even at 
home, that gave him the strength to dig deeper than he had ever had to and 
overcome his hated course and the mud. People who had backed Yahoo because 
of the desperate conditions and Dessie's  known dislike of the course, 
started screaming for Dessie in tribute to his brave attempt to do what so 
many thought impossible for him, hats were thrown in the air and 
afterwards, grown men were in tears. I have never experienced anything 
like it on a racecourse and suspect I never will. 

Years later, when I became a trustee of a racehorse charity, Dessie came 
to stay with us before appearing at our open day, and I got to meet the 
'great one' himself, the first of many such, highly cherished occasions. 
There were none tougher on the racecourse, none as competitive and nothing 
could leap like him at the penultimate fence at Kempton (where he knew the 
cameras were) and yet, put him next to a person in a wheelchair or out 
hacking accompanying a child on a pony, when he was retired, and he was a 
lamb. I truly believe there will never be another one like him.  

A couple of articles from the media: DESERT 
ORCHID DIES AGED 27 and British 
Steeplechasing Star Desert Orchid Dies at Age 27.

Update 1027: Mrs. Jackson just called to thank everyone for their support 
today, and over the next few days, as we continue our efforts re: the anti 
horse-slaughter bill.

Update 1026: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (sunday 
night).  I saw Michael as I was coming on to the (very grotty) track on 
Chappy for my fourth set.  Michael had heard from Dr. Richardson.

It is raining in spots this morning, but enough to turn the track to a 
mess.  Today was a mix of track, outback (Hawty Creek) and Shedrow.

Today is national call in day for anti-horse slaughter.  Debra, WI 
(timestamp 1:27 pm) details the plan for the day.  

Update 1025: I was curious to see how popular the Melbourne Cup is in 
Australia, when compared to the Breeders' Cup in the US.  The Breeders' 
Cup attained a TV audience of 
about 770,000.  The Melbourne Cup: 2.272 
million.  I guess if you did a percentage of total population viewing 
the difference would be much greater.  The Melbourne Cup meet also 
broke attendance records: Melbourne 
Carnival Breaks Attendance Mark.  So while racing in the US seems to 
be a waining sport at the present, with plenty of problems to fix, this is 
not the case elsewhere.

I did watch the ESPN broadcast yesterday (over a lovely sunday dinner).  A 
few observations; Ouija Board is wonderful; Trevor Denman was not (and he 
usually is); Churchill Downs let Fleet Indian down desperately; Pine 
Island soooo sad; Edgar Prado looked so sad after his win; Fair Hill had a 
great day.

The Barbaro update this morning may be delayed, the weather looks grim, 
and if that is the case we will be in the shedrow and I'll get the update 
after training hours.  I say "if that is the case" as it may be clearing 
up.

Update 1024: No Barbaro update tonight.  Peter decided not to visit (it is 
his day off).  While Michael was planning to visit on his way back from 
the races, when I spoke to Peter it was a little early to have heard.  I 
will wait until the morning report.  

Update 1023: Indian Charlie's final edition includes a piece on Barbaro: 
Indian Charlie: 
Never let the truth get in the way of a good story.

The Daily Local has a nice article on Barbaro:  
Barbaro gets his cast off which effectively summarizes most of what we 
know.  Nice to see quoted from Mr. Jackson:

"That's great news, now isn't it," said Roy Jackson, the colt's owner. 
"The cast was replaced by a padded-splinted bandage for support. He's 
gained back the weight he lost this summer. Still, Barbaro's day-to-day 
routine is going to be the same until the (left hind) hoof grows back."

and

"Each horse is different," Jackson explained. "It's a slow process. The 
hoof grows, then it slows, then grows again. It's guesswork."

Barbaro will remain at New Bolton until the hoof is healed, Jackson said. 
He noted that they have been contacted by Kentucky breeding farms.
"They are mainly just checking in, seeing how he's doing," Jackson 
related. "It's way too premature to have any type of discussions."

Update 1022: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (saturday 
night).  I saw Michael Matz as I was grazing Hawty Creek adjacent to 
Michael's barn.   Peter told me last night he may go and visit Barbaro 
today, if he does I will try to catch up with him later.

Could Barbaro be named Sports 
Illustrated's Sportsman of the Year ?  He's certainly got the beating 
of at least of the athlete's listed!
update 9:15 am, sunday, november 12

Update 1021: Barbaro's morning update will be later in the morning, much 
as this first update is late (I just got up).  

In the meantime, Daryl Smoliak wrote a letter to the editor to the Star 
Tribune: Letter 
of the day: Senate should put an end to horse slaughter.  A very 
concise argument against horse slaughter.  Very well done.

Update 1020: I spoke to Peter Brette who had spoken with Michael who had 
visited today.  Barbaro remains well as he is getting used to his new 
legware.  Michael had not taken him out to graze, but I believe was 
planning to on his return visit later today.

Kathy Anderson also called, and had visited yesterday and a couple of 
times over the last week.    She noted that when she visited yesterday 
evening Barbaro was munching away and had a good eye.  Barbaro is in a 
phase of adjustment to his splint (he has been laying down a little bit 
more lately), but that is to be expected as he gets used to putting a 
little more weight on his uncasted leg.

Update 1019: A couple of quick articles.

Barbaro 
gets plenty of support while recovering.  Well we know that!  The 
article notes that Penn's message boards had received more than 50,000 
messages by early August.  Impressive.  I thought it was worth adding that 
this site has received over 74,000 comments to date (we might have had 4 
comments pre-Barbaro), and the discussion boards have had over 33,000 
messages posted.  Barbaro is having an effect!

I am sure I mentioned this in one of my Breeders' Cup updates, but here it 
is all official: Derby Winner 
Giacomo Retired to Adena Springs.  I am grateful to Steve Willard for 
not only providing us updates on Giacomo throughout the late summer and 
leading up to the Breeders' Cup, but also allowing me to visit with 
Giacomo right after his final race.  He's a dude (Giacomo ... and Steve).

Update 1018: Congratulations to Michael Golden on the win of Kielbasa 
Queen (Queenie).  Here is the chart.  
I just spoke to Tim, he is very happy.  Queenie also cooled out well.   I 
did ask Tim the other day how many wins this year he would need to 
consider it a good year.  Well eight was the answer, and we now stand at 
eight.

Tim told me a nice story this morning which I will cut very short.  A 
couple of days ago, when he was at Laurel, he caught up with Larry King a 
guy we used to know many years ago from Fair Hill.  Anyway, Larry now 
works on a farm, I think essentially as a private trainer.  His boss ended 
up with a horse I used to own, and gave away (to someone else) on the 
promise she would receive a good home, for life.  Well for whatever reason 
the owner  I gave her to was unable to keep her.  Larry's boss ended up 
with her (they were neighbours).  Jilladella is now 24, and living a 
lovely life somewhere in Maryland (I think) with her own personal paddock, 
coming in everyday after 2 - 3 hours of being outside.  I was very happy 
to hear.

Update 1017: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (friday 
night).  I saw Michael Matz as I was coming off the track for my third 
set.  He had heard from Dr. Richardson.

It is another beautiful morning this morning at Fair Hill.  A gorgeous 
sunrise with very mild temperatures.  For my first set I was coming away 
from the barn to go to the track, and the Canada geese that have been 
sitting on the pond to the right of the horsepath started making a big 
noise (there must be 500 of them) and my horse weeled to the left.  
Naturally I grabbed for the neckstrap ... it was not there!  Note to self, 
check tack more thoroughly before  going to the track.  Fortunately I did 
not fall off.
update 8:35 am, saturday morning, november 11

Update 1016: The Barbaro update may be a little later in the morning this 
morning.

The following is a summary of what occured during a Welfare and Safety of 
the Racehorse Summit in Lexington, held in October: Racehorse Welfare 
and Safety Recommendations Released.  It is obviously good to see 
members of the industry working hard to find some well needed solutions.  
However the piece of the article that concerns me most is this:

As the Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit does not have any 
authority to implement these recommendations, the proposed strategic plan 
will be forwarded to potential responsible parties for their 
consideration.

Update 1015: I just spoke to Peter, who had spoken with Michael.  Michael 
visited Barbaro this afternoon and took him out to graze.  Barbaro remains 
comfortable.

Here is the piece on Horse Slaughter that ran last night on WGAL, Channel 
8 (NBC): Horse 
Slaughter: This video may be disturbing to some viewers.  Thanks to 
Lor in PA.

Update 1014: A good commentary on the state of horse racing in the US as 
illustrated by the recent Breeders' Cup: Vantage 
Point: Fragile racehorses deserve protection.  The following is an 
excerpt:

Goodman also argued for Polytrack, a blend of recycled rubber, sand and 
pieces that look like carpet remnants.

Who could be opposed to better footing? Some thrifty track owners, for 
sure. But gamblers may scoff, too. How do you handicap one race on a 
Polytrack versus another on a dirt oval?

Gamblers are the financial feed of horse racing, but safety is a blue chip 
to the bottom line when it comes to product protection.

The only comment I take issue with is the recommendation to shorten races.  
Shorter races simply asks the horse to run faster, it won't make things 
safer I think.

I had been trying to get an interview with Michael Dickinson leading up to 
the Breeders' Cup.  He was in Dubai, so I was unable to do so.  Now I know 
why: Godolphin 
replaces Al Quoz dirt surface with Tapeta.

I have been fortunate enough to visit Al Quoz.  A beautiful training 
establishment.

Update 1013: Sue McMullen has e-mailed this follow up of the European 
contenders for last week's Breeders' Cup (as well as a note on the 
Melboune Cup 1-2 and Collier Hill):

From the trainers available to comment (some are enjoying well-earned 
vacations) there are no adverse reports on any of the euro runners, so 
here's a bit of news on some of them. 

Her legion of fans will be delighted to hear that following Ouija Board's 
minor injury in the Filly and Mare when she was struck into, she has 
recovered very well and is due to fly from New York to Japan tomorrow. The 
injury never gave cause for concern, merely requiring a dose of 
antibiotics, so plans for her are unchanged. The globe-trotting superstar 
is set to contest the Japan Cup on 26th of this month, following which she 
will make her final racing appearance in the big international meeting  in 
Hong Kong on December 10th. What a truly remarkable horse she is, 
shuttling around the world, on and off aeroplanes, so often in strange 
stables and unfamiliar surroundings yet she continues to produce brilliant 
performances.  News of her will be reported here on the approach to both 
these races.

Following his gallant fifth after missing the break in the Mile, Rob Roy 
will be enjoying a sunnier climate as he is due to continue his career in 
California with Neil Drysdale. The belief is that the US style of racing 
will suit him better and his supporters here will be rooting for him in 
his new home. He truly deserves to win a big one.

Juvenile filly Satulagi has returned in good order. Hopefully they brought 
back the right filly as she was so covered in dirt after the race they 
might have mixed her up with another one. She is reported as being well 
after her game attempt on dirt and will continue her career in Dubai, 
where the racing season has just started.

A number of the BC runners were due to retire after the event, including 
our wonderful, charismatic George Washington. There will be more news of 
him when trainer Aiden O'Brien returns from his much-needed vacation. Also 
off to stud are Hurricane Run, Aussie Rules, Ad Valorem, David Junior, 
Araafa and Librettist, the Godolphin Miler who didn't regain winning form 
after his two classy performances in France earlier this year. He missed 
the entire season as a three-year-old due to various problems so did well 
to return at four and win big races. Stablemate Echo of Light was another 
disappointment in the Mile and is now in Dubai where he will be aimed at 
the Carnival and World Cup Meeting. This four-year-old son of Sheikh 
Mohammed's favourite horse, the late Dubai Millennium (died of grass 
sickness), is a very impressive looking individual and has scored in Group 
2 and 3, but has yet to win a Group 1. 

Turf hero Red Rocks will, as already reported, return next year to defend 
his title, all being well, and his early season target will be the Dubai 
Sheema Classic. Our horses certainly clock up the air miles.

A quick note about the two Japanese raiders, Delta Blues and Pop Rock, who 
took first and second in the Melbourne Cup. Both horses will be aimed at 
the Hong Kong Vase on December 10, where they will meet with that grand 
old warrior and hero of the Woodbine International, Collier Hill.  

As I was grazing Hawty Creek, I looked across to Michael Matz's barn.  
Michael was in one of his paddocks removing the rug from one of his horses 
who was busy grazing.  I had to ask, but I already knew, it was Round 
Pond.

Update 1012: Another comfortable night for Barbaro last night (thursday 
night). I saw Michael Matz on the track on my second set as I was jogging 
'TV star' Chappy back before her breeze. It's another gorgeous morning 
here at Fair Hill...no cloud cover yet warm. I'm about to take Hawty Creek 
out back; she can get a little too excited on the race track. So going out 
back is good mental and physical therapy. 

Tim's horse Real Lace ran a troubled third last night at Laurel Park in 
her first race against winners. She cooled out well and looks good in her 
stall this morning.
updated friday 7:20am

Update 1011: A nice article that discusses the global impact of the 
Breeders' Cup: Global Impact.  
'Course as a Fair Hill resident I would have prefered Ouija Board and Red 
Rocks stay at home!  That being said (in jest of course) I am hoping Sue 
McMullen will provide us a wrap up of how the European contigent is doing 
after the Cup.  

The Barbaro update should again be sometime early this morning.  The piece 
on Horse Slaughter did air last night on WGAL (Alex 
on Lancaster, PA TV).  I have not seen it yet, but hope it appears on 
the internet.

Update 1010: Peter visited Barbaro this afternoon and gave an upbeat 
report. Barbaro was laying down when he arrived.  He got up, and Peter 
gave him a good grooming.  Barbaro went out later in the afternoon for a 
pick of grass.  

Update 1009: CBS Early Show this morning: Barbaro's 
Cast is Removed.

Update 1008:  Its turning into a beautiful day!  I just visited Graham 
Motion's barn and saw Better Talk Now in the porta pad.  I was chatting 
with Sue about how well he looks, and she remarked that he is the best 
turf distance horse in the country.  And that he is!  I was actually 
escorting Mike Jensen (Philadelphia Inquirer) around, he is doing another 
story.  It should be (another) good one.

The horse slaughter piece for which I was interviewed will run tonight, 11 
pm, WGAL Channel 8 (NBC) out of Lancaster.  It may repeat on their 5 am 
newscast.  Apparently a trailer for the piece ran yesterday, and I was in 
the trailer!

Chicago did a piece last night: Special Report: Out 
to Pasture (note: includes some disturbing video).  

Update 1007: Another comfortable night for Barbaro last night (wednesday 
night). Just saw Michael Matz as I was coming up to the track on Chappy 
for my second set. Michael had heard from Dr. Richardson. It's a pretty 
warm, almost muggy morning. I hear that Better Talk Now arrived back in 
Fair Hill yesterday. Film Maker was turned out in a big paddock somewhere, 
due to her retirement she's not coming back to Fair Hill. This is one time 
Film Maker beats Ouija Board...to the retirement shed!
updated thursday 7:10am

Update 1006: Steve Haskin writes this wrap-up article on this year's 
Breeders' Cup: Steve Haskin's 
Breeders' Cup Wrap-Up.  It was nice to see Steve highlight Graham 
Motion's horses:

Unsung heroes -- It's about time we pay tribute to stablemates Film Maker 
and Better Talk Now, who have run in the Breeders' Cup (Emirates Airline 
Filly & Mare Turf and John Deere Turf, respectively) the past three years 
and have quietly compiled a record of one victory, three seconds, and one 
third. And despite their success on Breeders' Cup day, as well as the rest 
of the year, they rarely receive a mention.

The 6-year-old Film Maker has now run 16 consecutive races without 
finishing worse than fourth, and only two of those races were fourth-place 
finishes. She's also never been worse than fourth in nine grade I 
attempts. In her career, she's been in the money in 23 of 27 races, while 
being ridden by 11 different jockeys, and in her last six starts, the only 
fillies to finish in front of her have been Ouija Board, Gorella, Honey 
Ryder, and Intercontinental.

The 7-year-old Better Talk Now has now finished first and second in the 
John Deere BC Turf (gr. IT), has won the grade I Man o'War, United 
Nations, and Sword Dancer, and the grade II Dixie, Sky Classic, and 
Knickerbocker, and yet still was 18-1 in this year's Turf, with hardly 
anyone writing or saying a word about him. It's time these two old 
warriors receive their due. These kind don't come around very often.

The article then goes on to praise Giacomo!  

I did catch up with Joe Deegan who mentioned Perfect Drift appeared to 
have some kind of lung infection coming out of the Breeders' Cup Classic, 
hence his dull performance.  This is explained here: Breathing 
problem sidelines Perfect Drift, likely out for Clark Handicap.

Here is the outcome of the White Horse Award for which  Mike Rea was a 
finalist: Heroic 
assistant starter receives White Horse Award.
 
The Barbaro update should be getting closer to an earlier time this 
morning.  It seems the rain has gone away, although I am sure the dirt 
track will be sealed and hard as a consequence of the weather. 

Update 1005: Just spoke to Peter, who had spoken with Michael.  Another 
comfortable day for Barbaro.

Alie from Kennett Florist left this message (timestamp: 8:36pm):

Just got back from NBC and found out Barbaro is craving red apples lately 
:) Everyone at NBC is in a great mood despite the nasty weather here. 
There was a photographer following Dr. Dean around today. Dr. Dean and the 
staff of NBC were pleased and amused by the fact that Barbaro got one 
write-in vote for congress here in Kennett Square. Diane who works here 
volunteers at the polls every year, and as a matter of public record, we 
found out first that Barbaro has one vote for congress!
Hope all is well with you.
take care,
Alie

Update 1004: The ratings are in for the Breeders' Cup and the TV audience 
was at an all time low: Final Breeders' 
Cup TV Ratings Slump 53%.  While some of the decline can be attributed 
to a move to a cable network, I think it is safe to say a significant 
decline is due to the sport itself.  The article suggests other ESPN media 
products may have also eroded the audience; sorry, I just don't buy that 
one.  If you have a TV, and an internet connection, you watch live racing 
on TV.  I thought this quote from the article was simply odd within the 
context of a significant decline:

John Skipper, ESPN executive vice president, content said, "We are off to 
a very successful start in the first year of our partnership with the 
Breeders' Cup. Our multi-media coverage allowed racing fans to follow all 
the Breeders' Cup racing on numerous ESPN platforms. We gratified with the 
results and look forward to a many more years working with our Breeders' 
cup partners."

I would be very interested in what the first year goals were for the TV 
audience if this was a great start!  Rather than be pleased with this, why 
not try to fix the product (horse racing as a form of entertainment) ?

Update 1003: Sue McMullen sent the following e-mail in response to Ramon 
Dominguez's comments about his Breeders' Cup rides (update 1001):

I was interested to read Ramon's comments about the luckless Rob Roy 
missing the break and how he would have made (I think at the very least) 
second. I was gutted for the horse and was really rooting for him. 
Presumably Ramon knows Sir Michael asked the starter to allow the horse in 
the gate without an attendant, which was ignored and certainly caused him 
to miss the break. The presence of a man looming over him would seem odd 
to a horse who has never experienced it and Sir M was very unhappy. I 
guess it brought back  memories of a similar situation at the gate with 
Zilzal back in (I think from memory) '89 when the starters were pulling 
him around despite Walter Swinburn pleading with them to just leave him 
alone to settle for a minute. If ever a horse deserved to win a big one it 
is poor Rob Roy. It isn't clear whether Sir M's request on Saturday was 
ignored, declined or in the heat of the moment, simply overlooked. But it 
was very unfortunate nevertheless.

Unfortunately for Ramon, he was not aware of any gate instructions until 
after the race.

Update 1002: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (tuesday 
night).  I just stopped by Michael Matz's barn and Michael gave me the 
update.
update 10:20 am, wet wednesday november 8

Update 1001: It is a miserably wet day (although warm).  So training has 
been pretty much limited to the shedrow, I will venture over to Michael 
Matz's barn later this morning for the update.

In the meantime Ramon Dominguez called and I asked him about his Breeders' 
Cup.  He had three rides, two seconds and a fast closing fifth.  Here are 
his remarks.

Friendly Island: second.
Ramon was not surprised he ran so well (finished second) as he was a Todd 
Pletcher-trained horse.  He was very happy with the way he ran, the horse 
really tried hard to put in a great race.  Each time Ramon asked for more 
the horse was able to give it to him.  He was able to track around the 
inside most of the way.  A very good result.  (he paid $50 to place).

Rob Roy: fifth.
Rob Roy also ran very well.  He completely miss the break, and broke very 
flat, this was very unfortunate.  All his past performances suggested he 
needed to be closer to the pace.  Despite this he came charging down the 
lane, he finished fifth, but was probably only beaten a half a length for 
second.  It is likely the break cost him a second place finish.

Better Talk Now: second.
He ran an awesome race.  He relaxed well early like he has been doing all 
year.  He ran huge.  He had an excellent trip, and coming down the lane he 
really dug in.  Turning for home I did not think we had a chance to win.  
At the eighth pole I then thought we did have a chance to win.  The other 
horse was able to pull out a little extra when we got close to him.  It 
was a great race.

Overall I had a great day.  That night I needed to get to bed early, the 
following morning drive to Cincinatti airport and fly back to ride at 
Delaware Park on sunday.

I asked Ramon if he had yet to ride on a synthetic track (Keeneland etc.)  
While he had not, he had heard nothing but good things about the surface 
from all those he had spoken to about the new tracks.  No kickback, more 
consistent footing, keeping horses more sound etc.  

Thanks Ramon for everything. A class guy, and second leading rider in the 
country!

Update 1000: A great NPR interview with Dr. Richardson: Barbaro's 
Cast Removed; Recovery Continues.  

I am sure the Barbaro update this morning will be delayed.  Its raining 
pretty hard outside so I am anticipating a morning of shedrowing.  If that 
is the case, I will stop by Michael Matz's barn once they are done to get 
the update.

This Racing Post article by David Ashforth is very interesting in the wake 
of the Breeders' Cup:  
Polytrack could be the way forward at future Cups (Thanks Sue McMullen 
for finding it).  It mentions that Churchill Downs may be looking at 
Synthetic tracks.  Here is an excerpt:

Steve Sexton, president of Churchill Downs, explained the racetrack's 
position on Polytrack and other synthetic surfaces. He said: "Polytrack 
looks like a surface that is working out well.

We would like to see how it performs in a summer climate because we race 
here quite a lot during the hot summer months. We may get the chance when 
Hollywood Park races on Cushion Track next spring and summer.

"We also want to see how these synthetic surfaces react over time. Do the 
components sustain over a period of time? So we want to look for at least 
one year. If it is still performing as well as it seems to be at the 
moment, then we will give it very serious consideration. Safety is number 
one. If we can, we want better conditions for horses and riders. 
California may give us an indication of which way to go."

Update 999: I just spoke to Peter, who had heard from Michael, who visited 
Barbaro this afternoon.  All remains well.

Michael's take on the eclipse awards: Matz: 
Bernardini still deserves title.  An excerpt:

"I'm obviously prejudiced, but I think it would probably be a little hard 
for them to give Barbaro champion 3-year-old and not Bernardini," Matz 
said. "It'd be nice if they could be joint 3-year-old champions, but I 
don't know if that could be possible and I don't think you could give 
Bernardini nothing for campaigning all year. Bernardini campaigned all 
year. He was second to Invasor; it wasn't like he ran a bad race."

Update 998: Barbaro radiographs taken on November 7 (cast removal) are now 
online: Barbaro 
Photo Album

Update 997: A quick update on Mike Rea from his sister: FINALLY 
- AN UPDATE FROM CATHY.  It appears he and Tammy were runners up for 
the White Horse Award, so congrats!  It would be great to help push Mike's 
Homemaker Petition: here is a hard 
copy, you can also sign online at the bottom of Mike's site.  

Update 996: I have been waiting to see if the sythetic track discussion 
would be accelerated by the tragic loss of Pine Island and injury of Fleet 
Indian.  Andrew Beyer seems to think so: Breakdowns 
to Sharpen Surface Debate.  

I hear they have packed down the Cushion Track at Hollywood Park, I guess 
to get better times.    I am really not sure why we are obsessed with 
times.  When I was in england, I had no clue how fast races were being 
run!

Update 995: An article that illustrates how tough it is for Pine Island's 
owners to have see her succumb to tragedy when their hopeful expections 
were to emulate other horses they have owned, and win another Breeders' 
Cup: Breeders' 
tragedy hits Phipps hard.  The article also connects Phipps to Michael 
Matz, I am guessing the horse they are referring to is Dancinginmydreams.

Update 994: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (monday 
night).  I walked to the track with Michael Matz's set while on my fourth 
horse.  Michael had heard from Dr. Richardson.    Michael also visited 
Barbaro last night after racing at Delaware.  He was happy with how 
Barbaro was handling his new legware.  There was certainly an upbeat mood 
as we walked to the track.  

It was a lovely crisp morning again this morning at Fair Hill, with a 
crimson sunrise.  Barclay Tagg is here, and seeing him, Michael and Graham 
Motion in the clocker's stand makes you realise that perhaps Fair Hill is 
the place to be!  
update 8:40 am, tuesday, november 7

Update 993: Pine Island was buried at her home in a quiet ceremony: Pine Island Buried 
Monday at Claiborne Farm.

A Japanese one-two finish in the Melbourne Cup: Delta 
Blues holds off stablemate to win Melbourne Cup.  Sue McMullen sent 
this report:

You've really got to hand it to the Japanese. They keep bringing their 
horses out of Japan and taking on the best. With Deep Impact so unlucky in 
this year's Arc and Heart's Cry running a blinder in the King George at 
Ascot, they've now hit the jackpot with an incredible one-two at the 
Melbourne Cup, with Delta Blues first and Pop Rock second. Both horses are 
trained by the same man, Katsuhiko Sumii, and Delta's jockey,Yasunari 
Iwata had never ridden before in Australia, which is another amazing 
feature of this victory.
 
It will come as little surprise that both horses carry the blood of the 
horse that put Japan on the racing map, whose untimely death rocked their 
bloodstock industry. Delta Blues is by Dance In The Dark, who is by the 
one and only Sunday Silence. And Pop Rock is out of Pops, a Sunday Silence 
mare. What a great tribute all these horses pay the great one himself.
 
This is a very important victory for Japan and will be celebrated for a 
long time. Yasunare Iwata had tears streaming down his face when he was 
led back and there would have been plenty more tears shed in Japan.
 
Yeats finished seventh, having missed the kick, but Kieren Fallon reported 
that having experienced the race for himself he realises they had the 
wrong horse for the Melbourne Cup as that type of race is run very 
differently to a European race. The best European finisher was 
Land'N'Stars who finished fifth, having showed his usual fighting spirit 
and a very proud trainer Jamie Poulton says he might return next year.  

Update 992: A couple of reports from the Breeders' Cup.  The first from 
Julia B (timestamp 11:25 pm) includes the following excerpt:

Guess who came up to me and asked about Barbaro - Lillian Prado - she just 
walked up to us on the way out of Churchill with her kids and liked our 
Barbaro sign - got to meet them and she showed me a picture of Barbaro 
kissing Edgar ! I was so excited ! I asked her for her autograph and she 
was tickled !! She is a beautiful lady and very kind !

The second from Debbie B. (timestamp: 12:19 pm) includes the following 
excerpt:

The races were a mixed bag of nuts. A lot of the favorites did not win and 
I bet them. The betting lines were crazy long. I was really hoping for a 
safe race for all, that was not to be. I was so happy for Ouija Board, 
Film Maker, Better Talk Now and Premium Tap. Most especially to Round 
Pond!! I wish that Berni had a better ride. I wonder if Alex is correct 
about the ride he got, what a shame if so. He was so great to watch in 
action. Invasor is incredible, they both looked amazing. I was very happy 
that George did not have a bad race. Glad to see that Giacomo is retiring, 
wish that Perfect Drift was going to be as well.

For me, I had a lot of fun meeting quite a few "Fans of Barbaro".  

Update 991: New Bolton's update on today's cast: Barbaro's 
cast removed today:

Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro's right hind leg cast was removed today, 
according to his medical team. "Barbaro was placed under general 
anesthesia for the cast removal," said Dr. Dean W. Richardson, Chief of 
Surgery. "In addition, his foot was trimmed and a new shoe glued on. A 
padded bandage with plastic and fiberglass splints was placed on his lower 
limb for support."

Barbaro's lower right hind leg had been in a cast since surgery at Penn's 
George D. Widener Hospital following his accident at the Preakness on May 
20. "He had a perfect pool recovery and immediately stood; he walked 
easily back to his stall," said Dr. Richardson. "He used all of his legs 
quite well."

Barbaro's left hind foot, which had laminitis, was also fully evaluated 
while he was under anesthesia. "There are no signs of new problems with 
that foot, but the hoof needs several more months of growth before we will 
know how much foot structure and function will be recovered," said Dr. 
Richardson.

The next update will be posted on Tuesday, November 14, unless there is a 
significant change in Barbaro's condition. 

Update 990: I just spoke to Mrs. Jackson.  She told me that Barbaro had 
his cast replaced today (I did not ask what with) and all was well with 
the process (pool recovery etc.)  She was pretty upbeat about it.  I 
assume more details will be forthcoming in the New Bolton release 
tomorrow!

Update 989: Sue McMullen sent this e-mail that previews the European and 
Japanese runners for tuesday's running of the Melbourne Cup:

First run in 1861, the two mile Group 1 Melbourne Cup, at Flemington Park,  
is an institution in Australia and a national holiday. Here's a brief word 
on some of the European and Japanese challengers.

It will be a very emotional victory for Coolmore if Yeats wins the race 
that 'stops a nation', not only because of their disappointing performance 
at the Breeders' Cup, but due to Kieren Fallon's ongoing problems. 
Currently banned from riding in the UK and France, awaiting trial for 
alleged race fixing, Fallon told The Times newspaper that if his trial is 
not resolved by the start of next year's Flat season, he will  have no 
choice but to retire as Ballydoyle will be forced to replace  him as 
senior jockey. Without that job, giving him access to top horses in all 
the top races, he would be confined to riding in Ireland and that just 
isn't enough for a man who has ridden at the top level in the UK and 
around the world. Fallon opted not to apply for a licence to ride at the 
BC and headed straight for Australia where he has been helping to prepare 
Yeats for tomorrow's mission, an unusal situation for a jockey as they 
usually fly in very close to the race. Yeats is reported to be in good 
form and Fallon is keeping quiet about how he will ride the race, whether 
to be up with the pace or ride for a closing finish. Some believe Yeats is 
a stayer and too slow for the Melbourne Cup but Fallon insists that as a 
Group 1 winner over a mile and half, he has both speed and stamina. He is 
regarded as Europe's best hope in the race.

Geordieland will be ridden by Frankie Dettori, bubbling with confidence 
after his BC double and trainer Jamie Osborne is hopeful of a big run from 
the five-year-old. Another British contender Glistening, trained by Luca 
Cumani, has been given the worst draw in the race, 24 of 24, but is in 
good form.

Despite finishing last in the Caulfield Cup, Jamie Poulton says 
Land'N'Stars should do better over the longer trip and wider track and 
that Caulfield came a bit soon after his trip to Australia. Locals have 
dismissed him as a complete outsider but Poulton says his horse loves a 
fight and if it becomes a test of stamina he will give a good account of 
himself.

The two Japanese contenders Pop Rock and Delta Blues are reported to be in 
good form but the latter's jockey, Yasunari Iwata, has never ridden in 
Australia and that would be a concern for punters. Pop Rock attempts the 
trip for the first time but was staying on well at Caulfield, which 
suggests this distance won't inconvenience him. David Hayes, trainer of 
Caulfield Cup winner Tawqeet, owned by Sheikh Hamdan, says he wouldn't 
swop him for anything else in the race. Efficient attempts to become the 
first three year-old to win since 1941 and on just his seventh run.   

Here is additional coverage from the Sportinglife:
AUSSIES 
FEAR YEATS, and the final list of the twenty four runners: Final 
field with barriers for 2006 Emirates Melbourne Cup.

I went to the Melbourne Cup a few years ago when Makybe Diva won her first 
cup.  It was a fantastic day of racing.  The race has a deep traditional, 
and is known as the 'race that stops a nation' as everyone in Australia 
pays attention and enjoys the festivities and has a bet. I think the same 
can be pretty much said for those in New Zealand too!

The US has yet to send a horse over to compete in this race.  A few 
possible reasons ... two miles is very long for US horses, the potential 
to receive a high handicap weight, and the logistics of being there so 
close after the Breeders' Cup (i.e. if you have a good horse, you will 
need to forgo a run in the Breeders' Cup Turf).  Better Talk Now was being 
seriously considered for this race.   Ultimately they decided not to go, 
and run a race in Canada and then the Breeders' Cup Turf instead.  That 
decision is looking very good now.  

Update 988: Sue McMullen sent this report of the European runners in the 
Breeders' Cup and some additional European perspective:

What can one say about Ouija Board? Following her second victory in the 
Filly and Mare, she is reported to have come out of the race very well, 
ate up on Saturday night and now heads for Japan. As stated here last 
week, her wellbeing is of paramount importance and although they plan to 
retire her after Hong Kong in December, they will take it a day at a time. 
It might be worth a brief mention that her immensely proud owner Lord 
Derby is a class act and not because of his title. It takes more than that 
nowadays to earn respect and 'Teddy' as he is known to his friends is held 
in huge regard by the media here. Some owners of top horses hog the 
limelight, as if they are the ones up before dawn, mucking out, grooming, 
exercising and training the horse. But Lord Derby has continually stood 
apart, praising the efforts of the team at Ed Dunlop's and most of all, 
his cherished mare who he is so proud to have followed around the world, 
always in her shadow and sharing her victories with her many fans.

Turf hero Red Rocks will head to Dubai for the Sheema Classic in March and 
another prime target for next year will be to defend his title at the BC. 
Hurricane Run's performance underlined concerns that Churchill wouldn't 
suit him as jockey Christophe Soumillon reported the horse struggled to 
keep himself balanced on the turns. A tall horse, Hurricane needs long 
stretches to show his best, but it is also possible he is now over the top 
as he has struggled to regain winning form after his King George victory 
at Ascot, although it is also true that he has been unlucky at times.

The Mile was a disaster for the Euro camp. Favourite Araafa ran no race at 
all and felt flat according to John Valazquez. The real hard luck story of 
the race was poor Rob Roy, who has been dogged with back luck all year. 
Despite missing the break, Rob Roy was a fast finishing fifth, from dead 
last turning into the stretch. A frustrated Sir Michael Stoute blamed the 
poor start on the presence of an attendant in the gate. Our horses are not 
used to this and Sir Michael had personally requested that the horse be 
left alone. The Ballydoyle horses failed to show their best and the 
Godolphin pair were very disappointing.

Juvenile filly Satulagi appeared to hate the kickback and ran flat. She's 
had a hard season but it's probably also fair to say she was punching 
above her weight in that company.

Ballydoyle reported satisfaction with George's sixth in the Classic, on a 
surface that was totally  new to him. It is testimony to his aggressive 
approach to racing that he tried his best on what must have felt so alien 
underfoot. He showed his customary reluctance to load into the gate, but 
it was a shame to see him dragged by the ear. David Junior finished stiff 
and sore from the race, in which he didn't show his usual zeal and now 
heads to stud in Japan. A great 1-2 for the Maktoum family, who are as 
much a part of our racing scene here as Newmarket itself, but they have 
apparently been subject to criticism by one leading US racewriter 
complaining they just buy everything and could ruin the sport. We heard 
similar views here years ago but they are now integral to our racing and 
it's worth making a couple of points. They have pioneered keeping horses 
in training when the custom for many years was to whisk top horses off to 
stud as quickly as possible. They are great sportsmen and never shirk a 
challenge and whilst they sometimes try to buy the best, they are 
sometimes turned down. Money doesn't always buy everything. Plus this year 
we have seen many 'small' owners winning top prizes and Godolphin hasn't 
done so well. Racing is cyclical, that's the beauty of it and I'm sure the 
Maktoums presence in the US will enhance the sport, not detract from it. 
But they certainly don't need me to defend them.

Having said they keep horses in training it is therefore surprising that 
having run second in the Classic, Bernadini is set to retire. This is a 
great pity as it would have been wonderful to see him next year. He didn't 
have the best run of the race and was possibly unlucky but you can't take 
anything away from Invasor and, at risk of sounding like the Maktoum PR 
officer, Sheikh Hamdam is a kind, gentle individual who has done so much 
for the sport.

Another memorable Breeders' Cup but marred by the tragic death of Pine 
Island. Let us hope this will add fuel to the gathering momentum for track 
changes in the US. Aside from the unkind nature of this surface, we were 
of the opinion here that there was a track bias, which favoured the rail, 
and there are surely questions to be answered.

Update 987: Another comfortable night for Barbaro last night (sunday 
night). I saw Michael Matz as I was going to the track on my third set. A 
beautiful, crisp morning this morning here at Fair Hill. The moon provided 
a nice source of light for the first set at quarter of six. Right now I am 
walking back from the track on my third set, a horse I just broke from the 
gate to get his gate card. 

Michael returned from Kentucky yesterday and visited Barbaro in the 
evening. He was happy with how Bobby was doing. 

Round Pond has also returned from Kentucky and Michael said that as soon 
as the sun is up, she'll be turned out in the paddock.
(monday November 6th 7:20am)

Update 986: The Barbaro update this morning may come at anytime.  I say 
this because I think Michael Matz flew back from the Breeders' Cup 
yesterday, so is likely going to be in Fair Hill this morning.  I would 
not anticipate it coming too early though.

For extensive Breeders' Cup coverage you can visit one of the big three 
online racing media:

Daily Racing Form
Bloodhorse
Thoroughbred Times

I am also hoping to hear from Sue McMullen sometime today for a review of 
the European runners, as well as a preview for the Melbourne 
Cup (Tawqeet 
Favored to Win Melbourne Cup Ahead of Northern Raiders and Foreigners 
hoping to steal Melbourne Cup), which is tomorrow (or actually later 
today I guess).  

Update 985: jfrank17 has posted a lovely Tribute to Pine 
Island.

Alie, from Kennett Florist left this comment (timestamp: 12:12 am):

It was a great day in Kennett Square. We just got home from Erin’s 
fundraiser. And I am happy to report. Thanks to help from many of you. We 
raise 19,568.00 for Erin & her family, today. We are all beat. But it was 
worth it. Thank you all so much. Anne & Terry are beyond words.
Also Rach received a call from her doctor at the benefit. She is now in 
the hospital. No measurable trace of iron in her blood. She is getting a 
transfusion. I will keep you up to date.
Good night & God Bless.
Alie
KF
P.S. Peg thanks for driving down to help us. Hope you got home safely.

I am now home.  Thank you again!  

Update 984: Peter Brette visited Barbaro this afternoon. Dean Richardson 
had already taken him out for his pick of grass so Peter just groomed him 
and changed his bandages. Another upbeat report. As we heard from the 
press coverage late last week, they are planning to replace Barbaro's cast 
likely early this coming week.

I'm on my way back home from the Philadelphia airport. Thankfully, US Air 
honored my November 6th ticket for November 5th...apparently I had booked 
the wrong date and was oblivious to this until I'd arrived at the airport!

Update 983: Another comfortable night for Barbaro last night (saturday). I 
just spoke to Peter Brette who had heard from Michael Matz. Peter may be 
visiting Bobby later today so I'll try to catch up with him after I land 
in Philadelphia. 

I went over to the backside this morning to check on the Fair Hill 
contingent (Round Pond, Better Talk Now, and Film Maker). All three looked 
very relaxed in their respective stalls, munching on hay from their hay 
nets hung by their doors. I hung out with Raphael who works for Graham 
Motion for a few minutes. So all looks well after their great performances 
yesterday.

I do think this might have been Film Maker's last race. Her Breeders Cup 
record of two seconds and a third is outstanding. It's just unfortunate 
for her that she ran in the era of Ouija Board. I think it's fair to say 
that Ouija Board is the best mare to have raced in many, many years. Good 
luck to her in her final starts this year in Asia. 

I'm now in the airport waiting to come home. (sunday 11:45am).

Update 982: The morning after the Breeders' Cup.  I am planning to go to 
the backside and try to catch up with the Fair Hill horses.  Last night I 
caught up with Steve Willard and hung out with Giacomo, who is now retired 
to stud.  He looked great after the race, not a care in the world.  I also 
watched Premium Tap getting his bath after his race.  I asked his 
connections about his tongue habit.  Apparently he carries his tongue out 
all the time!  I also saw Invasor and Bernardini cooling out.  This 
morning Calvin Borel, who won on Street Sense, was first out galloping at 
six this morning.  I guess after winning one of your biggest races, its 
work as usual the next day for Calvin.

It was a great day of racing yesterday, and of course Fair Hill really 
showed itself well on the national stage.  Pine Island's tragic accident 
is a stark reminder racing in this country has a long way to go in terms 
of investing in horse safety, to become an attractive sport.  As a 
horseman, you can never get used to seeing a horse lose its life doing 
what it is doing.  

I will try to get a Barbaro update later this morning before I fly out.

Update 981: We are operating on the assumption, as always, that no news is 
good news. Alex didn't get a Barbaro update this evening...understandably 
with the Breeders Cup today but likely all is well. Alex will have lots 
more news regarding his day at the races when he gets back tomorrow. 

Update 980: A great win in the Breeders Cup Classic by Invasor. However, I 
was severely disappointed with the ride Bernardini got. It looked like 
Castellano panicked and he went too soon. It's a shame if this is 
Bernardini's last race...going out on what appeared to be nothing more 
than a jockey error. 

I just walked over to the backside with Invasor and am stood outside the 
receiving barn. I saw and congratulated Lord Derby on his nice win today 
(Ouija Board). I also saw John Sherrifs and congatulated him on Giacomo's 
nice fourth. A great day of racing that was tragically marred by Pine 
Island's fate. I am very grateful to everybody who made this possible for 
me. Thank you.

Update 979: Better Talk Now, clearly the most underrated horse in North 
America, showed that he is the real deal just getting beaten by Red Rocks. 
Another great ride from Ramon Dominguez who must have thought he had the 
race won at the quarter pole but Red Rocks is the real deal too. Just 
stood at the paddock waiting for Bernardini and those who wish to 
challenge him.

Update 978: A brilliant win by Round Pond but obviously, hearts go out to 
Pine Island and all her connections.

Update 977: A great ride by Ramon Dominguez second in the Sprint on 
Friendly Island, his first ride on the horse. Clearly no one was going to 
beat the winner but a nice result for Ramon.

Update 976: Great tickets at the Breeders Cup! Just been screaming and 
hollaring Ouija Board and Film Maker down the lane. It's a shame one of 
them had to beat the other...two world class mares. Maybe I can start to 
forgive Frankie for his terrible ride on Swane.

Update 975: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (friday 
night). I spoke with Peter Brette who had heard from Michael Matz this 
morning.
I am just now walking into Churchill Downs for the Breeders Cup. 
Absolutely gorgeous day- a little crisp but excellent horse racing 
weather. Anticipating probably the best day of racing I have witnessed 
since Sunday Silence beat Easy Goer in the 1988 Breeders Cup Classic. I am 
psyched ! (saturday 11:45am)

Update 974: A short article with a nice picture of Redaspen's 
win last night in the Navajo Princess Stake.  She cooled out well and 
went home for a few days to her farm.  

Update 973: Tim's horse Redaspen won a nice stake race last night at the 
Meadowlands. Congrats Tim! Barbaro update will be later today as has been 
routine lately.

Update 972: Peter Brette visited barbaro today (friday) and all remains 
well. An upbeat report.
I just arrived in Louisville, KY and am waiting for my host, Bob, to come 
pick me up at the airport. Really looking forward to tomorrow. (friday 
6:10pm)

Update 971: Another comfortable night for Barbaro last night (Thursday 
night). I just spoke to Peter Brette. Peter may visit Barbaro later today 
so I'll try to catch up with him again for another update.
friday 12:55pm

Update 970: Just caught up with Doug O'Neill, trainer of Lava Man. I asked 
him:

Me: Why did you come to Kentucky early and your thoughts on the Polytrack 
at Keeneland and how Lava Man is doing:
Doug: I wanted to get the plane ride out of the way.  I wanted to get Lava 
Man settled.  He had trained in California on the Cushion Track and he was 
happy training on that surface so it made sense to train on the Polytrack.  
He worked really well over it.  Lava Man could not be doing any better 
right now.  His typical training routine is to jog a mile and gallop about 
a mile and a half.

Me: Thoughts on the Classic:
Doug: Many people are calling it a two horse race, but I think it is wide 
open.  Lawyer Ron has a huge chance.  The turf miler from europe (George 
Washington) scares me, this is a much deeper field that people give 
credit.

Me: What is it like to train a horse like Lava Man?
Doug: Its great being around a champion.  He does something special all 
the time, every time you lead him over there.  Everyone wishes they would 
have a horse like this.

Me: On Barbaro
Doug: It was obviously very unfortunate, but Barbaro has really brought a 
lot of good to the sport.  Many people now looking at racing can see we 
are caring people, and technology has really moved forward.  

Me: Thanks
Doug: Say high to Andy for me.

Note Andy Durnin provided me Doug's cell phone number (and Steve 
Willard's, Gary Steven's etc. etc.).

Update 969: Eight horses ridden.  Now waiting for the shuttle to the 
airport, flight to Pittsburg and then on to Louisville, to arrive about 6 
pm.

Sue McMullen sent this e-mail:

It would be unfair to omit French filly Germance (Christophe Soumillon) 
who slipped under the radar for my preview of Euro runners as she was 
already in the US, having shipped from Keeneland after her fourth to 
Vacare in the Queen Elizabeth Challenge Cup. Trained by Jean-Claude Rouget 
the Silver Hawk filly is very good, winning five of her starts this year 
including a Group 1 at Longchamp but she will need to improve to get past 
an in-form Ouija. Reports on the latter are bullish as she is doing very 
well at Churchill but they  have taken each race at a time with her 
waiting for her to show that she's had enough of a long season shuttling 
around the world and some hard battles. Trainer Ed Dunlop this week told 
journalists who expressed these fears that she is "no ordinary horse." 

A final word on our 'Gorgeous George', Aiden O'Brien this week told 
journalists at a press conference that they believe they have absolutely 
nothing to lose going for the Classic as they would have expected George 
to win the Mile. With the absence of Barbaro it would be wonderful if 
George can overcome everything and reproduce his talent on the dirt and 
able to take on Bernadini. What a race that could be. 

Update 968: Lots of articles, in no particular order. 

 
Racing: Shadow of Barbaro stalks Bernardini's march to greatness
Meaningful 
win for Matz, Prado
Bernardini 
awaiting his biggest challenge
Bernardini 
Still In Barbaro's Shadow
Matz's 
return trip already a winner
A 
dark day Matz can't forget
Michael 
Matz wishes Barbaro could be here

I may have one more short interview before I leave for the Breeders' Cup.  
The Barbaro update will be later this morning - early after, and I will 
continue to post Barbaro updates as I have them while in Kentucky.

Update 967: Just spoke to Peter Brette.  He was busy in the barn today,  
so was unable to visit Barbaro. Sue Danner visited in his place.  While 
Peter had not heard, he had just spoken to Michael so assumes all is well.  
They just had a nice stakes winner at Churchill, which Peter was pretty 
psyched about.  Sangarita, a really nice filly.  Oddly enough my Breeders' 
Cup host had $50 on her to win!

I asked Peter about Round Pond's chances on saturday.  He reported that 
they are really happy with the way she is doing.  The draw (close to the 
inside) is not ideal, but Peter says she should make a very strong 
showing.  Peter's Breeders' Cup Classic pick: Bernardini, although he has 
heard they do really like George Washington (Aiden O'Brien's crew).   

Update 966: I just spoke to Lisa Davison.  Both Better Talk Now and Film 
Maker galloped about a mile and five-eighths / a mile and three quarters 
today.  She said that while the turf was soft (they were off the turf this 
afternoon at the races) she thinks it may dry to good by race day.  Both 
horses went well and she says that neither could be doing any better right 
now.  Both will likely have the same training routine tomorrow.

Lisa said she saw Bernardini, Ouija Board and Lava Man on the track today.  
They all looked great.  I asked Lisa for her Classic pick: Bernardini (who 
knew ?)  She likes Invasor as a possible upset.

I had e-mailed Michael Dickinson on another matter (track surfaces) and 
asked for his Classic pick: Bernardini!

Update 965: A new update from new Bolton:  
Barbaro's cast may be removed soon which confirms reports we heard 
from the press this morning:

Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro's right hind leg cast may be removed soon, 
according to his medical team at the George D. Widener Hospital at New 
Bolton Center. "Barbaro had radiographs taken through his fiberglass cast 
on November 1," said Dr. Dean W. Richardson, Chief of Surgery. "The 
healing appears substantial enough that we plan to remove his cast and 
replace it with a splinted bandage some time next week." Barbaro has been 
in a cast since surgery at the hospital following his accident at the 
Preakness on May 20.

"We'll decide whether to remove the cast while Barbaro is under general 
anesthesia, after we evaluate additional radiographs," said Dr. 
Richardson. "If we change the cast, it will be done under general 
anesthesia, followed by another pool recovery."

The next update will be posted on Tuesday, November 7, unless there is a 
significant change in Barbaro's condition.

Update 964: I just caught up with Gary Stevens who many would regard as 
one of the best jockeys in North America over the last twenty years.  He 
also rode for a short while in Europe.  Here are Gary's thoughts on 
synthetic tracks, Barbaro and the Breeders' Cup.

On synthetic racetracks:
This may be the saviour to racing here in America given what we have seen 
in the brief introduction we have had so far from meets at Turfway Park, 
Keeneland and now beginning at Hollywood Park.  It seems to show that 
speed is not as important as stamina, and our over focus on speed has not 
been good for racing.  More of a focus on stamina has to be a good thing.  

On Barbaro:
The story is still heartbreaking.  My hat goes off to his owners, the 
vets, Michael Matz and his staff, everyone around this horse.  It is very 
unfortunate to happen to any horse, but to happen to Barbaro, on the 
national stage,  it was awful.  This year we have had two exceptional 
horses (Barbaro and Bernardini), I would love to have seen them face each 
other in the Breeders' Cup Classic.  It would simply have been a great 
rivalry, and great for our sport.  I couldn't pick one over the other.  
The performance of Barbaro in the Kentucky Derby was as good as a 
performance as I have ever seen.

Biggest Breeders' Cup Moment:
First win aboard In the Wings in 1990

Breeders' Cup Classic Pick:
Bernardini 

Update 963: I just caught up with Steve Willard (Giacomo) and Joe Deegan 
(Perfect Drift).

Steve: Giacomo is in terrific form.  He went to the shute today, jogged 
around for a while.  When on the track he jogged to the 3/4 pole, turned 
in and stood.  He then galloped a mile and three quarters.  Steve is 
extremely happy with the way he is doing.  Giacomo was taking a nice hold, 
pulling Steve without being out of control.  Likely his training will be 
similar tomorrow.

Joe: Perfect Drift is also in good form.  Joe let him stretch his legs a 
little, not quite at an open gallop.    This afternoon he is coming over 
to Churchill Downs to "paddock school" (he is based at the Sports 
Spectrum, which is close to Churchill).  He will train at the Sports 
Spectrum tomorrow and then ship to Churchill after training.  Joe figures 
Perfect Drift is ready for a big effort.

Me: The race will have plenty of speed up front (Brother Derek, Suave, 
with Bernardini within 3 - 4 lengths).  This sets up well for both these 
horses, Giacomo and Perfect Drift.  I want to thank Steve and Joe for 
their pre-Breeders' Cup insights.  I will follow up with both post 
Breeders' Cup with their thoughts on the big race.

Update 962: Barbaro has been nominated for Performance of the Year award 
by SouthernSportsAwards.com.  
I am sure Barbaro would appreciate your vote!

Update 961: A quick review of the awards dinner last night for "Team 
Barbaro": Team 
Barbaro, Richardson, Crist Honored at NTWA Dinner.  The following is 
an excerpt:

Upon accepting the award, Roy Jackson joked that Barbaro had asked him to 
make some remarks on his behalf. "He wants to first honor you men and 
women of the press for your honest and straightforward reporting of this 
whole event. You've done a great service to the racing industry," Jackson 
said, citing the subjects of laminitis and the anti-slaughter bill.

"Barbaro also wants to thank the multitude of people that sent notes, 
carrots, you name it," he continued. "Lastly, he wanted to thank Dean 
Richardson and the whole staff at New Bolton for the care they've given 
him."

Update 960: Another comfortable night last night (wednesday night) for 
Barbaro.  I just spoke to Peter Brette, who had heard from Michael.

Ramon Dominguez just called from Kentucky.  This morning he rode Rob Roy 
for the first time, one of his three mounts for saturday.  He galloped him 
on the turf and let him blow out 3/8ths of a mile.  He was very happy with 
him, he went very easily, he was relaxed and then eager when asked.  Ramon 
did note the turf was pretty soft and likely by saturday the turf will be 
soft, or good at best.  This is not really drying weather.  This type of 
turf should suite both Rob Roy and Better Talk Now.  Ramon met Sir Michael 
Stoute for the first time today (Rob Roy's trainer).

Ramon did not ride Better Talk Now today, but is looking forward to a good 
ride on saturday (While Ramon has ridden Better Talk Now many times in 
races, Lisa always gallops him etc).  He should like the distance, the 
ground and hopefully will get an eager pace up front.  If that happens he 
has to have a chance.  He is never given the respect he deserves, and has 
won this race before.  

Ramon also did not ride Friendly Island, and has not partnered this horse, 
so saturday will be the first time.  Ramon is used to riding horses for 
the first time in big races.  As long as he handicap's the race well, that 
is usually all the preparation a top jockey needs.

I asked Ramon what it was like to ride on the biggest day of racing.  He 
said that he tries to keep things normal.  He obviously gets a little 
"pumped up" but that is a good thing.  It is important for a jockey to 
deal with any pressure well, because if they don't it can directly effect 
the horses he is riding.  Ramon said on saturday morning he will go to the 
barn area and meet with the trainers of his horses.  He will discuss 
tactics then so as not to leave everything to the last minute in the 
paddock.  In the meantime, Ramon is flying to New York to ride Aqueduct's 
friday card.

Update 959: No update yet this morning (as has been typical this week) but 
news last night from the awards dinner suggests they are contemplating 
removing Barbaro's cast and replacing it with a splint: Barbaro's 
vet says cast on injured leg could come off next week, excerpt:

Dr. Dean Richardson said Wednesday night that Barbaro has been walking so 
well lately, that "we're probably going to be removing the cast next 
week."

The cast would be replaced by a splinted bandage. The 3-year-old colt's 
left hind foot continues to grow back after 80% of the hoof was removed 
when laminitis struck in mid-July.

"He still does not have a normal left hind foot," Richardson said. "He 
still needs a normal hind foot before he can live a normal life as a 
horse. He still has a long way to go."

I caught up with Barclay Tagg briefly.  Showing Up is preparing for the 
Hollywood Derby (November 26) and NoBiz for the Remsen (November 25).  
Both are doing well.  Funny Cide is having a couple of months off, and 
will be brought back to the races in the winter.  I asked Barclay for his 
Breeders' Cup Classic prediction, no question, Bernardini!

Update 958:  The Barbaro update will again be later this morning.

Tragedy has struck during preparations for the Melbourne Cup (tuesday, televised on 
HRTV), Sue McMullen sent this e-mail:

A sad reminder that we are never far from tradedy with our racehorses. 
Tragedy has struck the Melbourne Cup, following news that UK trainer David 
Elsworth's contender Wunderwood had to be euthanised ater a training 
incident in which he sustained multiple fractures to his pastern during a 
warm up for a gallop at Mornington racececourse. Initially it was thought 
he'd merely pulled off a shoe but it soon became apparent that the damage 
was much worse and they had little choice but to end his suffering as he 
was in a lot of pain.

A distraught David Elseworth told www.racingvictoria.net.au: "It's the 
worst kind of thing that can happen. We live with these horses and we get 
very close to them. It's upsetting and it's like losing a friend or a 
member of the family."

The new synthetic track at Hollywood Park was tested for the first time 
under racing conditions yesterday: Cushion Track 
Praised as Hollywood Opens, and looks to have been well received.  The 
following is an excerpt:

Trainer Richard Mandella has 32 stalls at Hollywood and is having to keep 
part of his large stable at Santa Anita. He said that not only does he 
like the new surface, he feels it is keeping jockeys from rushing horses 
early.

"It's obvious you don't want to let them go running off the first quarter 
for no good reason," Mandella said. "We've been doing that in California 
for too long, and it makes for boring racing and injury to the horses. I 
think that in itself is going to be a safety factor. Letting them get 
their legs under them and then get going, I think, is going to make for 
safer, more exciting racing."

Obviously Richard Mandella's words are high praise indeed for this type of 
racing surface.  While I have never raced on dirt, I have breezed many 
horses on it, and been on the losing end of many breezes. Having the dirt 
hit you in the face is really unpleasant, so I can see how jockeys will 
gladly change their racing tactics without the kickback.

Update 957: Sue McMullen provides this update on the european contingent 
for the Breeders' Cup:

A mixed reaction from the European camp following the post draw, but most 
of the major contenders have fared well, including Ouija Board (Frankie 
Dettori) who drew 2 in the Fillies and Mares. However, it is not the draw 
that is the worry now but the weather and trainer Ed Dunlop will be 
watching the skies over Churchill with some trepidation following today's 
rain and wintry conditions. While the mare will act on yielding going (she 
won at Lone Star on ground that was less than ideal for her) she does 
prefer fast ground so it is a concern. In contrast, her European opponent 
in the race, the French filly Satwa Queen (Thierry Thulliez), drew 9 and 
will relish the ground. In her most recent outing she ran second to useful 
filly Mandesha in the Prix de l'Opera at Longchamp and she is also fresh 
having been lightly raced this year, in contrast to Ouija Board who has 
had a hard season.  But even Satwa Queen's trainer Jeande Roualle 
acknowledges she is an outsider and unlikely to beat an in-form Ouija, who 
is a champion mare and he would be happy to finish second to her. Whether 
or not Ouija is beginning to feel the effects of a long season we will 
find out on Saturday.
 
Gorgeous George drew 4 for the Classic and goes eyeball to eyeball with 
Bernadini who drew 3, so he's got one heck of a pacemaker to aim for when 
he closes. Aiden O'Brien is sticking to the party line and insisting that 
if George can overcome just about every obstacle under the sun, he has the 
ability to pull it off as he is such a gifted horse. We all know how 
gifted he is but we also know that the nearest Danehills' get to dirt is 
crossing the track to reach the turf, but George won't know this and we're 
all hoping there's a first time. Most important of all, we want him back 
in one piece and after that, we don't want him to suffer the same 
humiliation as Dylan Thomas who just couldn't handle the dirt and trailed 
in last. This would be a sad end to the career of such an imperious 
individual and ironically, on a track that many in the US would like to 
see replaced. 
 
David Junior (Jamie Spencer) drew 7 in the Classic and following the 
change in weather, trainer Brian Meehan is fatalistic about the going 
conditions for both him and his Turf runner Red Rocks (Frankie 
Dettori).Trainers can do a great deal to prepare a horse, but they can't 
do anything about the weather.  David Junior has been schooling at home to 
help him break well from the gate, which is critical for this race, and 
they've even used a bell to get him used to the sound. Everything has gone 
according to plan for him since his arrival and it remains to be seen if 
his long layoff (not run since July) was inspired. He has little 
experience of dirt but he has it in his pedigree, which Brian Meehan has 
probably told him as part of his meticulous preparation. Red Rocks, from 9 
in the Turf, should be fine on easier ground and he might be taken around 
the bends prior to the race to familiarise him. 
 
The draw for the Turf is not quite so critical but Hurricane Run 
(Christophe Soumillon) nevertheless shortened in the betting when he drew 
7 and Ballydoyle's Scorpion (Mick Kinane) is in 4. 
 
Stan Moore's Juvenile Filly Satulagi (John Egan) drew 11, which isn't the 
best position but he remains hopeful as she is tough and experienced. She 
twice finished four lengths off two of Europe's best fillies this year so 
is some way short of that level, but she has credible form.  Expect to see 
her ridden from off the pace and although she won't be the first out of 
the gate the hope is that she will still be there battling down the 
stretch when those in front are fading. There had been some concern about 
her wellbeing, as although she travelled and settled in well, she hadn't 
eaten up properly which is always a concern with horses but once on the 
track she seemed happier and is reported to be in good form. She will 
school in the gate tomorrow and do a bit of gentle exercise on Friday, 
with friends of the trainer doing their utmost to prevent him wrapping her 
in vast sheets of cottonwool. The nerves are mounting now for his first 
runner in the BC. 
 
Europe's number one hope in the Mile, Araafa, was shortened here in the 
betting following news that he'd drawn 3, a good position and one favoured 
by his jockey John Valazquez who tried to get the ride on him when he 
found out just how good he is. His only concern is whether Araafa will 
handle the tight turns. Araafa has had to play bridesmaid to George and in 
any other season would have been a very worthy winner of two Guineas and a 
Champion Stakes, but he had the misfortune to contest his Classic season 
with the Gorgeous one and only beat him when George was injured in the 
Irish Guineas. But he is an extremely good horse, the best of the 
Europeans in this race, which according to Valazquez makes him the best 
horse in the race, so with luck in running he will take all the beating.
 
The Ballydoyle runners in the Mile haven't fared quite so well, with Ivan 
Denisovitch (Mike Kinane) not even getting in due to Super Frolic 
defecting from the Classic to the Mile and Aussie Rules (Garret Gomez) 
drawn out in the parking lot at 14. But Ad Valorem (Jamie Spencer) is on 
the rail having drawn 1. Godolphin expressed satisfaction with 9 for Echo 
of Light (Frankie Dettori) but were disappointed that Librettist 
(Christophe Soumillon) is out at 13. Sir Michael Stoute's Rob Roy is at 9 
and there will hopefully be news of him when Alex speaks to Ramon 
Dominguez. Rob Roy has been dogged with bad luck but ran a very big second 
to George in the Champion Stakes. John Gosden's Sleeping Indian (Alex 
Solis) is at number 4 and faces a very tough task in this field.
 
The Ballydoyle runners all arrived safely and are currently in isolation 
awaiting the results of blood tests, which is the normal procedure.
 
If anything significant occurs with the Euro runners between now and 
Saturday, I will update, but all being well, all go to post. The Breeders' 
Cup is always a rollercoaster of emotions, so highly charged it just grabs 
you by the throat from the minute it starts and there is nothing quite 
like it. On a personal note I am already a bag of nerves in anticipation. 
I wish everybody the very best of luck and most important, that every 
horse returns safe and sound.

A quick note from Jeannine Edwards, Hurricane Run looked really fantastic 
galloping in the slop this morning... floated over the track with great 
energy.

Update 956: I just spoke to Peter Brette who visited Barbaro this 
(wednesday) afternoon.  He took Barbaro out to graze, groomed him and 
changed his bandages.  Another upbeat report.

Update 955: Another Breeders' Cup inspired Barbaro article: Barbaro's 
influence won't go away.  Some of the quotes are familiar.  Michael 
does comment on Bernardini:

Matz will watch the Classic too, wondering what a race between Barbaro and 
Preakness winner Bernardini would have been like.

"You think about it, but it will never happen, so ..." he said. "It's sort 
of a shame that rivalry never took place, because I think it would have 
been a good one. I just think that after Bernardini got real good, there 
was really no one that could challenge him. Whether these older horses now 
can do that, we'll see on Saturday. I think he's a wonderful horse."

Barbaro will be in his intensive care stall in Pennsylvania, where 
get-well cards still arrive.

Bernie, from Kennett Florist left this comment (timestamp: 8:40 pm):

Hi everyone! I got back from NBC and everyone there was happy! I saw Dr. 
R. and he looked relaxed and happy. Barbaro is doing very well and 
everyone is upbeat.
A word on Rachel- she stopped in today briefly. everything is a little 
better and she plans to come back to work tomorrow, at least part time (we 
may kick her out early). Love to you all!

Update 954: The ESPN piece on Barbaro (Outside The Lines) was terrific.  
Hopefully it will appear on the internet.

History is being made today in California, as the Hollywood Park meet 
opens: New surface 
attracts Eastern trainers.  Lets hope the positive introduction at 
Keeneland is emulated in California.

Update 953: I caught up with Joe Deegan (Perfect Drift), Steve Willard 
(Giacomo) and Lisa Davison (Film Maker and Better Talk Now).

Joe Deegan: Perfect Drift continues to train well, it seems they could not 
be happier with him at this point.  He galloped today, and will likely do 
the same again tomorrow.  The track was not great (due to lots of rain) 
but other than that, no problems.  Its possible he may gallop a little 
stronger tomorrow, but it is something they will decide before training 
tomorrow.  His post draw of 6 is good.  It will allow his jockey to see 
the early part of the race while then settling Perfect Drift. 

Steve Willard: Giacomo was full of himself this morning, bucking and 
playing.  As a horse went by him he thought it was time to go, he galloped 
strong the first part of his gallop, then settled down.  An easy day for 
him, jogging a half a mile and galloping an easy mile.  This afternoon he 
"paddock schooled", he went over for the second race and walked around the 
paddock with the runners.  He was nice and relaxed.

Lisa Davison: Both horses (Better Talk Now and Film Maker) trained well 
this morning, on the turf, which Lisa rated as good-to-soft.  While rain 
has been hitting Churchill it is supposed to clear out later today.  That 
being said the turf is probably not likely to dry out too quickly / much.  
Some give in the ground may suite both horses.  Anyway, both Film Maker 
and Better Talk Now are doing well.  Lisa also noted Graham (Motion) is 
now in Kentucky.

Update 952: The fields have been drawn for the Breeders' Cup: Breeders' Cup: The Fields

Update 951: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (tuesday 
night).  I just spoke to Peter who had heard from Michael.  

Given the pending Breeders' Cup there seems to be an uptick in the media 
coverage of Barbaro.  This one is excellent: Remarkable 
Barbaro still beating the odds.  A must read, here is a small excerpt:

Earlier in his career, Prado had ridden regularly at Pimlico. As at most 
racetracks, everyone gets to know everyone, and Prado knew Dreyfuss.

"He was saying to me, 'Doctor, please save him. Do what you can, please 
save him,'" Dreyfuss recalled. 


Update 950: No Barbaro update yet, as usual for this time of the morning.

I just spoke with Ramon Dominguez, who is at the airport waiting to fly 
out to Kentucky.  He currently has three rides in the Breeders' Cup races.  
He rides Better Talk Now, Rob Roy (Sir Michael Stoute) and Friendly Island 
(Todd Pletcher).  He will get acquainted with Rob Roy tomorrow morning at 
Churchill when he will see him and gallop him for the first time.  He 
won't be riding Friendly Island before saturday (the Sprint race), and he 
won't gallop Better Talk Now either, Lisa always does that.  I will catch 
up with Ramon again tomorrow hopefully, after he has ridden Rob Roy and 
ask him how he likes each of his chances.  Ramon will be leaving Kentucky 
to ride at Aqueduct on friday before returning to Kentucky for the big 
races on saturday.

I did ask Ramon who he thought would win the Classic (Ramon does not have 
a ride).  He believes Bernardini is the real deal, and he seems to be 
improving with each race.  Ramon does have a soft spot for Invasor, who he 
rode to win the Pimlico Special.  Of course Invasor has been very 
consistent all year (and is Tim Woolley's pick). Lava Man has also been 
super consistent, but as Ramon noted, Lava Man's good form is all in 
California,  and there are question marks about him when he travels.

Update 949: Again the Barbaro update will likely be late this morning.

So this is why Mike Jensen was at Fair Hill a couple of mornings ago: The Quest.  
Looking to the future of the current crop of two year olds in the area.  
The article concludes:

"Dreams are free," said Peter Brette, Matz's assistant trainer, as he 
watched Chelokee graze after a morning gallop, "and this time of year, 
it's quite nice to have a nice crop of 2-year-olds."

The article mentions Barbaro's younger half-brother.  His older 
half-brother is now retired: Holy 
Ground, half brother to Barbaro, retired.

Don't forget, 3 pm east coast time, there will be a feature on Barbaro on 
"Inside the Lines" on ESPN.

Update 948: Peter did call, did visit Barbaro and Barbaro remains well.  
Peter took him out for a pick of grass, groomed him and changed his 
bandages.  Another upbeat report.

Update 947: It looks like no update tonight for Barbaro, likely due to 
Halloween (Peter is probably tricking and treating).  

A nice AP story: Matz 
Back at Scene of Barbaro's Triumph that includes the following 
excerpts:

One moment, Matz's voice breaks and tears well in his blue eyes as he 
talks about Barbaro, whose career ended with a devastating misstep in the 
Preakness. The Derby winner was supposed to be taking on Bernardini in the 
$5 million Classic on Saturday, with Horse of the Year honors at stake.

The next, Matz is composed and focused on saddling 4-year-old filly Round 
Pond in the $2 million Distaff.

"It's nice to be back having such fond memories from before," Matz said 
Tuesday, ducking inside the barn to escape rain drops. "I just hope we 
have the same results."

and

Barbaro will reunite his human handlers -- Matz, the Jacksons, Richardson 
and jockey Edgar Prado -- on Wednesday night when they're honored at the 
National Turf Writers Association awards dinner.

The Jacksons plan to attend, then return home and watch the Breeders' Cup 
on television.

"Coming back, it'll bring nothing but warm, good happy feelings," Gretchen 
Jackson said. "Once you've won an important race at a track, you feel like 
that track is always a part of your life."

Update 946: Lisa Davison just called to update us on Better Talk Now and 
Film Maker.  Yesterday they walked and then shipped to Churchill from 
Keeneland.  Today they galloped on the dirt track at Churchill, a light 
gallop.  Tomorrow they will train on the turf.  They both appear to have 
come out of their breeze on sunday in good order.  I asked Lisa how it was 
at Churchill, she said there were plenty of photographers!

The Daily Racing Form has the following article on Graham and Film Maker: 
Last chance for Film 
Maker to reach the top.  The following is an excerpt:

"I think Graham Motion is one of the fine young trainers, but he's one of 
the finest young men that I know," said Adam. "He's a great family man, a 
great father - he has all the traits I look for, and besides that, he's a 
heckuva horseman."

Update 945: Many of you have inquired how Sabina Pierce is doing after her 
accident.  Well here it is (comment timestamp: 7:05pm):

I just wanted to Thank YOu and all of the Fans of Barbaro for all their 
support while I convalese from my injuries from my riding accident during 
a x country event 2 weeks ago. All of the flowers, cards and gift baskets 
cheered me up immensely. I was laid up in the hospital with a burst 
fracture of my t12 vertabrae with 50% compression into my spinal cord. I 
had some great care at U of Penn's hospital during my stay from the 
nurses, to the helicopter, to the trauma team and also a vey good surgeon. 
The surgeon fused 3 vertabrae with bone from my hip just like dr. 
Richardson did for Big B. I now have a fusion of bones, with rods and 
screws for support and a chiseled hip just like the big boy.. I feel 
closer to him now more than ever..and I just like big B, had a very 
serious injury, the drs told me it was a miracle that I was not paralyzed. 
That they had never seen anyone with that injury walk away. I find myself 
not just very lucky, but very blessed. Barbaro is my inspiration to get 
better now too! Thank you all for your support and love!
Sabina

Bernardini had his final work at Belmont in preparation for his biggest 
race / challenge: Bernardini Has 
Final Work, Ready for Classic.  The following are excerpts:

"I'll never get on another like him again," Harris said. "He's the 
complete package. He does everything you want him to. He was tough today. 
He gave me a hard time. I had to break my reins. I looked around to see if 
there was something coming, I didn't know what was going on. He's just 
full of himself. He's just that sharp right now.

"Once he got to the half-mile pole, he just settled in and it was easy 
sailing from then on," the exercise rider said. "He galloped out really 
strong. The farther he goes the stronger he gets. He has never been doing 
better than he is now. He's ready."

and

Two Tex Sutton planes will depart JFK Airport in New York Wednesday 
morning with Breeders' Cup horses. The first, to leave in the morning, 
will carry the horses trained by Albertrani, Jerkens, Shug McGaughey, 
Kiaran McLaughlin, and Rich Schosberg.

The second, slated to depart in early afternoon, will transport the Todd 
Pletcher-trained horses.

Update 944: I just spoke to Mrs. Jackson.  She visited Barbaro (of course) 
today and all remains well.  She will be on her way to Kentucky for an 
awards dinner tomorrow I think, the Barbaro team is being honored.  On 
that note Mike Rea will also be 
heading out to Kentucky as a recipient of a White 
Horse Award nomination.

I spoke to Steve Willard.  He shipped with Giacomo on a flight to 
Louisville today.  There were about fourteen horses on the plane, 
including Brother Derek.  Giacomo jogged yesterday, did not train today, 
and will likely jog / gallop a little tomorrow.  As Steve said to me, 
Giacomo is back where he made history!

Update 943: I just completed an interview with Graham Motion, who runs 
both Better Talk Now and Film Maker in the Breeders' Cup on saturday.  The 
interview follows:

Me: On the recent Keeneland Meet and the Synthetic Track:
Graham: This was my best Keeneland meet.  I really like the synthetic 
track.  It is very good for the turf horses, there was no need to scratch 
when a race came off the turf onto the polytrack.  The polytrack just 
seems to level the playing field between the dirt and turf runners.

Me: I asked Graham if he thought synthetic tracks would be adopted more 
widely:
Graham: Yes, in the longrun.  All the California tracks are mandated to 
adopt the track and it just seems momentum is building.  Churchill may 
take a little longer given they are the home of the Kentucky Derby.  This 
will change things if the Derby is run on a synthetic track, but a 
Breeders' Cup will inevitably return to California I guess.

Me: Better Talk Now and Film Maker, your two runners on saturday, have 
been consistent and good for a long time.  To what do you attribute this?
Graham: A big part of the answer is they are both very sturdy horses.  
Fair Hill is also a huge part of it.  They are away from the hustle and 
bustle of a regular racetrack.  As they have gotten older, they have 
gotten better, and now we can pick our spots (i.e. Film Maker has run only 
three times this year with this upcoming race the season goal).

Me: And their chances on saturday?
Graham: I feel good about them both.  Perhaps Film Maker has been a little 
more consistent over the year, but Better Talk Now has his best distance, 
a mile and a half, for the first time this year.  For him he needs a race 
with pace up front, this was certainly not the case in the Arlington 
Million.  Both these horses have done a tremendous amount for my career, 
and I am extremely fond of both of them.  I have been pointing both for 
these two races since the beginning of the year, but you cannot expect 
this to happen.

Me: And who will win the Classic?
Graham: Bernardini has done nothing wrong.  He has been very impressive.  
The only thing that would concern me is he has not been pressured.  How 
would he respond if he was pressured?  I think the english horse David 
Junior may be a live long shot.  He has had this race as a target all 
summer, and he has a bit of an american dirt pedigree.  

Update 942:  Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (monday 
night).  I just spoke to Peter who had heard from Michael. Peter will try 
to get to see Barbaro later today.

Update 941: Still no Barbaro update this morning.  It was a lovely morning 
at Fair Hill.  There likely won't be too many more days like today.  All 
horses seemed to train well.  I took Hawty Creek to the track for the 
first time since she came in.  She was pretty keyed up, but jogged around 
pretty well.

WGAL Channel 8 out of Lancaster (I think) came to do an interview about 
Horse Slaughter.  They were at New Holland (auction) yesterday.  The piece 
is scheduled to air thursday, November 9, either on the 6 or 11 pm news.  
I think I made some decent points, but we will see.  Keep up the good 
work.

Update 940: A quick update from Sue McMullen re: the European Breeders' 
Cup horses:

Ahead of Wednesday's all important draw, a brief word about the euro 
raiding party, 11 of whom are now settled comfortably at Churchill Downs. 
The Ballydoyle  horses travel today and if Aiden O'Brien runs true to 
form, they will not be seen on the track until the end of the week.
 
Connections of Ouija Board confirmed she had a trouble-free journey and 
they are delighted with her and the fact that the going on the Turf is 
fast, which she will relish. This wonderful mare is an old hand at the 
travelling game and nothing much bothers her. She apparently arrived at 
Churchill alone in the leading van in the convoy, as befits a visiting 
Queen! Watchers on the backstretch at Churchill might be fortunate enough 
to see her this morning. Last year's race, when she failed to retain her 
crown, just wasn't run to suit her as it was run at a muddling pace and 
she couldn't get going properly.     
 
As predicted, Frankie Dettori has elected to ride Echo of Light in the 
Mile so Christophe Soumillon will ride Librettist, already a proven Group 
1 winner.
 
Ramon Dominquez has been booked to ride Sir Michael Stoute's Rob Roy in 
the Mile. This talented four-year-old has been dogged with bad luck 
throughout his career but his good run in the Champion Stakes two weeks 
ago when he finished second might be a signal that the tide is turning for 
him. He is certainly a lot better than his form guide would suggest. Ramon 
is an experienced BC jockey, having ridden Better Talk Now to victory in 
the Turf at Lone Star Park. 
 
Jamie Spencer, formerly stable jockey at Ballydoyle, will be reunited with 
Ad Valorem in the Mile, having ridden the horse for all three of his 
juvenile wins in 2004 and finished fifth on him two months ago in the Prix 
Jacques le Marois. Garret Gomez rides Aussie Rules, having won the 
Shadwell Turf Mile on him at Keenland and Mick Kinane rides Ivan 
Denisovich. Mick 'the ice man' Kinane also rides George in the Classic and 
as George will need all the help he can get for that much-debated 
engagement, Mick is the right man for the job as he has the coolest head 
for the big occasion and knows George well. He also rides Scorpion in the 
Turf.
 
Connections of David Junior, who also travelled well, await tomorrow's 
draw hoping for a good position in the Classic for the colt who retires to 
stud in Japan after the race in a deal said to be worth $8 million. In a 
surprising move to many, trainer Brian Meehan elected not to run David 
Junior after his victory in the Coral Eclipse at Sandown in July, 
preferring to give him one last roll of the dice in the Classic. So he 
goes into the race after a layoff and despite having dirt in his pedigree, 
he has less experience of it than his American rivals, but he's still as 
short as 7-1, such is his reputation and undoubted talent. Giving him a 
layoff will either look inspired or disastrous and we will know on 
Saturday, but if it works and he has luck in running and is happy on the 
surface, expect a very big run from him. The race should certainly be run 
to suit him as he likes a strong pace. 
 
Stan Moore is confident of a great performance from his two-year-old filly 
Satulagi in the Juvenile. Winner of a Listed race at Ascot Satulagi is 
tough and has plenty of experience, which Moore hopes might give her an 
edge. She won't do much on the run up to the race, but they plan to put 
her through the gate a couple of times, possibly on Thursday, as although 
she has never given any trouble at home, our gates are different and we 
don't have a bell! It might seem a small thing, but preparation is 
everything with horses and the more that is done with the filly to show 
her how it works over there, the better chance she has of showing what she 
can do.  

I plan to interview Ramon Dominguez before the Breeders' Cup, nice to hear 
he has picked up a European mount!

Update 939: Again, this morning's Barbaro update will be much later, due 
to Michael Matz being in Keeneland preparing Round Pond for the Breeders' 
Cup.  

The Daily Racing Form has a nice article on Michael, Barbaro and Round 
Pond: Still in wonder of 
what could've been.  The following are a couple of excerpts:

"It sure would have been nice having this horse running in the Classic or, 
who knows, running in Europe next year," Matz said. "It's just such a 
shame. Maybe it's a bigger thing what he's done, bringing the racing 
public together - not just the racing public, but people in general."

The interest in Barbaro remains intense. There are still signs of 
encouragement on the fence posts at the New Bolton Center. One reads, 
"Grow Hoof Grow." Another reads, "Believe in Barbaro."

and

"He's done an awful lot for me, this is the least I can do for him," Matz 
said following a recent visit with Barbaro. "I live 10 minutes from here. 
The kids go to school right alongside of here. [One day], I was grazing 
him and the school bus went by, and all the school kids yelled out for 
Barbaro."

Update 938: Just spoke to Peter (6 pm) and he visited Barbaro today.  He 
took Barbaro out for a pick of grass, groomed him and changed his 
bandages.  An upbeat report.  

My Breeders' Cup tickets have arrived!

Update 937: Sue McMullen e-mailed to let us know "11 of the Euro runners 
have now arrived safely and are installed in the isolation barns at 
Churchill. It's only the Ballydoyle horses that have yet to arrive and all 
being well, they should be there tomorrow."  With the contigent that were 
based in Keeneland also arriving at Churchill, and the Churchill meet 
opening yesterday, I am assuming there is quite a "buzz" at the racetrack. 

While there were a lot of works over the weekend, today saw a few more 
Breeders' Cup horses on the work tab.  From Belmont Premium Tap, under 
Edgar Prado worked: Premium Tap Drills 
Sharp Half-Mile for BC Classic.  What is not reported in the article 
is whether his tongue was hanging out for the work (Premium Tap's, not 
Edgar's!)

While the racing world will focus on the Breeders' Cup this weekend, very 
shortly thereafter Australia will play host to its major race, the Melbourne 
Cup.  Kieren Fallon is over there preparing Yeats.  Sue McMullen had 
this to report on Kieren Fallon, Yeats, and a horse named Fields of Omagh:

As if he didn't have enough problems, Kieren Fallon was in danger of 
missing his ride on Yeats in the Melbourne Cup on Tuesday following a 10 
day ban imposed last week by stewards at Moonee Valley for his winning 
ride on California Dane. Happily for a relieved Fallon the ban will be 
lifted on the eve of the big race, for which Fallon, who cannot ride in 
the UK and elected not to apply to ride in the US, has been personally 
preparing Yeats and gaining experience of Australian tracks and style of 
racing. The ban was imposed as stewards decided he had cut across too 
quickly from the outside to the rail, a move that would have probably 
earned him a caution at home but Australian stewards are very strict. 
Although Fallon admitted he was guilty of the maneouvre, he also pointed 
out his good record with stewards around the world, which is true but he 
is also very lucky to have got away with 10 days under the Australian 
rules.
 
Yeats, winner of the Ascot Gold Cup (run at Royal Ascot) currently tops 
the betting for the race that is famous for 'stopping a nation' and Fallon 
reports the horse to be in great form.
 
Following Collier Hill's heroic win at Woodbine last weekend, it would be 
impossible to mention racing in Australia without reporting the victory of 
another 'old timer' whose win in the Group 1 Cox Plate had many observers 
in tears, including his trainer David Hayes. Fields of Omagh, now 
nine-years-old, has contested the race four times and never finished worse 
than fifth, in his first run in 2002. He won in 2003 and was second and 
third in the next two runnings. The horse enjoys celebrity status among 
racegoers in Australia and as a mark of respect to him he led the field 
out to the track but even his most ardent fans knew it would be a tough 
call. 
 
In the year of so many fairytale racehorses it now seems almost inevitable 
that in his very last race, he was not going to be denied and fought all 
the way to the line, upside Pompeii Ruler. Fields of Omagh now joins the 
small and illustrious list of horses that have won the race more than once 
and, as a gelding, he heads to the 'Living Legends' retirement home for 
Australian champions. 

The Bloodhorse on Fields of Omagh win: 'Omagh Goes Out 
a Winner in Epic Cox Plate.

Update 936: A nice article from the Thoroughbred Times: Better 
Talk Now, Film Maker prepare together for Breeders' Cup that not only 
discusses their work yesterday, but highlights the consistency these two 
have displayed over the years.  I was talking about this with Tim this 
morning as we were jogging back on the track.  Graham has two horses in 
the Breeders' Cup and between them they have won a cup race, finished 
second and third!  As I noted earlier there is only one other horse 
running next saturday who has won a cup race (I think), one of Film 
Maker's biggest rivals, Ouija Board. 

New York Post has this article on Bernardini: BERNARDINI 
FACES CLASSIC QUESTION which summarizes Bernardini's dilemma well.  He 
has done nothing wrong, yet his competition has been relatively weak.  
Lets see how he performs on the big stage.  Any price better than even 
money, and I may have to go to the window (although I know from past 
experience betting Breeders' Cup day at the host track is a nightmare).

Update 935: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (sunday 
night).  I just spoke to Peter who had heard from Michael.  Peter is 
planning to visit later today so I will try to get another update later.  

I forgot to note earlier, Real Lace, Tim's Maiden winner at Laurel over 
the weekend, appears to have come out of her race well.  I asked Tim about 
the race, it seemed she was much the best.  The jockey was looking around 
with 3/8ths left to race.  I know Tim has liked this filly for a while, 
lets hope she continues to move forward.

For anyone on myspace, check out Better Talk Now!
update 11:45 am, monday, october 30

Update 934: No update yet this morning for Barbaro.  Well its almost like 
someone turned on the lights this morning.  First set it was bright, which 
was nice (although first set will now be pushed to 6 am rather than 6:30 
am starting tomorrow).

A good morning for a monday morning.  Nothing too exciting occured.  I saw 
Fen, who was in Keeneland yesterday breezing Film Maker.  She concured 
with Lisa assessment of the work (update 929).  I asked Fen about the 
Polytrack, she said it was great.  Film Maker loved it.  Fen has also 
galloped on the synthetic track at Woodbine (when Better Talk Now was in 
Canada for his last win) and is a big fan.

Rocky galloped out of the gate, then breezed  3/8ths.  He went well, it 
was his first breeze without company.  He's learning.  He went in about 
38.  Hawty Creek went out back again, I'll probably take her to the track 
in the next couple of days.  Mike Jensen (Philadelphia Inquirer writer) 
was at Fair Hill this morning, so it looks like another horse racing 
article in the works.

Update 933: Again, today's Barbaro update will be likely to come late this 
morning.  

The Keeneland meet is now over and records have been set: Keeneland Reports 
Record Attendance, Wagering.  The following is an excerpt:

"This meet has been extraordinary for us in so many ways," said Nick 
Nicholson, president and CEO of Keeneland. "While we are proud of the many 
records that were set, we are even more proud of how well the Polytrack 
surface performed. It remained very safe throughout the meet, despite 
getting more than twice the usual amount of rainfall during the month."

For those interested in the adoption of synthetic tracks, our focus now 
switches to Hollywood Park, that meet opens this week with the "Cushion 
Track".  I spoke to Andy Durnin last night (exercise rider at Hollywood 
Park) and he said the backside at Hollywood Park is as full as it has been 
since he has been in California, a signal that horseman are supporting 
this new track.  Andy has been very impressed with it during training 
hours.

Update 932: Just spoke to Peter, who visited Barbaro earlier today.  
Barbaro was actually sleeping when Peter visited, so he left him alone.  
All was well.
update, sunday october 29, 8:00 pm

Update 931: I spoke to Steve Willard, Giacomo's exercise rider, earlier 
this afternoon.  Giacomo breezed 3/4s this morning in about 1 minute 14 
and change / 1 minute and 15 (Steve was not sure).  A good work designed 
just to keep Giacomo ticking over and get some wind into him.  He worked 
with another horse which he passed at the end of the work.  He cooled out 
well, he blew for about 5 minutes.  After cooling out he was picking 
grass, his normal routine.  

They are looking for a good race from Giacomo.  Steve knows its an awfully 
tough race (Breeders' Cup Classic) but they expect he will run well based 
on how he is training.  He will have tomorrow off and is shipping to 
Churchill very early tuesday morning.  Steve will ride with him on the 
plane as will Frank, his traveling groom.  

The Daily Racing Form reports on many other works for a busy Breeders' Cup 
preparation morning: DRF Clocker Report: 
Sunday, October 29.  This will likely be the last busy morning for 
horses working in preparation for the Breeders' Cup. 

Update 930: A nice article on Perfect Drift: Need 
a horse to cheer? Perfect Drift is a Classic.  The following is an 
excerpt:

"Over the years, he's become more professional," Johnson said. "He almost 
knows exactly what we're doing. When he gets with (exercise jockey) Joe 
(Deegan), he knows when it's time to go and when it's time to whoa. . . . 
He's just a good horse who gives everything he has every time. He doesn't 
come from any royalty. But he just keeps going. . . . He's started 41 
races. I'd like to think he could get another 20."

I know Perfect Drift is popular with many on this site, and am grateful 
for Joe Deegan providing us updates on this great horse.  His longevity is 
necessary for the sport.

Update 929: I just spoke to Lisa Davison, who worked Better Talk Now in 
company with Film Maker, this morning.  They went 3/4s in 1:12 and change.  
Lisa said the track was riding quite fast (sounds like it to me!)  They 
traveled well across the polytrack, it was a good work.  

It was amusing, as I was talking to Lisa she was watching her work on TVG.  
TVG said that the work was a positive for Film Maker and a negative for 
Better Talk Now (Film Maker was going slightly the better of the two at 
the end of the work) but Lisa told me that the work was typical for both 
horses, and Film Maker is just a better work horse.  So all remains well 
for the Motion Breeders' Cup horses.  They will walk tomorrow and ship to 
Churchill Downs for the final days before the big race day.

Update 928: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (saturday 
night).  I just spoke to Peter who had heard from Michael. Peter had not 
yet visited Barbaro, so I will try to get another update later.  

Jeannine Edwards e-mailed me to let us know the ESPN piece that will 
include a feature on Barbaro will air on Wednesday, November 1 at 3 PM.  
It should be about 5  minutes  long.  She also included a preview of the 
piece in this e-mail:

TRACK 9:  As Barbaro continues to defy the odds, another more abstract 
question arises: What is it about this horse that has so captivated 
thousands around the world?

JEAN MANSAVAGE TAPE 2 He doesn't have the bad character traits that so 
many of our professional athletes have today 02 22 52 he's not getting 
caught with drugs, not getting caught with weapons in the back of his car, 
and he's not kicking somebody in the head on the football field.  // He's 
a magnificent horse that represents something very fundamental to this 
country.  02 23 27

MICHAEL MATZ TAPE 2 // 02 27 03 // the day after we said that he was 
foundered, there was thirty five baskets of apples and carrots and 
flowers, the first day 02 27 45 (choked up) I mean, the support I think 
that's the main situation that I would say how this horse brought so many 
people together (choked up).

EDGAR PRADO TAPE 2 02 18 43 // the first time I got on him, he showed me 
that he was a great horse with a lot of talent and a lot of class.  // 02 
06 37 I think he really have a special place in my heart.

DEAN RICHARDSON TAPE 1 20 45 //  There's a lot of people really deeply 
emotionally attached to this horse for good reason. It's not just because 
he won a lot of money it's more to it than that. 21:27     JEANNINE Q: 
What is it about him? // 21:29     R: He's a charismatic horse. // He 
seems a little bit bigger than life because he did some bigger than life 
things.

JEANNINE Q: What's the one derby moment that you think about more than the 
rest? 

MATZ TAPE 2  I think 02 04 34 when I heard the announcer say "here comes 
barbaro!" (choked up)

Nat Sound Up: Kentucky Derby


JEANNINE Q:  2 02 20 35 how often does a horse like barbaro come around?


MATZ TAPE 2  I sure hope there's another one soon. It was a lot of fun 
having him that's for sure. Maybe never. I've gotten so many nice letters 
that say just think of the good times you had with him and not the bad 
times (REALLY CHOKED UP)

Update 927: No update yet this morning for Barbaro,  but all was well 
yesterday.  I saw Peter this morning and he is planning on visiting 
Barbaro after work, so I will try to catch up with him later to get 
today's update.

I have a new project, her name is Hawty Creek.  She is owned by a friend 
and came in to Judge's barn for a couple of months to get fit.  I rode her 
out back today.  Since she has not been ridden for a while we did not do 
too much.  After she cooled out I turned her out in the porta pad, and of 
course she rolled.  She got very muddy.  Some of which I have now removed.  
The rest will come off tomorrow when i get her ready to train!

Update 926: Horseracing in the US faces many problems from a marketing 
standpoint.  Perhaps the introduction of synthetic tracks will solve some 
of those problems and at least make the sport a little more attractive to 
the casual fan.  Another problem is the economics of campaigning a top 
horse.   It makes too much sense to retire them and breed from them.  It 
has been speculated that this fate will end the brilliant, yet very short, 
career of Bernardini before he is likely to be at his very best:  
Enjoy Bernadini while you can.

The Fair Hill Halloween Party was fun.  No update yet for Barbaro since 
yesterday morning, but I will endevour to get an update later this 
morning.

Update 925: An easy win for McDymano in the Breeders' Cup Steeplechase: McDynamo 
Does It Again In Breeders' Cup Steeplechase.  I am now off to the Fair 
Hill Halloween Party, so no Barbaro update this evening, although that is 
not unusual for a weekend.

Update 924: A quick reminder, Barbaro vigil at 7 pm, every saturday.  
Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, spare some time for Barbaro.

Update 923: A nice win today for Real Lace, who broke her maiden at 
Laurel.  She had a nice confident ride from Luis Garcia.  Here is the chart.     
She seems to have come out of her race well.  Congratulations to Equivine 
Farm.

Update 922: Joe Deegan just called.  He breezed Perfect Drift this 
morning, 5/8ths in 1:02 and change.  It was what they wanted for the 
breeze, a nice maintenance breeze.  Enough to keep him ticking over.  He 
is obviously plenty fit enough.  He cooled out well after his work.  He 
will walk tomorrow, which is usual after a breeze.  This was also reported 
in the Bloodhorse: Perfect Drift, the 
Old Warrior, Tunes Up for Classic.

Update 921: For images of horses getting ready for the Breeders' Cup go to 
HorsePhotos.com  For 
the last two days they have featured Lisa Davison, yesterday on Better 
Talk Now,  today on Film Maker.

Update 920: As we close in on the Breeders' Cup we should not forget there 
is actually a Breeders' Cup race today: McDynamo 
chasing history in Breeders' Cup Grand National Steeplechase.  Of 
course McDynamo is by Dynaformer, father of Barbaro.

Update 919: I just spoke to Lisa Davison, who galloped both Better Talk 
Now and Film Maker this morning at Keeneland.  All remains well with both, 
they galloped about a mile and a half - mile - 1 mile  5/8ths.  They are 
both scheduled to work tomorrow.  Lisa will work Better Talk Now, Fen is 
flying in to work Film Maker. Fen is Film Maker's regular exercise rider, 
but stayed behind at Fair Hill.  

It was windy and brisk this morning at Keeneland after the rain had moved 
through.  Of course the rain really had no impact on the training surface 
(as it would on a dirt track).  Lisa said, if anything, it just makes the 
track a little tighter, which is a good thing.  The other thing Lisa noted 
was the lack of a need for a renovation break.  With a dirt track you need 
to have a break to harrow the track at some stage of the morning so the 
track is more usable.  Since the synthetic track does not have any 
kickback, there is really no need to have it harrowed, it remains pretty 
much the same all morning.

It is interesting to note in this article re: horses working this morning 
at Keeneland, preparing for the Breeders'  Cup that at least one horse 
shipped in from Churchill Downs: Keeneland's 
Polytrack Popular With Breeders' Cup Hopefuls on Saturday, an excerpt:

Trainer Dallas Stewart shipped Kentucky Oaks (gr. I) winner Lemons Forever 
from Churchill Downs to work over the Polytrack instead of training on 
Churchill's muddy dirt surface. Coming off a fourth-place finish in the 
Oct. 8 Spinster Stakes (gr. I) at Keeneland, the 3-year-old daughter of 
Lemon Drop Kid went five-eighths in :59 and 4/5 under exercise rider Lee 
Guidry.

"Her work was excellent," Stewart said. "She was crisp and clean; 
everything was perfect."

Update 918: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (friday 
night).  I went over to Michael Matz's barn and caught up with Peter 
Brette, he had heard from Michael.

Morning training was predictably pretty much a loss.  I shedrowed four, I 
am guessing that's what most people did.  It looks like the rain has blown 
over, the sun is trying to get out, and the wind is picking up.  I guess 
decent Halloween weather.  There is a Fair Hill Halloween Party tonight, I 
think I will go in my Eagles T. O. shirt!  

Update 917: Rain, rain, rain, rain, as predicted.  I assume training will 
be a washout this morning at Fair Hill.  Likely I will have a couple to 
shedrow, but that will be about it.  The Barbaro update will again be 
later this morning at its earliest.  I'll stop by Michael Matz's barn to 
see Peter after training hours.

Sue McMullen sent this early preview of the European runners for the 
Breeders' Cup:

A comprehensive round-up of European runners will follow next week, after 
the post draw on Wednesday morning, but in advance of that it's worth 
noting various bits of information on some of the horses. First, the 
awesome, globe-trotting mare Ouija Board is pleasing connections ahead of 
her attempt to reclaim her crown in the Fillies and Mares and she is 
described as 'thriving' and currently showing no sign that her very long 
season has taken its toll (this shouldn't be underestimated as it has 
indeed been a long one). This will be her final appearance in the BC, 
after which, all being well, she will follow last year's route and head to 
Tokyo then Hong Kong. But owner Lord Derby has stressed they will take it 
one race at a time and knowing his love and pride in this wonderful mare, 
the minute she shows signs of having had enough, they will call it a day. 
The ultimate test of whether a horse is 'over the top' is sometimes the 
race itself as it is only then that they are really stretched, but the 
signs are hopeful and she is currently regarded as the best chance of a 
European victory. Frankie Dettori will ride and after partnering her in a 
recent gallop, he was very bullish about her chances. Our horses certainly 
travel and I'm sure her fans in the US will be pleased to see her one last 
time.
 
Hurriance Run will be reunited with French champion jockey Christophe 
Soumillion in the BC Turf. This somewhat suprising news follows 
Soumillion's alleged falling out with Hurricane's trainer Andre Fabre, 
after which he was replaced by Mick Kinane for Hurricane's run in the 
Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot. Neither have had much to say about this 
riding engagement and Fabre has been quite dismissive saying that jockeys 
are not his main concern and he's more interested in the horse's ability 
and the conditions he will face. Since winning the King George in great 
style (and it was the manner of Soumillion's victory celebrations that 
allegedly upset Fabre) Hurricane has been beaten three times, in the Arc 
trial, the Arc itself and the Champion Stakes. The first of these wasn't 
so much a race and more of a piece of work and the Arc was not run to suit 
him. In what is likely to be his last race it would be wonderful to see 
this top horse, who is a great favourite of Fabre's and who has been such 
a force over the last couple of seasons, return to winning form.  He needs 
a good pace and plenty of cover, so hopefully he'll get both.
 
Alex Solis has been booked to ride John Gosden's Sleeping Indian in the 
Mile as regular pilot Jimmy Fortune will be serving a suspension. Alex has 
ridden for Gosden previously, when the latter was training in California 
and when he has sent horses to the US.
 
Without his adversary George Washington in the race, connections of Araafa 
are very confident of his chances in the Mile and he's been in great form, 
better it is said than before his good run in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes 
when he ran second to George. He also had a good view of George's tail in 
the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket, but managed to finish in front of him in 
the Irish equivalent when George pulled a muscle. John Valazquez rides and 
all trainer Jeremy Noseda now hopes for is that he travels well and gets a 
good draw in the race as it is likely to be a big field.

Watchers on the backstretch at Churchill shouldn't expect to see Araafa do 
any fast work, as he is set to do his final piece of serious work today 
and will  just be ticking over on the run up to the race.
 
The Godolphin horses are all said to be doing well and of their two 
contenders for the Mile, Librettist and Echo of Light, Frankie Dettori is 
reported to be favouring the latter as he seems to be in particularly good 
form.
 
More to follow next week.

Update 916: I just spoke to Peter Brette, who visited Barbaro this 
afternoon.  Peter took Barbaro out for a pick of grass before the rain 
started.  He groomed him,  changed his bandages and fed Barbaro a couple 
of apples.  Another good report.  I asked Peter how Round Pond was doing 
in Keeneland.  He said she was doing well, and likes the Polytrack, which 
they had suspected.  She will likely work this weekend (Sunday) before 
they have to ship to Churchill Downs.  

A couple of people have already answered my question in Update 915: Ouija 
Board.  I think that places Better Talk Now in great company!

Update 915: Just spoke to Lisa Davison, who is at Keeneland with Graham 
Motion's two Breeders' Cup horses, Better Talk Now and Fim Maker.  They 
traveled (flew) to Keeneland on tuesday of this week, and will remain at 
Keeneland until they have to leave, which I think is the end of October, 
at which time they will head to Churchill Downs.

On wednesday they had an easy spin around the training track, thursday and 
friday they both galloped about a mile and a half / five eighths on the 
main track (both tracks are Polytracks).  They will likely both work this 
weekend, most likely sunday.    Lisa said both horses are doing well, and 
she was very positive about the Polytrack.  They seem to bounce across it 
while getting very good footing.  Lisa noted that turf horses seem to be 
doing pretty well on the Polytrack, something that we have heard before.  
There seem to be quite a few other Breeders' Cup horses at Keeneland, Lisa 
has seen both Lava Man and Gorella.  

Graham has a few other horses at Keeneland and they are having a pretty 
good meet, including a winner today.   Better Talk Now is a prior 
Breeders' Cup race winner.  Do you know which other horse(s) fall in that 
category who are planning to run in this year's Breeders' Cup ?

Update 914: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (thursday 
night).  I just spoke to Peter who had heard from Michael.  Peter is again 
planning to visit Barbaro this afternoon, so I will try to get another 
update later. 

I caught up with Joe Deegan, Perfect Drift's exercise rider.  He says 
Perfect Drift is doing as well as ever.  All is well.  Today he galloped a 
pretty handy mile.  Tomorrow he is scheduled to work (5/8ths) and that 
will be his last serious piece of work  before the Classic.  The plan 
would be then to walk him on sunday, jog monday and back to galloping 
tuesday.

Lava Man worked this morning in preparation for the Classic: Lava Man, Other 
O'Neill Horses, Work at Keeneland.  The following is an excerpt:

"We had a great morning," O'Neill said. "Lava Man looked great, Tony did 
his job perfectly -- we just wanted a maintenance work for each of these 
horses, and that's exactly what we got."

Romero said he was thrilled with the way Lava Man is training off his 
seventh consecutive win for the year, the Oct. 7 Goodwood Breeders' Cup 
Handicap (gr. II) during the Oak Tree at Santa Anita meeting.

"He's put on some good weight here and he's stronger than ever," the 
exercise rider said. "I'm very happy with the way he's pulling; he feels 
better than he did before the Pacific Classic, even. Bernardini is a tough 
horse to beat, but he should watch out with the way our horse is 
training."


Update 913: No Barbaro update yet.  It was another chilly morning this 
morning at Fair Hill, although there was more cloud cover.  A lovely 
sunrise, just a shame it was appearing coming back from the second set 
(ok, clocks really do need to change).  As suspected, a pretty busy 
morning.  Quite a few breezers, one loose horse and just plenty of things 
going on.  

It is nice to see New Zealand continue its Barbaro coverage: Barbaro has a good 
week.

Sue McMullen sent this regarding the recent sale of Shirocco, and the less 
than spectacular success of Godolphin in Europe this year:

We reported earlier this week that a sale had been agreed between Sheikh 
Mohammed and Baron Georg Von Ullman for the purchase of Shirocco and this 
has now been completed following a satisfactory veterinary report. The 
five-year-old son of Monsun has been retired and heads to Darley Hall Stud 
at Newmarket. Sheikh Mohammed's racing operation regard this attractive 
horse, winner of four Group 1s and described as having a 'fantastic 
temperament', as a great stallion prospect. They must also be hoping he 
will bring them some good fortune in what is by their standards, a very 
lean time at the top level. This year they failed to achieve even one 
Group 1 victory in the UK, the first time this had happened since the 
establishment of Godolphin in 1994. They have also been very unlucky with 
the death of their top horse Electrocutionist and now Iffraaj is to retire 
to Kildangen Stud in Ireland following a minor injury, plus Shawanda, the 
dual Group 1 winner purchased from the Aga Khan has also retired through 
injury without representing Godolphin on the racecourse. This classy 
daughter of mighty Sinndar was to be another star in their line-up and had 
been due to make an appearance for them in the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal 
Ascot, but although she  had been reported as training well she went lame 
only hours before the race. Her previous appearance  had been in last 
year's Arc, when she finished a valiant sixth but suffered a leg injury in 
the process. Shawanda will prove an immensely valuable addition to the 
paddocks.  

Of course in the US, Godolphin is represented by Discreet Cat, and 
Bernardini is owned by Sheikh Mohammed (under the Darley banner rather 
than Godolphin).

Update 912: A quick reminder, the Barbaro update will likely be late 
morning again.  Fair Hill will likely be quite busy this morning in 
anticipation of some wet weather coming through tonight, which will leave 
the dirt track either closed or in grim shape tomorrow.

The Daily Racing Form provides a quick update on some Breeders' Cup 
contenders preparing for a week on saturday: DRF Clocker Report: 
Thursday, October 26.  I will try to catch up with a couple of the 
contenders today to see how things are going.

The Cushion Track at Hollywood Park is preparing to play host to its first 
meet: New 
'Cushion Track' Attracts Out-of-Towners.  This will be the second 
major racetrack in the US to adopt a synthetic racetrack.  Lets hope the 
favourable reports from training over the track persist during the race 
meet. 

Update 911: Rachel, from Kennett Florist left this comment (timestamp: 
8:33 pm):

All is quiet at NBC today... I think they are recovering from the 
Halloween parade last night! They entered the parade (it's a judged event) 
as they have in the past. They have a miniature pony that in the past has 
been Smarty Jones, etc. He was dressed in a blue drape with fake casts on 
his hind legs... yep a Barbaro stand in! It was so cute. They had a little 
boy dressed in scrubs that had "Richardson" across the front and "but 
cuter and nicer" across the back! There was a little girl dressed as Edgar 
in the jockey outfit. They had adults carrying picket fences with get well 
posters all over them (representing the main entrance of NBC). They were 
also pulling a cart of flowers and carrots that had our logo on it! What a 
hoot! I hope someone got pictures for NBC, because mine came out really 
dark. It was a great night, even as cold as it was. Love, love, love this 
town!

We brought the big guy all his favs today! 

Update 910: Peter Brette visited Barbaro again today, which is looking 
like the routine while Michael Matz is overseeing Round Pond's training at 
Keeneland.  Peter took Barbaro out for a pick of grass, groomed him and 
changed his bandages.  All remains comfortable.

Update 909: Just spoke to Steve Willard, Giacomo's exercise rider.  All 
remains well with Giacomo as he gets ready for the Breeders' Cup Classic.  
Steve is very happy with the way Giacomo feels.  He is training well, 
jogging a mile and galloping a mile and a half each day.  He will likely 
work one more time, sometime this weekend.  He will ship to Churchill 
either on the 29th or 31st of October.  Once at Churchill they will likely 
paddock school him a little just to help him get used to his new 
surroundings (of course they are not entirely new, he is one for one at 
Churchill).  

Update 908: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (wednesday 
night).  I just spoke to Peter who had heard from Michael.  Peter again 
plans to visit later today so hopefully I will catch up and get another 
later report too.

For those curious about the shipping plans for the Breeders' Cup for the 
european runners, here they are (from Sue McMullen):

I've just spoken to the IRB at Newmarket. The euro runners are travelling 
on three flights; two on Sunday, one of which carries the Godolphin horses 
and the other the rest of the euro runners apart from the Ballydoyle 
contingent, who fly on Tuesday (they usually travel a bit later than the 
rest).

So George Washington will be coming over on the tuesday flight next week.

Update 907: As we wait for our Barbaro update, I wanted to post this 
commentary about the Breeders' Cup Classic, from a European perspective, 
and with obvious focus on the Jackson-bred George Washington (via Sue 
McMullen):

We are flagging up the BC Classic as one of the best in the history of the 
race. With Bernadini, Lava Man and George Washington currently level in 
the ratings, and you add to that David Junior, Giacomo and not forgetting 
Perfect Drift, it's an awesome prospect.
 
Commenting on the continued debate about running turf superstar George 
Washington in the Classic, the first time he'll face dirt, trainer Aiden 
O'Brien told the Racing Post they've never had a horse with pace like his 
out of all their good horses (which is some compliment): "Everyone says 
that Danehills won't go on the dirt and that's very possible, but we won't 
know until he runs. It's a gamble but we are hoping maybe he can overcome 
all this.
 
"George is so quick and has natural early pace. I have always thought he 
could get a mile and a quarter. He is a very rare horse. What we are 
hoping will help is that this horse travels so well in his races and he 
has never been stopping at the end, even over a mile.

"Not having raced on dirt will be a big disadvantage, but that's been the 
case for many horses and, if it's possible to overcome it, then this horse 
could do it. The circumstances are all a danger more than any horses.
 
"We haven't seen much of Bernardini. Everyone knows about him, he looks a 
good horse and Tom Albertrani knows what to do and what not to do. We're 
going in at a big disadvantage, but it's probably going to be his last 
race so we might as well explore.
 
"We know what he can do over a mile on grass. I don't want to blow him up 
but all I can say is we've never had anything like this before."
 
So George will take his chance and we must hope that he does indeed 
'overcome it'. 

Given the wealth of talent that Aiden O'Brien has had in his charge, to 
state "we've never had anything like this before" is incredible praise.  
What is equally intriguing is I think Tom Albertrani will say the same for 
Bernardini.

Update 906: Once again the Barbaro update will be later in the morning.  

The following: Barbaro: We Believe in 
Miracles is a new, up to date, video.  It is very nice, but there are 
a couple of shots from the Preakness.

The following article: Barbaro 
still the focus of much support, well-wishers is another that 
highlights Barbaro's persistant support through his long recover.  The 
following are excerpts:

"He has a nice hair coat and he looks good," says Richardson. "Since he 
started grazing in August he has put on over 50 pounds. But he doesn't 
look like a racehorse. He has been on the equivalent of bed rest other 
than to go outside and get walked once a day."

The right hind foot remains encased in a fiberglass cast, primarily to 
help protect his left. "We're pretty sure that he could be out of the cast 
in his right hind, except that we don't want to take any risks of 
overloading his left hind," Richardson explains. "In some parts of the 
left hoof he has good growth but other parts are slower.

"He's bright and inquisitive. He seems to have a real desire to go on."

and

"This summer Barbaro received a beautiful wedding invitation with an RSVP 
and everything," relates Rench. "Dr. Richardson wrote a little note to the 
couple saying: 'Thank you very much for the invitation and best of luck. 
At this point Barbaro does not have any interest in remaining 
monogamous.'"

In Richardson's opinion, if Barbaro makes an optimum recovery he will be 
able to be used as a stallion. Given his pedigree and brilliant record in 
his brief racing career, he probably would become a multi-million dollar 
stud.

But the Jacksons' primary concern isn't for Barbaro to someday have a love 
life. Like countless others across America, they just want him to have a 
long and happy life.

Update 905: I just spoke to Peter Brette, who visited Barbaro this 
afternoon.  Barbaro remains comfortable.  Peter groomed him, took him out 
to graze and changed his bandages.  His usually routine when Peter visits.

Update 904: Alie from Kennett Florist left the following comment 
(timestamp: 9:19 pm):

Hope everyone is after the senators today. So just a quick upate, 
Beautiful but cool day here in Kennett Square. I Delivered treats for the 
big boss horse around 1:30. All was good at NBC. I felt a happy mood while 
visiting. Everyone in town is getting ready for the parade tonight. It is 
going to be cold. Our Christmas celebration parade is for Kennett square 
is Nov 24th. For a little town we have lots going on. That's all, for now. 
Good night & God Bless.
We Believe
Alie

I have also made a few updates to the FAQ.

Update 903: Here are details on those pre-entered for the Breeders' Cup, 
saturday, November 4: Contention Runs 
Deep in 2006 World Championships; 127 Pre-Entered.  From Fair Hill we 
have Round Pond (Michael Matz: Distaff), Film Maker (Graham Motion: 
Fillies and Mares Turf), and 2004 Breeders' Cup winner Better Talk Now 
(Graham Motion: Turf).

Sue McMullen sent this list of european contenders:

Juvenile - nothing
Juvenile fillies - Satulagi
Fillies and Mares - Ouija Board
Sprint - nothing
Mile - Ad Valorem, Aussie Rules, Araafa, Echo of Light, Librettist, Rob 
Roy, Sleeping Indian, Ivan Denisovitch.
Distaff - Nothing
Turf - Hurrican Run, Red Rocks, Scorpion
Classic - David Junior, Discreet Cat, George Washington

Note, Discreet Cat is only entered in case Bernardini does not run in the 
Classic.

Update 902: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (tuesday 
night).  I saw Peter after work.  He had heard from Michael. Its likely 
Peter will again be visiting Barbaro today so I will try to follow up 
later.

The following is my interview with Dean McKeown, who just rode his biggest 
race winner in the Canadian International last sunday.  Thanks to Sue 
McMullen for helping me get Dean's number.  I used to work with Dean 
twenty years ago at Richard Whitaker's.

Dean On Collier Hill
A few years ago, 2002, I was riding Hugs Dancer and beat Collier Hill in 
the Cumberland Plate at Carlisle.  I thought Collier Hill suited the way I 
like to ride, sitting just off the pace.  I kept asking Allan Swinbank, 
Collier Hill's trainer,  if I could ride him.  Eventually he gave me the 
ride at York, this was in 2004, and we finished third in a group 3 race.  
He then ran poorly in the soft ground.  He had bad joints so they 
preferred to run him on the more forgiving ground.  If they (trainer and 
staff) could manage his legs I thought he would be a better horse on the 
firm going.  We ran in the Stockholm Cup in September of that year, on 
good ground.  The bends had been watered so there was a little give in the 
ground.  When we jumped off from the start he was feeling the ground in 
the early stages, he sat last.  This was not ideal, but they were going 
too quick.  Foreign Affair made the running and I was 16 lengths behind.  
Collier Hill lengthened his stride around the final bend on the more 
forgiving ground (watered), he was 8 lengths behind at the eighth pole and 
just got in front at the wire.  This was the first group win for Collier 
Hill, a group 3.  

In 2005 we pointed him for the Irish St. Leger, 1 mile and 6 furlongs.  He 
went to Dubai and won a group 3 again, he was then third in the Sheema 
Classic, a $3m race, he won $500,000 for third prize.  He won a group race 
in Germany beating a Canadian International winner.  He was then beaten a 
short head in a group 1 in Germany.  Collier Hill kept improving all the 
time, and his joints seemed to also be improving.  Collier Hill then won 
the Irish St. Leger.

In 2006 Collier Hill had two runs at the beginning of the year at Ascot, 
he then went to the Curragh to take on Kastoria.  While he was beaten in a 
photo by Kastoria, he had had a significant hoof problem going into the 
race, he was also giving 6lbs.  Going into the Canadian International his 
form looked good and it was surprising to see him at 12 - 1.  It seems 
that because he is trained by a less fashionable trainer, and ridden by a 
less fashionable jockey his accomplishments are continually overlooked.  I 
was convinced he would finish in the first three.  The ground was on the 
soft side of good, which while not ideal for Collier Hill, is less ideal 
for north american-based horses which are used to only firm ground.  I was 
in Canada to ride Collier Hill before the race, thursday - sunday (Collier 
Hill exercised the morning of the race).  One thing I did notice was the 
turf close to the inside rail on the straight away was two inches shorter.  
This type of observation clearly helped in my tactics.  The race set up 
very well for Collier Hill.  He was allowed to sit just off a fast pace, 
we then kicked for home,  he was perhaps headed a little by Go Deputy, but 
had enough to get his head in front on the wire.

Dean McKeown Background
This was the biggest win in Dean's quite long career.  I joked with Dean 
that big wins are supposed to come early in one's career so you can parlay 
it into something special.  That being said, if you look at Dean's career 
he has actually done very well.  He was written off at the age of 21, at 
24 he rode 3 winners the entire season.  At 25 he came north to Richard 
Whitaker's to get a fresh start (this is where I met Dean).  From that new 
beginning he did have a few years with a lot of winners.  The fastest 
horse he ever rode was Orient (I rode Orient work once, her first bit of 
work as a 3yo. I was to never ride her again after that, and she blew away 
her work partner).  

Collier Hill Background
As for Collier Hill.  He was bought for $5,000 from John Gosden's stable, 
George Strawbridge was his owner.  He won a bumper race at Catterick for 
his first start for his new connections, the idea was to take him 
hurdling.  He was a "crap" hurdler.  He switched to the flat and was a 
decent handicapper for a while.  Once they figured out his preference for 
the going, and got his joints in order, the horse kept improving.  He is 
now being pointed for a race in Hong Kong.

On racing on synthetic tracks.
I asked also asked Dean about synthetic tracks in the UK.  Dean noted that 
initially they got it wrong in the UK in terms of the mix used for the 
tracks.  There was kickback which was entirely unpleasant.  The two 
polytracks they have now at Lingfield and Kempton are great.  There is no 
track bias, a horse can win from anywhere, come from behind, sit on the 
front, wherever.  I asked if the times were a little slower, and he noted 
that perhaps they were, but a track can control for that depending on how 
deep the surface is.  The Lingfield times are generally quicker than the 
Kempton times.  I mentioned that perhaps turf runners were enjoying this 
type of surface as much as, if not more than, the dirt runners.  This did 
not surprise Dean.  With no kickback, a horse can get a hold of the track 
much like they would a firm turf track.  It will be interesting to see how 
these types of tracks get adopted in the US.  Hollywood's meet opens 
shortly with the Cushion track. 

Update 901: Still no Barbaro update (as expected).  I saw Peter on the 
track (he was on Chelokee) and he had not heard anything yet.  It is 
another chilly morning at Fair Hill, yet quite pleasant.  A couple of the 
two year olds I ride went to the gate for a little schooling.  We seem to 
have plenty of Canada geese around, I assume they are in transit.  

I spent some of my morning interviewing Dean McKeown, who won the Canadian 
International last weekend (Collier 
Hill digs deep to hold off Go Deputy in Canadian International).  He 
gave some great insights on Collier Hill and his relationship with the 
horse, as well as racing on synthetic tracks, which has been a part of 
british racing for a few years now.  It may take me a little time to post.

Today is national call in day!  Get busy!

Update 900: Today's Barbaro update will again be later this morning.  

Here is the race order for the Breeders' Cup: Breeders' Cup 
Race Order, Post Times, Wagering Menu Announced.  For anyone planning 
to be there, please feel free to call 
me the friday before and we can arrange a time / place for everyone to 
meet up.

Update 899: I just spoke to Peter Brette.  He visited Barbaro earlier this 
afternoon and all remains well.  He groomed Barbaro and took him outside.

Update 898: Fred Stone may be the most famous equine artist, its certainly 
the only name I would recall without prompting (although that does not 
mean a lot).  This Thoroughbred Times article: Barbaro's 
spirit provides latest inspiration to equine artist Stone discusses 
the struggles Mr. Stone went through before determining to paint Barbaro.  
The following is an excerpt:

"Emotionally, I was so hurt by what happened that I said to my wife 
[Norma] that I'm never going to paint another horse again, and I meant 
it," Stone said. "I painted a little dog on a surfboard, and I started 
painting other things."

Gradually, Stone's stance began to soften as he watched the courageous 
three-year-old Dynaformer colt battle for his life while his owners, Roy 
and Gretchen Jackson, and the staff at the University of Pennsylvania's 
New Bolton Center did everything in their power to save Barbaro. 

Here is 
his work.

Update 897: New Bolton's Barbaro update for the day:  
Barbaro had another good week:

It has been a little over five months since Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro 
was brought to the University of Pennsylvania's George D. Widener Hospital 
at New Bolton Center. "I am happy to report that Barbaro had another good 
week, and his appetite and vital signs remain excellent," said Dr. Dean W. 
Richardson, Chief of Surgery at Penn's George D. Widener Hospital.

Barbaro's right hind leg remains in a fiberglass cast. "We are being very 
conservative with the right hind (fractured) limb in order to help protect 
the foundered left hind foot." said Dr. Richardson. "The hoof is growing 
slowly and not uniformly so it has a long way to go before it is 
acceptably strong and functional," said Dr. Richardson. "The foot will 
require meticulous care for a long time and setbacks here and there are 
probable."

Barbaro remains in the Intensive Care Unit of the University of 
Pennsylvania's George D. Widener Hospital, where he is recovering from 
injuries suffered at the Preakness on May 20.

Due to Barbaro's continued improvement, the University will now be posting 
updates biweekly. The next update will be posted on Tuesday, November 7, 
unless there is a significant change in Barbaro's condition.

Update 896: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (monday 
night).  I just spoke to Peter, who had heard from Michael, who had heard 
from Dr. Richardson.  Peter is also planning to visit later today, so I 
will try to catch up again later.
update, tuesday, 12:00 pm


Update 895: Still no Barbaro update, but its a logistical issue, nothing 
more.  Joe Deegan just called to give us an update on Perfect Drift as he 
prepares for the Breeders' Cup Classic.  Perfect Drift worked last 
saturday, he went 5/8ths of a mile in 1:02 and change.  He worked the last 
eighth in 10 and 4/5ths, so finshed very well in his work.  He walked on 
sunday, jogged yesterday and galloped this morning.  Joe says he is doing 
very well.  He will likely work again on saturday, which will be his final 
serious work (he may do something mid week, but not as long / fast).  

I asked Joe if he was getting on any other Breeders' Cup horses.  While 
that would have been quite common as many horses ship in to prepare for 
the big day of racing, it seems many of the horses are actually over at 
Keeneland getting ready for the races.  It seems that a few trainers are 
taking advantage of the Polytrack for their final preparations.  I know 
this is where both Michael Matz and Graham Motion are preparing their 
horses.

Update 894: No Barbaro update yet.  I saw Peter on my third set, he had 
not yet heard from Michael.  This morning not only was it dark, it was 
cold!  I have galloped a couple and shedrowed one.  I am now getting ready 
to breeze one "over the road" on the turf track.  It will be his first 
time breezing on the turf,  and the trainer really hopes he likes it!  We 
shall see.

Update 893: Much like yesterday, and for the near future, the Barbaro 
update will be later this morning at the earliest.  There is of course 
also a New Bolton update for Barbaro scheduled today.  

Sue McMullen sent me this e-mail with a piece of European Breeders' Cup 
news:

It is very unlikely that Shirocco, the reigning Breeders' Cup Turf 
champion, will  be at Churchill Downs to defend his title as a sale has 
been agreed between owner Baron Georg Von Ullman and Sheikh Mohammed for 
an undisclosed sum. Subject this week to a satisfactory veterinary 
inspection Shirocco will retire immediately and head to Dalham Hall Stud 
at Newmarket. The five-year-old son of Monsun won seven of his 13 races, 
including four Group 1s and victories over track stars Electrocutionist, 
Ouija Board and stable mate, Hurricane Run who now looks as if he'll be 
Andre Fabre's only runner at the Breeders' Cup when he lines up for the 
Turf on 4 November. Shirocco's final engagement for this season, assuming 
he came out of the BC in good order, would have been the Japan Cup but it 
looks almost certain that we've seen him for the last time.

Update 892: Peter Brette just called.  He visited Barbaro today, took him 
outside and gave him a good grooming.  A positive report.

Update 891: Rachel from Kennett Florist left this comment (timestamp: 9:16 
pm):

We had a nice trip to NBC today. A wonderful FOB came for a visit and 
supplied lunch and dessert to the very grateful (and hungry) staff at New 
Bolton. They were treated to pizza, salad, cake and various chocolates. 
Needless to say they were thrilled... they always are when food is 
involved!!

Big Boss was of course not left out of the festivities. Lots of green tops 
and stud muffins for him to enjoy... he's always thrilled with his treats 
as well.

It's turning cold here again, as we get ready for our annual Halloween 
parade in town... Kennett goes over the top for Halloween, all the area 
businesses put up scarecrows to decorate main street. Then they close the 
streets and have a big parade with all the bands in costume, of course. 
After which all the stores in town stay open and the kids get to go 
trick-or-trating. So instead of just having a scarecrow, we created a 
venus fly trap EATING a scarecrow... come on we are a flower shop, not 
just Barbaro's cafe!! 

Update 890: Jeannine Edwards just called (4:45 pm).  She was leaving New 
Bolton after interviewing Dr. Richardson for the "Outside the Lines" piece 
ESPN is putting together.  While she did not visit Barbaro she noted 
Barbaro remains comfortable (thus our latest update).

The Outside the Lines piece will air a few days before the Breeders' Cup 
(once I know when I will post).  It is about how Barbaro has effected 
those close to him.  They have interviewed (or are interviewing) Dr. 
Richardson, Michael Matz (Jeannine said this was a wonderful interview, 
better than the Delaware Park "We only need one miracle" interview), a fan 
and Edgar Prado.  It should be a five minute segment.  Some of the Dr. 
Richardson interview will also appear on the Breeders' Cup telecast.

Update 889: I just spoke to Barclay Tagg and neither Showing Up or NoBiz 
like ShoBiz (I hope I got that name right) are running in the Breeders' 
Cup.  Showing Up will be pointed for the Hollywood Derby and NoBiz the 
Remsen (New York).  Barclay explained the decisions like this.  

For Showing Up there really is nothing to be gained re: winning a 
championship for him by running in the Breeders' Cup (and there is no 
three year old Breeders' Cup race).  While he ran his best race in his 
last start, this is a decision that will hopefully help the horse in the 
future.  

For NoBiz it would have been tough to ask him to run his third race in six 
weeks in the two year old Breeders' Cup race.  He is still green and has 
something to learn.  By avoiding the Breeders' Cup he will likely benefit 
in the longer run.  The Remsen will be run towards the end of November. 

Basically I think both these decisions were made to help the respective 
long term future of the horses, rather than the short term potential 
financial gain.  I equate these decisions to that of Bernadini's 
connections when it was decided not to run him in the Belmont.  While they 
knew they had a good horse, they were thinking a little more long term and 
he was only just getting his career underway.

Update 888: An interesting article from the Washington Post on the 
introduction of synthetic tracks: On 
New Artificial Surface, the Difference Is Real.  At first I thought 
the author seemed in favour of synthetic tracks, but his final comment 
leaves me wondering a little:

The people who have championed synthetic racing surfaces should take a 
careful look at Keeneland and decide if this bizarre, 
go-as-slow-as-you-can style of racing is what the sport really needs.

There are many good points made in the article that suggests that the new 
surface would be:

a. safer for the horse (and jockey)
b. more entertaining for the viewer watching the race

The obession we currently have with speed from the gate does not make for 
an attractive product when the horses tire badly towards the finish and 
are strung out the length of the stretch.  Racing in europe has always 
appeared to me to be more attractive.  Lets hope the Keeneland meet is a 
success, and then the Hoollywood Park meet is a success.  I can only 
imagine what will happen when an important grade one race is run on this 
type of surface (a triple crown race or a Breeders' Cup event).  Now that 
will be interesting.  My limited knowledge thus far from people I have 
spoken to with experience with synthetic tracks is the horses seem to 
train on them with ease and they recover from their races more quickly. (I 
am guessing european horses tend to run more often that dirt running US 
horses, this is likely due to the ease of recovery from a race on the turf 
/ synthetic track.) 

Update 887: I just spoke to Steve Willard, Giacomo's exercise rider.  
Giacomo breezed today, 3/4s in 1:12 and 4/5ths.  John (trainer) was 
looking for a work in 1:13 so only 1/5th of a second off, which is very 
good (I am lucky if i am within 2 seconds of the time a trainer is looking 
for and I certainly have never breezed a horse 3/4s in 1:13!).  Giacomo 
breezed in behind another horse, was eased out at the eighth pole when 
Steve let his reigns out a little and went by.  He did not need to be 
pushed out.  Sounds like a nice work.  Steve said he cooled out well, he 
quit blowing in about 8 - 10 minutes and drank a half a bucket of water.

Overall he remains very bright and alert, and is holding his weight well.  
They take him out for a pick of grass each morning after his exercise and 
he just seems to be doing very well.  They are still in California, but 
will likely ship to Churchill Downs the very end of October.  I will call 
to get another update in a couple of days.

Update 886: Here is the Today Show clip: Barbaro 
is beating the odds.  The New Bolton footage was filmed October 12.

Update 885: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (sunday 
night).  I caught up with Peter after the last set, he had heard from 
Michael.
update 10:20 am, monday october 23

Update 884: Barbaro "mania" continues as Barbaro is on the Today Show, the 
front page of the Wilmington News Journal (update 883) and Channel 4 news 
in New York (I think from an e-mail I received).  Five months!

A lovely morning at Fair Hill, and certainly crisp.  For me work has 
quietened down considerably (phew).  First set I galloped a 2yo in company 
a mile and a quarter.  Both went very nice and evenly.  This was after a 
day off after their first "work", so it could have been anything but 
relaxing.  For the second set I just shedrowed a horse.  She will do this 
for a couple of days before going to the track.  The third set, well I 
could not wait for this.  He was going to the gate.  The gate crew are big 
Eagles fans.  I wear my Brett Favre shirt with pride everyday day from 
fall to spring.  Well all I can say is after yesterday's football the 
banter at Fair Hill this morning is quite fun!  (and the horse was good in 
the gate, then worked a half).

As I was behind the gate I got to talking to Fen, who gallops for Graham 
Motion (and gallops Film Maker).  Film Maker and Better Talk Now both 
worked yesterday on the turf (steeplechase track) and went well.  They are 
due to ship to Keeneland tomorrow (fly) and will likely have one more work 
this weekend as they prepare for the respective Breeders' Cup races.

No Barbaro update yet, will know more about when that will happen when I 
get back from Fair Hill after my last set.

Update 883: A nice article on Barbaro and New Bolton Center in general: Kentucky 
Derby winner's spirit wins over medical staff.  The following is an 
excerpt:

"He definitely has a personality," said Kasey McCafferty, the charge nurse 
in the intensive care unit and natal intensive care unit at the hospital. 
"He has bit me and kicked me. He can be feisty. He's not nasty and he's 
not trying to hurt anybody, but he's a stinker. He can get full of 
himself.

"Every time you see him, you have to pay attention because he's always 
messing with you. He makes you prove that you know what you're doing. Once 
you do that, he's fine."

McCafferty was laughing when she said that, as she looks forward to seeing 
him every day.

She watches him bend his ears back and scrunch up his face like a kid 
trying to avoid eating spinach when he doesn't like something. She said he 
breaks out in a sort of smile when he decides he wants to have some fun 
with the staff.

A quick reminder that today's update will be later today now that Michael 
is in Keeneland preparing Round Pond for the Breeders' Cup.

Update 882: Just spoke to Sabina Pierce, who is now 
out of hospital and back at home.  Sabina is very grateful for all the 
support she has received from the site.

Update 881: No update for Barbaro this evening.  I just spoke to Peter who 
had no further information since this morning.  It is likely that as we 
approach the Breeders' Cup updates will likely be once a day now that 
Michael is in Keeneland. 

Update 880: Collier Hill took the Sky Classic in Woodbine: Collier 
Hill digs deep to hold off Go Deputy in Canadian International.  I 
have to confess I did not see the race, but I am so psyched Dean McKeown 
rode the winner.  I worked with Dean many years ago at Richard Whitaker's.  
It was a time when Richard's stable was pretty decent.  I am not sure of 
its status now,  but then we had Orient, Clantime, Jo Sugden and Tobermory 
Boy.  Basically some pretty good sprinters.  Dean was the stable jockey, 
coming up from Newmarket where he could not buy a winner.  When he came to 
Richard's he had his three horses to look after and basically rebuilt his 
riding career.  He is also a great horseman, and a good guy.  Anyway, I 
have not followed his career much since I have been to the US, but I 
assume this is a big winner for him.  Another person working at Richard's 
that same year is my Beeders' Cup host, Bob Hatfield.  Basically not only 
did we have a pretty good year at Richard's, but it was fun too.  

I went to the Fair Hill Three Day event today for a couple of hours.  It 
turned out one of the competitors was someone I knew when I was a kid in 
England, Robin Walker.  Unfortunately he was eliminated before the final 
day so I did not get a chance to catch up (either that or he just decided 
not to compete in the final leg).  May be I will get over there a little 
earlier next year!  

Update 879: Another comfortable night last night for Barbaro (saturday 
night).  I just spoke to Peter, who had heard from Michael, who had heard 
from Dr. Richardson.
update sunday, october 22, 11:00 am

Update 878: Today's big race is in Canada: Sky 
Conqueror aims to keep on rolling in Canadian International.  As the 
name of the race suggests, it does attract plenty of international 
interest.  Here is Sue McMullen's preview of the horses running in the 
race that have traveled from Europe:

Included in the European line-up for today's Canadian International at 
Woodbine are the Aga Khan's mare Kastoria, trained by John Oxx who 
wouldn't take a horse across the Irish Sea on a wild goose chase let alone 
the Atlantic, plus the daughter of Selkirk is in great form having won her 
last three including the Group 1 Irish St Leger (beating Yeats who is due 
to run in the Melbourne Cup), a Listed race and a Group 3, when she beat 
another in this field, the grand old veteran Collier Hill who at 
eight-years-old has won 13 of 43 races, including two over jumps and been 
placed 16 times (10 seconds) winning more than £1 million in prize money. 
This extraordinary and consistent individual is trained by Alan Swinbank 
in Yorkshire and although he doesn't exactly have a typical profile of a 
horse running at Group level nobody's told him that and he even mixes it 
occasionally with the 'big boys', including a valiant second to Japanese 
superstar Heart's Cry in the Dubai Sheema Classic in March.  Good luck to 
the old boy and what marvellous fun his owners must have shuttling around 
Europe, Dubai and now Canada to watch him.
 
Blue Monday is a definite danger among the overseas raiders, having been 
only a length third behind David Junior (who heads for the BC Classic) in 
the Coral Eclipse, third in the Juddmonte International and won his last 
start, the Group 3 Dubai Duty Free Arc Trial at Newbury. Another to fly 
the flag for the UK is also the youngest horse in the field, the Galileo 
three-year-old The Last Drop who ran second to Sixties Icon in the St 
Leger.   

Update 877: Today's update will be delayed.  Michael is on his way to 
Keeneland (Round Pond is there preparing for the Breeders' Cup).  I will 
call Peter later today to get an update.  Its likely coming up to the 
Breeders' Cup updates will be later in the day.

While we are waiting I thought you might enjoy this quick conversation 
Michelle Matz had with Eduardo Hernandez, Barbaro's groom.  I had asked 
Michelle if she could ask Eduardo a few questions for us as Michelle 
speaks great spanish.  Here is the brief conversation:

Michelle: When did you start taking care of Barbaro, and what were your 
initial impressions?
Eduardo: I started taking care of him last year in December.  He was a 
very happy horse.

Michelle: When did you realize Barbaro was "special" ?
Eduardo: I realized he was a great horse after he won the Tropical Park 
Derby at Calder.

Michelle: What were your thoughts when you won the Kentucky Derby?
Eduardo: I was very happy, and I wanted to keep on winning.

Michelle: What are your thoughts now as Barbaro continues his recovery?
Eduardo: I am very happy he is recovering well.  I really just want him to 
keep getting better.

Five months and counting.

Update 876: Another comfortable day for Barbaro.  I just spoke to Peter 
(6:00 pm) who had spoken to Michael, who had visited.

Update 875: A quick reminder, there is a 7 pm vigil tonight for Barbaro.  
Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, spare some time for Barbaro.

Sue McMullen sent this report of the Racing Post Trophy:

Trainer Peter Chapple-Hyam is enjoying great success with his 
two-year-olds and has much to look forward to next season as he has now 
added the winner of the Racing Post Trophy to his line-up. Authorized, 
under Frankie Dettori, was an emphatic winner of the race that always 
seems to throw up a very good horse and has been won three times in recent 
years by horses who have gone on to win the Epsom Derby. 
 
Run on heavy ground the first three horses home were all above 20-1 in the 
betting market and it has to be said that the going was too soft for many 
who appeared to be finding conditions underfoot just too much, including 
favourites Eagle Mountain and Regime.
 
Sometimes heavy ground throws up an odd result, which is quickly 
discounted by form experts, but although the winner is now being described 
as a 'surprise victory' at 25-1, the surprise is only to those who 
overlooked the horse in the market and nobody told Authorized that he was 
a longshot and unlikely to be a maiden winner in this race. His 
performance was less of a surprise to the owner and trainer who knew he 
had the talent as he has continued to improve. Frankie Dettori tried to 
persuade the owner not to run as although he knew the horse didn't lack 
talent, he thought he needed more time to mature mentally before tackling 
such a big race.
 
The Montjeu colt proved him wrong in the nicest possible way and also 
vindicated Chapple-Hyam's last minute decision to let him take his chance 
as he was nearly withdrawn due to the testing conditions. He heads to the 
Dante at York, then the Epsom Derby for which he's now earned himself a 
quote of 12-1. For this observer, he won in spite of the ground and not 
because of it as he moved like a very good horse and this was no fluke 
victory due to heavy going.  

By the way, the winning trainer, and Michael Bell (a trainer who was 
mentioned in yesterday's report from Sue) both worked for the same trainer 
many years ago.  So did I.  Anyone know the name of the trainer (not very 
likely).