Del Mar opens the first of the summer boutique thoroughbred meets Thursday, July 16, 2015 where as they say: The Turf meets the Surf.
This meet not only will the kids get to play in the sand on the beach, the thoroughbreds will be running on newly installed el Segundo Sand.
Twinspires Blog – Mucciolo – Del Mar opens with switch back to dirt track
Thoroughbred Racing Commentary – Shields – New Del Mar surface looks set to revitalize meet
LA Times – Zieralski – Del Mar opens with new dirt track and a Triple Crown winner
Bloodhorse – Balan – Dirt Returns, Wagering Up for Del Mar Opener
LA Times – Helfand – For Del Mar workers, it’s a long opening day at a timeless track
Lady and the Track – Mendoza – Del Mar Picks and Plays July 18, 2015
TwinSpires Blog – DeRosa -The Dirt on Del Mar Opening Day
Bloodhorse – American Pharoah Arrives at Del Mar
Louisville Courier-Journal – Litner – Racing fans upset over Pharoah’s ESPYs defeat
Horse Race Insider – Pricci – LeBron James 1—American Pharoah 0
Lady and the Track – Hammer – American Pharoah Halter Tops TRF Gala Auction Items
To Phil the opening of the American thoroughbred boutique meets signals the start of the 2016 Kentucky Derby Trail.
Lady and the Track – Smith – Two-Year-Old Thoroughbreds to Watch: Team Picks
The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.
Lao Tzu
Bloodhorse – Balan – Del Mar Dirt Under Observation as Meet Begins
Governments tend not to solve problems, only to rearrange them.
Ronald Reagan
TDN – Federal Anti-Doping Legislation Introduced
NY Times – Macur – Bill Would Save Horse Racing From No. 1 Threat: Itself
NY Times – Drape – Congressmen Propose Antidoping Agency for Horse Racing
Barr Tonko – Thoroughbred Horseracing Integrity Act of 2015
Bloodhorse – Angst – Bill Would Give USADA Medication Oversight
No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we’ll ever see on this earth!
Ronald Reagan
ESPN – West – Fairness not part of the game
Bloodhorse – Balan – California Chrome Likely Out for the Year
Taylor Made has reportedly purchased the minority share in 2014 Horse of the Year California Chrome previously owned by the colt’s co-breeder Steve Coburn.
TwinSpires Blog – Hanson – California Chrome to convalesce at Taylor Made
Bloodhorse – Mitchell – Taylor Made Buys Share in California Chrome
Phil has a question:
How much will American Pharoah’s plans for 2016 affect the plans of California Chrome.
Bloodhorse – Shulman – Lady Eli Battling Laminitis
Bloodhorse – Champion Main Sequence Retired Due to Injury
This is Horse Racing – Family matters for Flaxman, Main Sequence
Twinspires Blog – Hanson – In fight for his life, Romero still believing in a miracle
Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life.
Omar Khayyam
ESPN – Duckworth – Calling the shots
National Post – Treleaven – Vive l’indifférence: Can Paris rehabilitate its reputation for rudeness?
Speaking of rudeness where has Calgary’s western hospitality disappeared to. When Phil was at Century Downs he politely asked a female person sitting at one of the outdoor tables if he could have a quick peek at her program. Her response was “go buy one for $3.00 inside”.
Power is like being a lady… if you have to tell people you are, you aren’t.
Margaret Thatcher
Of puns it has been said that those who most dislike them are those who are least able to utter them.
Edgar Allan Poe
Phil has no puns in the oven today.
Louisville Courier-Journal – Litner – Espinoza rides ESPYs host McHale on stage
TwinSpires Blog – Powell – Handicapping Insights – July 16
Date Race Name Track Division
Jul 25 King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes sponsored by QIPCO Ascot Longines Turf
Jul 26 Bing Crosby Stakes Del Mar Sprint
Jul 29 Qatar Sussex Stakes Goodwood Mile
August
Aug 1 Clement L. Hirsch Handicap Del Mar Longines Distaff
Aug 2 William Hill Haskell Invitational Monmouth Park Classic
Aug 8 The Whitney Saratoga Classic
Aug 15 Beverly D. Stakes Arlington Park Filly & Mare Turf
Aug 15 Arlington Million Arlington Park Longines Turf
Aug 19 Juddmonte International Stakes York Longines Turf
Aug 20 Darley Yorkshire Oaks York Filly & Mare Turf
Aug 21 Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes York Turf Sprint
Aug 22 Pat O’Brien Stakes Del Mar Dirt Mile
Aug 22 Del Mar Handicap Del Mar Longines Turf
Aug 22 TVG Pacific Classic Del Mar Classic
Aug 29 Sword Dancer Invitational Stakes Saratoga Longines Turf
Aug 29 Forego Handicap Saratoga Sprint
Aug 29 Ballerina Stakes Saratoga Filly & Mare Sprint
Aug 29 Personal Ensign H. Saratoga Longines Distaff
September
Sep 5 Spinaway Stakes Saratoga Juvenile Fillies
Sep 5 T. Von Zastrow Stutenpreis Baden Baden Filly & Mare Turf
Sep 5 Pocahontas Stakes Churchill Downs Juvenile Fillies
Sep 5 Iroquois Stakes Churchill Downs Sentient Jet Juvenile
Sep 6 Longines Grosser Preis Von Baden Baden Baden Longines Turf
Sep 12 The John Deere Juvenile Turf Trial Stakes Leopardstown Juvenile Turf
Sep 12 The Coolmore Stud Matron Stakes Leopardstown Filly & Mare Turf
Sep 12 QIPCO Irish Champion Stakes Leopardstown Longines Turf
Sep 12 Natalma Stakes Woodbine Juvenile Fillies Turf
Sep 12 Summer Stakes Woodbine Juvenile Turf
Sep 13 Moyglare Stud Stakes The Curragh Juvenile Fillies Turf
Sep 13 Canadian Stakes Woodbine Filly & Mare Turf
Sep 13 Ricoh Woodbine Mile Woodbine Mile
Sep 25 Shadwell Rockfel Newmarket Juvenile Fillies Turf
Sep 26 Juddmonte Royal Lodge Stakes Newmarket Juvenile Turf
Sep 26 Flower Bowl Invitational Stakes Belmont Park Filly & Mare Turf
Sep 26 Vosburgh Invitational Stakes Belmont Park Sprint
Sep 26 Joe Hirsch Turf Classic Invitational Belmont Park Longines Turf
October
Oct 2 Stoll Keenon Ogden Phoenix Stakes Keeneland Sprint
Oct 2 Darley Alcibiades Stakes Keeneland Juvenile Fillies
Oct 3 Shadwell Turf Mile Stakes Keeneland Mile
Oct 3 Thoroughbred Club of America Stakes Keeneland Filly & Mare Sprint
Oct 3 Claiborne Breeders’ Futurity Keeneland Sentient Jet Juvenile
Oct 3 Frizette Stakes Belmont Park Juvenile Fillies
Oct 3 Foxwoods Champagne Stakes Belmont Park Sentient Jet Juvenile
Oct 3 Jockey Club Gold Cup Invitational Belmont Park Classic
Oct 4 Total Prix Marcel Boussac Longchamp Juvenile Fillies Turf
Oct 4 Qatar Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere Longchamp Juvenile Turf
Oct 4 Longines Prix de L’Opera Longchamp Filly & Mare Turf
Oct 4 Dixiana Bourbon Stakes Keeneland Juvenile Turf
Oct 4 Juddmonte Spinster Stakes Keeneland Longines Distaff
Oct 8 J. P. Morgan Chase Jessamine Stakes Keeneland Juvenile Fillies Turf
Bloodhorse – Balan – Los Alamitos Handle Up, Attendance Down
Alberta Downs Canadian Thoroughbred Advertisement
Demand Letter to HORSE RACING ALBERTA December 5 2014
Racing Post – Lees – Bookmakers renew call to end Saturday excess
Edmonton Journal – AP – 50 Cent files for bankruptcy protection after jury orders him to pay $5M
STRYKER PHD CAN EXTEND STREAK
IN $50,000 MT. RAINIER HANDICAP
Stryker Phd, all but invincible at Emerald Downs, heads a field of 11 older handicap runners in Sunday’s $50,000 Mt. Rainier Handicap at 1 1/16 miles.
A winner of five straight races at Emerald Downs—all stakes—Stryker Phd carries high weight of 122 lbs with regular rider Leslie Mawing up for trainer Larry Ross.
The race features the last two Longacres Mile winners: 2014 champion Stryker Phd and 2013 winner Herbie D, whose comeback took a step forward with an allowance win here two weeks ago.
Stryker Phd is climbing into rarified air at Emerald Downs. The 6-year-old Washington-bred is attempting to run the older stakes division for a second straight year, and also has a chance to become the first two-time Mile winner at Emerald Downs.
In his 2015 Emerald Downs debut last month, Stryker Phd used his customary late kick and notched a neck victory over a resilient Noosito, running one mile in 1:35.57.
“He came out of the race real good,” said assistant trainer Sharon Ross. “He’s happy. Everything seems to be good with him.
“You know, he’s a more mature horse this year,” she added. “His works reflect it, and just the way he’s training, eating and acting around the barn. He’s just a nice older horse right now.”
Ross said it helps to be able to train toward specific races on specific dates, a perk when training stakes runners.
“Larry’s had him on this work schedule that he’s getting fitter, stronger, fitter stronger. For the last race we were hoping we had him fit enough to go a mile.
“When you have a schedule like the stakes schedule here, you know how to prepare a horse for them because you know the race will go. Training for the rest of the book is harder than training for the stakes.”
In last year’s Mt. Rainier, Stryker Phd rallied from eighth to win the race in a stakes record 1:40.20, breaking the mark of 1:40.52 set by Herbie D in 2013. Sunday, the Mile winners square off for the first time since August 18, 2013, when Herbie D defeated Stryker Phd by 1 ½ lengths in 1:35.12.
The Seattle Slew Handicap is Race 9 at 5:58 p.m.
The 11-horse field is the largest for the Mt. Rainier since 2000, when Bold Words prevailed as 2-to-1 favorite.
With a victory, Stryker Phd would become the fourth horse to win the Mt. Rainier twice: Poker Brad (2003-04), Flamethrowintexan (2005-06), Noosa Beach (2010-11).
Through 10 stakes, average field size is 9.2 horses and average win payoff is soaring at $24.60. Favorites are only 2-for-10, with $2 win payoffs of: $19, $81.40, $19, $8.20, $3.60, $3.40, $18.40, $8.40, $10.60 and $68.60.
The field for the 20th running of the Mt. Rainier Handicap: Mike Man’s Gold, Javier Matias, 116 lbs; Prohibition, Natasha Coddington,116; Mebossman, Jake Barton, 116; Absolutely Cool, Rocco Bowen,118; Noosito, Juan Gutierrez, 117; Stryker Phd, Leslie Mawing,122; Herbie D, Amadeo Perez, 118; Grinder Sparksaglo, Joe Steiner, 115; Remembertobreathe, Gallyn Mitchell,115; Del Rio Harbor, Julien Couton,116; Scat Daddybaby, Francisco Duran, 115.
Jockey Javier Matias playing with Emerald Express contender Barkley Thursday morning at the Howard Belvoir barn.$50,000 EMERALD EXPRESS ALSO SUNDAY
Sunday’s card also features the $50,000 Emerald Express for 2-year-old colts and geldings at six furlongs. The Emerald Express marks the first of eight stakes for 2-year-olds at the meet, culminating with the $65,000 Gottstein Futurity at 1 1/16 miles on September 27.
Trainer Howard Belvoir has had great success in the Emerald Express, winning the race four times, and appears to have another good chance for victory Sunday. Barkley, co-owned by Belvoir and Rising Star Stable III, overcame a slow start to win his June 20 debut by 3 ¼ lengths in :52.29 for 4 ½ furlongs.
A chestnut colt by Munnings-Numero d’Oro, Barkley drew the No. 3 post-position and is one of only two winners in the race. The other is Gold Rush Dancer, a Private Gold colt that drew off for a three-length victory in :58.63 for five furlongs on July 4.
Belvoir is 3-0-0 in four starts this year with 2-year-olds.
Belvoir won the Emerald Express four straight years: Sundance Circle, 2003; Seattles Best Joe, 2004; Tusko T, 2005; Immigration, 2006.
The field for the 20th running of the Emerald Express: Packy’s Out, Rocco Bowen 118 lbs; Wando Cat, Joe Steiner, 118; Barkley, Javier Matias, 120; Ryan Walt, Leonel Camacho-Flores, 118; Gold Rush Dancer, Julien Couton, 120.
BELLE HILL TOPS $50,000 KENT HANDICAP
Belle Hill, a four-length winner of the Irish Day Handicap last month, heads six 3-year-old fillies Saturday in the $50,000 Kent Handicap for 3-year-old fillies at Emerald Downs.
Belle Hill (4-2-0-1-$49,970) is the 7-to-5 favorite on the morning line, with Suva Harbor (3-to-1) and Ethan’s Baby (7-to-2) rounding out the top three choices. In her first try around two turns, Belle Hill rallied from seven lengths back for a four-length victory over Seeking the Light in 1:36.67 for one mile.
Just three weeks removed from the Irish Day Handicap, the Kent is a relatively quick turnaround for the sophomore fillies. Belle Hill seems to be just fine, thank you, drilling a bullet five furlongs in :58 4/5 last Saturday.
“She had one good work since her last race and that’s all she needs,” Sharon Ross said. “She’s a big, long strider like Stryker Phd. She trains good and hard every day just like Stryker. She out there bucking and playing. She feels pretty good about herself right now. She’s a very nice filly.”
Owned by Aithon Stables, Belle Hill was a $250,000 purchase at the Fasig-Tipton Kentucky 2014 Summer Selected Horses of Racing Age Sale. By Sky Mesa-Sealy Hill, she began her career this spring at Golden Gate Fields, breaking her maiden May 2 and then shipping to Emerald Downs.
The field for the 19th running of the Kent Handicap: Ethan’s Baby, Julien Couton, 118 lbs; Belle Hill, Leslie Mawing, 120; Suva Harbor, Joe Steiner, 119; Seeking the Light, Juan Gutierrez, 118; Perhaps a Pie, Javier Matias, 116; Pippa Bou Peep, Eliska Kubinova, 115.
From the Mountain Top!
The last two Mt. Rainier Handicap winners have come back to capture the Longacres Mile(G3). Will the trend continue in 2015?
| Mt. Rainier Winner | Longacres Mile Finish | |
|---|---|---|
| 2014: Stryker Phd | 1st | |
| 2013: Herbie D | 1st | |
| 2012: Hudson Landing | 9th | |
| 2011: Noosa Beach | 2nd | |
| — Emerald Downs Media | ||
BREAKFAST AT THE WIRE SATURDAY;
FIESTA PREMIO ESMERALDA SUNDAY
Emerald Downs kicks off last year’s biggest hit–Breakfast at the Wire–starting at 8 a.m. on Saturday near the winner’s circle on Track Level.
The 2-hour program, hosted by Dean Mazzuca, is the perfect opportunity to commiserate with trainers, owners and jockeys during the morning work hours. Sponsored by Rad Roasting Company, Breakfast at the Wire features three different menu items all priced at $6. The event runs every Saturday through July and August and includes parking and entry through the paddock gate from 8-9 a.m.
On Sunday, Emerald Downs celebrates Fiesta Premio Esmeralda, an annual favorite by the Hispanic community at the racetrack.
Fiesta Premio Esmeralda includes Mariachis, Traditional Mexican Dancers, and the famous dancing horses!
UPCOMING EVENTS
July 24: Fabulous Friday Band
July 25: Food Truck Fest Day 1
July 26: Food Truck Fest Day 2
August 2: Scottish Day
EMERALD RACING CLUB’S “YODELER” RETIRES
Dancing Yodeler, Emerald Racing Club’s first horse, has been officially retired by his ownership group – Left Coast Thoroughbreds.
After winning two races last year for the Emerald Racing Club, “Yodeler” was purchased by Left Coast Thoroughbreds, formed by a group of former racing club members. He spent the winter at Larry & Sharon Ross’ farm before returning to training in January.
In his first start this season, he was claimed for $5,000. Two starts later, Left Coast Thoroughbreds re-claimed the gelding, but was found to have an injury that would keep him from competing soundly and the decision was made to retire him.
“Yodeler” made a lot of new racing fans very happy and set the standard for the Emerald Racing Club for the future. He will be honored in a retirement ceremony on the race track on a date to be announced and will go forward into his new career.
MATCH-UP OF THE WEEK: LUCKY ECHO & SEATTLES BEST COPY
Saturday’s seventh and sub-feature race matches six top-notch sprinters in the 3-year-old filly division who’ll face off in an allowance optional claiming race at $40,000, including Northwest Farms Stakes winner Seattles Best Copy and Lucky Echo, who’ll face off in the Media Match-Up of the Week!
Lucky Echo steps up in class after a snappy win over Ritzy Tags, who returned to spank softer foes last week. ’Echo gets the leading rider and has shown an ability to rate, gets the nod vs. a tough field of sophomore fillies.
Seattles Best Copy returns from a long layoff after a stellar 2-year-old campaign that included a stakes win and three top-2 performances in four starts. She has tons of speed but with the outside post, she could rate nicely and find herself a decent trip. She’s also part-owned by Director of Publicity Joe Withee and that’s always a plus!
Also entered: Citizen Kitty, Haleys Rainbow, Sailingforthesun and Sneaking a Kiss.
THE PRESS BOX PODCAST IS BACK!
The 45-minute program will showcase every stakes race this season including Sunday’s $50,000 Mt. Rainier Handicap and an interview with assistant trainer Sharon Ross, who saddles Washington Horse of the Year Stryker Phd.
Hosted by Jacob Pollowitz (Professor Pollowitz) and Vince Bruun (Mr. Media), The Press Box Podcast starts approx. 30 minutes before post time before each stakes and includes horsemen interviews, handicapping, Matt Dinerman’s live race call, the Winner’s Circle interview and a comprehensive look at the race’s history.
You can listen to the show live or recorded just by going to the track website at emeralddowns.com or at mixlr.com/emerald-downs.
FAST TIMES & FIGURES: WEEK 13
Friday, July 10
Race 1: Onehundredmiles-50
Race 2: Swingshift Deputy-60*
Race 3: Hey Lil Missy-50
Race 4: Bodacious-45*
Race 5: T.D.’s Gold-62
Race 6: Coach Royal-83
Race 7: Dreamstone Cowgirl-44
Saturday, July 11
Race 1: (DeadHeat) Ojango/Cousin Wheelz-QH
Race 2: Mr. Takahashi-69*
Race 3: Princess Kennedy-64*
Race 4 Dallon’s Gold-62
Race 5: Cheeky Stone-56
Race 6: Amy Jane-62*
Race 7: Suite One-58*
Race 8: Charlie Thomas-69
Race 9: Arrom Bear-84*
Race 10: Southerncitynights-62*
Sunday, July 12
Race 1: Jacango-qh
Race 2: Mary’s Mercedes-39
Race 3: He’s Dreamy-58*
Race 4: Luck Out-42
Race 5: Eight Ball Parker-51*
Race 6: Im Pure Brass-45
Race 7: Advancement-73
Race 8: Ritzy Tags-54
Race 9: Betrbegone-82*
Race 10: Polish Dollar-76
Race 11: Judo-53*
*career high
**ties career-high
#first-time starter
2015 Fastest Times
4 1/2 Furlongs :51.25 Kiss My Lulu, June 27
5 Furlongs :56.70 Power Fleet, May 16
5-½ Furlongs 1:02.39 O B Harbor, April 18
6 Furlongs 1:08.69 Kikisoblu, May 10
6-½ Furlongs 1:14.27 Fleet Eagle, May 17
1 Mile 1:35.57 Stryker Phd, June 14
1 1/16 Mile 1:42.79 Betrbegone, July 12
870 Yards :45.85 Grand Move, May 30
2-MINUTE CLIP: VICKI POTTER
Group Sales Account Executive Vicki Potter kicks off Breakfast at the Wire this Saturday and is this week’s 2-minute clip!
Construction for the new Jumbotron at Emerald Downs is officially underway with a completion date expected for early August.FINISH LINES: Weekly Honors #13-Jockey- Leonel Camacho-Flores ; Trainer- Joe Toye ; Owner- Emerald Racing Club ; Groom- Victor Hernandez (David Martinez) ; WTBOA Washington-bred- Betrbegone (Howard Maggard) ; Exercise Rider- Abbie Johnson (Doris Harwood) . .
.Betrbegone’s stunning win in the Seattle Slew Handicap was the first Emerald Downs stakes winner sired by Parker’s Storm Cat . . .
Sunday’s eighth race for older $25,000 claimers is a doozy. Five of the nine runners already have wins at the meet including razor-sharp Heza Witch Doctor , an 8-year-old Harbor the Gold gelding with a two-for-two mark this season and three straight wins overall. . .
Julien Couton begins the second half of the meet owning a 54-42 lead over Juan Gutierrez atop the Thoroughbred riders’ standings, with defending champion Leslie Mawing third with 39 wins. Couton narrowly leads Mawing in earnings $559-720 to $552,850. . .
In the trainers’ race, Jeff Metz owns a 31-17 lead over both Frank Lucarelli and Blaine Wright . Metz also leads in earnings with $272,088, followed by Lucarelli, $239,435, and Belvoir, $205,812. .
.In the Quarter Horse jockeys’ standings, Leonel Camacho-Flores , Luis Flores-Gonzalez and Ruben Camacho are all tied for first with three wins apiece. .
Pablo Madrigal is the top Quarter Horse trainer with four wins. . . My Palmilla , $57,000 sales topper at the 2014 WTBOA yearling sale, prevailed in a $70,000 maiden special weight Thursday on opening day at Del Mar. My Palmilla ($21.20) is a Washington-bred by Tribal Rule-Bella Campana , bred by Mr. and Mrs. William T. Griffin . . .
The summer heat continues! Friday-81 and clear,
Bloodhorse – Velazquez Set for Jock Competition in Turkey
SATURDAY PREVIEW
Thoroughbred racing action returns today with an exciting seven race card.
The main event is in race four as six optional $50,000 claimers will do battle over a mile a sixteenth. The race serves as a prep for the rich $100,000 BC Cup Redekop Classic which will be run on Monday, August 3rd.
On the rail is Mysterious Soul who is owned by Russ Bennett, Stan Steed, Morris Peter, Dennis Dale and the Grayross Stable. The son of Perfect Soul is making his first start since his second place finish at 31-1 in the $100,000 Premiers Handicap. He has trained well for his return and will team up with Amadeo Perez for trainer Barbara Heads.
Peter Redekop’s Title Contender got a needed confidence boost as he dipped down into a $35,000 claimer and out-gamed Taylors Deal and a stubborn Cowie Creek to get his first win since BC Cup day last year. When his A-game shows up he is one of the best horses on the grounds and he may need his best today. Mark Buchanan was aboard for his latest victory and will be back in the saddle for trainer Anita Bolton.
The newly formed Hastings Racing Club will be in the paddock for the first time as their recent private purchase Square Dancer will make his initial start at Hastings. He has been competitive against high-end claimers in Seattle and Phoenix and is one that will like the mile and a sixteenth distance. Leading rider Richard Hamel gets the call from conditioner Steve Henson.
Gord Christoff’s homebred Twistgrips should enjoy the stretch out in distance this afternoon. His most recent start was back in May when he was collared late by Slice of Red. He powered by the field on the stretch turn and made the lead at the sixteenth pole but pricked his ears lost momentum as he seemed to get lost on the lead causing him to get beat. He hasn’t won a race since the 2013 season and in 2013 he won twice both were with Antonio Reyes in the tack. Reyes will be the pilot today for trainer John Snow.
The North American Thoroughbred Horse Company’s Devil in Disguise has had a longer dry spell than Twistgrips, his last winner’s circle visit was in 2012 but in all fairness he had been running against the best horses racing exclusively in stakes events. He has had a series of close finishes and looked very good in his latest start running second behind Brackendale in a scorching 1:15 4/5. His best races have been at this trip and David Lopez will be at the helm for Troy Taylor.
Raymond Sturm’s Distillery seems to be at his best when he can run near the lead going long. He sports a sharp prep in 47 2/5 last Wednesday and could be a strong pace threat. Keishan Balgobin rides for Hall-of-Fame trainer Frank Barroby.
The co-feature is in race six where the likely favourite will be Mark DeDomenico and the North American Thoroughbred Horse Company’s Dear Lilly who drops out of a stake race into this $25,000 optional claimer.
Her main foe will be Maralee Walter’s Hidden Harbor who will be looking for her 15th career victory. She has won half of her starts at Hastings and is always tough at this price tag.
Rounding out the field is Don Danard’s Fire Beauty, Exclusive Stable and Ray Hanson’s talented three year old filly Ambleside Park, Reindance Farm’s newcomer Imakittensjoy, 3480 Equine Inc’s recent claim Bamboo Dream, Canmor Farm’s Blended and Darren Lupul’s Honey Skila.
The Saturday program gets started at 1:50 p.m.
| Race 1 | 5 – Captain Salt 1 – Chapel Boy 2 – Jordan’s Quest |
1 – Chapel Boy 2 – Jordan’s Quest 5 – Captain Salt |
| Race 2 | 5 – Saffron 4 – Fourth in Command 7 – Bullet |
5 – Saffron 7 – Bullet 4 – Fouth in Command |
| Race 3 | 3 – Yogi Man 2 – Power to Believe 4 – Southern Casanova |
3 – Yogi Man 2 – Power to Believe 6 – New Jersey Joe |
| Race 4 | 1 – Mysterious Soul 5 – Title Contender 2 – Title Contender |
3 – Sqaure Dancer 2 – Title Contender 4 – Twistgrips |
| Race 5 | 10 – Jockey Style 2 – Instant Cash 1 – Marruk |
6 – Advisor 1 – Marruk 2 – Instant Cash |
| Race 6 | 1 – Hidden Harbor 7 – Dear Lilly 2 – Fire Beauty |
7 – Dear Lily 1 – Hidden Harbour 2 – Fire Beauty |
| Race 7 | 2 – Dee Jay Snow 4 – Exclusively 7 – This Is The Moment |
2 – Dee Jay Snow 4 – Exclusively 3 – Nana’s Buddy |
| Mike’s Picks | Drew’s Picks |
|---|
Horse Race Insider – Jicha – A big horse outweighs big races
Bloodhorse – TCA Title Sponsor of Thoroughbred Makeover
Godolphin – Fingers Crossed For Madamoiselle Handicap
Nominations for the Princess Margaret
36th Running Of The Princess Margaret
$50,000 Estimated
A SPECIAL WEIGHT STAKES FOR TWO YEAR OLD FILLIES
SIX FURLONGS
TO BE RUN FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2015
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
BESWICK dk b/.f.2 Al Pitchko Rodney J. Cone
BOOTLEGGERS WIFE (Beauregard) dk b/.f.2 Riversedge Racing Stables Ltd. Tim Rycroft
COSMIC DREAMS dk b/.f.2 Bar None Ranches Ltd. Ron Grieves
HAYTHORNE PLACE ch.f.2 Charlie Maze Craig Smith
LOMA LINDA dk b/.f.2 Al Pitchko Rodney J. Cone
MISS WILD ROSE dk b/.f.2 Riversedge Racing Stables Ltd. Tim Rycroft
ONESTARATATIME dk b/.f.2 Curtis & Darrell Landry, Red Diamond Stable and Highfield Stock Farm Greg Tracy
RAISE A DANCER b.f.2 Derby Quest Farms Ltd. and Shot In The Dark Racing Corp. Greg Tracy
SAFARI TAN b.f.2 M & P Equipment Inc., Met Set Consulting Ltd. and Dale L. Saunders Dale L. Saunders
Nominations For the 37th Running Of The Edmonton Juvenile
37th Running Of The Edmonton Juvenile
$50,000 Estimated
A SPECIAL WEIGHT STAKES FOR TWO YEAR OLD COLTS AND GELDINGS
SIX FURLONGS
TO BE RUN SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2015
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
AWESOME SLATE ch.g.2 Riversedge Racing Stables Ltd. Tim Rycroft
CREDITS GOOD dk b/.c.2 Dialed In Racing Stable, IndyRock Racing and Smokin Guns Stable Craig Smith
GIO PANELLI dk b/.g.2 Al Pitchko Rodney J. Cone
HOLD THE GIANT ch.g.2 Riversedge Racing Stables Ltd. Tim Rycroft
KRISTOFFERSON dk b/.c.2 Riversedge Racing Stables Ltd. Tim Rycroft
MACHO NORTH b.g.2 Derby Quest Farms Ltd. and Shot In The Dark Racing Corp. Greg Tracy
MOONLIGHT MALICE (Zenteno Jr) ch.g.2 Mark Gems International Ltd. Jennifer Shafer
N. Y. SMOKE dk b/.c.2 Doug Blair Joan Petrowski
OVED dk b/.g.2 Jennifer Smith Rodney J. Cone
OZARK DAREDEVIL dk b/.g.2 Riversedge Racing Stables Ltd. Tim Rycroft
REASON FOR BEING dk b/.g.2 Don B. Danard Greg Tracy
SCHRAMSON ch.g.2 Derby Quest Farms Ltd. and Shot In The Dark Racing Corp. Greg Tracy
SIBERIAN NOON dk b/.c.2 Jennifer Smith, Dialed In Racing Stable and IndyRock Racing Craig Smith
WHISKEY BIRD dk b/.g.2 Mark Heppner Malcolm Beveridge
Entries for 30th Running Of The Count Lathum $50,000 Estimated
A HANDICAP STAKES FOR THREE YEAR OLDS
ONE AND ONE SIXTEENTH MILES TO BE RUN SATURDAY, JULY 18, 2015
| PP | Horse | A/S | Med | Jockey | Wgt | Trainer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Purple Heaven (KY) | 3/G | L | T Maragh | 118 | T Bensmiller | |
| 2 | Cowboys Don’t Cry (CA) | 3/G | L | Q Welch | 116 | B Kozak | |
| 3 | Aztec Key (FL) | 3/C | L | K Carignan | 116 | C R Smith | |
| 4 | Blue Dancer (KY) | 3/G | L | R W Walcott | 124 | G Tracy | |
| 5 | Congrats Seattle (KY) | 3/G | L | J Espitia | 115 | R Diodoro | |
| 6 | Centrefire (AB) | 3/G | L | S Williams | 117 | G Tracy | |
| 7 | Timeless Tales (AB) | 3/G | R Lara | 114 | R McLean |
Owners: 1 – Ted Graling ; 2 – Maverick Performance Ltd. ; 3 – Dialed In Racing Stable, IndyRock Racing and True North Stable ; 4 – Derby Quest Farms Ltd. and Shot In The Dark Racing Corp. ; 5 – Blue Willow Dairy Ltd. ; 6 – Curtis & Darrell Landry, Red Diamond Stable and Highfield Stock Farm ; 7 – Wilde Racing
Entries For 3rd Running Of The Fred Jones Stakes $50,000 Estimated
A HANDICAP STAKES FOR THREE YEAR OLDS & UPWARD
ONE AND ONE SIXTEENTH MILES TO BE RUN SATURDAY, JULY 18, 2015
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| PP | Horse | Virtual Stable |
A/S | Med | Jockey | Wgt | Trainer |
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| 1 | Classic Crusader (CA) | 6/G | L | Q Welch | 114 | T Rycroft | |
| 2 | Go Max (KY) | 4/C | L | J Espitia | 115 | J Petrowski | |
| 3 | Killin Me Smalls (ON) | 5/G | L | R Lara | 125 | E J Keller | |
| 4 | Tiz Awesome (FL) | 4/G | L | T Maragh | 114 | T Rycroft | |
| 5 | For Cash (AB) | 5/G | L | R W Walcott | 119 | D Greenwood | |
| 6 | Deadly Truth (LA) | 5/G | L | S Williams | 115 | G Tracy | |
| 7 | Toccetive (KY) | 6/G | L | S Beauregard | 114 | D Greenwood | |
| 8 | Aces Again (KY) | 7/G | L | M Velazquez | 113 | A Gregory |
Owners: 1 – Tom Rycroft ; 2 – Doug Blair ; 3 – Deltin Stable and Ed Welsh ; 4 – Riversedge Racing Stables Ltd. ; 5 – Southview Ag (1998) Ltd. ; 6 – Derby Quest Farms Ltd. and Shot In The Dark Racing Corp. ; 7 – Southview Ag (1998) Ltd. ; 8 – Amanda & Gary & Lesley Gregory
Edmonton Sun – FRANK FONTANA’s Northlands Favourites
Matt’s Picks and Free Program – Saturday July 18, 2015
Sharon and Victor Kleparchuk, Eric Dohei and Viking Stables’ Quality Lane relished the stretch out to 8 furlongs closing hard and finishing well to garner her first stakes victory in Friday’s Northlands Oaks Handicap at Northlands Park. Trained by Joan Petrowski and ridden by Ruben Lara Quality Lane got the mile in 140.19 on a track rated good after much needed showers.
Both Joan Petrowski and Victor Kleparchuk are running for the Board of the Alberta Horsemens Benevolent and Protective Association.
Derby Quest Farms Ltd. and Shot In The Dark Racing Corp.’s Star Lady trained by Greg Tracy with Rico Walcott in the irons attended the early pace set by Eustacia but could not match strides with the winner down the lane.
Wood River Ranches Ltd.’s Wilko’s Quiet Girl trained by Wally Pugh and ridden by Anastasios Chalaris made a late run for third but was no match for the top pair.
The hard knocking veteran mare Smile Again Theta rewarded her owners Heather Chieffo and trainer Jerri Robertson with a gate to wire throttling of her rivals in the Madamoiselle Handicap at Northlands Park on Friday, July 17, 2015 stopping the timer in 144.71 for 1 1/16 miles on a track rated as good with Tony Maragh in the irons.
Bred in Alberta by Con Stavropoulos Smile Again Theta pushed her record to 10 wins from 42 starts with lifetime earning of $159,223.
Riversedge Racing Stables Ltd.’s Holiday Babe conditioned by Tim Rycroft with Ismail Mosqueira aboard rallied late for second just ahead of Wood River Ranches Ltd’s Sollie Go Nee Nee for trainer Wally T Pugh with Jorge Espitia in the irons.
Louisville Courier Journal – Hall – Handicapping the D.C. medication push
Louisville Courier Journal – Hall – Horse racing drug debate goes to D.C.
Arbitrary power is most easily established on the ruins of liberty abused to licentiousness.
Bloodhorse – Precious – New York Forum to Discuss Lasix Use
LA Times – Zieralski – Five things to know about the opening at Del Mar
Bloodhorse – Del Mar Ready to Kick Off 76th Summer Season
Louisville Courier-Journal – Rees – Del Mar’s summer meet at a glance
Bloodhorse – Haskin Returns to BloodHorse.com
Bloodhorse – Hangin’ With Haskin – Back Hangin’
Bloodhorse – Father-Son Jockey Duo Competes at Gulfstream
July 17
Indiana Grand Race Course
Brandywine Stake $65,000 3&up Fillies & Mares 5f Turf
Ta Wee Stake $100,000 3yo Fillies 8f Turf
Northlands Park
Mademoiselle Handicap $50,000 3&up Fillies & Mares 8.5f Dirt
Northlands Oaks $50,000 3yo Fillies 8f Dirt
July 18
Arlington Park
Hanshin Cup Stake GIII $100,000 3&up 8f AW
Assiniboia Downs
J.W. Sifton Stake $25,000 3yo State/Prov 8f Dirt
R.C. Anderson Stake $25,000 3yo Fillies State/Prov 8f Dirt
Belmont Park
Rockville Centre Stake $125,000 2yo State/Prov 6f Dirt
Saginaw $100,000 4&up State/Prov 8.5f Dirt
Les Bois Park
Governor’s Cup Stake $8,000 3&up 8f Dirt
Delaware Park
Carl Hanford Memorial Stake $50,000 3&up 8.32f Dirt
Delaware Handicap GI $750,000 3&up Fillies & Mares 10f Dirt
Hockessin Stake $50,000 4&up 6f Dirt
Kent Stake GIII $200,000 3yo 9f Turf
Del Mar
Eddie Read Stake GI $400,000 3&up 9f Turf
Osunitas Stake $80,000 3&up Fillies & Mares R 8.5f Turf
Ellis Park
Don Bernhardt Memorial Stake $50,000 3&up 6.5f Dirt
Emerald Downs
Kent Handicap $50,000 3yo Fillies 8.5f Dirt
Indiana Grand Race Course
Indiana Derby GII $500,000 3yo 8.5f Dirt
Indiana General Assembly Distaff (L $100,000 4&up Fillies & Mares 8.5f Turf
Indiana Oaks GII $200,000 3yo Fillies 8.5f Dirt
Mari Hulman George Stake (L $100,000 3&up Fillies & Mares 8.5f Dirt
Michael G. Schaefer Memorial Stake (L $100,000 3&up 8.32f Dirt
Warrior Veterans (L $100,000 4&up 8.5f Turf
Monmouth Park
Lamplighter Stake $60,000 3yo 8.5f Turf
Northlands Park
Count Lathum Handicap $50,000 3yo 8.5f Dirt
Fred Jones Stake $50,000 3&up 8.5f Dirt
Prairie Meadows
Prairie Gold Juvenile Stake $75,000 2yo 5.5f Dirt
Prairie Gold Lassie Stake $75,000 2yo Fillies 5.5f Dirt
Sunray Park
SunRay Park & Casino Handicap $35,000 3yo 8f Dirt
ThistleDown
George Lewis Memorial Stake $75,000 3&up State/Prov 9f Dirt
Woodbine
Ontario Damsel Stake $150,000 3yo Fillies R 8f Turf
Wyoming Downs
Wyoming Downs Futurity $8,000 2yo 5f Dirt
July 19
Belmont Park
Lynbrook Stake $125,000 2yo Fillies State/Prov 6f Dirt
Canterbury Park
MTA Stallion Auction Stake $55,000 3yo R 6.5f Dirt
Del Mar
San Clemente Handicap GII $200,000 3yo Fillies 8f Turf
Emerald Downs
Emerald Express Stake $50,000 2yo Colts & Geldings 6f Dirt
Mt. Rainier Handicap $50,000 3&up 8.5f Dirt
Japan Racing Association
Hakodate Kinen GIII $723,000 3&up 10f Turf
Monmouth Park
Miss Woodford Stake $70,000 3yo Fillies 6f Dirt
Woodbine
Duchess Stake $125,000 3yo Fillies 7f AW
Nijinsky Stake CanGII $200,000 3&up 9f Turf
Wyoming Downs
Wyoming Downs Derby $8,000 3yo 6f Dirt
Lady and the Track – Park – Celebrating Opening Day at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club
Bloodhorse – Pegasus Winner Mr. Jordan to Haskell
Racing resumes this weekend with a seven race program on Saturday that gets underway at 1:50 p.m.
The race of the day is race four, a $50,000 optional claimer that will feature the Hastings Racing Club’s newest acquisition, Square Dancer. His task will be a tough one with 2013 BC Derby winner Title Contender, stakes winner Devil in Disguise and stakes placed runners Twistgrips, Distillery and Mysterious Soul in the lineup.
The newly formed Hastings Racing club has 250 partners that invested $200 each to be part of the syndicate. The HRC currently owns the two year old Urban Achiever as well as Square Dancer, who was a private purchase from Seattle based trainer Mike Chambers. Urban Achiever was purchased in May at the Barretts two-year-old in training sale for $25,000.
There will be an extremely large group of nervous new owners in the paddock for race four tomorrow. Good luck to the Hastings Racing Club!
BY GLEN TODD
LOADS OF STATS TODAY
Down near the end of today’s newsletter we have published the list of all of the horses that have started so far this season at Hastings Racecourse. The list was compiled from Equibase and just to throw you off a bit it’s all calculated in US Funds. To date as you will see Hastings has had total of 436 individual horses start at least once.
Equibase also keeps all of their stats for owners, trainers and jockeys by the amount of money won at the current meet. You can also search back several years on horses etc. on their website and is a very useful tool for information,
HASTINGS HANDLE IS UP 21% OVER 2014
After 24 days of live racing the mutuel handle is up 21% over 2014. The actual dollar amount is $2,891,988 ahead of last year. That is a very significant number.
HORSES PER RACE AVERAGE IS STILL OVER 7
Hastings has run a total of 181 races so far and 1269 horses have started in those races keeping the average just slightly over 7 horses per race.
TOTAL PURSE PAYOUT NOW OVER $3 MILLION DOLLARS
The total purse payout is now at $3,174,707.00 for an average payout of $132,279.44 per day. The overnight race payouts is $2,474,707.00 and stakes payouts total $700,000.00.
The stake race payout will take a huge jump come BC Cup Day on August 3rd where the total payout will be $375,000.00.
TWENTY FOUR DAYS AND TWENTY FOUR FAST TRACKS
The dry spell continues with record high temperatures and the least amount of rain for May and June in recorded history. The track has been fast all 24 days so far and the track maintenance crew continue to pour thousands of gallons of water onto the racing surface. We could really do with a couple of days of heavy rain to put out about 200 forest fires in British Columbia and green up some of burnt out grass.
BC CUP NOMINATIONS CLOSE ON JULY 25TH
Nominations for all seven of the BC CUP Races closes a week Saturday, July 25th. The year the Redekop Classic is a $100,000.00 is open to BC Bred Horses and BC Owned Horses. The Pegasus Distaff which is $75,000 also is open to BC Owned horses.
#7-5492 Production Blvd,
Surrey, BC V3S 8P5
Phone (604) 534-0145 Fax (604) 574-CTHS (2847)
Email cthsbc@cthsbc.org
Lady and the Track – Macatangay – Finnegans Wake Needs Pace Duel in Eddie Read
Bloodhorse – Balan – Finnegans Wake Back to Grass in Eddie Read
TwineSpires Blog – Caldwell – Midnight ‘storms’ into Del Mar for Eddie Read
Purse $80,000. (Plus $24,000 – CBOIF – California Bred Owner Fund).
For Fillies And Mares Three-Year-Olds And Upward, Non-Winners Of A Sweepstakes Of $50,000* Other Than State Bred At One Mile Or Over In 2015.
One And One Sixteenth Miles. (Turf)
| PP | Horse | A/S | Med | Jockey | Wgt | Trainer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | She’s Flush (CA) | 4/F | L | J Graham | 119 | E Moger, Jr. | |
| 2 | My Monet (CA) | 4/F | L | G Nicolas | 123 | R Agarie | |
| 3 | Elektrum (IRE) | 4/F | L | V Espinoza | 119 | J W Sadler | |
| 4 | Theatre Star (KY) | 5/M | L | D Van Dyke | 121 | T F Proctor | |
| 5 | Aguafria (KY) | 5/M | L | K J Desormeaux | 119 | N D Drysdale | |
| 6 | Royal Temptress (IRE) | 4/F | L | M E Smith | 119 | M Puype | |
| 7 | Istanford (FL) | 4/F | L | R Bejarano | 121 | M Stidham | |
| 8 | Famous Alice (KY) | 4/F | L | G L Stevens | 121 | T Yakteen | |
| 9 | Chati’s On Top (CA) | 4/F | L | S Gonzalez | 119 | M Puype | |
| 10 | Personal Diary (KY) | 4/F | L | C S Nakatani | 121 | V H Oliver | |
| 11 | Nashoba’s Gold (KY) | 4/F | L | J Talamo | 121 | C Gaines | |
| 12 | Gas Total (BRZ) | 6/M | L | F Prat | 119 | R E Mandella | |
| 13 | One More (KY) (AE) | 4/F | L | M Gutierrez | 119 | D F O’Neill | |
| 14 | Sweet as a Rose (KY) (AE) | 4/F | L | D Van Dyke | 119 | P Gallagher |
Owners: 1 – Leonard or Wilbur ; 2 – KM Racing Enterprise, Inc. ; 3 – Hronis Racing, LLC ; 4 – Glen Hill Farm ; 5 – Darpat France Stable ; 6 – Lynda G. Lail ; 7 – Alley, Thrash or Thrash, Et Al ; 8 – George Krikorian ; 9 – Little Red Feather Racing or Naify ; 10 – Humphrey, Jr. or St. George Farm Racing, LLC ; 11 – Warren B. Williamson ; 12 – Haras Phillipson, Inc. ; 13 – Dunne or Reddam Racing LLC ; 14 – Gilbert or Sones
The Osunitas Stakes at Del Mar on Saturday attracted a superior overflow field for an ungraded stake race that carries only an $80,000.00US purse. $80,000 may seem like a lot of purse money to those racing at Hastings Racecourse, Northlands Park, Assiniboia Downs, Fort Erie or Marquis Downs but at Del Mar it’s only $10k more than the MSW purse and $8k more than the AOC purse on the same card.
And it’s only $5 more than the minimum for new races to be considered for Black Type.
Speaking of Black Type when the CCW and QKB meet the representatives of the New Alberta government to familiarize them with horse racing will they explain to them that during their tenure in their positions at Horse Racing Alberta many of the thoroughbred Stakes races in Alberta lost their Black Type standing and explain to them how they allowed something so devastating to thoroughbred racing in the province of Alberta occur during their tenure in their positions at Horse Racing Alberta.
Maybe the CCW and QKB should familiarize themselves with thoroughbred racing in the province of Alberta before they try to familiarize the New Alberta government.
Bloodhorse – Mr. Z, Divining Rod Rematch in Indiana Derby
Bloodhorse – Shulman – Mister Marti Gras Wheels Back In Hanshin Cup
As previously communicated to the membership, 2015 is an election year with respect to members electing seven (7) Owners and four (4)Trainers in good standing to sit on the Board of Directors of the Association for a three (3) year period commencing in August, 2015 and ending August 2018.
No later than July 8, 2015 Election Ballots will be mailed from our Calgary office to HBPA of Alberta member Owners and Trainers in good standing who have a valid 2015 Horse Racing Alberta license. So that all Trainer members receive their Election packets timely, they will be hand delivered at Northlands rather than sending the information through the mail.
Please refer to the information contained in your package with respect to the proper voting procedure. Ballots must be placed in the envelope addressed to Mr. Kenneth McTavish and must arrive postmarked no later than August 7, 2015.
If you prefer, you may vote in person on August 7, 2015 from 10 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The letter addressed to Kenneth McTavish containing the completed Ballot must be placed in the Ballot box which will be placed at the HBPA office located in the Edmonton Northlands Control Office, on the backstretch.
If you are a licensed Owner or Trainer and do not receive your Election packet by July 27, 2015, kindly call Denise at the Calgary office (403-263-7499) or Theresa Sealy at Northlands (780-474-1724).
The following individuals are running for office. The new Board will take office at the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting on August 27, 2015
OWNERS TRAINERS
Rod Cone
Darrell Bauder Ryan McLean
Brian Bygrave Craig Smith
Norm Castiglione Joan Petrowski
Dr. Rod Cundy Tim Rycroft
Don Danard
Victor Kleparchuk
Don Knight
Curtis Landry
Linda Smith
Dr. Steve Smith DVM
per:
Mat Monaco – HBPA of Alberta
Bloodhorse – Novak – Grade on the Line for Chief Kitten in Kent
Bloodhorse – Lewyn – Filly First Winner for Schramsberg
Save the Date!CANADIAN THOROUGHBRED HORSE SOCIETY
(ALBERTA DIVISION)
2015 Alberta Thoroughbred Sale
Sunday, September 20th, 2015
Northlands Park EXPO Centre – Edmonton, Alberta
_______________________________________________________________________
MAIN CATALOGUE
DEADLINE FOR MAIN CATALOGUE: FRIDAY, JUNE 26th, 2015
Morris J. Alhadeff Sales Pavilion
Emerald Downs, Auburn, Washington
Bloodhorse – Johnson – Consistency is Key in the Delaware Handicap
Twinspires Blog – Hanson – Sheer Drama’s stamina will be tested in Delaware Handicap
Lady and the Track – Park – Delaware Handicap 2015: Day to Night Fun for All
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Will Gold N Sochi do these Olympians proud tonight?
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Alyssa Selman
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FYI . . .
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DO THE DOWNS
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Click for race schedule
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Simple tips for winning
(pass it on)
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CLICK HERE TO ENLARGE
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High Valley: brothers Brad & Bryan Rempel
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The highlight of the summer — the Festival of Racing weekend presented by Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries — is just 2 1/2 weeks away. It will feature a special Sunday night card of racing at 7 which includes a free concert by Alberta country recording stars High Valley followed on holiday Monday by Manitoba Derby Day that kicks off at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, will feature the $25,000 Graduation Stakes, a 5f sprint for the babies; Sunday will showcase the $25,000 Manitoba Mile for older horses and Derby Day Monday will highlight the $75,000 Manitoba Derby and the $25,000 Manitoba Oaks–the two biggest races of the year for 3-year-olds.
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Official stations of horse racing.
Click to listen |
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| MILESTONES |
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Kayla Pizarro
Every reason to smile |
Indian Ancestry in a handride (because apprentices can’t use a whip usually for their first five races) “Unbelievable” is the way the 24-year-old described her accomplishment. And she picked a great way to celebrate: watching the fireworks display that night at the Forks, she told The Insider. Her brother Tyler has been riding at Woodbine since 2006 and has won 590 races or 13 per cent of his starts. Her father, Jorge Pizarro, had also been a jockey for 18 years, primarily riding at Fort Erie and Assiniboia Downs. He last rode in 1998.
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Rasheed Hughes
Thank you, Adolfo! |
| A UNIQUE CHALLENGE |
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We were better bettors in June at these U.S. tracks:
1. Emerald Downs
2. Northfield
3. Los Alamitos QH
4. Santa Anita
5. Pimlico
6. Yonkers
7. Golden Gate
8. Prairie Meadows
9. Plainridge
10. Ruidoso Downs
11. Pleasanton (Cal)
12. Canterbury
13. Maywood
14. Saratoga (harness)
And at these Canadian tracks:
1. Grand River
2. Hastings
3. Rideau
4. Century Downs
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HOTTIES OF THE WEEK
Hottest jock:Dane Nelson & Chris Husbands (5 wins) Hottest trainers: Tanya Lindsay (4 wins)
Biggest upset:My Secret Cause $55 (Fri 7th)
Biggest 20-cent superfecta: $511 (Fri 7th — 3-4-8-A)
HISTORIAN BOB’S BLOG: In 1994 Assiniboia Downs lost a good-guy trainer who, even though his last win was 22 years ago, still sits in 15th place on the Downs’ all-time leader board with 463 victories. Who is Bob’s honouree this week? Find out here.
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Trainer/jockey fist-bump after bittersweet stakes win
Trainer Jerry Gourneau bumps fists with jockey Chavion Chow after his Witt Six (#1) held off Charlie Smith’s Spider’s Alibi (#4) by half a length to win the $25,000 Harry Jeffrey Stakes Saturday, a prep race for the Manitoba Derby. Witt Six paid $10 It was a bittersweet victory for Gourneau and the horse’s owner, Texas cattle rancher Henry Witt Jr., however, because Witt Six’s stablemate (and race favourite) Witt’s Tax Day broke down in the turn to become the first casualty of the 2015 race season.
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Queen’s Plate winner Shaman Ghost
A big chance to win the Triple Crown? |
horses who won the Queen’s Plate at Woodbine even ventured down the highway to the second leg of Canada’s Triple Crown, the $500,000 Prince of Wales Stakes at Fort Erie. That’s because Queen’s Plate winners on Poly have had terrible records trying to win on dirt. Favourites have foundered. But if there ever was a horse that has shown he should be able to make the adjustment, it’s this year’s Plate winner, Shaman Ghost, whose connections say he will enter the race which goes Tuesday, July 28. After all, Shaman Ghost broke his maiden on Gulfstream dirt, followed up with an allowance win on Keeneland dirt. That kind of versatility is rare and it seems the Canadian Triple Crown is a possibility for the first time since it was won pre-Poly by Wando in 2003.
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Audrey Johnson, 96, a beautifully friendly woman who’s been playing the races forever, recently decided to find out what it was like to become a jockey, too. (Thanks to HBPA’s Joanie Hamilton for this endearing photo.)
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Okay, time to challenge yourself to be a better bettor!
And don’t forget the fundraiser for Alyssa on Sunday at 7
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TwinSpires Blog – Caldwell – Indiana Oaks will produce a first-time stakes winner – guaranteed!
Bloodhorse -Eclipse Stakes Runners Clash in Nijinsky
TwinSpires Blog – Caldwell – Soul Driver finds success in Oceanside as ‘Papa’ cools off
Jennifer catches the drift.
NY Times – Sandomir – Pete Rose Drama Plays Out on Baseball’s Biggest Stage
NY Times – Chang – Pluto to Get a Close-Up After New Horizons’ 3-Billion-Mile Journey
LA Times – Khan – Little world, big heart: Pluto stuns in New Horizons image
NY Times – New Horizons Reveals Ice Mountains on Pluto
Grantland -Hyden – More Horror Than Horror
Phil’s Drink and a Flick
Pennies do not come from heaven. They have to be earned here on earth.
Margaret Thatcher
NY Times – Greece’s Debt Crisis Explained
Greek generosity
PENSIONS
Greece’s pension regime accounted for 17 per cent of GDP in 2012, according to the EU. Retired Greeks receive pensions worth 96 per cent of what they were earning when they stopped work. Comparable figures for western Europe and for Canada and the U.S. are about half that.
BUREAUCRATS
Many of the one million government workers – who comprise 20 per cent of the total workforce – receive 14 months of pay a year and bonuses worth as much as 100,000 euros when they retire.
AT-RISK WORKERS
Because their health is allegedly “at risk,” if they work longer, more than 600 categories of workers, including steam bath attendants, musicians who play wind instruments and television presenters, can retire at the age of 50 (women) or 55 (men).
DRIED UP
In an example of featherbedding run amok, the Institute for the Protection of Kopais Lake, which has been dry since 1930, has more than 1,700 workers on its books.
FARE DODGING
Fare dodging is so pervasive on the Athens Metro, where an honour system is in effect, that it loses 410 million euros a year. Not to be outdone, the national railway records losses of 600 million euros a year.
The problem with socialism is that you eventually run out of other peoples’ money.
Margaret Thatcher
NY Times – Manseau – The Many Images of Jefferson Davis
Neither current events nor history show that the majority rule, or ever did rule.
Jefferson Davis
In conjunction with his lawsuit, Fogerty said in a statement: “No lawyers, lawsuits, or angry ex-band members will stop me ever again from singing my songs. These frivolous lawsuits in the past took me away from the music I loved. I am going to continue to tour and play all my songs every single night I am out on the road. No matter how anyone else sees it, they are my songs.”
LA Times – John Fogerty files suit against former Creedence bandmates
All over the world copyright holders are trying to limit consumers’ rights. We cannot have that.
Jon Johansen
NY Times – Sifton – Mixed Grill, the American Way
Phil has a question:
Isn’t what the “””””””””””””””””VICTIMS”””””””””””””””””” are complaining about identical to what they were doing and encouraging others to do to those that they targeted on Twitter.
Grantland – McIndoe -10 NHL Free Agents to Watch for This Summer
Phil M Stockmen
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10 THINGS THAT RAY MARTIN (If Appointed) AS CEO/CHAIRMAN SHOULD DO THAT PRESENT CEO/Chair of HRA DIDN’T
No government confirmation that the longtime loyal alberta NDP icon will be appointed the new CEO/HRA of the ARC/or the status of the racino agreement continuation, this was expected since it took racing participant FISH months to get a simple acknowledgement.
Mucka believes that RAY MARTIN – born in DELIA, ALBERTA a teacher by trade, should:
1/ move the new ARC headquarters to DELIA/ALBERTA to reduce costs – a centralized location 180 population where lots were given away (SOLD) recently for $10 !
2/ part of TORY UN ENTITLEMENT TASK FORCE to slash the current HRA regulation and administrative costs to $1 million from the present $3 million (2.975).
3/ remove pooled revenue sources and have each track sustain their programs per their revenue.
4/ be a joint CEO/CHAIRMAN with compensation at only 76k eliminating CEO 249k package.
5/ use track bookkeepers/cpma and contract bookkeepers to eliminate CFO 183k package.
6/ review all aspects of horse racing to consolidate operations rather than the present CEO who in 2012 saved 200k by closing the calgary office and in 2014 put the burden of budget shortfalls on the horsemen by cutting purses 1.7 million and giving herself a 10%/20k raise!
7/ trim the fat off HRA entitlement of 336k contractors/172 k travel/office rent 151k/office administration 135k/250k for video/photo with the current contract expiring in the spring 2016.
8/ eliminate 3 racing/administrative mangers @ 360k and have tracks self regulate operations.
9/ complete review of non managers racetracks 12 @ 630k to flow more money back to the horsemen.
10/review long term commitments of 883k/ 467k/15,204k/16,168k/17,43k/18 .
NORTHLANDS brings the superdogs back for the kids at KDAYS last seen in 2009/about time!!!!