Our Stable
Things are not that high in our stable so far in 2006.
Match That was very dull on Friday. She was a heavy favorite, set the fractions and stopped, finishing 6th.
Brother Larry has now gotten two bad drives, and will have to go from the 10 post again on Thursday night.
Chicory Mac was overdriven in his 2006 debut and faded in the stretch. He will be in either Friday or Sunday.
Manasquan was not his old self last week and hopefully with Jimmy P back in the bike, he will show more this week.
Here's to a better week at the track.
Barbaro the Real Deal?
Whoever saw Barbaro's race in the Holy Bull Stakes on Saturday had to be impressed. He was up pressing a strong pace, dictated by the Aventura winner Dr. Decherd. Many people questioned how his running style would fit the dirt. On the turf, the race is usually won by the horse with the fastest turn of foot. Dirt races tend to be won by horse who can sustain a rally either on the lead or closing. Barbaro did a little of both. He made steady progression into Dr. Decherd's lead and collared him at the 3/8th's pole. He took the lead at the top of the stretch, and accelerated rapidly with 3/16's to go. He drew clear from the field, and held off the flying Great Point. The win was very impressive. I am hoping that this could be a great horse, he certainly has proved his versatility. The only question I have is his stride-style. Barbaro has a rounding stride, which tends to hit the ground harder then those of a straight-stride. My only question is how durable Barbaro is and if this will effect him in the long run. I hope the answer is no, and Barbaro will go on to great things.
Wonderboy Out
Stevie Wonderboy, who mant speculated could be the best shot at a Juvenile Winner winning the Derby in some time, is officially out of the Derby. He injured his ankle during a routine workout at Hollywood Park, and will need to undergo surgery, followed by a ninety day resting period. Merv Griffin was shaken by the events. Another year gone by where the two-year old champ has failed to live up to his billing at 3.
