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From DRF (The Inside Post): Always in a Tiz will run in Belmont Stakes 2013.Posted 1 day ago
Mucho Macho Man breezed 5f in 1:01.40 (4/11) at Fair Hill on 5-24. Posted 1 day ago
Wise Dan targets the G2 Firecracker 'Cap at Churchill on June 29. Posted 1 day ago
Jockey Chantal Sutherland will return to saddle at Del Mar. Posted 2 days ago
Itsmyluckyday to skip Belmont Stakes 2013 in favor of Pegasus Stakes on 6-16. Posted 2 days ago
Rosie Napravnik will ride Code West in Belmont Stakes 2013. Posted 2 days ago
From DRF (The Inside Post): Mylute will not run in Belmont Stakes 2013. Posted 2 days ago
Eblouissante breezed 4f :49.17 (18/44) at Belmont (dirt Training) on 5-22. Posted 3 days ago
Giant Finish will make his next start in Belmont Stakes 2013. Posted 3 days ago
Unlimited Budget is expected to face males in Belmont Stakes 2013. Posted 4 days ago

Ride
Charismatic
against other champions!

Charismatic

17 year old Horse
Retired
3 fans3

15 favorites15

[Edit]

Owner(s):

Beverly J. Lewis - Robert B. Lewis -

Trainer:

D. Wayne Lukas

Bred:

Kentucky (USA) by [Add Data]

Pedigree:

Summer Squall - Bali Babe by Drone

Rating:

8.14/10


	AP/Ed Reinke

Profile

Pedigree

Progeny

Siblings

Photos

What the Nation is saying about Charismatic...

Charismatic

watching the story of this horse & his jockey right now on ESPN. its just sad. just devastating.

Show All 3 Comments
travel_vic · Antley could really ride too. · 19 days ago ·

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kaitlinefree1 · i know. its just horrible. drugs are terrible. · 19 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Died from a OD of a South American methamphetiamine not made here. · 19 days ago ·

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Where have all the Triple Crowns gone?

35 years and counting, Triple Crowns of the past are now just a wonderful, but distant memory.Read More

Show All 71 Comments
jane.raymond.7 · The one thing I keep coming back to is that something in the training systems changed in the 80's. · 28 days ago ·

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travel_vic · no more druggies were tolearated · 28 days ago ·

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ruffian65 · Great article Brian and I too was one of the young fans of the 70s and fully expected the Bid to win, its..what we had got used too. Never saw a drought like this coming...but man, so glad I was alive to see and remember back then. · 28 days ago ·

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sallyeastman · I · 28 days ago ·

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sallyeastman · I loved Victory Gallop! This year Revolutionary looks to be VG's reincarnation! · 28 days ago ·

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laura.statespoelstra · I lived through the thrill that was the 70's and have agonized ever since. My theories? Lasix, emphasis on extreme speed in breeding (the quick refund on purchase price) and neglecting the staying blood (the stallions wind up overseas when they don't get those precocious babies). Another theory is the drought began with the influx of Quarter Horse trainers. They didn't and don't know how to prep a horse for a route, and I don't mean 9 furlongs. The ability to work 5f in 1:00 in no way correlates to the ability to get 10f. Horses no longer work more than a mile and don't work more than once a week. When my daughter was doing cross country, they ran six miles at speed every day to race only three miles. Today's TB trainers do just the opposite. No wonder we can't get a Triple Crown winner. They're not bred to trained for it anymore. · 28 days ago ·

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tony bada bing · Was at Real Quiet's Belmont - remembering the roar at top the stretch still brings goosebumps - took a while for that photo to be posted. At least I had the tri... · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · Zipse, I also was one of those spoiled childre able to watch the 70's fantastic horses. I still remember when I was 5, watching the litte Black & White telly, Secretariat winning the Belmont by 31 lengths. My uncle was saying "Too fast! Too fast! He can't keep that pace!" and my Dad was cursing Turcotte: "What the hell are you doing? You're going to ruin this horse! You moron! He's going to break down in thhe stretch!!!" And he kept going. I remember, down the lane, our jaw's just dropped. I wasn't old enough to truly understand his portraying dominance, but I was saying inside my head "Wow, what a monster!" I remember my father predicted Seattle Slew's Triple Crown in 1978, so I also predicted it (even though I hardly knew about the sport at that age) and watching Seattle Slew win each of the three races easily, wow! I remember watching Affirmed vs. Alydar. My dad was an Alydar fan, and was pulling for him. I bet my dad that Affirmed would win, and if he did, he'd have to make my bed for a month. But, if Alydar won, I would have too do the lawn for the next three months. Affirmed wouldn't let the monster get by him. I remember watching the entire stretch drive, and they were head to head! I was privileged to be able to see Spectacular Bid's Belmont in person, and another one of his 4 yr old races. He was great., but the pinhead ride just diminished his cchances. I think at this point many people, if they even have experienced it, have forgotten how fun it is to watch a monster sweep the series. For crying out loud, we have seen many great horses since '78. Lure, Cigar, Real Quiet, Sunday Silence, Easy Goer, Afleet Alex, Curlin, Big Brown, Rachel Alexandra, Havre de Grace, Zenyatta, I'll Have Another, etc... But, we have yet to see a TC in a while, and I want one soon. It will have a definite positive affect on racing, and on top of that, I want to see a horse who is strong enough, has the heart, and talented enough to sweep it. The idiotic inbred breeding, the ridiculous training methods, and the medications all play a role in making this already difficult sweep, much, much harder. · 28 days ago ·

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MjHawk · Great piece, Brian, and I, too, was lucky enough to see Secretariat on TV and that was an amazing run. Rafirox, I enjoyed your reminiscences as well. "Too fast, too fast!" I was just a teenager, but I thought the same thing. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · LOL, Mj. I was so little I barely comprehended what was occuring. Despite that, the memory of seeing that monster romp the stretch. Generally, when we see a horse win by 8-10 lengths, we are blown away. Usually, that is a result of the pace in favor towards them. The fact Secretariat kept the pace of 23 and change, 46 and change, 1:09 and change, 1:34 and change and finishing the 12 furlongs in 2:24 was just incredible. As t_v has noted, the '73 Belmont surface distributed 15 track records that year, but nonetheless, it was the best race run I've ever seen. Usually, when a horse beats the track record, it is by 1/5, maybe 2/5 or 3/5 of a second... He shaved 2 full seconds off the record!!!! Just a monster... · 28 days ago ·

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EvanAnouna · the triple crown will be won agian as long as racing continues. it may not be in our lifetime but it will happen · 28 days ago ·

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Jay S. · IMO, Risen Star (Possibly the most underrated horse of the last 50 years) is the one that really had it in him. Bad racing luck in the Derby for him and Eddie D. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · He was deserving, Jay. I think, to me, the most devastating was Real Quiet. He was my first Derby killer, so he has sentimental value. I nailed him big time that year at 8-1. I saw something in his stride no one else did. He came SO CLOSE to sweeping it with a broom, but he just missed. Smarty Jones was also sad. I've seen that race 100 times, and everytime I hope Smarty holds him off, but he never does. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · Afleet Alex definitely had the talent to sweep it. I remember the rail was dead that day, as it is many big days, and Jeremy Rose dumped him on the rail... He should have had it. · 28 days ago ·

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Jay S. · So true rafi...so true to both posts. · 28 days ago ·

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zxswordxz · @JayS - Agreed with you about Risen Star. BTW...Eddie was very upset after the race because he was instructed by Louie to keep the horse at the back but Eddie realize that the horse wants to be near the leaders. After the Derby he make the adjustment and the rest was history. · 28 days ago ·

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zxswordxz · Just adding: Afleet Alex and Point Given also was unfortunate horses. Eskendereya was a horse that I pick to win the triple crown but never had the opportunity to strut his stuff. · 28 days ago ·

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Jay S. · Excellent story zxswordxz! Yeah, that's really too bad. I bet Eddie D. was disappointed about that. · 28 days ago ·

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kaitlinefree1 · I'll Have Another was stalker like / closer. i think had he not been injured, he would have had a real chance in the Belmont. · 28 days ago ·

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UnionRagsRules · No matter how much I love Union rags, I would have wanted I'll Have Another to win. On the bright side, I might have picked out the exacta! · 28 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · I'm even older than Zipse, so the 70's was more golden for me. The lack of a TC winner since then makes the 70's seem even more rare and precious, maybe even the platinum era of racing! · 28 days ago ·

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ScottDick · Disappointment is the only word that comes to mind when I think of my triple crown experiences. I've yet to see one in my lifetime. Hopefully this will be the year! · 28 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · Very true, Jay S. (I wrote about my feelings on Risen Star just a few weeks ago http://www.horseracingnation.com/blogs/zatt/Louisiana_Derby_Legend_Risen_Star_123), but for this piece, I stuck with only horses that made it to the Belmont in position to win the Triple Crown. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · Great points and story, Sword. I was also thinking about predicting his Triple Crown, but I talked myself out of it. He had an amazing stride, it was 2x the other horses! His backstretch stride was "determined" as Tom Durkin put it. He was a true monster and I honestly think he could have done it. I also believe Barbaro could have done it. After seeing him romp races, but then having the heart in the Florida Derby, I predicted his Triple Crown. I hit over $1,800 on the KY Derby that year. After his breakdown, and what Bernardini went on to do, I still think Barbaro would have done it. I even donated all my winnings on him to research for that dreadful disease. I think I'll Have Another could have done it, if not for the injury. I don't think he would have, I was prepared to bet Union Rags $20 Across, but his odds detreated after the I'll Have Another scratch. I think Union Rags would have beaten him, to be honest, but I think he would have challenged, and maybe won. Dr. Fager didn't run in the Triple Crown, but he would have won it. Those are four that couldn't finish or didn't run that may have done it. But, than of course, you have horses like Alydar and Sham. Those two talented horses would have done it, especially Alydar, in most any other year. Alydar is one of the most underrated horses of all time. If you rank Affirmed in top 10, he should be top 15. With all these "Could have been's" it really shows how hard this task is. First, the 20 horse field, ten furlong distance, quirky surface, humongous crowd, you face 19 other of the best 3 yr old's in the country. In the Preakness, you face the best again, sharp turns. Than the Belmont, a testing 12 furlong distance, big turns, sandy surface. That's three tough races in five weeks, three G1 races, three different tracks, three different distances. Name a horse who can accomplish those 3 races? It is a very difficult task, so when a horse wins it is very, very special. The idiotic inbred breeding, the ridiculous training methods and the overuse of medications all play a role in making this tough task all the more difficult. I think the next Triple Crown winner will come from an old school trainer and willing to stick to better, older training methods. The breeding hubub makes it even more difficult. A colt with value gets $$$$$$, so we won't even see thhem after the TC!!!! · 28 days ago ·

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CauseForConcern · The one that I thought was deserving, but a (I think) safety pin? A.P. Indy looked to be a man among children, but, he was scratched the day of the Derby, and prevailed impressively in the Belmont. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · Oh, yes, CFC. I forgot him. He definitely would · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · 've done it, IMO. · 28 days ago ·

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Jay S. · Brian, unfortunately I missed your article on Risen Star and the link you put-in your comment doesn't seem to be active. I sure would like to read that one for sure. I'll hunt around for an archive or look under Risen Star's profile. Thanks. · 28 days ago ·

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zxswordxz · http://www.horseracingnation.com/blogs/zatt/Louisiana_Derby_Legend_Risen_Star_123 · 28 days ago ·

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zxswordxz · http://www.horseracingnation.com/blogs/zatt/Louisiana_Derby_Legend_Risen_Star_123 · 28 days ago ·

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Jay S. · Brian, the link did work. (I was initially including the parenthesis at the end). OUTSTANDING portrait of Risen Star. Really took me back. People always say Secretariat couldn't reproduce himself. I say that would've been impossible. But Risen Star really wasn't far off. · 28 days ago ·

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zxswordxz · That was a wonderful article Brian. I love it. I was very young when he run and I was super pump that the son of my favorite horse is going to make his daddy very proud. I remember screaming when I see him at the back and yelling at the TV for the jockey to urge him to move closer to Winning Color. One of the first rule I learn, a uncontested horse on the lead that can relax will win most of the time. · 28 days ago ·

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Jay S. · One thing I really like about your articles is that you and I are almost the exact same age, and you've very talented at articulating the "Feel" of the time about those horses. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · I think we are near the same age, Brian and Jay. I was born on 12/14/68..... How 'bout you guys? · 28 days ago ·

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Jay S. · Just the greatest year model ever...1967. :) · 28 days ago ·

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the bid · I started following racing in 1977, The Bid was the most deserving, but for that damn safety pin, The seventies was a very specail decade of racing. I know in my lifetime we will never witness that era of greatness again..... · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · The safety pin excuse was never proven. The only pin was the pinhead riding him... Spectacular Bid is one of the best I've ever seen, and if not for the ill-timed ride, he would have won the Belmont. Even after, Frankling admitted he was trying to show the world how good 'Bid was, and he was trying to prove he was better than Secretariat (or, downgrade his Belmont, in other words)... Either way, Spectacular Bid went on to have a spectacular 4 yr old season, and it stamps him, to me, as a top 5 or 6 all time horse. He was a perfect example of portraying dominance race after race, day after day. I know some older gentlemen who claim the 'Bid was better than Secretariat, and if 'Bid won the Belmont, we'd all be making that discussion, as it is somewhat justified, if he had won. But, IMO, Secretariat was the best horse of all time. I even met him when I was 17. It was an incredible experience. Just him, my dad, the groom, some other spectators, and me. We fed him peppermints, and he gave me evil stares... That arrogant son of a bitch. For any new fans to the sport, I recommend watching the Secretariat feautre on ESPN Sports Century. It gives you some excellent fact you'd probably wouldn't know. I'll post a link if anyone is interested. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · the Bid. I agree completely. The 70's was a fantastic decade for the sport. It shows how much fans love watching Triple Crowns. Those were the days where Secretariat, the big chestnut from Virginia, the smartest horse of all time, maybe the prettiest, so good he should be called G-d Disguised as a Horse. Then came 1975. Foolish Pleasure, Aviatar, Ruffian, etc. Ruffian's amazing front end speed, never before seen. I remember one time, I saw a feautre where they were showing her first work. Frank Whiteley said "Go nice and easy three furlongs. Gallop out easy for a half. I want a 37 or 38. Nice and easy.".... When the rider came back, Whiteley chuckled and asked: "How fast did you think you went, son?"... The young rider responded: "I don't know maybe 37. Why?" Whiteley: "No. Try 33 and change!" Rider: "No way, I would have felt it!".... Her stride was so long and effortless, she was just unstoppable. With her excellent speed, which is key for a match race, I believe she would have left Foolish Pleasure, a HOF horse, in the dust. If the Battle of the Sexes had a positive outcome, it would have been positive for racing. Than, we all watched Seattle Slew dominate the 1977 Triple Crown. We than saw Affirmed vs. Alydar, and that brought fans. So, with all this said, the 70's was definitely a golden era for racing, and we will never, at least in my life span, see another decade like that. On the flip side, the bid, while I agree with your points, the 40's racing was also great. In the Fab' 40's, horse racing was the second most popular sport in America. Whirlaway, Coal Town (right name?), Citation, etc. · 28 days ago ·

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UnionRagsRules · rafi... you really feel Union Rags would have won? I wanted him to race him so bad, and see what we got with the trips both of them want. It would have been a good race, for sure. I love Rags, but he pretty much got lucky with his size and stride. He had some heart, but not a lot, JMO. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · For crying out loud, the 40's had Noor and Bewitch!!!! · 28 days ago ·

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Sullivan · Rafi, Coaltown is one word. The 40's was the deade of Calumet, yes, but the 30's was when Horse Racing was uncontested. TV killed the sport as track officials actually opted out of having races be televised... if not for the few like Alfred Vanderbilt, it could've been lost altogether · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · URR. It's not that I am bagging I'll Have Another, but I believe many people don't understand how hard it is to win The Triple Crown. Silver Charm, Real Quiet, Smarty Jones, Barbaro, Big Brown and I'll Have Another were all "sure things" to win the TC after the first two jewels. But, the third jewel is not an easy task. In between the 1948-1973 drought, 11, count, 7 horses won the first two jewels on the Triple Crown. In between 1978, there have been even more! Spectacular Bid in '79, Alysheba in '88, Sunday Silence in '89, Silver Charm in '97, Real Quiet in '98, Charismatic in '99, War Emblem in '02, Funny Cide in '03, Smarty Jones in '04, Big Brown in '08, and I'll Have Another in '12.... These are KY/Preakness Doubles, but you could add the fact that A.P Indy could have done it, Risen Star could have done it. Many were pegging Barbaro's Triple Crown Afleet Alex could have if not for having a bad trip in the '05 Derby, the list goes on and on. My point, there have been so many "sure things" heading in to the thrid jewel, what makes people think I'll Have Another would have become the one colt to overcome the third jewel? Sunday Silence was great, he couldn · 28 days ago ·

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jonah5110 · Of these near misses, how many have been inducted into the Hall Of Fame? · 28 days ago ·

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Sullivan · What on earth makes you think people don't understand how hard it is to win the Triple Crown? · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · 't do it! The list goes on and on... The Test of the Champions takes down so many champions, and it takes a true champion to do it. Was IHA that champion? I'm iffy on it. Union Rags had talent and had the right trip. There are so many factors. What if IHA didn't like the surface? Had a premature ride? got boxxed in? We have no idea. He had the talent, but MANY horses have had the talent but didn't do it. Afleet Alex, Barbaro, Smarty Jones, etc are recent examples. I wouldn't be saying he would have... it's not easy to say so. Also, this shows how much a Triple Crown is good for racing. As previous stated by me, the 40's (Whirlaway in '41, Count Fleet in '43, Assault in '46 and Citation in '48) and the 70's (Secretariat in '73, Seattle Slew in '77, and Affimremd in '78) Shows how good a tc is for racing. Also, I'd like to point out, the 40's racing had more than mentioned. Whirlaway, Alsab, Count Fleet, Assault, Noor, Bewitch, Citation, etc. · 28 days ago ·

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Sullivan · Union Rags was very simply overrated. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · I believe this is my best thread ever. I love my posts on it. @jonah. Great question, I'll try to find the answer (as I don't know off hand). · 28 days ago ·

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Jay S. · Ever notice how enjoyable this site is until the two multi-account Butt Pirates show up? See y'all tonight. · 28 days ago ·

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Sullivan · Multiaccount butt pirates? Care to elaborate Jay S.? As far as I have seen today tcglory has not been a pain in the butt · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · See ya tonight, Jay. This is my favorite thread ever. I lvoe my comments on it. Re-reading, pretending I'm someone else, my posts sound so knowledgable and informal! My posts on THIS THREAD sound almost as ggood as, dare I say, the experts like Buckpasser and LAZ write on a REGULAR BASIS. @Jonah. What is your definition of a near miss? I assume you mean 2 out of thhe 3 jewels? Please clarify. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · Sullivan, please don't ruin this thread, I beg of you. · 28 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Buckpasser and Laz have nothing to worry about. · 28 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · And, they don't brag about them selves*. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · Great, now you said I insulted them. That was not an insult, but a compliment. Notice how I wrote "Re-reading, pretending I'm someone else, my posts sound so knowledgable and informal! My posts on THIS THREAD sound almost as ggood as, dare I say, the experts like Buckpasser and LAZ write on a REGULAR BASIS. " Notice how I wrote how they post this golden stuff on a REGULAR BASIS. Rather just one thread. I'll try to dodge all the arguments coming up, like jay. I think I'll just log-off and wait for Mary and Cocoa to leave... Site is usually more fun that way. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · @Buckpasser and LAZ. Please realize that post was a compliment, not an insult like Mary was wrongly suggesting. Have a good one! · 28 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Douche is an insult to the actual product. I didn't use any insults in my two previous posts. · 28 days ago ·

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Sullivan · Ruin this thread? I think "wait for Mary and Cocoa to leave... Site is usually more fun that way" did the trick. · 28 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Countdown to the early return in whichever form. · 28 days ago ·

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Buckpasser · No problem Rafi. I don't take offense easily. Have been a lawyer for too many years. I would just like today here that I understand the fans' frustration with the drought in TC winners, but I also look back and remember the the drought between Citation and Secretariat and all the might have Beens as well. That prior to Secretariat and with so many failures, racing writers asked was the TC too hard to win. And then of course came Secretariat and Seattle Slew and Affirmed in fairly rapid succession with a near miss by Spectacular Bid. Then the writers asked was the TC too easy to win and shouldn't changes be made to make it harder. Now we have a long drought and the question becomes is the TC too hard to win? The TC will come and may well be an extremely memorable victory like Secretariat's Belmont. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · Good, Buckpasser. As I said, if I'm not mistaken, 7 horses won the KY/Preakness before losing the Belmont in between '48-'73. Since Affirmed won it in 1978, as I posted: Spectacular Bid in '79, Alysheba in '87 (please disregard that I accidentally said '88 in my original post), Sunday Silence in '89, Silver Charm in '97, Real Quiet in '98, Charismatic in '99, War Emblem in '02, Funny Cide in '03, Smarty Jones in '04, Big Brown in '08, and I'll Have Another in '12 all failed to win the Belmont. Than, of course, horses like A.P Indy in '92 who won the Belmont, but was unraced in KY and Preakness due to injury, Point Given could have done it if not for the poor trip, Risen Star could have done it if not for the trip. Afleet Alex in '05 missed out on the Derby, where despite the rail being dead, Rose dropped him onto the rail. In '06 Barbaro won the Derby in scintillating fashion, but was injured in Preakness. The list goes on and on. So many come so close, but it's that final step to get by which is truly difficult. As I said, three G1's, three different distances on three different tracks in five weeks is difficult. There are long droughts, and then, as you said, TC's that come in somewhat rapid fashion. I think that's the art to it. But, as we continues towards this downward spiral, the TC is getting more and more difficult for an abundace of reasons. Terrible training methods (We've had several discussions about that). Horses are inbred like crap. Overuse of medication... It's ust adds to the obstacles a horse must overcome to win the Triple Crown. The Triple Crown will eventually happen, but the longer it's nonexistent, the more fans will stop waiting for it to happen. As I said, the 40's (Whirlaway, Count Fleet, Assault, and Citation's) and in the 70's (Secretariat, Seattle Slew, and Affirmed's) were the golden ages for racing. There is no doubt that a TC would have a definite positive affect on racing. · 28 days ago ·

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Buckpasser · I believe England's drought is longer with Nijinsky 1970. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · Yes, Buckpasser, it is. The St. Leger makes the English Triple Crown extremely difficult, even more difficult than the Amercan Triple Crown. · 28 days ago ·

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Buckpasser · Definitely as Camelot's failure proved. I remember when Nijinsky won the St. Leger the British papers reported that he lost over 44 lbs. during the race. · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · Yes. The 1 13/16 distance is very testing. That's what allowed Encke to nip by Camelot in the late stages of that run. I've heard that about Nijinsky. Nijinksy (or in America known as Nijinsky II) was quite the horse. He broke a 36 year drought of the English Triple Crown, and since his victories, not horse in 33 years has done it. So, based on there has only been ONE English Triple Crown in the past 98 years, I would assume that the English Triple Crown is harder. Especially the St. Leger. · 28 days ago ·

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Sullivan · It's not hearing when you read it on Wikipedia · 28 days ago ·

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rafirox · Troll. Plain out troll. I actually only know that from Buckpasser's posts about it (he has mentioned it several times).... Buckpasser, i apologize. I'm logging off. I'll talk to you later today on this thread. · 28 days ago ·

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Sullivan · You know you don't have to lie for people to like you, rafi, right? · 28 days ago ·

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CauseForConcern · One that is usually omitted, and probably hardly ever thought of. And, came around the backside of the Triple Crown winners of the '70's. Pleasant Colony and Johnny Campo. · 27 days ago ·

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Sullivan · Another omitted is Bold Forbes · 27 days ago ·

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travel_vic · I saw three of them I am glad to say, many misses too....Thought Swale would have done it. · 27 days ago ·

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CauseForConcern · The list is many, but, how about Hansel? · 27 days ago ·

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One More Hurrah for D. Wayne Lukas?

Can Oxbow, or one of his others, finally bring D. Wayne Lukas to the magic number of 14?Read More

Show All 8 Comments
kentuckyderbypost · I'm not sure how many more shots he'll have at it but if he finds his way to #14 I won't be disappointed. · 91 days ago ·

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tcglory · Im rooting 100% all the way for dwayne luaks and his horses no matter what the public says · 91 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · What an amazing run that was for the Coach! 13 Triple Crown wins! · 91 days ago ·

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rita.polander · Lukas will have hime cranked for the Risen Star. Win and youre in with the 50 points. 26-1 on Future 1 pool is looking real good right about now · 91 days ago ·

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travel_vic · which one will bow or blow out sesamoids first? · 91 days ago ·

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travel_vic · quote: Im rooting 100% all the way for dwayne luaks and his horses....His name is Darrel Wayne Lukas not Dwayne. · 91 days ago ·

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drayton.nay · Normandy is a beast... · 91 days ago ·

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furlonger · Normandy should handle this Handily, but keep an eye on this bomb #8 I've Struck A Nerve. I won't be surprised if he's in the money · 91 days ago ·

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Wise Dan has it all over Charismatic

Better think again if you don't believe Wise Dan stands up as a legitimate Horse of the YearRead More

Show All 20 Comments
AndyScoggin · Horse of the Year is the horse of the year, the best horse of the year ---> Wise Dan. How about Kotashaan in 1993? · 172 days ago ·

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marylandgq · HOY as described in Wikipedia, "designation given to a horse, irrespective of age, whose performance during the racing year was deemed the most outstanding". Taking into consideration a horses entire body of work during 2012, Wise Dan is the logical choice. · 172 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Kotashann? Don't joke it makes me laugh out loud. FOREGO, and ACK ACK had it all over that one. · 172 days ago ·

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RichardGross · An American horse that does not run on dirt, win at the classic distance and dodges the BC is lacking. Had he shipped, say to Dubai, and won there against tougher opposition, perhaps. To compare him with Charismatic is silly (aside from the fact it is a 13-year-old comparison). What would WD's margins have been IF he had run in the TC and IF he had won the first two legs (and come close to winning the third with a broken leg)? RD went everywhere. · 172 days ago ·

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brown almighty · need i say more he lost to ron the greek come on!!! little mike deserves it more than him. · 172 days ago ·

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Waya · Some of the comments on here really make me laugh. Little Mike lost to nine horses, and all but one of them are not multiple grade 1 winners like Ron the Greek. And as far as Charismatic (likely the weakest HoY in the last 20 years), besides losing allowance and claiming races that year, who did he beat? The great Menifee twice! Wise Dan did not dodge the BC! Find some reality, people!!! · 172 days ago ·

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ejxd2 · He's not undeserving. *I* think others (Fort Larned or Little Mike) deserve it more, but Wise Dan is more deserving this year than Zenyatta was in 2010. However, he is less deserving than Zenyatta was in 2009. Such is the nature of the award · 172 days ago ·

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GregRiessland · i say fort larned or dan. leaning more towards fort larned though. dude ron the greek is good horse, has on bad race and hes bad? so disrespectful. and the classic was a death of closers on the dirt so thats a throw out. · 172 days ago ·

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EuroBlog · Wise Dan beat Fort Larned in their only meeting this year by 12 lengths ... and that is the one race that people seem to be holding against Wise Dan. · 172 days ago ·

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DeeAnnBloom · Well written as usual Brian. I think this country has a hard time thinking beyond their classic winners and tend to almost diefy those that break down or are injured during a classic race. Therefore, while you make a great argument (which I agree with completely) emotion will frequently win out over logic and statistics in a comparison like this. · 172 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · Thank you, DeeAnn, and what you say is very true. · 172 days ago ·

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SteveHerron · I agree that between the two, Charismatic had the weaker resume. Wise Dan is HOTY, but his absence from the Classic raises serious doubts about his · 172 days ago ·

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Mike in SB · Comparing Wise Dan to Charismatic really doesn't help make the case for Wise Dan being Horse of the Year since Charismatic is probably the weakest Horse of the Year winner ever. I think Wise Dan will be Horse of the Year and a deserving winner this year, like Havre de Grace was last year, but both horses have records that are pretty weak when compared to most past winners. I think this says more about how horses are trained and campaigned than about the quality of the horse. Today the horses in the glamour divisions of racing, older classic distance males and 3 year old males are not able to produce Horse of the Year worthy records, many older males are only running 5-6 times and the 3 year olds are not able to complete the year. This will be the fourth year in a row without a Horse of the Year coming out of one of these major divisions, compare that to the winners before 2009, the vast majority were older males or 3 year olds. Racing needs stars in these glamour divisions and today it is not happening. · 172 days ago ·

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AmbitiousD · At first I thought the "classic distance" argument was enough for me to veer away from Wise Dan. But if that is the golden criteria to win horse of the year, then how did Native Dancer, Nashua, Secretariat, Favorite Trick, or Lookin at Lucky all win the award as a 2 year old? At one point in time I was very vocal against Wise Dan as Horse of the Year, but I have come around. He has been the most dominate horse in the nation this year, for the entire year. He is as deserving as any horse in the past. · 172 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · I don't see where it's either a hard choice, or an outrageous one. If not for the photo loss to Ron The Greek, who by the way was at the top of his game when they met, he would be unbeaten for 2012. That race was run at 9f on dirt, which seems to have become the new classic distance for n/a racing on dirt. A deviation from history to acknowledge the best horse, and he is, is not without precedent. Rachel Alexexander's top distance was 9.5f and she got what she deserved HOTY. So should Wise Dan. He is IMO one of the best n/a horses in recent years. I've watched a replay of his BC run a few times and to me it seemed he had a lot more in the tank at the finish. I don't see anyone even close to him for the #1 spot, as what he doesn't cover with distance he more than makes up for in consistancy.This is a turnaround for me as I thought it should go to a horse winning the classic distance and stated that before the bc. However at the time I stated that, I also stated he was easily the best horse in n/a. He got in the mix with,RTG,FL,etc and beat some really good horses in the BC. · 172 days ago ·

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likin sparks · This is like comparing a mouse to a kangaroo. · 171 days ago ·

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Cocoa2 · What an unbelievable article. Charismatic won two legs of the Triple Crown and came up barely short injured in the Belmont Stakes. How on earth can you begin to compare them? A win in the derby is a lot more than the Big Cap though both are G1's. Tell Bill Mott Ron The Greek he had a worse season than IHA. · 171 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Charismatic got good for what, 6 weeks out of an entire career? come now · 171 days ago ·

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annmatt · Good points! · 171 days ago ·

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buds · I really dont see the logic in comparing horses from different seasons. If the BEST horse in a particular year wins 3 Graded stakes, (or whatever BCC, derby, etc) and thats beter than everyone else then that horse is the BEST then they earned it, period. If in another year a horse has 6 Graded wins and that is the BEST, then that horse deserves HOY, period. Wise Dan should be hands down, HOY. Followed closely by Little Mike and Royal Delta. IMO · 170 days ago ·

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Derby Trends: BC Juvenile-Kentucky Derby Double

Is a Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Champion ready to wear the roses once again?Read More

Show All 6 Comments
zatt · Only 5 Kentucky Derby winners have even run in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile ... Wow! · 198 days ago ·

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Monmouth · The Road to the Kentucky Derby is long and difficult. Winning an Eclipse as a 2YO is clearly a goal for the earlier developing juveniles. If you think about it, to compete for that Eclipse Award and then survive to run in the Derby is a huge task. · 198 days ago ·

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rafirox · Fantastic article. I am quite shocked that onle five have ever started in the juvenile and won. I think the rarity of the double is the ability to continue to improve. Being the best two year old, then the best three year old his a hard task. The horse must keep improving in order to remain the best. I am in shock about that only five runners have ran in the juvi and win the derby. But I am not suprised about that only one has doubled. They improve at different rates. When they are two and three, some of them improve every race. Either with Baby Steps, or Leaps, until they reach their peak. Many horses peak at the right time, in May, others peak to early, or shall I say Bloom to early, not peak to early. The juvi winners are generally early bloomers, who are making the LEAPS early. Take their campagn as a HORSE RACE. An early bloomer is in the lead the whole race. They head for the stretch (PREPS) and the early bloomer's stride (Improvment) Is lowering..... A "Late" Bloomer will fly in and win at the finish line (The Derby) It is as simple as that. Don't get to high on Bobby at all, he has many of these aspects to "shorten his stride" come major prep season. Excellent article. · 197 days ago ·

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ruffian65 · Great article Bryan! Very informative and certaintly a lot to ponder especially now when we have to throw in the new point system. It's such a hard road to the roses, wishing everyone a safe journey. · 196 days ago ·

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ruffian75 · Good article, Bryan. A question that came to mind: There are only five to have won the Ky Derby after having ran in the Juvenile. If I recall, they don't seem to do much after that. Seems Street Sense took a back seat to Curlin, thereafter. I guess Alysheba would be the exception to this rule, but I would think that, for the most part, that if they pursue this road to the Derby, it might not go much further? · 196 days ago ·

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kentuckyderbypost · Ruffian75 - Fair point. Sea Hero raced as a 4 yr old but his best performance was a win in the Travers also at age 3. KY Derby was Mine That Bird’s last win, 0 for 9 after. Street Sense was retired after his 3-yr-old season but not before winning the Jim Dandy and Travers. Alysheba is the exception, raced at age 4 and won the BC Classic along with 5 other Grade 1 races. · 196 days ago ·

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Early Eclipse Award Leaders

Nearing the halfway mark of 2012, who are racing's best of the best? Ashley Tamulonis makes her choices...Read More

Show All 60 Comments
zatt · I don't agree with all your selections, but I think you got the big one right ... now let's see who can go out and take it away from him. · 346 days ago ·

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SteveHerron · No Amazombie or The Factor for champion sprinter? Blasphemy! Caleb's Posse needs to actually win a race before he should be considered. · 346 days ago ·

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shores · The only one I think you missed was Data Link for male turf horse. · 346 days ago ·

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SteveHerron · And no Acclamation?!!?!?! · 346 days ago ·

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timgsmith10 · Calebs posse is One Big win away from leading the division.. Look at last year he heated up as the year went.. The Factor? Does he race? Where was he when the last couple races Shack,Posse,Jackson ran in? · 346 days ago ·

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SteveHerron · At least The Factor actually has a win this year! And against the Breeders Cup Sprint champion! If you don't recall, The Factor broke Spectacular Bid's record in the Malibu and, unlike Twirling Candy the year before, he didn't need a lightning quick freeway to do it. Get ready for the Breeders Cup! · 346 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Female turf: Tapitsfly is my girl for the mile, which I think is her ideal distance; maybe she can stretch out, and may be trying 9f again in her next proposed start, but for the longer routes, I'm liking Belle Royale(5pts.) and Dahlia's granddaughter, Capital Plan(3pts.). A fav turf filly of mine, Nereid, needs improving. · 346 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Turf male: Handsome Get Stormy is a fav, but blazing fast Data Link(8pts.)--just won the Monmouth Stakes and Turallure maybe just didn't like the softer turf of the Woodford Reserve? For longer routes, who else? Acclamation(5pts., soon to be much more). · 346 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Older male: The Dude(6 pts.) is very impressive if you leave out Dubai. I like Ron The Greek(5pts.), too for longer routes. Middle distance: Wise Dan. Sprint: Cali is a very favorite. Great competition going on between JB, CP, and Shack. Turf sprint: California Flag and Caracortado downhill at SA ! · 346 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Yes, Groupie Doll ! Completely agree. · 346 days ago ·

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travel_vic · The way the racing has been re-structured since the advent of the Breeder's CUp, talk of an Eclipse at this juncture is pure folly · 346 days ago ·

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timgsmith10 · Well lets Folly it up Vic...Dont be so grumpy. The Factor or the Non Factor in Dubai you mean. How embarrassing was that? · 346 days ago ·

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travel_vic · The factor, a good horse of limiited (ONE dimensional) ability · 346 days ago ·

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amberflash · Great article, but I think there are some omissions here. Data Link for turf male - has won a G1 and G2 against the best company. Trinniberg for sprinter! Acclamation. Ron the Greek has only won one this year and defeated no horses of quality in the Santa Anita H so I'm not sure deserves to be among the top choices. And Calibrichoa has won two G3s, but the only horse he beat really was Caleb's Posse (Ok, and Caixa Eletronica, but I think I'm his only fan!). Jackson Bend did that in a 7f G1 (also beating Shackleford). And what about the Dan brothers? Successful Dan's undefeated this year and beat Mucho Macho Man and Nate's Mineshaft in a G2 - why is he not on this list? (Come to think of it, where is Nate's Mineshaft?) I'm sure the picture will change after the Foster, but I'm not sure Ron the Greek and Calibrichoa are classy enough to make the cut against some of these others, and the Turf Male category really needs Data Link in it. But besides Ch Older Male, Ch Turf Male, and Ch Sprinter - I do think you've got it down. · 346 days ago ·

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ARBY · IHA is already 3-yr-old champion in my opinion. He's undefeated in three Grade1's and a Grade 2 in 2012 and those Grade 1s are in recognized as the defining races for 3-yr-olds. Like Animal Kingdom last year - a Championship should not be denied IHA just because an injury shortened his year. This "race" is over. · 346 days ago ·

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timgsmith10 · What if Rags Won The Traverse and BCC? .. · 346 days ago ·

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Paladin · I got Alternation as the leading older horse. The Foster should tell us if he's the real thing or not. · 346 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · tv, If one more person says what should not be discussed or if it's pre-mature to discuss something, I'm going to start my own who am I, starting with, who died of dust inhalation? Answer:Not repeatable here. · 346 days ago ·

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Buckpasser · I agree with Mary, why can't we discuss this now and later. Certainly enough top races have been run to see some real stand outs for the awards · 346 days ago ·

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timgsmith10 · I think GOD will be champion Older.. Its Tricky Older M... Calebs Sprinter.. IHA 3YO.. · 346 days ago ·

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Floridaf · It was difficult for me to include the Dan brothers and Acclamation since they haven't raced much (WD-1, SD-2, A-1) this year. The Factor and Amazombie were not included because I felt that, at this point, CP, Cali, and Shack were on top. Even though CP hasn't won, he had three tough losses against the top runners in the division. Data Link was an unfortunate oversight. But, as always, EVERYONE is free to have their own opinion, even TV who doesn't think we should even be having this discussion. · 346 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · LOL, I didn't just mean tv, but that's another story. · 346 days ago ·

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Herman'sKennel · If Awesome Feather gets back in the game there will be no talking about this because she will win her prep race and any BC race she runs in :) · 346 days ago ·

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Herman'sKennel · If Awesome Feather gets back in the game there will be no talking about this because she will win her prep race and any BC race she runs in :) · 346 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Floridaf, I like the Zombie, too. Very tough loss to Shack at CD. That surprised me. The thing about The Factor is that, except when he faces my allowance winner spaz fav, Sway Away(what a goof ball), I have to pick TF to win, because that's what he does, wins or doesn't hit the board. · 346 days ago ·

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SteveHerron · If Animal Kingdom could get the 3 year old championship based on his win in the Derby then I'll Have Another is a lock. Union Rags is gonna have to win from here on out if he's gonna stand a chance. I say Bodemeister has the best shot. · 345 days ago ·

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illhaveanothertriplecrown · It has to be my guy. He won the derby, preakness and the santa anita. The derby is the big one by itself. UR has to run the table to come close. · 345 days ago ·

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zxswordxz · Winning the Jim,Travers and BCC will erase everything and put him in contention. Any idiot can see that the horse had a horrible triple in the Derby. · 345 days ago ·

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annmatt · Agree with your choices....it is shaping up to be a nail-biter at Eclipse time, unless UR can follow up as someone here said and "run the table" the rest of the year. While he does have 2 G1s, he has only one this year, so he has work to do, and it will be no easy task for him to get past Bodemeister and/or Paynter. He won't be able to find many "easy" spots. UR either "is" or he "isn't" the horse his connections say he is...so far, he knows how to find trouble every chance he gets. But for Mike Smith's pre-occupation with Atigun on his right, UR was one whisker away from once again coming up short, in spite of his bravery. The tepid time of the Belmont, when other races had shown more speed, doesn't catapult UR to the top of his division...yet. Will be pulling for him to shine...love the "big" horses! · 345 days ago ·

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zxswordxz · I'm pretty sure Johnny will know how to handle him in the 1 1/4 mile races. The horse is huge and have powerful strides that can stay a bit on the outside and still win race. I hope Matz send a rabbit to run with Bode and Paynter anytime he race UR against them. · 345 days ago ·

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SallyWatanabe · A rabbit would not help Rags since he does not like to come from behind · 345 days ago ·

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amberflash · True - the Dans haven't run much this year yet; I can see your reasoning. On the other hand, re: sprinters: by your points system, Jackson Bend has 6 points (1 G3 win, 1 G1 win), as well as a 3rd in a G2. While Calibrachoa has 3 points (3 G3 wins). And Caleb's Posse has 0 points and no wins. Meanwhile To Honor And Serve has 6 points (1 G1 and 1 G3 and isn't mentioned either), although you could say he is a miler - in which case he tops Ron the Greek, who has only 5. I realize there is some subjectivity here, but if your points system is an objective measure then I would be interested in seeing a rejigged list with all leading horses ranked by points. I feel bad for poor old Jackson Bend, who never gets any respect. Incidentally, there is a running Top Thoroughbred poll in the industry which is posted here: http://www.followhorseracing.com/, based on votes from journalists and industry professionals. So far the ranking is 1) Alternation and Shackleford (tied), 3) Game on Dude, 4) Wise Dan, 5) I'll Have Another, 6) Successful Dan, 7) Acclamation, 8) Caleb's Posse, 9) Bodemeister, 10) Union Rags. Again, not necessarily in agreement with this, but just for ref. · 345 days ago ·

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KyOaksRunner · Excellent breakdown Ashley! I'd say the Older Female Division is about to rocked by Royal Delta. If she's improved since last year she's going to incredible this year, and she always has a habit of running poorly off a layoff and then continuing to run big afterwards. Shackleford is awesome this year, love him! I think Winter Memories will return to the top of her division this year. Also I think Broadway's Alibi and Grace Hall will ultimately prove to be the two best sophomore fillies this year. Am I the only one who see's some similarities between the style of Broadway's Alibi and Bodemeister? I think he's got just as great a shot (if not better) as Union Rags to win the division title. It's going to take at least two grade 1 wins over tough compeition for any 3-year-old male to dethrone I'll Have Another...it might even take a Breeders' Cup Win. · 345 days ago ·

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Floridaf · Unfortunately, there is always some subjectivity in these things, even when it comes right down to the actual voting for the Eclipse Awards. I try to be as fair as possible, but I did have some oversights, and none of us are going to agree 100%. For example, even though CP doesn't have any wins so far, I still consider him right up at the top because of the competition he has faced. · 344 days ago ·

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timgsmith10 · Im pullin for posse at the Awards this year.. Turns out He and Shack maybe were the real stars of the division last year. · 344 days ago ·

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travel_vic · ever voted in a year end award ballot? It is not easy. I always had trouble with broodmare of the year · 344 days ago ·

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Floridaf · Posse was gypped last year, Tim. He had my "vote" for 3-YO honors over Animal Kingdom. Shack I could understand being passed over because he had more consistent on the board finishes than actual wins, but it looks like he's changing that this year. · 343 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · tv, if you were an Eclipse Award voter, that is a finite number of people, but, no worries, as I am feeling lazy right now. lol. · 343 days ago ·

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AmbitiousD · After watching the Oliver, is it crazy to think that this year's turf division is going to produce a possible HOTY contender? I really hope Silver Max crosses paths with Acclamation and Mr Commons this year. · 343 days ago ·

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LarryDickson · Animal Kingdom last year won only based on one race....boooooo · 342 days ago ·

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Floridaf · That's not a stretch at all, AmbitiousD. The turf divisions are going to be tough this year. · 342 days ago ·

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Floridaf · Ron the Greek just proved why he's at the top of his division with his win in the Stephen Foster. That was a deep field he beat. · 342 days ago ·

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manutim · slim shady was forced to wait too long against little mike in ky. no such excuse in acclamation's return from 8month lay-off in 1 1/4m wittingham. just maybe acclamation deserves alittle respect huh! · 342 days ago ·

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cpsoren121 · I really think Caleb's Posse should get more recognition. · 341 days ago ·

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Floridaf · It's funny how Caleb's Posse has such a huge fan base but still gets disrespected by so many. · 341 days ago ·

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cocoa2 · He is like Easy Goer except that it isn't Pat Day who is to blame, it's the horse. · 341 days ago ·

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Floridaf · I don't know that I would blame the horse, Cocoa. He tries so hard every time he runs, but being such a deep closer has its disadvantages at times. Though I will say, he had no excuse not beating Shack after Shack set those blistering fractions in the Met Mile. · 340 days ago ·

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cocoa2 · He tries hard and has a good kick, but he needs to get going earlier and it isn't like the jock isn't asking. · 340 days ago ·

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josh.atkinson2 · Royal Delta not in the Running? Awesome Maria just finished 3rd, It's Tricky although undefeated is unimpressive. http://handicrapper.blogspot.com/ · 340 days ago ·

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Floridaf · Royal Delta just put herself back in the running, Josh. I feared that she peaked last year, but she proved over the weekend that she is still on top. I'm not sure how you can say that It's Tricky is unimpressive. She has only finished worse than second once in 12 starts, and her last 9 starts have been in G1s or G2s. · 340 days ago ·

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wcbguy1 · i think ill have another desveres it by a huge margin, but shackleford has been doing great in his division · 322 days ago ·

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Floridaf · I agree, wcbguy; I'll Have Another is the most deserving at this point, but there is still plenty of time for another to overtake him. · 320 days ago ·

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buds · Royal Delta should be a lock for female, 3yr old male is wide open and creative cause isnt a contender, Dont forget Mucho Macho Man, To Honer and Serve and the "Dans" as older horses. · 318 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Hey buds, Rule just won and CC is a contender. How ya doin'? · 318 days ago ·

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TimSmith · THAS thats a joke right? Its tricky is leading the older mares for sure. no lock my friend · 318 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · For now. · 318 days ago ·

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TimSmith · Im all in on the its tricky express.. mwuahaha · 318 days ago ·

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buds · I like its tricky but royal delta is good enough to beat some of the boys · 318 days ago ·

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TimSmith · She has to enter and win the races though.. its tricky has stats to back up hype...RD need to run in and win 2-4 races depending on which ones to pass IT · 318 days ago ·

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Floridaf · Royal Delta has had a light campaign this year. She was fantastic in the Fleur de Lis, but Mott needs to pick it up if he has any hopes of his filly earning another championship. · 317 days ago ·

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Eleven Triple Crown Dreams Dashed - Part 2

Part 2 of Tony Bada Bing's analysis of the last 11 horses to come to the Belmont Stakes with a Triple Crown on the line ...Read More

Show All 0 Comments

Charismatic

one of my favorites- wish they brought him back from Japan!

Show All 4 Comments
travel_vic · courageous type crippled by the break down king · 358 days ago ·

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cocoa2 · Like Tim Tam and War Admiral, gallant in Belmont. · 358 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Bring back Empire Maker, too. · 357 days ago ·

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cocoa2 · If only we hadn't missed Sunday Silence. · 357 days ago ·

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Eleven Triple Crown Dreams Dashed - Part 1

Is I'll Have Another the horse to end an eleven race losing streak in the Belmont Stakes for dual Kentucky Derby/Preakness winners?Read More

Show All 4 Comments
zatt · So many really good horses that have failed since 1978 ... this article is not helping my confidence. Be patient, Mario ... Be patient. · 362 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · Just a reminder of how very tough it is to win the Crown! · 362 days ago ·

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notobsessed · The won word that describes my anticipation about watching the Belmont: TREPIDATION · 362 days ago ·

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buds · 1997 silver charm, what an awesome horse. You can see the horse notice Touch Gold and kick it into another gear, but too little to late · 362 days ago ·

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Triple Crown Fever – I’ll Have Another

“No kidding around ... I have not had a case of Triple Crown Fever this bad since 1989.” Read More

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AndyScoggin · And to think on June 9th we will be at Belmont to witness history in the making! That will be a first for me. · 369 days ago ·

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rechelle.dorsey · Brian, I agree with you. This horse, when crossing the finish line, was still moving forward & away from the tiring pack. The only horse I think might have a chance with him is Alpha (I can't not include him, seeing how Bernardini is his sire and Bernardini has a lot of successful foals racing now). I love Union Rags, but I think the distance will be too far for him. As for your Big Brown comment, I don't think it was the horse himself that made you root against him, I think it was his obnoxious connections (Ivarone & Dutrow), as well as his horrible hooves. · 369 days ago ·

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rechelle.dorsey · Sorry stupid computer glitched on me. · 369 days ago ·

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anita.xanax · Genetically he's as legit as they come. He has the heart and desire you can't train in, and the level head needed. I didn't see him for the Derby either, much to my dismay. Now if the genes prevail, Cookie can do it!! I'LL HAVE ANOTHER!! · 369 days ago ·

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arazi · Awesome! Can't wait for IHA to do it... · 369 days ago ·

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nother · IHA will get it done ;; he is a spicial horse ;; the doubters dont realize the ability required to run down a super freak like bode;; what puts iha over the top is 3 thinigs;; relaxed temperament to stalk iin the most perfect spot re the pace;; killer tactiical speed;; and last but not least distance breeding;; he holds the aces in alll three;; jmo · 369 days ago ·

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amberflash · 1989 was the first Derby I ever watched and the first time I ever fell in love with a racehorse was with Sunday Silence. Since then, although I've loved both Cigar and Zenyatta, none of the other Derby runners have ever had my heart... until now. IHA isn't just good, he has HEART, and it's so inspiring to watch him run that I can see him bringing in new fans. Like Mario Guitierrez, he's humble in victory but humility does not necessarily exclude greatness. Speaking of Mario - have any column inches been spent on his bond with this particular horse? Jockeys are usually seen as "hands for hire" but is it possible that there's something special between Mario and IHA that has made all of this possible so far? IHA didn't seem to perform this way for any other rider.... · 369 days ago ·

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jmcleav · I have to admit Easy Goer had my heart in 1989, and Big Brown majorly had my attention even though I never choose him for the Derby. But IHA is bringing the dream alive, and I for one believe in him. · 369 days ago ·

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Bucky · I saw ill have another win the kentucky derby live,and won some good greens on him that day I watched him race the preakness on tv and won some greens that day as well I will also watch him at the Bellmont and win some greens that day as we honor him the tripple crown what a awsome horse and jocky they also should win horse of the year hats off to you ill have another · 369 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · Potential nightmare subjects: Union Rags, Dullahan, Paynter, Alpha... · 369 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Brian, that would be a scarier nightmare if one with the breeding of Paynter(Awesome Again out of Tiznow's full sister) had stakes wins to his credit. But then, no one has told him he is out-classed at this point. · 368 days ago ·

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Tony Bada Bing · Brian. love the enthusiasm...the fact of the matter is recent and long-standing history is not on I'll Have Another's side. Don't get me wrong, his Preakness proved, at least to me, how special he and his rider are. The problem is Belmont - the sandy surface, the distance, the configuration of the track, the difference in timing. If I'll Have Another is a true champion he will mitigate all that and win. If not, who are we left with · 368 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · I think IHA is a much better horse than any of the others and the added distance of the Belmont will suit him best of all. · 367 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · "Velazquez picks up mount on Union Rags" lethal combination. This is a definite threat. · 367 days ago ·

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Will I’ll Have Another Sweep Triple Crown?

I’ll Have Another will try to become the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978 when he runs in the Belmont Stakes on Saturday, June 9. Since Spectacular Bid in 1979, eleven 3-year-olds have won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness only to fail in their Triple Crown quest at Belmont Park. Spec...Read More

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Lord of Belmont · Dullahan is lying in wait and bred to win the Belmont. Asking I'll Have Another to repeat this feat again in another 3 weeks may be asking too much. Dullahan will have had a nice 5 week rest going into the Big Sandy 1 1/2 mile monster. · 370 days ago ·

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spoons · I agree. Dullahan and also Union Rags are both going to make him have to fight for it. · 370 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · Dullahanis an Allowance horse at best, came the last quarter in 27. gimme a break. · 369 days ago ·

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AnnaK · Would love a Triple Crown, mostly because it would pull people in to the races, (already started I like to think), plus IHA is such a strong red engine and Mario is excellent, that it just might be. Can't see Dullahan doing it, 27 in the last q good to know, that fancy inefficient leg work, so IHA and UR and anyone else can duke it out. · 369 days ago ·

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cocoa2 · Icy, Dullahan is the best Allowance horse I have ever seen, especially since he has won graded stakes. Or was I not to take you literally? · 369 days ago ·

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Racing's Newest Rivalry? 2012 Preakness

Have I’ll Have Another and Bodemeister begun a beautiful rivalry?Read More

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arazi · I love it! Could they hook up down the stretch like Easy Goer and Sunday Silence? Hmmm... that would be cool! · 372 days ago ·

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zatt · Now that was a rivalry! · 372 days ago ·

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LongLiveBigRed · I certainly hope this rivalry contiues and grows. I love the great rivalries of the past; Secretariat and Sham, Affirmed and Alydar. It's great for the sport. · 372 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · If they don' use a rabbitt the rivalry as Bodemeister matures which is already progressing rapidly will disappear. · 372 days ago ·

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El Kabong · I like the stalkers in this one. Went The Day Well and I'll Have Another mow them down. I think Bode may bounce so I'll be playing Creative Cause, Teeth of the Dog and Bode under the top two. I'll definitely be watching Sat. Morning to see how the track is playing but If I am not mistaken, it will be deeper than the surface at CD two weeks ago and that will not help Bode in his effort to say around. · 372 days ago ·

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cugel the clever · Bode is another Hard Spun - fast and a solid G1 horse, but way over-hyped. I'll Have Another and Went The Day Well will battle to the wire on this one. A tiring Bode will just barely hold off CC and take the show. · 372 days ago ·

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Floridaf · It doesn't have to be a two horse rivalry; it very well could be a three horse rivalry, rather like that of Curlin, Hard Spun, and Street Sense in 2007. · 372 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · IHA, can't get off after two big scores with him. Should get 3/1-7/2. That's a lot for this one. If CC gets a decent trip he wouldn't surprise me, had a hard dreby trip but he's one of the three contenders along with Bodemeister. These three are so far superior to the rest but IHA is my selection to win. · 372 days ago ·

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ruffian75 · Floridaf: Another threesome could be Silver Charm, Captain Bodgit, and Free House. Or, a HOF threesome: Bold Ruler, Round Table, and Gallant Man. · 371 days ago ·

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Charismatic

This is definitely not a Top 100 horse. Maybe around #250 or so is more accurate.

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cocoa2 · Your opinions can be shared, but they aren't law by any means. · 376 days ago ·

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Count Fleet, Charismatic, Paul Mellon, H.A. Jones, Holy Bull - May 1st

Count Fleet won the "street car" Kentucky Derby, for which no tickets could be sold to out-of-town spectators due to wartime travel restrictions.Read More

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Lukas hopes to Optimize his chances for another Kentucky Derby

For a man who was accustomed to having his Triple Crown glass consistency refilled, it’s been a long time between drinks for D. Wayne Lukas. After breaking through with a Preakness win with Codex in 1980, the former educator, basketball coach, and quarterhorse trainer, became one of the most success...Read More

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travel_vic · how long before he gest his typical delusions of granduer over this one? Can a breakdown be long after that??? · 428 days ago ·

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Waya · People tend to give Lukas a hard time, but I wonder how many of them have won 13 triple crown races? · 428 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Charismatic, Grindstone, Union CIty...yes he GRINDS them out doesn't he. Tabasco Cat, etc all ruined by the egomaniacal buddy who had extensive dental work since the first time I saw him at Los Alamitos Winning Colors was never the same and frined at Caliborne called her the most studdish mare they ever saw and speculated about the androgenic steroids because she did not catch the first season there...... · 428 days ago ·

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travel_vic · In the book Headless Horsemen Squires pinpoints that the main introduction of steoids to the t-bred racing game came through Q-horse trainers and guess hwo he was talking about??? · 428 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Timber Country, Flanders, Grand Canon, Saratoga Six etc etc...he really grinds them out · 428 days ago ·

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travel_vic · people who have wroked the backstretch agree too: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20060801000352AADBIIF · 428 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · It took Optimizer 6 4/5 seconds to rune the last 1 1/16 of a mile in that race, wasn't a great run, wasn't a great race, it was a paid workout. · 428 days ago ·

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travel_vic · FAR too much are made of late moves as the entire field is slowing. The big closer is actually slowing down less, but slowing nonetheless.....g · 428 days ago ·

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ReginaPhalange · You should check out this new web-based animal reality show called Animal Movers. It is about a pet transportation company that moves animals all around the world. They move many different types of animals. The latest episode was about transporting horses to the Kentucky Derby. It was very interesting and family friendly. You can find it at www.animalmovers.tv · 422 days ago ·

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Chris Antley, Charismatic - January 17th

The first ever NTRA "Moment of the Year" award went to the post-race scene after the 1999 Belmont Stakes,...Read More

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A Review of ESPN Films' 30 For 30 “Charismatic”

The first sports hero, or any hero I ever had was a racehorse named Seattle Slew who won horse racing's Triple Crown (Kentucky Derby, Preakness, Belmont Stakes) in 1977, and was undefeated to boot. Just loved him as he was bought for 17000 by this ...Read More

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ESPN and Charismatic

A few weeks before the lone big days of horse racing that ABC and ESPN now show, a film about Charismatic will be released. Orginally part of the 30 for 30 series (30 films in honor of the sports stations 30th aniversary), it was moved off the sch. with several other films. Those films are now being...Read More

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zxswordxz · I'm speechless after watching this show on ESPN. I got very teary at the end. However, I got a question for everyone. Did you think Chris rode Charismatic badly in the Belmont which lead to the horse breaking down? · 585 days ago ·

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zxswordxz · Follow up question, do you believe his colt could have won the triple crown if they would have switch rider and ride him like Lukas wanted, a one run horse at the end? · 585 days ago ·

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JWC8282 · Another great 30 for 30, ESPN does a great job with those movies. · 585 days ago ·

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yukichan · For those who missed it tonight, like me, it will be replayed on Sunday 10/23, at 10pm ET (time difference messed me up). · 585 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · zx, No I do not believe that Charismatic broke down due to that one ride in the Belmont. Could he have won, if he'd been held back longer in order to make one run, had he not had his injury? Maybe, but Triple Crown winners don't start off their 3yo years as claimers. They are not surprise winners of the TC. They have not been a shock to anyone that they won. Or, can someone tell me of one who was a surprise winner of the TC. The ones I've seen and read about were talked about as able to win the next TC as 2yo's. This program brought all of the memories and emotions of that Belmont and the sad story of the end of Chris Antley's life right back. I have made a drug addict turn his drug dealer into the police. You have to force intervention when it doesn't come from the person them self. Not everything is live and let live. · 584 days ago ·

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AmbitiousD · It was a great movie, and will remain on my DVR for quite a while. Im a stickler for details, but did I hear William Nack say Charismatic's injury occurred at the 99th Belmont Stakes (actually 131?), or did I hear that wrong. Its at around 48 minutes into the movie. · 584 days ago ·

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CauseForConcern · AmbitiousD: He probably meant to say 1999 Belmont Stakes. · 584 days ago ·

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allybg · I thought it was a well done documentary, and every horse racing fan should take the time to see it. · 584 days ago ·

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AmbitiousD · @CauseForConcern. That makes sense. Guess I didnt make that connection, oops. · 584 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · Where was D. Wayne Lucas in the whole documentary? Were his former assistants protecting Lukas? · 584 days ago ·

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travel_vic · D Wayne refused an interview I hear · 584 days ago ·

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likin sparks · I watched this last night and nice job! by ESPN. When you train a horse to run a specific way for so long then expect him to run against the way he was trained wasn't a good decision by Chris, however breakdowns happen and can't blame the jockey, was just really bad timing. · 583 days ago ·

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Lacking Charisma

We poor starved racing fans are so eager for mainstream coverage of our sport that we grasp eagerly at whatever crumbs the media want to throw us. Occasional coverage on live TV? Thank you! An HBO series on life at the racetrack? Oh, you are too kind. A documentary by…Read More

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Charismatic

The Charismatic and Chris Antley story will air for the first time tomorrow on ESPN at 8pm.

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getthefacts · It's going to be part of the ESPN 30/30 series. They always make outstanding documenteries, I can't wait for this one. 2 · 586 days ago ·

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cpsoren121 · Got the DVR ready! · 586 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · Really looking forward to this 30/30. They are usually very good. I hope it is a positive for racing. · 586 days ago ·

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Charismatic - Pedigree

[Edit]

Summer Squall	Storm Bird	Northern Dancer
		South Ocean
	Weekend Surprise	Secretariat
		Lassie Dear
Bali Babe	Drone	Sir Gaylord
		Cap And Bells
	Polynesian Charm	What A Pleasure
		Grass Shack