Breeders' Cup Juvenile

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What the Nation is saying about the Breeders' Cup Juvenile...

Kentucky Derby 2012-Florida Plays a Key Role in This Year's Derby

The Road to the Roses went through Florida.Read More

Posted 17 days ago ·

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12thCrown · Wow, I didn't realize all these horses ran in FL this year. I think Take Charge Indy could be a nice play in the Derby to run into exotics - he doesn't have to have the lead. But the Borel factor will have him bet down after Friday's 'Louisville day at the downs" · 17 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · The Florida runners are strong this year. Other than Creative Cause, they include all my top picks. · 17 days ago ·

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Capper · Hope Union Rags brings it home for the Sunshine State! · 17 days ago ·

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The Kentucky Derby Never Sparkled so Bright

Is the 2012 crop of three-year-olds the best in several years? Laura Pugh thinks so...Read More

Posted 31 days ago ·

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Rasta · So many contenders for the victory that I'm beginning to feel - will not anyone.Lol. · 31 days ago ·

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brooklyn.steve · This is the most excited I have been since 2007 for sure. There are many legit G1 type horses in this field, and very few horses that you can actually say have no legit shot at wining the Derby. I have gotten so use to the 3yo fillies being the much better crop, this year is the complete opposite. Nice piece to get me more pumped up and wishing that 2 weeks flies by. · 31 days ago ·

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Mike in SB · I agree that this is the best crop since 2007 and another thing is that this group seems to have better distance breeding than past crops. A lot of the top 2 year olds in recent years were not suited to the classic distance, this year many of the favorites going into the Derby look like they will have a good shot at 1 1/4 miles. · 31 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · Mike, I would agree very much with that statement, as it is something i have noticed too. The breeding of most of the horses in this race screams distance, and not the typical speed push that we are used to seeing. · 31 days ago ·

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cpsoren121 · Nice read Laura, and I agree this year has a very good field heading to Churchill! · 30 days ago ·

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wcbguy1 · it been an great season to watch, my first year watching horse racing and I been impressed wwith the level of racing these horsers are at. · 30 days ago ·

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mmidland · I think you've nailed it on the head! This is a great Derby class - and the facts are there to back it up! Even beyond that, I think this is deepest Derby I have ever seen - going back to 1990. There are probably 9 or 10 horses here who could run their race - and we would say they were deserving winners. · 30 days ago ·

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wilkins631 · Agree with everything except you forgot Algorithms in the horses lost to injury. Otherwise, you're spot on. This is going to be incredible. · 30 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · willkins, i am not saying we have not had injuries, however, we have had a total, including Algorithms of three so far, and Algorithms was far from a serious injury, which is a blessing. · 30 days ago ·

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travel_vic · ol' Luara who arailed against Smartyafter the Derby, after the Preakness and after the 1 1/2 lenght loss in the Belmont...See I told you so!!! · 30 days ago ·

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myntjulius · Cold hard facts that only two major contendewrs are out??? What about Algorithms, Sky Kingdom, Fed Biz?? As for "Depth of field" it might be more accurate to describe it as an "Evenly matched yet so far unremarkable field". Very few records will be falling this year, but as a consequence the competitions will be more exciting. Here's hoping that they all stay healthy!! · 30 days ago ·

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larooski · Sky Kingdom was never really a contender. It is a deep field when you look at the fact that pretty much every major Derby prep winner will most likely be there as of now. Less major players have been knocked off the Derby trail than usual. · 30 days ago ·

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wildfins131 · I think this field is tough but Gemologist didnt even try in his last stakes win and still held off Alpha. He has a whole other gear that we have yet to see. · 29 days ago ·

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sallyeastman · And don't forget I'll Have Another the winner of the Santa Anita Derby who also has a very good chance at Roses! · 29 days ago ·

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BrianAppleton · It's so exciting to see how strong this crop is and how well they have all held up and improved since running the in the Breeders' Cup. · 28 days ago ·

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travel_vic · the attrition rate has not been as high as in recent years, so more qulaity are going to the big dance this time around. · 28 days ago ·

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railbird33 · with 5 or 6 jockeys in the field of twenty that have won KY Derbies, the "trip" will be the key. like in '07, If Calvin can't sneak up the wood, I don't know if he catches Hard Spun. · 28 days ago ·

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travel_vic · The race dynamic really changes iwht colts goint a distance many will never see again, uder weight most will not carry again with a huge field, about half of which should not even be there · 28 days ago ·

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johnsnare · I think he nailed it spot on. Should be a great betting race. · 25 days ago ·

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Mike in SB · Did you see the interview with Andy Beyers in the Paulick Report? Because of the low Beyers speed figures for the prep races this year, he said this crop could be even worst than last year which he said was the weakest crop of 3 year olds in his lifetime. · 17 days ago ·

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2012 Kentucky Derby Picks: NHC Champ Doyle Says It's the Big Three

The 2011 National Handicapping Championship winner John Doyle says this year's Derby is all about the big three. Read More

Posted 21 days ago ·

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zuzuzpetals · I like you chart. When playing the exotics, I can't "X" out any horse that has a "Blue Hen" mare in his pedigry line. · 21 days ago ·

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zuzuzpetals · Congrats to you! What a thrill for you to win. · 21 days ago ·

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Gus-CookieAlonso · Sabercat only has to be a 10F horse, not 12F. · 21 days ago ·

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mshutty · When the champ speaks, I am going to listen! Really excellent breakdown of this race, John. Loved the evaluation of the preps. I think if fans take Union Rags and Creative Cause and wheel those two in the top three slots of the trifecta and fill with their other top horses in the other slots, that could be a winning strategy. Can't say I disagree with you on much here. I would probably switch Hansen and Dullahan but that's about it. Hansen he will determine his own fate. He is the Speed of the Speed and, as you pointed out, anyone close to him early will be compromised, but didn't like the fact that Maker said workmates in his works make him aggressive early. He'll have a few "workmates" to deal with among his 19 rivals. Unlike other pace types that have won the Derby, I can't see Hansen's incredible energy reserve being rationed the way it needs to be for a Derby victory. Also, I think more highly of Dullahan as he was asked to run swifter than he prefers into a hot Bluegrass pace and still finished with authority. If you watch that BC Juvenile race at CD, especially the NBC arial shot...after being so far back post the knock around at the start, he was moving fastest of all late. CD surface should be no problem. Thanks for his outstanding analysis, John! · 21 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · Thanks for your insights! · 21 days ago ·

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bellesforever1 · I like your picks a lot! · 21 days ago ·

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showtime502 · this guys likes them ALL · 20 days ago ·

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JohnBravo · So basically box 16 horses in the triple and 13 in the exacta? Thanks but I'll use my own cheese shredder to cut this sucker down · 20 days ago ·

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The Fickle Always Look Foolish

Derby Fever makes for fickle fans....Don't let Hansen's second place finish in the Blue Grass fool you or the commentators sway you. Hansen ran a much bigger race than he is getting credit for.Read More

Posted 34 days ago ·

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tonykelso · Your entire premise is laughably absurd. · 34 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Interesting analysis. No, I don't think Hansen was disgraced on the track Saturday, although I do think this helped to show that he can't set fractions like that and win the Derby. He can't have any more of the insane interruptions to his daily routine, to say the very least about that situation. He won't be my win pick, that goes to Creative Cause, but Hansen will be part of a very fast pace set up., and if he helps burn out Bode, I'll be thankful. Can't rule out that Hansen has a win at C.D., although the surface was so odd on BCJ day, and we don't want a repeat of that · 34 days ago ·

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AmbitiousD · Laura, very interesting analysis. I agree that Hansen ran a great race, and he did nothing wrong, he was just second best. The result of this race just shows the level of talent in this year's 3yr old crop. · 34 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · tony, would you be so kind as to elaborate, we would all love to hear an expert's opinion. Mary, I do think he can set that type of pace and still kick home, and I'm not so sure it will be as fast as many think. TCI doesn't need the lead, neither does Bode or Hansen, and the latter two are easily the fastest in the field. I think it will be a good pace, but not out of control. One thing that should help Hansen or Bode should they clear the field is that anyone midpack or closing will most likely have traffic issues. · 34 days ago ·

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likin sparks · Hansen needed more distance, Dullahan was spent at the line. Hansen kept running like the race wasn't over at the same pace for awhile. No worries, just got beat by a horse with a better trip and didn't have to set the pace as Hansen did. · 34 days ago ·

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El Kabong · Likin, Dullahan wasn't spent, Kent pulled him up right away. Take a better look at the replay. This guy runs 9F's for fun. He'll go 12, easily. If Hansen didn't get the better trip by controlling the pace, he'll never get a better one. No one pressured him, and he'll have alot more talent on his tail in the derby, not matter what color it is. It's pretty clear that you not only cannot correctily viesw a race, but you must not have any idea what a classic distance pedigree looks like. · 34 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · El Kabong, Hansen has a Derby winner, a Belmont winner and two Triple Crown winners in his pedigree, that is a classic pedigree, yet nobody pays attention to it whatsoever. Kent did pull up Dullahan, but was it because of a bad step, he was completely spent, what? Also, what makes you say Hansen was not pressured when his own stablemate pushed him along, never letting him build up to big a lead. He even made a run at him and was repulsed. If that was your definition of an easy frontrunning trip, I would hate to see what is hard. It is not like he went 25, 50, 1.13. · 34 days ago ·

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El Kabong · Likin, I was refering to Dullahans superior breeding for classic distances. I did not say Hansen didn't have one. You suggested that Dullahan was caughing up a long at 9F's. You couldn't be more wrong about him or what I said. read slower. · 34 days ago ·

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El Kabong · Likin, stay tuned for a difficult front running trip. With Bode, Secret Circle, and Take Charge Indy in the race, it's going to get worse on the front end. · 34 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · I don't know if Hansen has shown that he can rate very well. He just way outclassed the Gotham field, so he could take over the lead when his jockey felt like it. I think the idea of both Baffert and Maker will be to try to win on the lead and we are going to see a battle early. 1:10 6f. would be no surprise at all. Remember this later. I'll eat my words. lol Hope the last letter doesn't get cut off again. That has been happening. · 34 days ago ·

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brooklyn.steve · Did Hansen disgrace himself? Not at all, he ran a good 2nd. But is he where most thought he would be at this point? Probably not. After his win in the BC Juvi last year, he was certainly the horse that most people thought would be the top 3 yo in 2012. That hasn’t happened. He has lost 2 of 3 this year, and while his record is still pretty good, it is fair to wonder if other 2 yos have developed more over the winter. Add that to the fact that he is always forwardly place, which is not where you want to be in the Derby as closers almost always take the top 3 spots, and there is plenty of reason to think Hansen will not hit the board in the Derby. In fact, in the last 7 running's, only 1 horse, Hard Spun, has come in the money when being in the top 3 at the 6f marker. Doesn’t look good for Hansen. · 34 days ago ·

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El Kabong · DHD(laura) did we lose my original comment when you fixed the header? :) · 34 days ago ·

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amberflash · I still like Hansen in the Derby and beyond. He doesn't have the physical form of Dullahan, but in his eyes is a fighter. With a good ride I think he can get the distance. · 34 days ago ·

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El Kabong · DHD,nevermind, I see more than just header edits were made. It's all good. · 34 days ago ·

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likin sparks · El Kabong, I will definitely stay tuned no doubt and remember without knowing the placement order I hope Hansen gets the outside position, let the speed horses burn themselves out...there could be a real shocker in this years Derby but I'm sticking with Hansen. If you noticed each time he has raced at a distance over a mile his fractions have been faster, now at 1 1/4th I'll be shocked if they let him set the pace but feel very confident he would be in the money regardless. @Mary he doesn't rate, that's the problem they let him run and run and run...hoping for a change. · 34 days ago ·

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El Kabong · Likin, I had Hansen singled on top in my BCJ tri(with the right two under-right 3- shoulld have gone super). I am a huge fan of Tapit, he was my derby horse that year, and I really like watching Hansen run, he kinda looks like my namesake. I hope he runs off the pace in the Derby and I will have him in my mix, but as far as getting faster goes, I don't think anyone yet has run two 9F races and posted 11+ fractions in his last 3F's the way Dullahan has. I said a month ago after watching him in the Palm and I'll say it again after the Bluegrass, Dulllahan is the most improved 3 year old in the bunch. He is coming on strong physically and showing the maturity in how he races. He has also been consistent. Toss in that pedigree and fastest prep race to date over a surface that normally runs a full second or two slower than dirt venues, and you can see why I think Desormeaux gets his 4th Derby. · 34 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · El Kabong, he may be most improved, but i have a feeling he will do better over turf/poly. We will have to see how he works at CD, but he finished well behind the top three on dirt last year. · 34 days ago ·

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El Kabong · He finishe well behind after a very poor start but he finished up very well to get 4th all things considered, and that would not have happened if he did not like dirt. But the point about his improvement is that even with a good start, I will concede he may not have won.......at 1/1/16th. He is a far better horse who will enjoy the distance and the dirt. Don't let the dirt be your reason to dismiss his achievements it's unfounded. I don't know of a closer who can take the kickback of poly who can't take the spray of dirt. It is so rare that it is not a reasonable conclusion and I won't use it as an excuse if he loses. If Romans had any, and I mean any questions, his preps would have included a dirt race as he did not need earnings. His path was smart and it will leave him more sound to run big especially on dirt, IMO. · 34 days ago ·

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driveon · "The fact is..." many of the "fans" you refer to wager on these races and are looking closely at who will be peaking at the right moment, who figures to have the most beneficial pace/trip scenario and who will offer value at the wsindows. One of the reasons I don't pick a "Derby horse" in Jan, Feb, March or even April is because I want to see how things shake out in the preps first, then I want to see the post position draw, track condition, bias (if any) last-minute rider switches etc and the post parade to see how the horses react to the huge crowd. I'll be picking my "Derby horse" at about 10 minutes to post. I couldn't imagine doing it any other way when I'm investing my hard-earned money. · 34 days ago ·

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SallyWatanabe · He did not get the experience he needed. How is showing Hansen that its ok to take the lead and not have to rate help him in the kentucky derby? Espicially with a lot of speed horses. · 33 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · Sally, did you miss the Gotham? He rated well in that race. If I were Maker, my only concern for him in the Blue Grass would be to make shure he got enough conditioning out of it. · 33 days ago ·

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cocoa2 · I don't pick a derby horse until I know the jocks. · 33 days ago ·

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SallyWatanabe · Yes, i did watch the gotham. I agree, he rated beautifully there. But it was his first time not being on the lead in 6 starts. He cant get away without rating in the derby if he is going to win, so they might as well show everyone he can rate while being pressured. · 33 days ago ·

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El Kabong · Hey Tony, order up! bada boom bada bing this time. · 33 days ago ·

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EdF · The biggest negativethat I see about Hansen has nothing to do with whether he can win gate to wire or from a stalking position. What I don't like is that he had a clear lead at the stretch call in the Blue Grass and lost the race. I've followed the Kentucky Derby since 1984, and since that time only one Derby winner lost the lead in the stretch of his last prep. That was Silver Charm in 1997. Even so, the '97 Santa Anita Derby was very different from this year's Blue Grass. Silver Charm was fighting for the lead all the way around and in fast fractions. By the stretch call, he had a head in front, and lost at the wire by a head to Free House. Hansen, on the other hand, had a clear early lead with moderate fractions, a 2 1/2 length lead at the stretch call, and lost by 1 1/4 lengths. No excuse for that when you're preparing to run 10 furlongs at Churchill Downs. · 33 days ago ·

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KendallHansen · Nice post....I have very similar thoughts. Mike and I thought he was too fresh and eager to get back to racing after 6 weeks. The three weeks not to the Derby will help him relax. I agree he has to relax and ease his high cruising speed a bit. He can only get away with these tactics if everyone is afraid to go with him and let him get away at 47 or 48 seconds for the first half. · 33 days ago ·

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arazi · Hansen is a very classy horse and even with his front-running style, I think he would be right there in many Derby runnings. Whether this is one of them is the question. If he can rate a bit, he can be even more dangerous. · 33 days ago ·

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likin sparks · Doc, I'll say it again he has the distance just hope he gets the outter position for the Derby, he'll take down the speed horses after 1 1/16th. P.S. no blue paint ;-) · 33 days ago ·

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drayton.nay · www.heismovinglikeatremendousmachine.com will give you the Derby winner before the race. Just ask Draynay ! · 33 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · What an adorable midlife crisis thing to do. Now you just need to live to be 96?. · 33 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Surprising that a Secretariat reference is used when I read at bh that he towered over a sub par group of 3 yos, including my fav, Sham. Or did I not read all of those comments correctly? · 33 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · :) your faithful follower. · 33 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · drayton.nay, giving tips. lol · 33 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · Thank you for your input Dr.Hansen, it's an honor to have you comment. He does seem to be the type of horse that is not bothered by a large amount of racing, and it may in fact benefit him. I believe he got just what he needed out of this race, plus, history is on his side. More often than not it is the second place finsher in this race that goes on to do well in the Derby, not the winner. Before Bode, I would say most others may be afraid to go with him, but Bode has that same high cruising. However, after the Gotham, I am confident in Hansen's ability to rate if need. Ed F, 2007 Blue Grass...couple strides before the wire, SS had his nose in front, before getting nailed on the wire by Dominican. He had the lead in the stretch and lost it. · 33 days ago ·

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winwinwin · If my $ 1000 show bet on Union Rags gets me $ 5.00 x 500 , I'll be delighted . It usually does in a huge Derby field · 33 days ago ·

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wilkins631 · I agree that all hope is not lost and that he didnt need to win this race. But, other than conditioning, this seems like a wasted race to more for Hansen. If he were going to lose, I would rather it be like Union Rags where he got boxed in. If he is going to have Derby success, hes going to have to rate and shoot through holes when they open. Id rather he get some experience being boxed in and working his way out of it, even if he loses the BG because thats one thing hes never had to deal with. We already know he can run out front at freakish paces. Just seems like, while the sky didnt fall, he really didnt do anything new to help him in the Derby. Hes still my Derby horse, but now its more on rooting for him that confidence. · 33 days ago ·

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jimclem · Dr. Hansen, How long do you plan on waiting for Ramon to make a decision? Considering the amount of money he has made from riding Hansen and the fact that he hasn't ridden a winner since suffering his injury, I think Ramon's behavior is both unprofessional and disrespectful. If his inability to make a decision continues for much longer, you should strongly consider making a move to Johnny V. He is a much more accomplished rider in big races. · 31 days ago ·

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nawaytheyG0 · At what point in the race did Gung Ho "hound" hansen?!? He did not even pull within a length of him until after 6 furlongs into the race. Gung Ho was not even in 2nd place until they hit the 3/4 marker. Hansen set those fractions on his own terms not because anyone forced him to do so. · 31 days ago ·

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cocoa2 · The fact is fans read your blog so it probably is a good idea to avoid insulting fans. Hansen came short in the Bluegrass, but Mr.Hansen · 31 days ago ·

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cocoa2 · 's tail stunt probably affected him some too. Why bet a horse who MIGHT be able to get 10f when there is a horse who CAN get 10f? · 31 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · cocoa, there was not insult. Would you not agree that there has been a lot of bandwagon jumping this year? I'm stating an obvious fact, not uneducated insult. Hansen's pedgree has TC winners, Derby winners and Belmont winners. He is bred to excel at distance. That is a fact. We know he can rate well, that is a fact. The 3 weeks will most likely help take any issues of being too fresh away from a horse who obviously likes to run, meaning the likelyhood of him relaxing off the lead is very high. If he rates, and the likelyhood of that is high, then the likelyhood of him getting 10f is high. Right now, likelyhood is all we can go by, which is why when you say a horse that "CAN" get 10f, baffles me. How do you know they can when they have yet to do so. You can't know. · 31 days ago ·

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cocoa2 · I consider "fickle" an insult, I know that someone would not advertise themselves on their resume as "fickle" if they are looking to get a job. I think there has been a good bit of bandwagon jumping, yes, but that is only to be expected when every race another powerful race is run. Daddy Long Legs CAN get 10f, we know that because in the UAE Derby he was galloped out WAY WAY WAY past the finish line. Can he get in on dirt, no, but he CAN get 10f. I can adjust my statement to accept your likelihood. The likelihood of Hansen getting 10f is less than Bodemeister and Take Charge Indy. · 31 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Learn to provoke debate like the blog author, cocoa. Girl's got game. lol. Love the love for DLL, cocoa. Future DWC winner? That gallop out was gorgeous. You're right. · 31 days ago ·

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HorseDynasty · This is not a job resume cocoa2, and I don't seee fickle being used as an insult, but rather the definition of fickle in this instance. · 31 days ago ·

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cocoa2 · Fine, I'll drop it. · 31 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · There's HD. How are ya? · 31 days ago ·

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HorseDynasty · Doing ok Mary Z, and you? Looks like you have been busy with the Kentucky Derby and analysis! · 31 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · You know I'll smile and say, "Just fine." : ) Yes HD, my goal for this Derby is to pick one of those supers. I have my future wager on my fav, now to narrow down from the 20 horses after the post positions come out(I have a few tosses, but you know how it is, always something to re-think with it being 10f. for the first time), final workouts, a gazillion bits of info and opinion, but trying not to be swayed too much. Don't you love this time of year? · 31 days ago ·

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MariahFan · Hansen didnt fade in the Blue Grass. He can take the Derby. Remember the Kentucky Derby that Holy Bull ran in? The horse stayed in front the whole time. Hansen can do the same. Hansen will win! Go Hansen! · 30 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Holy Bull faded in the Derby · 30 days ago ·

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sabbie · My pick is still Hansen. He's a special horse, and he'll prove it soon enough. · 30 days ago ·

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gocashking · The addition of Trinniberg to the mix GREATLY reduces both Hansen's and Bodemeister's chances of winning the Derby. They will now be either contesting or closely tracking a hot pace. Closers will be closing if Trinniberg is in. · 30 days ago ·

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winwinwin · My Derby/ Breeders Cup bets are simple . $ 1000 show hoping to pick up $ 5 x 500 or $ 2500 . In 11 days Churchill Downs gets my $ 1000 on Union Rags and I either get $ 2500 or I get very very drunk that night . Wish me Luck ! · 26 days ago ·

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winwinwin · Reveron's trainer said earlier today bad foot keeps him out of Derby · 26 days ago ·

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winwinwin · OK, I'll share my Triple Crown Betting secret. $ 1000 Show on Union Rags ( Derby shows usually pay $ 5 ) · 21 days ago ·

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winwinwin · OK, I'll share my Triple Crown Betting secret. $ 1000 Show on Union Rags ( Derby shows usually pay $ 5 ) · 21 days ago ·

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winwinwin · Triple Crown Bet : $ 1000 show parley on Union rags KD gets me $ 5 x 500=$ 2500 Preakness bet gets me $ 5 x 1250= $ 6250 and Belmont bet gets me $ 5 x 3125= $ $15625 . You must maintain patience to win . Triple Crown races usually return at least $5 show bets despite the odds . · 21 days ago ·

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zuzuzpetals · For those of you that like to play the exoctics, there is always at least (1) Horse that makes it in the exotics that has a "Blue Hen" mare within their tail pedigry lines (5 generations) 2009 and 2011 was the 4th place finisher all other years going back to 2002 were in the top three. I have not done any research past 2002. · 21 days ago ·

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Hansen Turning Heads

Hansen turned heads at Turfway Park when he demolished a group of juvenile colts in the Kentucky Cup Juvenile Stakes. He traveled 1 1/16 miles in 1:45.83. Just two weeks earlier, the Michael Maker trainee dispatched maidens in similar fashion over the Polytrack. Hansen won his racing debut by...Read More

Posted 237 days ago ·

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lynwood.slippsr.1 · He's Speedy and He's dangerous reminds me of Spend A Buck! · 170 days ago ·

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freddycaple · And beautiful!!! I'm anxious to see what he does in the prep races.....I really want him to be a Derby horse! derbydeals.com · 131 days ago ·

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cathy.grimes1961 · I love this horse, but am not crazy about his pedigree. I am a sucker for free running horses that dare the others to come get them. If he can't make the classic distances, there are an awful lot of other ones, like the Met Mile. Would love to see him take that like another favorite gray of mine, Holy Bull. signed by Turnbackthealarm · 129 days ago ·

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johnsnare · Running on the lead at the derby distance, takes a really good horse. Not sure Hansen fits the bill. · 22 days ago ·

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Union Rags in Good Company

Breeders’ Cup Juvenile favorite Union Rags came up a head short in his quest to remain unbeaten and to establish himself as the undisputed Two Year Old Champion. He may well attain that status once voting begins, due to his earlier accomplishments. UNION RAGS (Dixie Union - Tempo, by Gone...Read More

Posted 190 days ago ·

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MaryOsborne · Union Rags by a Gone West mare, it doesn't get any better as far as his pedigree is concerned. This lovely horse, Union Rags, will be hard to beat as a 3 year old. He is a magnificent looking horse. I love him. · 175 days ago ·

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likin sparks · Love this horse too, I'm hoping he'll be ok with longer distance, is a big question right now. · 175 days ago ·

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12 Clip · Union Rags is one of the most magnificient horses I have ever been up close to. He carries himself like a champion, and you can just tell he has a great mind. I'm not worried about his pedigree like some of the critics out there. Dixie Union was a very game racehorse who battled at distances of 6F- 1 1/8m. He won the Haskell, and Malibu both Grade I races. If all systems go as envisioned, this horse will be very tough to beat leading up to the Kentucky Derby. I haven't seen anything yet besides Hansen or Creative Cause that could challenge Union Rags right now. Although that can all change in the next few weeks as we approach continue down the Kentucky Derby trail. · 117 days ago ·

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annalefsrud@yahoo.ca · Something so interesting and compelling about him, wish the best for him. · 117 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · I think I finally found other Mary. LOL Hope this guy gets straightened out. No more side trips. He looks great, just don't want to love another spaz. I already have Sway way for that. · 117 days ago ·

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HorseDynasty · I was privileged to be able to see Union Rags, Hanson, and Creative Cause run at the Breeders Cup this year. They are all great horses, but there is a presence about Union Rags that just stands out. · 117 days ago ·

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horseface · what stands out to me is Hanson beat him in the breeders cup!!! · 117 days ago ·

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zxswordxz · The horse carry himself like a champion. Muscle on Muscle, just an amazing horse to look at. @ horseface, that memory will only a short term one, cuz Union Rags is going to be a monster as a 3 year old. · 117 days ago ·

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geminimoon719 · go Hansen, Go!! Beat Union Rags! I'll take Hansen over Union Rags.. anyday! · 117 days ago ·

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blackcloud77 · There is no question Union Rags was the superior horse to Hansen and I love Hansen. · 102 days ago ·

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rasdarm328 · too early to tell,gents · 55 days ago ·

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johnbest · how is leaving out of the gate ? like a rocket · 23 days ago ·

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Will I Win my Road to the Roses Fantasy League?

I must admit that I have had a great deal of fun in the Road to the Roses Fantasy league this year. With only 10 days to go until the Derby I am sitting in second place in my league a mere 4 points behind the leader.Read More

Posted 26 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · Ed certainly gets around ... I have a straight head-to-head with him, Dullahan for me, and I'll Have Another for him. Here's to an HRN sweep! · 26 days ago ·

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Floridaf · Definitely Dullahan! · 26 days ago ·

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racingrooter · I have 358 points in my number 1 entry, and haven't picked my two extra horses yet - I guess I should have been in your league. :-). Too early to say who to make your power horses yet. I'm leaning toward Bode, Gemologist and Union Rags, but won't decide until late next week. I'll probably be adding Dullahan (my first adds were I'll Have Another, Alpha and Mark Valeski) and a horse from the Derby Trial. · 26 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · Union Rags, Dullahan, and ???? · 25 days ago ·

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tracksidejive · Predicting Ed's power horses will be IHA, Bode, & Union. So definitely gonna have to roll the dice somewhere. Be careful of stables not far behind you! :) Good luck Matt! · 24 days ago ·

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AmbitiousD · Look at it from this perspective. Its the last chance to get points, and if you pick the same horses as everyone else, you wont gain any ground. Might as well try to shoot the moon and pick some longshots for your power horses. It sure makes it hard to cheer against your real favorites though... · 24 days ago ·

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Breeders' Cup Juvenile

What are the chances the top 5 finishers of the 2011 BCJ make up the Super again> Rags,Cause,Hanse,TCI,Dullahan. I think it could happen.

Posted by timgsmith10 · 26 days ago ·

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Breeders' Cup Juvenile

What a great race this has turned out to be. Half the field has come back to win a graded stakes. Flatters Hansen, Union Rags and Creative Cause since they were well clear of the rest of the field

Posted by larooski · 50 days ago ·

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Hansen, Time to Go Big or Go Home

Which Hansen will we see in Saturday's Gotham Stakes?Read More

Posted 81 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · Unless the track is a sea of slop, I agree that this will be a paramount test to see if he should point to the Derby. · 81 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · From what I have heard it should be raining on Sat, but I don't think the slop is what bothered him in the Holy Bull and I don't think it will here. · 81 days ago ·

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yukichan · Reminds me that Ramon will soon have a decision to make--Hansen or Alpha? · 81 days ago ·

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Floridaf · It is definitely supposed to rain on Gotham day. I don't believe the track surface was an issue in the Holy Bull. Everything else that happened was his downfall. I hope these changes help him. · 81 days ago ·

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brooklyn.steve · On paper, he should beat this field easily. I doubt anyone else in here will be in the starting gate Derby Day. That being said, the built in excuse is there as it should be a sloppy track again. Do we know what happened for sure last time? Was it the pace, the track condition, or a combination of both? Can't give a positive answer on that. Let's just hope he wins this race and looks good doing it, or there will be many more qustions than answer. · 81 days ago ·

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drayton.nay · I wouldn't be a dime on this horse. Changing the bit and taking off the blinkers? Sounds like a lot to me. It may come up wet too and there is nothing in his racing past that tells me he can handle that. Pass on Hansen. · 81 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · I think this race will probably make that decision. Honestly, should Hansen learn to relax, I would go with him. Alpha didn't run a good race in the Juvenile and has been beating up on weaker. Dray, nothing says he can't handle mud either. He actually didn't run up the track in his only start over much, and that was after throwing down a pretty quick second quarter. · 80 days ago ·

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travel_vic · With a full field, his connections did not scare off too many. · 80 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · People want the graded earnings and NY is the place to get them. Its early in the year, I would not take the fact that there is a full field, as a bad thing. · 80 days ago ·

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Jinlie01 · the 12 post and weight doesn't help his cause but looking forward to see if he does progress with the equipment change and have a better run since it would be his 2nd start off a layoff. Can improve but still looking at My Adonis and others in this one. · 80 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · Jinlie, being on the outside of horses can actually be a benefit to a horse as headstrong as Hansen. Being on the inside of other speed can make a speed horse feel pressured and make them become even more stubborn. Being on the outside, there is less pressure, it may be a wider trip, but it can make it easier for a horse to relax. · 80 days ago ·

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Jinlie01 · DeadHeat...that makes sense. My concern is the wider trip along with the weight assignment might not be the best scenario for him. The big question is if he does not have to be in the lead will the mud/dirt in his face, how will he react? With that being said...it is his 2nd start off a layoff and this isn't the stronget KY prep race to date. · 80 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · Depends on how wide, but with how the track favors speed I don't think that will make much of a difference. Also, I don't necessarily have to see him behind horses so much as show that he can rate on the front end and get into a good comfortable beat, and not panic. · 80 days ago ·

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notobsessed · Unlike most of you, I don't think he likes a sloppy track, he looked like he was really struggling with it in the Holy Bull in the stretch. . · 80 days ago ·

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Jinlie01 · with all being said..I believe My Adonis and Tiger Walk have a good shot on an upset in the race. · 80 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · notobsessed, you think that was because he had just thrown down a 22 and change second quarter? Any horse, wet, dry, or cement, being the surface they are running on, would have been struggling after that. · 80 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Side Road has a good shot in this as Hansen may be too early, but the front end will be all Hansen. Ramon knows how to control a pace · 80 days ago ·

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travel_vic · One should give Derby hopefuls two less than stellar races before abandoning their Derby hopes · 80 days ago ·

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jmcleav · Still believing in Hansen, I still think it did take a big effort to defeat Union Rags, we all know a champion is built on his heart, I don't think his will has been broken yet. He still believes in himself. · 79 days ago ·

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the bid · Pretension in a huge upset · 79 days ago ·

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ruhlmann · Sloppy track, post #12, this will be a good test for Hansen. On paper he definetly looks like the best horse & he did not run a bad race in the Holy Bull after a 3 month layoff. In the BC Juv he was all heart, but I still question if he's really that good & if he wants any part of 10 furlongs, I hope he does. · 79 days ago ·

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dirojo · Hansen struggled because he went to hard early , if fit today an rated right he will easily handle this field · 79 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · After Hansen it's a crapshoot, paid 320K for the #2 jarrod likes and he was the buzz horse at the spa last summer, touted as being another super horse back then. · 78 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Caleb's Posse looks vulnerable too · 78 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Alone on the lead he is gone. Pushed and the duo of 4 and 10 have a shot · 78 days ago ·

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hshfarms · Rated well right off the lead, the pace was fairly soft, but he pulled away to win in fine order. Good luck to him in the future. · 78 days ago ·

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AnneShaw · Hansen won but not sure how the race went. · 78 days ago ·

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ruhlmann · I was having my doubts about Hansen, but he proved me wrong. I guess he's not a one dimentional horse after all, love the way he proved he could sit right off the pace & still win. Maybe 10 furlongs won't be a problem. · 78 days ago ·

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Floridaf · He went big! · 78 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · He went very big :) So proud of him today, that was a perfect, perfect race for him. He looked like a pro out there and also looked like he could have kept going for another quarter or so :) · 78 days ago ·

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cpsoren121 · Well it looks like he went big! And he can rate! · 77 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Until he gets 9 frulongs, the jury remians out · 70 days ago ·

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Florida Stakes Races Redefine Divisions

Stakes races on both coasts of Florida leave a lot of food for thought.Read More

Posted 84 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · Union Rags and Awesome Maria were both fantastic ... now I have to pick one for the Star of the Week ... not fun! · 84 days ago ·

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dubby30 · Totally agree that Awesome Maria was impressive yesterday, but I dont put alot of stock in a true classic distance horse prepping in a 8.5f race. Bill Mott has a plan for RD and she gets stronger as the races get longer. She was very much up against it yesterday, lightly trained and cutting way back in distance from her best trip. I believe she will get a piece of it in Dubai. · 84 days ago ·

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Floridaf · I'm sure Mott does have a plan for RD, but a whipping at the hooves of Havre de Grace and Awesome Maria does not exactly bode well for a victory in Dubai. But we shall see. · 84 days ago ·

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cpsoren121 · Impressive runs at your track Ashley. Union Rags looks like the real deal! · 83 days ago ·

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wantwoman100 · Union Rags and Awesome Marie ,you can't pick a winner out of either of these horse for the horse of the week..They just both just went out for a training run.. · 83 days ago ·

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Floridaf · Union Rags looked very impressive, Chris, but I was SUPER impressed with Awesome Maria coming in off that long layoff. · 82 days ago ·

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Looking Back at the Breeders' Cup Juvenile

One way to look at Creative Cause’s third place finish as the 1-2 favorite in Sunday’s San Vicente at Santa Anita is that it was the perfect prep, just enough to knock the rust off while setting him up for a successful stretch back out to two turns, around which he won the Grade 1 Norfolk and was a ...Read More

Source: drf.com · Posted 89 days ago ·

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If you voted Zenyatta, you have to love Union Rags

Similarities abound between the Horse of the Year vote of 2010 and the Juvenile Male vote this year...Read More

Posted 195 days ago ·

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timgsmith10 · Was this the easiest Triactor of the BC? Wow · 195 days ago ·

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diegovol · Blah, I didnt think Hansen would hold up with stronger horses. He proved me wrong. Now I think he wont be able to run the Classic distances. Watch him prove me wron again. · 195 days ago ·

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DarleneSanner · I agree Union Rags for 2 yr old male · 195 days ago ·

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boxersdaddy · some good points in the argument. · 195 days ago ·

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ckrisp · I think it's a bit different actually. Zenyatta and Blame were to be retired the following year, meaning they'd never again have the chance to meet up again. This left a little bit more thinking to do as it couldn't be said..."oh well, there's always next year." IMO, Hansen did the impossible, he deserves the impossible. Next year Union Rags and him can meet up again, and then Rags can grab the next Eclipse if he can. · 195 days ago ·

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ghelguera · Hansen beat him fair and square. Hansen is the 2 year old champion! · 195 days ago ·

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Paladin · Because Blame lost the JCGC that cost him HOY. Hansen is 3 for 3 and thus 2 y old Champ · 195 days ago ·

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MarkRodriquez · C'MON, WE ALL KNOW THAT UNDEFEATED HORSES THAT WIN BREEDERS CUP RACES HAVE NO RIGHT TO WIN AN ECLIPSE AWARD OR HOTY! · 195 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · With all due respect, I absolutely, positively hate the "they can win it next year" argument. Year-end awards should be based solely on yearly accomplishments, and have nothing to do with what they have a chance to do the next year. · 195 days ago ·

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amdaman · HOY awards have become a joke. They have turned into a popularity contest. Zenyatta was robbed in 2009, Blame was robbed in 2010, and if the 2011 2yo Eclipse award is given to Union Rags, then 2011 will be the year that Hansen got robbed. · 195 days ago ·

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amdaman · HOY awards have become a joke. They have turned into a popularity contest. Zenyatta was robbed in 2009, Blame was robbed in 2010, and if the 2011 2yo Eclipse award is given to Union Rags, then 2011 will be the year that Hansen got robbed. · 195 days ago ·

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amdaman · HOY awards have become a joke. They have turned into a popularity contest. Zenyatta was robbed in 2009, Blame was robbed in 2010, and if the 2011 2yo Eclipse award is given to Union Rags, then 2011 will be the year that Hansen got robbed. · 195 days ago ·

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zxswordxz · Agreed with Amdaman except for the 2009...Zenyatta didn't get rob of HOY...RA had a better campaign and she deserved it. One of the toughest schedule IMO...Zenyatta pep all year for the BCC. · 195 days ago ·

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ckrisp · Brian, I see what you mean. I guess that argument isn't a very sound one. I just feel Hansen grabbed it in the BC Juvenile, but I didn't put it into words well. For example, Blind Luck as a 2 year old had a really nice campaign winning the G1 Oak Leaf and coming in second in the G1 Del Mar Debutante, however had a pretty tough trip in the BC Juvenile Fillies and ended up third to She Be Wild, who had a ground saving trip. I know these aren't the same situations at all, but I feel the sentiment is similar. However, I understand how many feel Union Rags should still be entitled to the award as he lost by a scant head. I think it will be a close one for sure, and I respect your opinion. · 195 days ago ·

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ckrisp · Brian, I see what you mean. I guess that argument isn't a very sound one. I just feel Hansen grabbed it in the BC Juvenile, but I didn't put it into words well. For example, Blind Luck as a 2 year old had a really nice campaign winning the G1 Oak Leaf and coming in second in the G1 Del Mar Debutante, however had a pretty tough trip in the BC Juvenile Fillies and ended up third to She Be Wild, who had a ground saving trip. I know these aren't the same situations at all, but I feel the sentiment is similar. However, I understand how many feel Union Rags should still be entitled to the award as he lost by a scant head. I think it will be a close one for sure, and I respect your opinion. · 195 days ago ·

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Yukichan · The fact that UR did not run professionally should make a clearer case for Hansen, who ran a spectacularly professional and game race. · 195 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · I think it should go to Hansen. The horse was running on a track that seemed a bit biased towards speed and was taking a huge class hike. His maiden was stunning, his stakes debute at a much longer distance and against winners was just as impressive, then he takes it to a whole new level by taking on the best dirt horses from the west and east and beat them squarely in spectacular fashion. Union Rags is a fabulous horse, and yes he was closing, but one can't just look and say Hansen had it easy when he was up against it coming into the race. We all knew it would take a special performance by as special horse to beat Rags. Hansen is a special horse who gave a spectacular performance. He should be recognized for it. · 195 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · By the way, if the info I received is correct, The 78 feet further that Union Rags ran in the Juvenile than did Hansen is more of a difference than any other BC winner has enjoyed since they began measuring this. I mean 9 lengths ... that is huge! · 195 days ago ·

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cpsoren121 · I don't know about this one Zip, Hansen was quite impressive in the juvenile... · 194 days ago ·

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Lee AnneFoley · if the average stride of a racehorse is 23-25 feet, that 78 feet equates to, what - 3 or 4 more strides? · 194 days ago ·

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cigar · Hopefully the last year of the "what if" award was last year. Hansen won it on the square, he should get the nod. · 193 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · I feel HOTY is about voting for the best horse coupled of course with who had the best year. Best horse is my primary though. Go Mo · 193 days ago ·

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myliuZenyatta · Union Rags maybe will we the best 3yo next year, but this year Hansen showed he is best 2yo. Don't look in their career overal, don't guess what they will do in future. This year two undef. meet each other and Hansen won. · 193 days ago ·

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timgsmith10 · HDG H.O.Y.. Think about the year. She was the best. · 192 days ago ·

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ruffian1 · I agree HDG is H.O.Y..She handled Royal Delta easily in the Beldame.Passed on the Ladies classic and went all in on the Classic. I love it. · 192 days ago ·

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racecaller · Horse of the Year can change depending on what happens in the Clark. · 192 days ago ·

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RyanBrady · The Best Horse Won The Juvenile fair and square. Different Scenarios all around when comparing Z who was waaaayyy out of it in the beginning of The Classic, and spinning her wheels on an unfamiliar track. She still ran her heart out on a track she didn't like and still Won Horse of the Year. As for Union Rags he has been in worse trouble and still won. Let's just admit he wasn't better than Hansen this time! Maybe he'll prove that he can in 2012. · 174 days ago ·

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Protagonist · racecaller, now that the CLARK is won and done what say you? · 173 days ago ·

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cocoa2 · Hansen won the race, and that's all I care about. I think Union Rags is better, but when they hit the wire it was all Hansen. · 107 days ago ·

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travel_vic · other than both being thoroughbreds I fail to see anything in their actions similar · 107 days ago ·

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DakotaLuv15 · They are both Showing potential in hte racing industry. I thnk Hansen may win the derby. · 104 days ago ·

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The Derby Trail goes through Santa Anita

Marc Doche, of SoCal Scoop, previews the Road to the Roses through Southern California... Read More

Posted 145 days ago ·

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travel_vic · TOO EARLY to know, but if that track does not calm down, it will be very difficult to evaluate an Anita shipper to an eastern course. · 145 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Rousing Sermon should like to stretch out, but to me Creative Cause is the best CA colt, and right up there with the best of his age in the nation. Don't forget that he drilled his rivals in the Norfolk. · 145 days ago ·

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Mike in SB · There doesn't seem to be a single standout like Lookin at Lucky, but the depth is pretty good, looks like a few horses with a good chance to improve and win some big races next year, maybe even the Derby. · 144 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · CC has yet to face Liaison, Sabercat, Hierro, or SC. CC is probably the most accomplished, with Liaison right there, but on pure talent, SC wins that. Sabercat seems to love distance, so none of these can be counted out. · 144 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · DH, I would like to know more about the pure talent of Secret Circle (SC, those initials always have my old brain working to figure out which horse?) because Creative Cause has beaten or finished ahead of the best horses in Secret Circle's first two races and I just watched the replay again to remind myself of the quite noticeable drifting in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Sprint by Secret Circle. I would think, given his speed that Secret Circle will stay in sprints, but I see some news that he may be tried in longer races. Do you think so? you mentioned · 144 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · The "you mentioned" was from the first sentence. · 144 days ago ·

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Floridaf · Secret Circle's pedigree indicates that he may have some distance in him, but two of his dam's 3 wins were in sprints. If he gets the distance, it will probably be from his sire line. So far, though, he looks like he'll do better sprinting. · 144 days ago ·

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travel_vic · listen to what the individual does and not the theoretical pedigree · 144 days ago ·

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12thCrown · It's surprising that the SA Derby winner hasn't won at Churchill in 23 years, but a deceiving stat. One of my favorite angles is playing a runner up in Derby prep in the KY Derby. Plus, many SA horses ship out to get a taste of dirt before Derby. I still think Lookin At Lucky was the class of his crop. · 143 days ago ·

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nimrod · With respect to Secret Circle being able to able to go distance; he's be working regularly and as done a couple of recent 6f bullets...the Sam is gong to be an interesting race. I'm keeping my eye on LD as well.... · 143 days ago ·

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Cardly Knot · Overall, it really looks like the best future SA Derby we've seen in awhile. So many good ones this time, compared to just 1 or 2 standouts thrown in with others. Creative Cause, Liaison, Secret Circle, Drill, Sabercat, Rousing Sermon, Hierro - now you can throw in Fed Biz after a very impressive maiden win yesterday, and Sky Kingdom's regal pedigree might just peak somewhere down the line. With all those said, it looks much more contentious out in CA than back east, where Hansen and Union Rags seem to be taking the opinionated-cake . Will be interesting to see who Baffert and Assmusen send to Oaklawn, or if others decide to ship to SA, now w/ conventional dirt. · 142 days ago ·

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Cardly Knot · Forgot to mention Fly Lexis Fly...who I believe is headed to SA to Drysdale's Barn??? · 142 days ago ·

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broxtone · Hey bloggers why would Baffert run two of his best derby prospects aginst each other so early on the derby trail? · 108 days ago ·

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Horse Racing Nation Handicapping Tools

Horse Racing Nation is not only a great place for up-to-date news, sharing ideas and opinions with others and to view the latest stakes action, but it is a wonderful, free handicapping tool when dealing with pedigrees.Read More

Posted 122 days ago ·

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zatt · Great information here as usual, Jasen. It pays to do your homework, and Horse Racing Nation is a great place to do that homework. The more info the better ... keep it coming, folks! · 121 days ago ·

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cpsoren121 · Nice work Jasen! I need to take more lessons from you! · 121 days ago ·

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Floridaf · Great information, Jasen! I love how you break everything down, too. · 121 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · Ultimately, handicapping is all about how much you know. Thanks for the knowledge. · 121 days ago ·

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Capper · Thanks for the kind words everyone. I just hope that everyone that visits Horse Racing Nation is able to take a little nugget of info when they leave & go play the races. · 121 days ago ·

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arazi · Jasen, this is an awesome breakdown! A must for any new fans that want to understand a little more about the game! · 121 days ago ·

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driveon · This is really cool, Jasen! I wasn't aware that a 'capper could use HRN to go through such a thorough process like this. What a great tool! I might add that the horse's most recent running line looks absolutely perfect leading to a stretch-out attempt. I would expect him to be laying closer to the [ace and make his attempted strike on the far turn. Good Luck and keep up the great work! · 121 days ago ·

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Lou'sfan · Love this info! Thanks, Jasen and HRN! · 121 days ago ·

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Duvalier · Nice work Jasen. · 121 days ago ·

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Top 10 Breeders' Cup 2011 Moments

HRN contributor Tony Bada Bing lists his top 10 moments from the Breeders' Cup at Churchill Downs.Read More

Posted 174 days ago ·

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Winplacsho · I was bummed not to see Goldikova not get her 4th in a row, but she should've been disqualified. What would've been more controversial is the fact if she would've won....would she have been the HOY? · 173 days ago ·

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GregRiessland · i was pulling for court vision, it was good to see after so many tries for the winner circle he made it again on his last race. · 160 days ago ·

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jjflash67 · Amazombie winning me some $! He ruled! · 125 days ago ·

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Can Secret Circle go the distance?

A star at six furlongs, Secret Circle needs to prove he can handle two-turns before being considered a legitimate Kentucky Derby contender...Read More

Posted 173 days ago ·

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Mines · I don't think he can go the distance · 173 days ago ·

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likin sparks · If he slows down before the 1/4 and sets off the pace he'll be fine over a mile, this horse wants to win and his determination is noticeable. I say yes, but he has to learn how to conserve. · 173 days ago ·

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JoseLopez · I think baffert should push him.. · 173 days ago ·

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JohnByrd · Actually, Hansen's three victories have come on three different tracks: Turfway; Keeneland; and Churchill. · 173 days ago ·

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bigfootmauler · I dont think he can handle it either.. · 173 days ago ·

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workouts · JohnByrd its 3 wins on two tracks he never raced at keeneland its 2 turfway wins · 173 days ago ·

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amir16 · I dont see the distance posing a problem based on pedigree, he will have to beat so brilliant it seems · 173 days ago ·

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JohnByrd · I stand corrected. · 173 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Horses are individauls and nothing other. Pedigree said Ciagr was a turf horse and Lure a dirt horse. those "theoreticals" never worked out in those two individuals did they? or coutnless others as well. The horse does what it shows capability of and not much else · 173 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · How was is that pedigree said Cigar was a turf horse and Lure was a dirt horse (by the way, as a grandson of Northern Dancer, I completely disagree) if not for consistent trends in breeding results? Eddington loved a distance, and Dixieland Band is the broodmare sire of two Kentucky Derby winners ... you can't tell me this horse doesn't have a better chance of handling a distance than a horse with sprint breeding. · 173 days ago ·

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avalonladi · I don't think so.. I think he will fade.. no punch left at the end. · 173 days ago ·

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Mike in SB · It looks like he should do well at the Classic distance, at least should have no problem with 1 1/16 in the Futurity. I hope he runs. · 173 days ago ·

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travel_vic · individuals have individual traits. If they are akin to an ancesstor it is randomly associated at best · 173 days ago ·

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travel_vic · People are always looking for a direct genetic correlation when, objectively there aren't any. They look at those individuals who possess such an such a trait NEVER evaluating the dozens and dozens who never maifest that characteristic and then tell all they have figured it out. The old adatage STILL rings true today, Breed the best to the best (pheotype) and HOPE for the best. · 173 days ago ·

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travel_vic · One of Claiborne's standards to be a stallion was the ability to get 10 furlongs at three. In that definition it did not matter WHEN in that three year old season. Many don't get 10 furlongs in May but do in August (Forty Niner, Holt Bull, Chief's Crown and others) Stamina is taught speed is inborn) · 173 days ago ·

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JohnByrd · Well...if speed is inborn, then I'd say Secret Circle's 97 Beyers pretty much prove he was born with speed. If stamina is taught, maybe Baffert can figure out how to train a horse between now and May. :)) · 172 days ago ·

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avillanueva3rd · Secret Circle reminds of another up and coming two/three-year old Baffert had years ago named Thirty Slews. Not to mention, I think So Brilliant will be the better of the two in the three year old season. · 172 days ago ·

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travel_vic · you forget Baffert has trained several very very good K Derby performers · 172 days ago ·

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footlick · Just look at Bold Forbes as an example of a horse who was taught stamina · 172 days ago ·

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Grading the Early Kentucky Derby 2012 Preps

The unofficial road to the 2012 Kentucky Derby began with the Breeders’ Cup in early November and now that we have multiple graded routes in the books it is time to rate the quality of the preps so far.BC Juvenile Sprint (11-4-11) – 95 BSF (Secret Circle) Not sure about the overall strength of the f...Read More

Source: horseracingnation.wordpress.com · Posted 172 days ago ·

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All Hail Hansen

The choice to be made is who will be crowned a Champion, and as of now, the nation would seem to be completely split. Those on the side of the son of Dixie Union claim that if not for running 78ft more and a very green run down the stretch he would be 4 for 4. Those stand in Hansen’s corner point to...Read More

Posted 194 days ago ·

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Lee AnneFoley · Agreed. It may have been tough for Union Rags, but it wasn't an easy feat for Hansen, either. All day long, it seemed like the track was favoring closers as the speed horses kept fading, but Hansen hung on. It was the first time he'd been challenged in his races, too. · 194 days ago ·

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brooklyn.steve · Secret Circle should get the Eclipse Award for best 2 year old. He is unbeaten, won his Breeders Cup race, and I believe he will stretch out and be in the starting gate for the Derby. Hansen won, but I doubt he can/want's to run much longer, but he should come in second in the voting. · 194 days ago ·

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The Mule · Hansen showed how tough he is by not letting anyone get by him. He ran on the inside lane at a fast pace when most of the winners that day came from behind in the middle of the track. Next year will prove him to be a huge talent. · 194 days ago ·

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AnneShaw · If voting is fair it has to be the White Lightning guy, Hansen. · 194 days ago ·

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ruhlmann · Hansen should be crowned Champion. He did nothing wrong all year and took it to them in the BC Juv. The debate for 2 year-old champion should only be between Hansen & Union Rags. I don't see how Secret Circle's name should even be mentioned. Sure he's a good 2 year-old sprinter, but he avoided the best horses & he never won a graded race all year. · 194 days ago ·

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cigar · Hansen. · 194 days ago ·

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cpsoren121 · I agree, I even stated in my blog that this was the best race!! · 194 days ago ·

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Lee AnneFoley · Besides... what these horses *might* do Next year has absolutely nothing to do with who gets the Eclipse Award This year. · 194 days ago ·

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DiegoVol · I am a Creative Cause fan when it comes to the 2 year olds. I honestly think if Hansen doesnt move in front of him in the stretch, CC wins. Although, That didnt happen. Hansen ran an excellent race and even if he won by a nose he deserves to be crowned Champion. For a horse to lead the entire race then out kick the entire stretch against 2 of the best stalkers in the race was super impressive. · 194 days ago ·

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ScottDick · This article was great, I LOVED the fact you used a picture with Victor Lebron in the irons. It's a shame he didn't get his 1st Breeders' Cup mount and Win. · 193 days ago ·

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DeborahGrondin · I agree. Hansen in my pick. · 193 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · Scott, don't give me the credit, give brian, candice or whomever gets to find them and post them that. For some reason my computer doesn't like posting pic...I can never get it to do it. But it is a great pic, I love it, even though it wasn't me who put it up, lol. Buttt, obviously I did write the blog, so thank you for the compliment on that. I was really expecting some resistence since i've heard from a lot of people that they though UR should get the title. · 193 days ago ·

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Mike in SB · I like Hansen for Champion 2 year old, and it looks like we have three colts that may have the breeding to go longer as 3 year olds, Union Rags, Hansen and Creative Cause. This could be a good crop and the fillies look pretty strong also, now if a few older horses stay in training, 2012 could be a lot better than this year, although that would not be too difficult. · 193 days ago ·

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atamulonis · Very good points. Union Rags is a VERY good colt, but Hansen was much the best in the Juvenile. I hope he is voted champion 2-year old male. · 193 days ago ·

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zenyatta-perfection personified · Both horses would have had legit excuses for not running well (Hansen on the lead on a track biased against speed, Union Rags running greenly and wide) but they both ran terrific. I don't really know who is "better," - I just hope they both stay sound and healthy to be back at the BC a year from now, this time in the Classic. · 193 days ago ·

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annmatt · Hansen! I wish the best for all the up and coming juvies. Next year's 3 yr old crop won't have to go far to beat the 3yo this year!!! Other than Dialed In, there was a different winner in every Derby prep this year! Follow that up with the TC with a different horse winning each of the three! I think the pro handicappers were glad when that was over with! LOL · 193 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · As of now I think we have three very definitive 3yr olds who have much more to give. 2012 looks to be an interesting year. · 193 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · As of now I think we have three very definitive 3yr olds who have much more to give. 2012 looks to be an interesting year. · 193 days ago ·

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CauseForConcern · Hail to Hansen!!!!! And kudos to Turfway Park. Kicked to the curb by all the pundits, Turfway has responded by providing the first synthetic Ky Derby winner(Animal Kingdom) and coming back with the Juvenile champion. Not bad for a six month run. · 193 days ago ·

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MaryOsborne · Come on you guys, Union Rags is the horse. Hansen on the front end, Union Rags galloped ahead of him. Hansen is a sprinter, end of story. Distance will be a problem for him IMO. · 175 days ago ·

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RuffianIŁourdes · Mary: Are you one of those psycho fans?? You are just keep writting and writting about how great Union Rags is,well we know that! And Hansen is a great horse too! They are both great horses,but no you just can't understand the fact that Hansen beat Union Rags and you just hate Hansen because of that,don't you? If all of you can't agree on who Champion 2-yo schoulf be,than I just think they schould be both. · 175 days ago ·

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buckpasser · Hansen has a good pedigree for distance on both sides with Storm Cat Pulpit and Raiseva native on the dam side. Hansen has alot of heart which he proved in the Breeders Cup.nunion rags is a good horse too. Michael matz was one of my trainers when I showed horses so I always like him. To me this could be another rivalry like Affirmed and Alydar · 175 days ago ·

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cugel the clever · MaryOsborne: The award should be based on actual results, not "might have been" or "next year". On this criteria, it should be Hansen, no contest. · 175 days ago ·

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RyanBrady · Couldn't of said it any better myself :) · 174 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · @cugel the clever- Thankfully the dogma you espouse is not used as evidenced by the crowning of Zenyatta. Give it to the best horse, Union Rags! · 174 days ago ·

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cugel the clever · @icyhotboo - note my use of the word "should" instead of "is". the award is usually given based on fan passion, the looks of the horse, the lobbying of the owners, etc. actual results and accomplishments are far down the list of criteria. that's why Z won HOY in 2010 and why UR will probably win 3yo in 2011. sad but true - same thing happens in elections. · 174 days ago ·

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Eclipse Awards Discussion: The Juvenile Debates

Hoosier State of Mind teams up with The Chicago Dark Horse to start a week-by-week Eclipse Award discussion. Read More

Posted 177 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · My Miss Aurelia and Hansen ... I think you two are on two winners. · 184 days ago ·

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dave.zenner · Nicely done Scott Dick and "Co-Host" Chris Sorenson · 184 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · People seem to forget that Hansen did not have it easy that day at all. Not many horses went w2w on that track and he did. UR was wide, but in the clear the entire time, was in great striking distance as they came into the stretch and still could not get Hansen. Hansen was taking a big class hike, running on dirt for the first time, and was running against a bias. UR was wide, but it wasn't like he was dead last trying to make up 15 plus lengths. Hansen showed the most improvement from start to start and beat his rival on the square. UR is a very talented horse, but this should not be close. Hansen should get it. · 184 days ago ·

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ruhlmann · I still don't know why there's a debate for 2-year-old champ. Hansen did nothing wrong, he remained perfect and he beat the best horses. Everyone's arguement is that Union Rags should have won & had a bad trip. But clearly he didn't win. He hasn't even won around 2 turns yet..........ridiculous. UR might be the better horse next year, but not in 2011. · 184 days ago ·

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sdnaples · Ruhlman the argument is that Union Rags raced in 3 graded stakes winning a g1 & g2 and 2nd in a g1 compared to Hansen's one not Union Rags having a bad trip and finishing 2nd. · 183 days ago ·

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Winplacsho · I totally agree with DeadHeat · 179 days ago ·

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Winplacsho · It won't happen, buy My Miss Aurelia is my dark horse for HOY. Especially if there's a shocker in this weekend's Clark Handicap. · 179 days ago ·

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travel_vic · two yaer olds don't make it as Horse of the Year (twice in its history) particularly females · 179 days ago ·

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Armada · @ travel: It can very well happen. Just because you don't see it that often, doesn't mean it wont. The debate for HOY is so wide open, nobody can be sure who will win especially if the Clark is won by a longshot. · 178 days ago ·

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