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Point-Counterpoint - Acclamation vs Cape Blanco

Who should be Champion Turf Male?Read More

Posted 120 days ago ·

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medlocke · When Acclamation's overall body of work, to include his win in the G1 Pacific Classic on synthetics can be considered into the mix? I think it likely makes Acclamation one of, if not the top candidate for 2011 HOY outright. But I don't feel like Acclamation should get the Eclipse Award for 2011 Turf HOY, and here's why. #1-His win in the G1 Pacific Classic should have no bearing at all on the eclipse vote for Turf HOY, because the race was not run on turf. Enduring 3 cross-Atlantic shipping's from Ireland to America, and still having the talent to win the G1 Man O' War Stakes, the G1 Arlington Million, and the G1 Joe Hirsch Turf, at 10 and 12f, beating the horse that has arguably carried the flag for American turf racing over the past 3 seasons in Gio Ponti in 2 of those races, reads a much stronger turf resume' than staying home in California, and winning the G1 Charlie Whittingham and the G1 Eddie Read. Plus two G2 turf stakes wins. But I would argue that Cape Blanco shipping from Ireland to win the Man O' War and the Million trumps Acclamation's Charlie Wittingham and Eddie Read. Shipping only cross-state. And Cape Blanco's third trip over from Ireland to win the G1 Joe Hirsch trumps Acclamation's two G2 turf win's. Again, shipping only in-state. Especially if you figure in the mileage shipped from Ireland to America to win an extra G1 stakes. As opposed to shipping in-state for 2 G2 stakes wins. As I say, I don't argue Acclamation has a case for 2011 HOY outright when his Pacific Classic win can enter the mix. But Cape Blanco clearly deserves to win 2011 Turf HOY. Outside of the BC Turf, he won the 3 biggest G1 turf stakes in America, and shipped across the Atlantic Ocean to do so. Not just across the state of California. Just keeping it real, folks. · 120 days ago ·

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waya · As you said Brian, the Million, Man O'War and Turf Classic are all bigger than anything Acclamation has won. No question, it's Cape Blanco! · 119 days ago ·

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rockerb · Cape Blanco's best distance is 1O furlongs and he struggled to hold off Dean's Kitten on a soft surface he has proven to like. Meanwhile, Acclamation has shown the ability to rate on any surface and most every distance. His one flaw seems to be traveling east. If the BC @ CD comes up firm, I'd take Acclamation over Cape Blanco. Problem is neither of these charges can beat the best the Euros have to offer. · 119 days ago ·

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BrianAppleton · I have to go with Cape Blanco on this one, he didn't only win the most prestigous races, he beat the toughest competition. · 119 days ago ·

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BigWillTeamTAP · Um...are we really just throwing out the BC TURF and making it irrelevant? I think that potential champions (like CAPE BLANCO) can be dethroned on CHAMPIONSHIP DAY if a horse like WINCHESTER would win the BC TURF. He already has one grade 1 win and a win in the CHAMPIONSHIP AND SIGNATURE RACE for the division should be enough to overtake Cape Blanco.....in my opinion. But if an outsider or Euro wins....its CAPE BLANCO all the way. · 119 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · Come on Will, Winchester has one win in 2011, and ran last in the Turf Classic ... the BC is important, but not that important. · 119 days ago ·

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WesWhite · Will knows that there is no chance that Winchester could win an eclipse off of 2 wins if he were to win the turf, anyone that things that Acclamation has a shot at any awards with a 5th and last place finish while running in the watered down So Cal division of turf racing out there has no idea what running and winning the top 3 races turf wise in America. · 119 days ago ·

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BigWillTeamTAP · I see what you're saying Brian but I think we have a difference of opinions on the weight of the BC TURF. You may be right...the BC may not be that important. We've seen that in recent years so that trend could continue. I guess my whole argument is...if the Breeders Cup is supposed to be the "WORLD THOROUGHBRED CHAMPIONSHIPS" why aren't these races taken into the highest of consideration when deciding championships??? And while I don't think Winchester will win....I was just talking hypotheticals here and he was definitely a more logical choice than mission approved. · 119 days ago ·

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BigWillTeamTAP · OK Wes...Rank them: #1. BREEDERS CUP TURF #2. ARLINGTON MILLION #3. TURF CLASSIC #4. Sword Dancer #5. Man O War. And like I said...just throwing out hypotheticals. A win in the Championship and a top notch grade 1 isn't enough to merit an eclipe? And we're not factoring in Cape Blancos frequent flyer miles. Just wondering how a win in the BC Turf combined with another grade 1 is not enought to possibly overtake Cape Blanco. And I'm not even talking about Acclamation, its sad his season got cut short because he could have racked up awards on eclipse night. · 119 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · I'm not so naive as to totally buy the bruised foot excuse. The rash of fevers and foot bruises lately should have these horses on a regimen of Tylenol and aquacizers. Just to be factual about Acclamation, the 10th. place finish was on that Charlestown slop, not turf. The 5th.place finish came after running a fast 7f. in the Kilroe Mile, after a 7 1/2 month layoff. Get real about Cape Blanco, too. What did he have in store for him if he hadn't been retired? Not racing in Europe after getting used to his improved form with the L, and Acclamation waiting at the end of the trail in sunny, fast, firm CA. Now, they both must rest on their laurels to await the voting. If the other major HOTY contenders totally disappoint in their BC races, of course Acclamation is still in the running for HOTY. I see the points about Cape Blanco's three races being more prestigious and better competition than Acclamation's 4 turf wins. Another example of the dissatisfaction of this contest not being settled on the track. · 119 days ago ·

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DeadHeat · Cape Blanco's main claim to fame in two out of three of the grade ones was beating Gio Ponti, who has shown us both this year and last that anything over 9f is NOT his best distance. Yes, he won the Hirsch and it was a gritty win while injured, but Dean's Kitten? Really? Neither faced the most consistent horses or the best of competition. Again on Gio, you go on what he has done this year, and he had won not a single grade one when Cape beat him. His only one this year is at a mile. So competition wise, both faced relatively the same type of horses. Ok, but very inconsistent. Acclamation has more graded stakes wins and races in the top turf races on his side of the coast. Cape didn't travel west for the same reason Acclamation didn't go east, and extra 3000 miles. Cape came to America for softer competition and Lasix. I can't say what would have happened if him and Acclamation met, but yes I do think Acclamation would have had a very good chance, especially with his speed and class. Cape has speed and on the east not many other turf horses had the quality of speed he did. Acclamation does, which would allow him to keep in touch while also NOT folding. With three grade one wins, two grade twos that all came in a five race streak, he deserves to be champion Turf Horse. · 118 days ago ·

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ILuvTurfRacing · @DeadHeat, The horses that Cape Blanco faced in all 3 American G1 win's are good enough, but your missing the big picture that he had to ship all the way over from Ireland all 3 times to win these G1 races. I would defy Acclamation to ship from California to Ireland and try his hand at the Irish Champion Stakes, or the Irish Derby if was still a 3yr.old. Both, races Cape Blanco won in Ireland last season. · 37 days ago ·

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footlick · If a horse ships across the Atlantic 3 times and wins 3 gr1's, it is either something special or we have the worst turf horses in the world and none of them should get an award. Cape Blance won two of his races in dominant fashion. Dean's Kitten stepped up in the bog, and ran a big race so at least give him credit for that. But Cape Blanco won on a fractured leg, so even though it was close, give him credit for that too. Acclimation ran very well out West and is a favorite of mine. But the strongest field he ran against was on the DelMar poly. Either is fine with me. A little more impressed with a horse who crosses the Atlantic 3 times, but........ · 37 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Cape Balnoc hands down. When the connrections go after the best competition at the highest levels and triumoph rather than hide out, well the winner of this debate is a rather easy choice. · 37 days ago ·

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zxswordxz · I'm with footlick...give credit where credit is due and Cape Blanco deserve it. · 36 days ago ·

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LAZMANNICK · Gio Ponti not a 10F horse? Really? Horses that aren’t 10F horses don’t continuously run sub 24 second final quarters. Gio Ponti won 3 races at 10F in 10 attempts (8 grass and 2 synthetic), but with 4 seconds and 1 third. 9 of the 10 races were in G1’s including 3 Arlington Millions, 3 Manhattans and a BCC (synthetics) and a Dubai World Cup (synthetics). 4 of his second place finishes were by a length or less and in none of his 8 finishes in the money was he backing off. He was closing in all of them even when Zenyatta ran away from him in the BCC. This year he met really tough competition. When Cape Blanco beat him in the Million Gio closed three lengths in the stretch with his final quarter in 23.64 seconds. In the Manhattan when Mission Approved beat him he closed five lengths in the stretch and ran his final quarter in 22.93 seconds, but suffered because he had to run wide. In the Dubai world Cup he ran against a loaded field and finished in a crowd just over a length off the win. In the Man O’ War at 11F, he closed ran his final 3F in 34.32 seconds and gained two lengths on the winner, Cape Blanco. Gio is still a 10F horse. He’s just a .300 hitter running against the very best competition. This is another reason why Cape Blanco is so worthy of a HOY title. · 36 days ago ·

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footlick · nice post, Laz. I too thought he was still a viable adversary but just not winning. Thanks. · 36 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · Hi to footy. True about Gio. He was quite the champion turf horse. I learned from S.G. that it is not necessary to run down a great horse to attempt to make a case for another, meaning Acclamation. He needs to do that this year for himself. Hope his chance didn't pass him by with no one knowing how good he was until May. That would be a shame and a waste. Even with the BC Turf at Santa Anita this year, I think Acclamation needs to try traveling at least a couple of times to the big Eastern/Arlington turf races. and no I'm not that other Mary at bh. · 36 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Acclimation stayed out of running versus the best at differing venues. Taking on all comers, whatever the result, is the mark of championship horses and connections. · 35 days ago ·

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footlick · Hi Mary Z. I have no problem with Acclimation staying out West. He ran great races and showed a new versatility when he won going shorter than his usual preferred distance. My vote for Cape Blanco is swayed by his shipping across the Atlantic 3 times. It would have been nice if they met, but they didn't. My favoring of Cape Blanco is in no way a slight to Acclimation. · 35 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · footy,I have said that I think Acclamation could have taken the Sword Dancer over Winchester, but truth is he may not have even been nominated for any of those races outside of CA, after Charlestown and the 5th place in the Mile race, which came at the end of a losing streak. Hope he still has it this year. He has a different style than so many turf runners in that he wins mostly having been on the lead for the greater part of his races, and my favorite part--fast. · 35 days ago ·

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footlick · Mary Z.- I'm not sure he likes soft turf, which might be why they really haven't run him outside of Cal much. If the turf was to his liking, I certainly think he could have taken the Sword Dancer. The fact that he won the Pacific Classic, though has opened up even more options for him in California, so they may opt for a turf and synthetic year. · 35 days ago ·

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LAZMANNICK · I wouldn’t hold a dismal finish in the Charlestown race against any horse. The track is essentially a bull ring, much like Fairplex, with very sharp turns. The track was also sloppy and sealed. It’s easy to see that he didn’t like that race based on how dismal he ran and yet he bounced back and won his next five in a row. As for the Kilroe Mile, Acclamation isn’t a miler and is zero for two in that particular race. He’s a true router who likes to set a controlled pace and when he can do this is very tough to beat. In fact the only way to beat him in a route when they are planning on taking him to the front is to challenge right from the beginning. · 35 days ago ·

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Point/Counterpoint: Brilliant Speed vs. Mr. Commons

Ed DeRosa, of Brisnet, and Brilliant Speed take on HRN's Brian Zipse, and Mr. Commons...Read More

Posted 37 days ago ·

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MichaelHorvath · Preparing for the Thursday before the Derby already????? · 37 days ago ·

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Floridaf · I have to go with Mr. Commons here, also. · 37 days ago ·

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MichaelPavelick · I think Brian's comment that Brilliant Speed was "absolutely no match" in the BC Turf is somewhat overstated, and not totally objective. BS brushed the gate and was away a bit slow (according to chart comment) from a outside post position. He was a good 3-5 wide all the way around, until the 1/4 pole. I think the Jockey made the decision to prematurely move BS approaching the 1/4 pole instead of waiting to the 1/4 pole. This allowed the Jockey to "duck inside" after rounding the final turn and save ground down the stretch. Mainly speaking BS DID NOT have a good trip. I don't think he was good enough to win, but I think he could have finished at least 2 lengths closer then he did. He lost by 3 1/4 lengths. · 37 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · Ed, welcome to HorseRacingNation! Glad you got to enjoy our Point/Counter Point forum. · 37 days ago ·

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Waya · "With maturity, I would expect the grand looking son of Artie Schiller to blow down the door he was knocking on last year." Yes Brian, Mr. Commons is on the verge of a big year. · 37 days ago ·

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annalefsrud@yahoo.ca · Regardless of whether they're ever real opponents, and as much I love Dynaformer, it's Mr Commons and that 'thing" about him. · 37 days ago ·

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Winplacsho · I think Mr. Commons is more talented, but I believe Brilliant Speed has a better shot at dominance in the marathon turf division, which as been very weak domestically. Mr. Commons very well could dominate the miler division, but he'll have some stiff competition throughout the year with Jeranimo, Caracortado, Turallure, maybe Venomous, etc. · 37 days ago ·

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alonso12929 · Right now Jeranimo will run by both!!!!! But later on in the year as long as Frankel avoids the BC Mile this year Mr. Commons is the horse to beat just because i predict he will be bigger, stronger, and have a huge closing kick as he develops in his career as 4yr old... · 37 days ago ·

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likin sparks · I'm taking BS, will keep improving and I think of the two will play harder to catch in the G1's. · 37 days ago ·

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12thCrown · I'll take the "field" of euros in the BC turf at SA this fall over both of these... · 36 days ago ·

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GregRiessland · mr commons is the better. · 36 days ago ·

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4:59 PM

Irish-bred St Nicholas Abbey wins the BC Turf for Aidan O'Brien.

mdracing69 · 96 days ago ·

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medlocke · Really impressed with St. Nicholas Abbey's performance winning the BC Turf. Against some very good European and American turf horses. I think it's a pretty fair statement to say that Aidan O'Brien's horses all performed well for Ballydoyle this year, and they were by far the best of the European stables represented at this year's Breeders Cup. · 94 days ago ·

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crc1858 · @medlocke aka rossington,Now that you know how to repair your duplicates,just enter your name in search box and it will be easy to find all 160+ of them !! · 94 days ago ·

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St Nicholas Abbey (and Europe) is too strong

The European Breeders’ Cup Turf, from now on, that is what it shall be called. Read More

Posted 96 days ago ·

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medlocke · I'm really happy for Aidan and young Joseph O'Brien. But most of all, I'm really happy for St. Nicholas Abbey winning the BC Turf. Everyone in the UK had St Nicholas Abbey down as the "second coming" when he went unbeaten as a 2yr.old in 2009, and ended that season with win's in the G2 Beresford Stakes in Ireland, and by mauling the G1 Racing Post Trophy field at Doncaster. Then he had a disappointing 6th place finish in the G1 English 2000 Guineas as a 3yr.old as a heavy favorite to win the race, and everyone wrote St Nicholas Abbey off. He's come back this season as a 4yr.old and had a really terrific season from top to bottom. He won the G3 Ormonde Stakes at Chester over 1-3/4. Then defeated Midday at Epsom in the G1 Coronation Cup over 1-1/2. He also had very respectable run's in the G2 Prix Foy and the G1 Prix De l' Arc De Triomphe at Longchamp this season, too. I backed Sea Moon to win the BC Turf. But St. Nicholas Abbey winning the race certainly wasn't a shock result. Both of the horses that Ballydoyle had in the race are top class on their best day. · 95 days ago ·

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Protagonist · Very Nice to see Aidan O'Brien back in the Winners Circle at the BC ,Very nice wins by Wrote and St.Nicholas Abbey! Had them both,Congrats Team O'Brien! · 94 days ago ·

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Sadler's Wells Tribute

There is much fertile land in the Ireland region known as the “Golden Vale” that Sadler’s Wells called home since 1984. This fertility certainly was indicative of the illustrious stud career that would follow for Coolmore’s most prized stallion.Read More

Posted 252 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · A fabulous race horse and an even greater sire, one of the best of my lifetime ... great tribute, Eric! · 252 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · Wow, those son's of Northern Dancer have been amazing! · 252 days ago ·

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MarcelloMarocco · Everything of Northern Dancer was Amazing :) Northern Dancer brought a Boom to the Breeding industry and when Coolmore Bought up a bunch of Dancer's Yearlings at Windfields Maryland facility that EP Taylor bought, and Built to cater Northern Dancer to the World. I read a while back that you could walk into Windfield's Stallion barn, and read the list of dignitaries who have purchased Northern Dancer offspring was astonishing at that time. Coolmore Bought NijinskyII, and NinjiskyII sired Sadler · 96 days ago ·

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It’s Ladies’ Day … Or is it?

It’s Ladies’ Day and once again the Breeders’ Cup promises to have a powerful feminine presence with the likes of Goldikova, Havre de Grace, Sarafina, and Midday...Read More

Posted 97 days ago ·

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Midday Faces Males in Breeders' Cup Turf

Midday won the Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf in '09 and was runner-up in that event last year, but her connections switch gears and shoot for more money in the $3,000,000 BC Turf this time around. The 5-year-old mare has captured seven group/graded events in her illustrious career and has bank...Read More

Source: horseracingnation.com · Posted 99 days ago ·

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Sea Moon Ready to Rumble in BC Turf

Teddy Grimthorpe is confident that underfoot conditions at Churchill Downs will not inconvenience Sea Moon in Saturday's Breeders' Cup Turf.Sea Moon's close relative Workforce was taken out of the 2010 renewal at the 11th hour because connections considered the going too firm for the Derby and Arc w...Read More

Source: google.com · Posted 99 days ago ·

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Winchester Unlikely for Breeders' Cup Turf

Trainer Christophe Clement said Saturday morning that Mr. and Mrs. Bertram Firestone’s Winchester, winner of the Grade 1 Sword Dancer Invitational, was unlikely to run in the Breeders’ Cup Turf. The trainer said he was not happy with the results of an endoscopic examination performed after th...Read More

Source: horseracingnation.com · Posted 103 days ago ·

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Sea Moon to Win the Breeders’ Cup Turf

Day one of the serious Breeders’ Cup handicapping is complete, and have I got a winner for you ... I believe in eight days, we will be adding Sea Moon to this impressive list. Read More

Posted 105 days ago ·

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Marshal's Memory · http://www.oddschecker.com/horse-racing-betting/ante-post-racing/flat/breeders-cup-turf · 105 days ago ·

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Marshal's Memory · I'd plump for Await the Dawn myself , check out the Ladbrokes market there, four horses at 4-1 co-favourite · 105 days ago ·

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allstarpress · GREAT analysis, Brian. Unfortunately I don't think you'll get even 5-1 on Sea Moon. · 105 days ago ·

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zatt · I have a feeling that American bettors may go with the ones they know a bit more, hopefully leading to a 5 or 6-1 overlay on Sea Moon. · 105 days ago ·

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Winplacsho · Great minds think alike....Stoute also ran Conduit in the St. Leger before winning the BC Turf in 2008 · 105 days ago ·

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ScottDick · You know this is my favorite angle, improving euro 3 year old in the turf.. Red Rocks, Conduit, Dangerous Midge! · 105 days ago ·

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rayjay · I thought Sea Moon was going to be my little secret. He was boxed in the length of the stretch of the St. Leger. Improving, plus Sarafina's main goal was the Arc, this is just an afterthought I hope that you haven't ruined the price. · 105 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · Hope not too, rayjay ... he's a live one! Midge, who you loved last year, was actually a 4yo, but I'm with you, Scott. · 105 days ago ·

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Zenyatta-Perfection Personified · Midday and Stacelita 1-2 for the girls :) · 105 days ago ·

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keeneland dan · I agree Sea Moon from down town runs past St Nich · 105 days ago ·

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footlick · If Sarafina is in form and runs her race she wins. Sea Moon and St Nicholas Abbey are all solid, but St Nick has already lost to Sarafina. Await the Dawn to me is the sleeper. I could be wrong, but I don't think Midday is quite a top 12 furlong horse, especially against others with proven 12 furlong form. But it is coming up a big race. · 105 days ago ·

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zilzal86 · If the going is as fast as last year then Mr Stoute will probably pull this one out · 104 days ago ·

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footlick · If there had been a decent cushion last year, it would not have mattered if it was fast because they till would have run. It was the fact that there was no cushion so the course was hard and jarring underneath, from what I have understood. Their comments were about the lack of a cushion so it was jarring the horses. They have no trouble running on firm at Santa Anita. It is all about the cushion. · 104 days ago ·

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zilzal86 · Sea Moons win impressive win came going that was quite sticky at York in August, several horses struggled with the looser ground during the festival there, i wouldnt bet a lot on him handling the tighter turns on faster ground, the OBrien pair have handled Chester though which is constantly on the turn · 104 days ago ·

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zilzal86 · Here is his victory at York http://www.racinguk.com/video/race-replays/20110817/1806957 · 104 days ago ·

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orangeman88 · I strongly believe that Midday hangs in the stretch and can never be trusted to take the top spot. St. Nick seems a cut below the others. I too like Sea Moon and Sarafina. How are people treating ATDs poor Judmontte International? Does he get a redo? Midday made him look second class there. · 103 days ago ·

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Charting the Breeders' Cup

These charts for the original Breeders’ Cup races include information about the past winners: win payout, track, exacta and trifecta prices, and trainer. Averages are calculated for all of the payouts and European grass winners are marked. Read More

Posted 107 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · Look at those tasty exotic payoffs ... truly the best betting weekend of the year! · 107 days ago ·

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pacepal_pete · In seven BC Classics at Churchill only 5 horses at odds 5-1 or under have run equal to or better than their odds rank (15, 75%, ran worse than their odds rank!). The 5 horses that did run to their expectations produced 4 wins. The other 3 winners came from horses at odds from 6-1 to 10-1. Nine of 15 horses 6-1 to 10-1 outran their odds! 32 of 45 Horses over 10-1 outran their odds, but only produced 1 second and 4 thirds · 107 days ago ·

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Winplacsho · It seems as if you only need to get 1, maybe 2 trifectas out of 15 races in order to have a good weekend, and if I'm not mistaken they have $0.50 trifectas so hopefully you can land a bomb or 2. At least that would give me enough dough to by the HRN folks some beers at the BC! · 107 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · Oh, 50¢ trifectas would be a lot of fun! · 106 days ago ·

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travel_vic · I have watched and handicapped each one from the start. The eveness of competition makes playing the vast majority of them a true crap shoot. · 106 days ago ·

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bornstar · can somebody post the past doubles, pick threes, pick fours and pick six · 106 days ago ·

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keeneland dan · I can give you my 1099's.....lol...... · 105 days ago ·

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travel_vic · Each race, no matter if it is a claimer or a stakes contest is exclusive unto itself dynamically. While the study of the history makes some sense, its predicitive value TODAY is severely limited · 104 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · LOL, keeneland dan, I probably pay too much on my taxes! Good luck in the BC! · 104 days ago ·

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Memories of Breeders' Cup Past

Blogger Jasen Mangrum chronicles his favorite Breeders' Cup memories, which happened to coincide with his 18th birthday.Read More

Posted 108 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · Great way to turn 18! Some how I think you had been betting before that. LOL! · 108 days ago ·

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KeithStrouhal · Funny how in the mud that Inside Information would have given Cigar all he could handle. She absolutely freaked on that sloppy track making it look SO easy under Mike Smith. I esp. remember hitting both turf race exactas. Even tho Fastness and Northern Spur were ? marks on soft turf. Absolutely loved My Flag , Easy Goer - Personal Ensign , talk about blue blood !! · 108 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · Northern Spur was a good one for me as well ... hard to believe it has been 16 years already since Cigar was doing his thing! · 107 days ago ·

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Capper · Andy, I wish to exercise my 5th amendment rights on the grounds that I may incriminate myself. =) · 107 days ago ·

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Joshua Tree considered for BC Turf

Joshua Tree will be considered for the Breeders' Cup Turf at Churchill Downs next month following an excellent effort in Sunday's Canadian International.Marco Botti's colt finished third behind brilliant Arc winner Danedream in Germany on his penultimate start, and confirmed that promise by chasing ...Read More

Source: google.com · Posted 114 days ago ·

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medlocke · I often wondered why Joshua Tree wasn't sent over for the 2010 BC Turf when he was still racing for Coolmore, after he won the 2010 G1 Canadian International Stakes? Joshua Tree very likely could've won last year's BC Turf standing on his head it was such a weak field. He'll face a much tougher and field at Churchill Downs this year than he would've a year ago. But he looked to be coming back into solid form again with his 2nd place run behind Sara Lynx in Sunday's G1 Canadian International Stakes. I think he'll make for a fine addition to this year's BC Turf field. JMO. · 114 days ago ·

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Breeders' Cup Top 10 - The Turf

The best editions of the Breeders' Cup Turf in history? Let the countdown begin... With VIDEO Read More

Posted 122 days ago ·

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medlocke · I've always said as weak as the 2010 BC Turf field turned out being that if Conduit's connection's had kept him in training during the 2010 season, he would've been an easy winner of a third straight BC Turf in 2010, and he'd have his name in the record books along side Goldikova as the only other 3-time winner of a Breeders Cup race. JMO. · 122 days ago ·

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Mike in SB · Great list, but I would put Manilla's win at the top. Probably the best Turf field ever and Dancing Brave was considered one of the best European horses to race in 50 years. what really made it special was I had 20 dollars on Manila! He went off at 8-1 or something, a big win for a poor guy like me. · 122 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · Or if Paddy O'Prado had run in the Turf last year, he would have won easy, Medlocke ... Nothing wrong with Manila's, Mike, but ... I wonder if it would have been #1 on your list without the cash. ;-) · 122 days ago ·

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footlick · @Mike in SB- Jolley said to the press that Dancing Brave hadn't acclimated well and he didn't expect good race out of him. Manilla ran a great race, but the Dancing Brave you saw in that race was just a shadow of the horse that was in Europe. · 122 days ago ·

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keeneland dan · Good Stuff I still have nightmares of High Chapperal as I let Frank Lyons talk me off him and I change my pick 4 ticket to Storming Home and Falbrav leaving HC out and it cost me $16,000.....thanks Frank Lyons. · 122 days ago ·

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jpinkertoncook · Complete coincidence that I just watched your No. 1 by accident on Saturday while looking for something else. I was amazed to have happened on such a race. What a thriller! · 122 days ago ·

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BrianAppleton · Absolutely love Presious Passions runner-up in 2009, that was incredible! English Channel is another of my favorites (especially as that was my first Breeders' Cup), he was the first turf winner I chose at the Breeders' Cup. · 121 days ago ·

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Capper · I'm glad to see Kotashaan made the final cut, but where's your home town boy Buck's Boy, Brian. · 121 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · Buck's Boy was tough as nails, Capper, but ... I was more impressed with the tenacity of another speedster, the California gelding, Great Communicator. · 121 days ago ·

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champion2011 · Great · 121 days ago ·

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champion2011 · Great Communicator...what an upset that was with Ray Sibile in the irons! · 121 days ago ·

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ruhlmann · What about Prized, he' not on the list! Won the BC Turf as a 3 year old and first time on grass. I was so pissed when he beat Sunday Silence at Hollywood Park.....maybe he shouldn't be on the list. · 121 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · LOL ... as was I. · 121 days ago ·

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Point - Counterpoint: Older Horses vs 3 Year Olds

As the Breeders' Cup draws near, which division has been more impressive?Read More

Posted 134 days ago ·

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ksiwierka · Agree with Zipse on this one. The 3 year olds are a confused bunch. The parity in the division is not by any means compelling · 134 days ago ·

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medlocke · Honestly, I don't feel like either division is anything to write home about. I've said all season long that 2011 really has been a down year for American racing. No standouts among the older horses with Zenyatta, Blame, Lookin At Lucky, and Quality Road all retired, and one of the weakest crops of 3yr.old's that I can remember for eons. The two 4yr.old fillies, Blind Luck and Havre De Grace, are the closest thing that America has to having a "star performer" this season. TJMO. · 134 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · No doubt Prayer for Relief could not win the Kentucky Derby, but that was quite an accomplishment sweeping 3 straight derbies! · 134 days ago ·

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digidot · While I believe the older horses are better this year don't forget about Winter Memories, best 3 year old in my mind. · 134 days ago ·

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kedez2012 · I'm amused that everyone continually belittles Stay Thirsty's victories because they were all in New York. Has everyone forgotten that Tizway hasn't won outside of New York this year either? I'm not saying that Stay Thirsty is better than him. I'm just saying that before you point fingers and jeer at the three year olds, take a look around at everyone else. Tizway is easily the most lionized horse of 2011. · 133 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · All of the OLDER horses in the JCGC field have only one win each in 2011 and none of the wins is in a G1 race. Only Stay Thirsty has a G1 win this year. · 133 days ago ·

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CraigBradshaw · winning in ny didn't do haynesfield a bit of good last year. we could have a surprise winner in the classic this nov. · 133 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · The JCGC is certainly not the gold standard of older horses this year ... if Stay Thirsty does not beat this bunch, it would be a blow to the 3yo crop. · 133 days ago ·

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plez2k10 · Kedez2012, sometimes I think a lot of that sentiment has to do with the resentment of some (not all) West Coast posters towards New York racing. Now that the reality of the post-Zenyatta era is starting to sink in, expect to see more of it... · 133 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · I agree, Brian. · 133 days ago ·

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woodbinemile · I believe that The Factor is the BEST 3yr old, and probably one of the Top 3 on the Continent. He gets overlooked far too much. I cannot wait to see him as a 4yr old. · 132 days ago ·

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1:02 PM

Change of plans for Acclamation. He goes next in the Oct 2 Clement L. Hirsch Turf Championship at Santa Anita. The Breeders' Cup Turf is back on the table as well.

mdracing69 · 139 days ago ·

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Mary Z. · This is great news! Might as well go for the BC Turf for his first win outside of CA. · 139 days ago ·

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5:07 PM

Sir Michael Stoute's Sea Moon might come to the US for the BC Turf.

mdracing69 · 141 days ago ·

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Acclamation might skip Breeders' Cup

California-bred and -based Acclamation will take his show on the road. Winner of three consecutive Grade 1’s and currently the top male in California, Acclamation may skip the fall meet at Santa Anita and run for a $1.5 million purse Oct. 16 at Woodbine in the Grade 1 Canadian International. In all ...Read More

Source: drf.com · Posted 145 days ago ·

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Grade I Hat Trick for Acclamation with Pacific Classic Victory (Video)

Entering off three straight graded stakes wins on turf including a pair of Grade I’s, Acclamation successfully transferred his front-running game to the main track... Read More

Posted 163 days ago ·

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RamonDimas · DAMN this horse is soooooooooooooooooooo sooooooooooooooooooo GREAT i think he is going to win the CLASSIC!! · 164 days ago ·

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boxersdaddy · there is a question as to whether acclamation can transfer his successes from turf and poly to dirt. · 152 days ago ·

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The Arlington Experience: A Million Memories

Experiencing Arlington Million 2011 in person is something I'll never forget. As the day went by, the crowd grew by thousands. Early in the day, A beautiful blue sky with cotton like clouds greeted the fans who entered the track. But, as we got deeper into the race card, the skies opened up, and the...Read More

Posted 178 days ago ·

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cpsoren121 · Scott, I'm so glad you had the opportunity to come out! You described the day perfectly. And that was a shame about our pick 4 ticket!! · 178 days ago ·

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ErnieMunick · I can only imagine how much fun this day was for you - especially with Sunday Silence along side!!! · 178 days ago ·

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Indiana · Was an amazing experience, Having Sunday/Tiz by my side along with Chris Sorenson, Brian Zipse, and my beautiful friend Jamie was absolutely amazing. All that was missing was the E-train! · 178 days ago ·

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tiznow · What a fun day...no love loss for Gio. Tough knockin son of a gun. The day was still a blast, what a facility! Great recap Scott. · 178 days ago ·

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tiznow · Realizing I got to spend my first Million and first Arlington visit with good friends made this day even more fun. E Train, wish you could have been there man. Even with mother nature spitting rain off and on it didn't damper the feel and excitement. Stacelita...watched again....wow! · 178 days ago ·

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cigarorrison · Great recap of the day Scott.......Stacetlita was absolutely incredible in her race....not to mention she cashed me a nice ticket in an exacta box with Dubawi Heights. I was really pulling for Mission Approved......sadly he faded in the stretch....but thats racing. · 178 days ago ·

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zatt · Definitely a great day! · 178 days ago ·

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Winplacsho · I haven't been to all the top level tracks, but Arlington is at the top of my list for sure. I made it to the 2002 BC & the Arlington Millions won by Chester House & Marlin. I was there last summer too, but that polytrack turns me off. · 175 days ago ·

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Eclipse First · Nice job, Scott--I am fortunate to have AP as my home track, and Million weekend is always a highlight --here's hoping Gov. Quinn signs the gambling bill to give us slots and also that the BC comes back again! · 174 days ago ·

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