HeatherSeiden

Hey, I can respect people's opinions and you always back yours up with facts. But welcome to ANIMAL WORLD DOMINATION time! In all seriousness, we are always here for you to help out. We can't all be in front of the TV for every big race day and it really helps to have social media to find out the latest news.

I remember this period of racing from last summer quite well. Several horses caught my eye around this time...Orb was one of them, Craving Carats, Violence...I remember watching one impressive performance after another. Man, I can't wait for Saratoga! :) Oh wait... we have this whole Triple Crown thing first. :)

Sounds so wonderful!! I am so glad you had a great time!! I too have an incredible love and appreciation of Palm Meadows and what I consider its sibling, Fair Hill (in Maryland). Both are just fabulous places to see one's favorite horses off the track. Last year, Sharon Meason and I were fortunate enough to see Union Rags and Awesome Feather at Palm Meadows. If you enjoyed PM, you will most certainly enjoy a visit to Fair Hill, where both Graham Motion and Michael Matz have stables. Oh - and I look forward to tomorrow's article!

Too many this year... as every year. :( But lovely tribute. Don't forget Premier Pegasus, a son of FuPeg who I believe had a great shot at the Derby had he not been injured.

Congratulations, Ryan! I love your story and love how you smile so big in all of your photos!! I look forward to meeting you at the track one day soon! Congrats to this deserving winner!

I agree with you, Mike. It's excellent to make one's voice heard, but it's more important to do it in the most respectful way possible. I believe using facts is the best way to approach. .

The voice of the people speaks on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and blogs. There is no denying the fact that Paynter's progress, as he beat laminitis and colitis, was followed more closely by fans than any other story. In addition, Shackleford has a FAN CLUB who makes their presence known at each of his races. Finally, Animal Kingdom received a standing ovation at the Breeders Cup when he came in second place to Wise Dan. All of these suggest that these horses are closer to the hearts of the fans than some of this year's choices for the Vox Populi award. While the horses named are outstanding horses, the facts support that other horses are truly representative of "the people."

I've enjoyed watching both Shack and Stay Thirsty and this is a fitting tribute. I remember that FL Derby when Shack just showed everyone the heart of a champion. Stay Thirsty -- I always liked him but I think he played second best to Uncle Mo for so long that people sort of wrote him off... it is nice to see these two horses, who have given us many exciting memories, go out with nice wins.

Beautifully recounted, Brian... what a champion she was. There are moments in Breeders Cup history that will live forever, and this is one of them.

Great recap, Dark Horse!!