I had friends win the golden ticket contest at Keeneland to visit Rachel and her colt. His barn name is Taco! He's a sweet cuddly little guy!
I'm very glad he's arrived safely!
I enjoyed both, but I would vote for Rapid Redux. There is an error about the last Summer Olympics, Michael Phelps won his 8 gold medals in 2008.
Brian, I'm so glad you were able to visit Rachel at last and truly feel what those of us on visits before you felt while at Stonestreet. You articulated our feelings and emotions oh so well! "My heart and sould was uplifted. Rachel's eyes were filled with happiness and contentedness." Indeed, they were and so much more. When you're standing beside her and she turns those amazing eyes to you and you know deep down in your soul she's saying hello just to you. She is the Queen of Stonestreet Farms and when you leave, there is no doubt in your mind that she isn't loved and extremely well cared for. Thanks for the article and the wonderful photos!
We the lucky few...so far. :) Great article, Scott! My visit in March played out much as yours did with the exception that we had much cooler weather! Contrary to all the stories of how much of a "handfull" she was in training, she's exactly the opposite. I think farm life away from the stresses of the track really agree with her. The people at Stonestreet Farms couldn't have been more gracious! It's very clear to see Rachel is just what the staff calls her, the Queen of Stonestreet.
Well worth the wait, Brian. There will never be another year like 2009, just like there has never been another year like 1973 for the great Secretariat. I'm not comparing the two, just making a point. They were both one in a million in their own unique ways. I was shocked when they retired Rachel so abruptly especially after that bullet work she ran, along with many others. The continued silence and lack of any kind of a farewell ceremony in the months afterward was especially bitter. When they finally announced the first "Visit Rachel" day, like so many I was eager to attend with the help of a friend who put me on her visitation list. Meeting Rachel, petting her, being photographed with her put all those bitter feeling to rest at last. I've seen first hand how well loved and cared for she is. They call her the Queen of Stonestreet and I have no doubt as long as she lives she always will be.
You are so right, Angela! Horse racing is a passion, and Rachel Alexandra is one of mine!
It's going to be a challenge after the long layoff, but I'll be cheering for her!
Congrats, Tiz!
Northern Dancer?