The Paddock View

Following my favorite horse, Hogy, from Chicago to Houston

Posted Friday, January 26, 2018

The story and journey continues as multiple graded stakes winner Hogy returns to Sam Houston Race Park Sunday in the Frontier Utilities Turf Sprint. For me, this is a very special reunion.

The Mint Julep: Where Mixology Meets Betology

Posted Monday, May 1, 2017

For two years in a row now I used the mint julep recipe to craft a winning ticket! While last year’s payouts were lacking the “fresh mint”, something tells me Kentucky Derby 143 will not. Like many of you, I look at this three-year-old field and scratch my head, but perhaps a cocktail or two will help ease your mind and lead to victory.

Jockeying for Kentucky Derby Position

Posted Thursday, February 23, 2017

A closer look at some of the jockeys on this year's Kentucky Derby trail.

Laurel Saturday Sixer

Posted Friday, February 17, 2017

Saturday is the Winter Racing Carnival at Laurel Park, but the weather and action will be anything but winter-like! With highs close to 70 here in Maryland, we can expect plenty of hotshots on the track as well. I look forward to enjoying a six pack myself, and I'm not just talking about the beer. Laurel has 6 (yes 6!) stakes on tap tomorrow including 2 graded stakes. In honor of the day, I will limit my wagering to $6 per race and hope to get the most bang for my buck.

Pride of Maryland

Posted Friday, August 19, 2016

Saturday is Maryland Pride Day at Laurel Park with eleven awesome races loaded with Maryland-bred talent. From a bow-tie to shorts, I wear the Maryland flag proud. I may not be a native but I am darn proud to be a resident now! Maryland racing is alive and well with older stars as well as some speedy up-and-comers. Saturday’s card showcases the best that Maryland has to offer. Here are four horses that are set to make Maryland proud on Saturday.

Saratoga Saturday Quick Picks

Posted Friday, July 29, 2016

My summer of firsts continues this weekend as I make the long awaited maiden trip to Saratoga! To say I am excited would be like saying Songbird is mediocre. Saratoga connects the past, present and future of our sport. I simply cannot wait to see it, feel it and experience it. Tomorrow’s card offers 4 highly competitive stakes races. Before I enter a state of awe upon arrival in the morning, I figured it would be a good idea to make my selections beforehand. Here is a quick look at who I like in each event.

Belmont Stakes (without a Triple Crown on the line) = Big Bucks

Posted Monday, June 6, 2016

Trends say we could be in for a big payout this weekend in the Belmont Stakes!

Maryland, My Maryland!

Posted Tuesday, May 17, 2016

It is Maryland's time to shine and the party is well under way! Amid the celebration, let's take a look at the Black-Eyed Susan card from a Marylander's point of view.