Curlin - Liquid Gold

Just Checking In

2010-01-21T16:20:00.002-07:00

Curlin is a daddy now - a beautiful little girl. More babies on the way. LOVE YOU CURLIN.

Lentenor, full brother to Barbaro, broke his maiden yesterday in splendid style - I watched it - and to me, no question: Lentenor IS Barbaro. Reincarnated.

Today we learned the LaVilleRouge, mother of the Dynasty: Barbaro, Nicanor, Lentenor, and Marcano (name soon to be official) lost the filly she was carrying - seven months along. Very very sad, but now Barbaro has a full SOUL sister with him in the heavens.

Today I also am more committed than ever to serving the Animal Kingdom. I hear them; others hear them; and they are sacrificing their lives to try to get humanity to pay attention to what they are doing to them - too much breeding, suffering. I will start a new blog one day soon - I've got something cooking in my heart. The next blog will be a spin-off of the "mission statement" on this one. I will speak for the animals, joined by a friend who is on the same path.

HAVE YOU SEEN AVATAR? I saw it two nights ago - and the pieces fell into place - the mission I am to be on and for whom my service is given - The Animals. Stay tuned.

"I SEE YOU" - n'amaste (means the same thing)

Rachel Alexandra

2009-05-11T21:29:00.002-07:00

What a sorry weekend for horseracing we just endured. Okay, I'm just gonna say what I feel about RA in the Preakness... as in, "NO, PLEASE DEAR GOD, NO." That strong enough? She has not been training for this; she raced a HUGE one only the day before the Derby - no matter how easy she made it look, that girl was really putting her energy into her 20-length victory, which, by the way, I don't think Calvin would have let her do had he thought she was going to race against the boys in 15 days - and I AM SORRY PEOPLE, but REMEMBER EIGHT BELLES? Yeah, I'm a rank outsider, don't know jackshit about horseracing, but I have this feeling since I AM a female and have served in the military (10 years!) that females have a very intense competitive streak - we are wired different from the testosterone-laden gender - we are SERIOUS about winning the game, whatever it is, moreso I think than males. And we will shut out everything, EVERYTHING, if the prize is sweet enough - to capture it. RA has that in her. And these boys are big and strong and ready. I sense disaster.

Also, I love love love Mine That Bird and what he did for racing by that amazing run in the Derby. He has been SO disrespected throughout this debacle, and his owner didn't help any yesterday with the clandestine phone calls, which I totally believe he and others made - a desperate man and an f'ing FOOL on top of it - Mr. Allen. So even MTB'S OWNER, for the love of GOD, disrespected him by trying to stack the deck in his favor and keeping RA out. He didn't even have faith in his OWN HORSE? Mr. Allen has been up to no good for a while now - and I was willing to overlook it - until yesterday. FOR SHAME, ALL OF YOU INVOLVED.

Know what would make me happy? MTB and his ailing trainer just get in the trailer and head back to New Mexico - scratch the day of the Preakness in a very real "F YOU" to the highbrow insiders who have treated them like trailer trash. AND - that Mr. Jess Jackson scratches RA too - of course, THAT will never happen. I'm telling you, if ANYTHING happens to that filly you will hear my wail of horror and outrage no matter where you are. This is WRONG - I mean, let her rest and try the Belmont - but no, Mr. Jackson bought her for a song as her FORMER owners took the money fast - and he's putting her in THIS RACE? God save them all.

Mine That Bird - complete with wings

2009-05-08T19:37:00.002-07:00

Well, I just typed a whole long post and lost it. Musta been a reason for that. Okay, this one will be different. On May 2 we witnessed the Hand of God leading Mine That Bird, threading that needle of horseflesh, all so much bigger than he was ~ little Bird, shining and flying - wings on. No, I didn't see it live - never ever again after Eight Belles will I do that. But I saw every single replay including the aerial one. The common folk had a victory; you gave them a Taste of Honey. My LORD, after MTB and his trainer were treated like birdshit when they pulled into CD - how dare they - via truck and trailer - I mean, this is the DEH-BY, you know - you ain't supposed to show up in a pick-up truck pulled trailer from El Paso. HA! They showed those fancy hat, mint-julep'ed snobs what REAL LIFE IS ABOUT - courage, guts and NEVER listening to the naysayers. I could not believe the announcer didn't even know who the hell was in front by FOUR LENGTHS by then - he was fumbling with his DRF and finally stammered out the name, "MINE THAT BIRD," who had been mentioned up to then only for being 15 or 20 lengths behind the entire pack. No one saw him coming, and I swear that rail morphed into jello because that kid was not along the rail - he was IN it or ON it or something..... swerved in not once but TWICE. My God, this doesn't happen ... but it did.

That this happened the week after the unveiling of Barbaro's bronze statue in front of Churchill Downs is no mere coincidence. No no, babies. When I saw the first photo of that statue, when they had placed a thin veil over it in the wee hours of April 26, I was thunderstruck. The photo was taken just as the sun first starting shining over the spires of CD - and that statue was BREATHING. I could feel it. It was.... Barbaro: Beyond the Veil.... but for a brief moment of time he was in the third dimension again - in the flesh. All night the night before, April 25 into April 26, I had this sense of that statue sparkling and glowing with pieces of stardust. It was eerie. Then I went to dreamland and the first thing I saw on April 26 via the www was that photo. He was there, alive again for a brief moment in the eternity beyond time and space. I will find that photo and post it.

But Mine That Bird - pay you NO MIND to the drama going on now. I wrote about that the last post - Spirit doesn't want me to talk about it too much, quite obviously since the post poofed. So just a little bit: Pay no MIND to that junk. You just be you, Beautiful Bird. Listen to Mike Smith - I'm hoping he'll speak a little francaise to you because I knew Calvin spoke it to you, and it opened your heart wide up. But important: YOU HAVE NOTHING TO PROVE. Okay? You are the Derby champ 2009 - no one can take that from you. If you don't like the Preakness dirt or whatever..... just have a fun run and forget about it. I mean it. Certain people have tried to take the spotlight off you with the huge drama going on with the newest Preakness entrant(ess), but she didn't ask for this either. YOU SHINE, BIRD, YOU SHINE. Be safe - you and all your brothers and that one sister. BE SAFE... Pimlico is a very hungry and mean track. Barbaro found out. The year before, Afleet Alex went to his knees at full gallop during that race.... still won, but.... Bird, just please for God's sake, be careful. NOTHING TO PROVE. The BIRD IS THE WORD!

Curlin's baby brother....

2009-05-08T19:35:00.002-07:00

Full brother to Curlin - if this doesn't melt your heart, nothing can. They show this little guy taking his first shaky steps. Born on.... APRIL 29th - in case you don't know, that is Barbaro's birthday. Anyway, lotsa stuff bothering me right now about the horseracing scene, the drama stirred up these past 48 hours by StoneStreet Stable's purchase of Rachel Alexandra and putting her in the Preakness (I'm very very upset about the whole thing), BUT.... to lighten my heart a bit, and maybe yours too, I offer this little video for your viewing pleasure: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/50677/full-brother-to-curlin-is-foaled-with-video

Nicanor

2009-04-15T18:27:00.002-07:00

Photo taken by FOB Yetta of Nicanor, full brother to Barbaro. This colt is really something ~ he seems to know exactly who he is as far as bloodlines, but he also instinctively knows and is comfortable with the fact that he can only be.... himself. I don't care if he wins a single race. He's a piece of Barbaro. He's special.

Humane Society covering Paragallo atrocity expenses

2009-04-15T12:44:00.002-07:00

This might be the place to start as far as donations AND adoptions of the 177 horses that Dirty Ernie "mismanaged" to the point of near death, and in at least one case, and I'm sure there will be more, EUTHANIZATION. Seems this one H/S is covering the care of ALL of them:

From the Colombia Greene Humane Society:

There is no adoption fee because our priority is to get these horses into new homes that have been approved and will be able to provide appropriate care to the horses for the remainder of their lives, of course donations are welcome as we are currently covering the care of all 177 horses. After I receive the above information I will contact you to discuss the process but feel free to call me if you have a question in the meantime at 518-828-6044 ext. 101. Thank you again.
-
Katrina Groboski
Columbia Greene Humane Society
125 Humane Society Road Hudson, NY 12534

organizations helping paragallo horses

2009-04-15T12:23:00.001-07:00

Organizations involved in saving the long-suffering horses who USED to belong to Dirty Ernie Dirtbag Paragallo are now listed on Alex Brown Racing. http://alexbrownracing.com. That is the main page. Go into "Discussion" or what we call "the forum" and you will find ynder the Horse Rescue Issues folder - Orgs. involved with Paragallo horses. Other threads contain just some of the horses' names - some don't even HAVE ANY. And these are thoroughbred horses - left to DIE. THEY NEED OUR HELP/DONATIONS. Do what you can. This is certainly one of the worst cases of animal abuse on record. Remember Mr. Michael Vick - he got a slap on the wrist more or less (a little while in the joint) for his BRUTALIZATION of pit bulls. Now he's out, thinking he can just resume his normal "star" lifestyle. We're still on him. And now this sick and twisted sub-humanoid has come to our attention. You bad guys can't hide anymore. Unfortunately, by the time someone finally does something to stop the carnage, many animals have suffered and died. The rescues are so full and donations so lean. The economy caused this state of affairs in many instances, but DIRTY ERNIE IS ROLLING IN DOUGH. Of course, he's hidden his assets by now - FOR now. Maybe he'll have to pay for the medical care it will take to try to save those horses, but just maybe he won't. I'd say it's a dirty business in Ernie's sector of it. He's gonna cut deals and threaten to squeal like the pig he is .... and I would bet my life on that fact that the mafiosos are his buddies.

AND ~ where is the oversight of these TB owners/farms/trainers? Know where.... NO where. Not really. They have their own little world - kinda like the Vatican... (oh, don't get me started)......

Anyway, for the horses, please do anything you can to help them. They have endured the worst conditions for a LONG time to get into this kind of shape (and at least one, a stallion, had to be euthanized). Seems the people around there just seemed to ignore it until finally word leaked out.

FOR SHAME! THE HORROR!

General Quarters

2009-04-15T08:23:00.002-07:00

Courtesy of FOB Heather Jackson, here's my fave photo of him. Coulda put up one of him "in motion", but I like the close-ups where you can really feel the heart, power and song of the horse. This one shines:

The Derby HEART HORSE

2009-04-15T08:08:00.002-07:00

GENERAL QUARTERS. I can't ever watch a live horse race again after what happened to Eight Belles last year, and honestly I was purposely avoiding getting "involved" with any of this year's Derby crop. But, as things go, one of them finally tugged at my heart strings. This would be such a feel good win, and God knows the racing world needs one. General Quarters, a $20,000 claimer.... there goes my heart again...

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Tom McCarthy retired from a life roaming the hallways and classrooms at Louisville high schools almost 20 years ago. The lessons, however, keep on coming. The former biology teacher and high school principal is now a full-time horse trainer, and his favorite pupil is heading to the Kentucky Derby.
General Quarters roared past leader Join in the Dance at the top of the stretch, then held off favorite Hold Me Back by 1 1/2 lengths to win the $750,000 Blue Grass Stakes on Saturday at Keeneland and stamp his 75-year-old trainer as the feel-good story for next month's Derby.
It'll be a homecoming more than 40 years in the making, one McCarthy finally knew he'd have when jockey Eibar Coa nudged the 3-year-old colt on the turn and told him it was time to get moving.
"That's his signal, that's what we've taught him," McCarthy said. "When he asked him to go, he just went."
General Quarters covered the 1 1/8 miles on Keeneland's Polytrack in 1:49.26 and paid $30.60, $11 and $7, setting off a raucous celebration in the winner's circle.
"We're going to the Derby! We're going to the Derby, yeah!" said Mike Adams, McCarthy's son-in-law. "It's going to be big. It's huge. We're all overwhelmed. This is very surreal."
It certainly seemed that way as McCarthy made his way through the grandstand. When the crowd rose to give him a standing ovation, McCarthy tipped his cap and struggled to fight back tears.
McCarthy briefly gave up training following a bout with prostate cancer, but had to get back in the game because he was driving his wife Patricia crazy.
Then again, he's been doing it most of their marriage. Their honeymoon ended on the backside at Arlington Park, where McCarthy had a couple of horses to train.
He eventually went into teaching, spending the pre-dawn hours before heading to school. He had a 3-year-old nominated to the Triple Crown back in the 1960s, but the horse — whose name McCarthy can't even remember — died.
He's scratched out a modest living since going into training full-time in 1990. General Quarters — purchased for a meager $20,000 last year — is the only horse he currently has in training, one McCarthy didn't give up on even after a tough fifth-place finish in the Tampa Bay Derby last month.
Instead, McCarthy — who does everything from hotwalk to bathe his rising star — sent General Quarters home to Churchill Downs and went back to work. The colt put together a blistering five-furlong work last week that told McCarthy all he needed to know.
"I never lost faith in this horse," McCarthy said. "I'm with him every day five or six hours, watched him train, figured out his schedule. I knew at that time I had him right where I wanted him."

Scum of the Earth

2009-04-15T07:51:00.002-07:00

For anyone who doesn't know about one of the most despicable asswipes to surface from the slime in recent animal ABUSE history, may I present Dirty Ernie Paragallo, who contends that his neglect and cruelty toward 170 equines on his farm in NY state was... a FREAKING MANAGEMENT PROBLEM. I've seen just a few photos of the horses that were violated by this piece of shit, and let me tell you, if you have even half a heart, they will make you weep and wail. THIS IS A COMPLTE TRAVESTY OF MAN'S SUPPOSED PLACE ON THIS INSANE PLANET AS STEWARD OF THE ANIMAL KINGDOM. Hell, it's beyond travesty. It's beyond sick. There is much written about this revolting story on Alex Brown Racing, and I won't go into it here. HOWEVER, IF this pathetic excuse for a human isn't made to suffer x 170 for what he did to these animals, and yet he cops a NOT GUILTY plea.... if this guy doesn't receive harsh punishment (such as starvation, exposure and torture), then it's going to take me a long time, if ever, to even begin to believe that there is a God. I struggle with that concept daily, and horrors like this easily sway me to the Madeline Murray atheism side. Now these horses are being cared for by the local humane society and some are up for adoption. I'd say others are too far gone. If you love horses, if you love animals, either write to someone in "authority" or at the very least send all the bad gunky kind of wishes for Ernie "fat mafioso dickhead" that you can via thought waves. Me, I'm going to use his photo, which I refuse to put on this blog because it would tarnish what's here, as a sort of voodoo device. Hell no, I ain't no Cajun, but I'm mad enough to just pretend.... and dedicated enough to the welfare of the horse and all God's creatures that it will work. Watch out, Ernie. We're comin' to get you whether the judge takes care of you or not. You son of a bitch.

The thoroughbred breeder whose credentials have been revoked by New York racing officials said Friday that "mismanagement" led to malnourishment among more than 170 horses at his Hudson Valley farm.
But Ernie Paragallo told The Associated Press that he didn't abuse any of the 177 horses seized by authorities earlier this week at Center Brook farm in the Greene County town of Coxsackie, 20 miles south of Albany.

HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY

2009-03-27T19:12:00.002-07:00

Okay, quite obviously dementia is setting in ~ for the first time in the past three years I forgot all about Curlin's 3/25 birthday! HELP! I am in need of some kind of reverse brain atrophy medication or something. Maybe it's living in the desert for 15 years now - brain cells have dried up perhaps? I really intended to keep writing, but... well, Aries is known for starting things off with a bang but then... just drifting away. I will be 62 in 10 days and am freaking out. This CANNOT be happening to me.

I'll try to do better, Curlin. I started this for you, so magnificent, so talented, and now... such a "professional" coverer of mares. LOL. They better be treating you right at Lane's End. I'm sure they are. I'm just glad you left your racing career INTACT (in every way). Miss you but I don't watch horse racing anymore anyway. You were my last great TB love, Curlin. Thanks for the memories. Anyone who's reading.... there are some cool videos and such way back when I started this blog. And I ask everyone to please check out Tierra Madre Horse Sanctuary - in these hard ecomonic times the animals are the ones who suffer most. Not necessarily at Tierra Madre - but donations are not what they used to be, and... well, who knows. THAT is my current bone to pick - how this financial disaster has affected the animals of this country. Dammit.

Tierra Madre

2009-02-28T22:34:00.002-07:00

Walking between the worlds, I found a sanctuary near my own "home" - Tierra Madre Horse Sanctuary in Cave Creek, Arizona. If you enjoy this blog, you will FALL DEEPLY UNDER THE SPELL of this sacred bit of land in the desert where 30 horses have found peace, love, compassion and a reclaiming of their power. A wise man, a sha-man, a firewalker, an itancan (leader) is their caretaker; he knows secrets; he knows the heart of many things and is well aware of the Great Spirit's presence. If you read his daily blog in a "certain light" you will find the answers to all your questions. Zen. Pure Zen. Therefore, cannot be described in words - must be experienced. However, the blog can be read literally and is a great guide for caring for and about the Horse. But the side trips are many. Savor them. Look at the photos of the horses; read their stories. But be sure to READ THAT BLOG: for laughs sometimes - Jim is a fantastic writer ~ for knowledge about how to allow a horse who has known only fear and pain to blossom in his or her own time, no pressure, into the magnificent creature they were born to be ~ for enriching your own life by glimpsing the horses of Tierra Madre as they live their lives FINALLY as they were meant to live it. This is a True Story of survival and the power of love.

Please take a peek - you won't regret it.
http://www.tierramadrehorsesanctuary.org/

Resurrection

2009-02-27T23:05:00.002-07:00

There's too much left to say - can't let this blog just fade away.
Curlin is making babies now - for that, I am grateful.
Grateful he survived his racing career; grateful for his lesson:
You don't have to race them at the tender age of two to have a Super Champion TB.
Thinking back to only a year ago in Dubai when this bronze/gold horsegod
Swept over the desert sands in what was a simply profoundly beautiful victory dance.
CurlinLiquidGold. Shining and shimmering in the waves of heat, loving it all.

Curlin is in the breeding sheds now. What stunning babies will issue from his seed.
But I am certainly not in the breeding shed (thank you, lord).
Neither am I dried up. Almost was. Not anymore.

What I am is resurrected - the writing muse still beckons...
"Remember the real purpose, why you started this little blog... for THEM... not just for Curlin, but for ALL of them... not just the horses - but for the dogs, cats, wild burros, leopards, chimpanzees, elephants, whales, dolphins, mountain lions, tigers (oh, Tatiana, I still think about you) - THE ANIMAL KINGDOM... for Barbaro and Eight Belles, Pine Island, George Washington, Wanderin' Boy (oh so many) ~ all who fell and still fall victim to the tracks hungry for flesh and blood and bone...
.... that is why you started this and you can't stop now. They need you."

And so I return from a firewalk - a few, in fact - since I last wrote.
"That which does not kill me makes me stronger."
And so it has. Renewed, refreshed, refocused, returned, remembering.
Resurrected.
If I only write for myself, that is enough. The energy will flow forward and outward.
N'amaste.

hello, JG.... you inspire me.

And So It Ends

2008-12-05T13:34:00.002-07:00

This will be my last post on this blog. Curlin survived his brilliant racing career, has nothing left to prove (except being a man of action in the dating scene), and he was given a wonderful retirement party last weekend. Curlin lit up my life from the moment I first saw him almost two years ago. He had that "aura" and always tried so hard. For me, the fact that his last race was the ONLY ONE in his career in which he didn't win, place or show means nothing. It was a sign that he had peaked; that a new chapter in his life should be opened. Others wanted him to race "one more time" - not I. And that was confirmed when Wanderin' Boy broke down and was euthanized at Aqueduct on the same day that Curlin bid farewell at Churchill - for Wanderin' Boy that "one more time" was a race he didn't finish. The plan from what I know is that WB would have been retired after that race. Sometimes, one needs to really think about the possible consequences of "one more time" with these fragile beauties. Wanderin' Boy was put together with screws and bolts from prior injuries. He may have "seemed sound" to his connections, but COME ON. He was racing on borrowed time each time he had to run . Curlin's connections made the right decision, IMHO, as in, don't push it.

Curlin, may you live a LONG AND HAPPY LIFE and make beautiful babies who carry your power, heart, soul and grace into their lives with your LIQUID GOLD blood running through their veins. Thank you everyone for visiting here. Thank you, Curlin, for the joy of watching you race and just looking at your magnificence. I'll miss you.

october

2008-10-31T07:56:00.002-07:00

Well, I have to get at least ONE post on here for this whole month. October was not so kind to Curlin IF you only value him as a racehorse who has always won, placed or showed in every race. So what if he came in 4th at the BC? SO WHAT? He was on an unfamiliar track surface and gave it EVERYTHING HE HAD. Oh, he tried so damn hard, like he always does, just pumping away, doing all he could. The Euros had the day - and I salute them for their winnings. Curlin looked so magnificent and has unfortunately learned that winning is the goal. So thank God he was cheered even after his loss. I just hope that in his heart of hearts, Curlin knows that like Barbaro, he is not "just a horse" - and I hope Jess Jackson will let him retire. But I doubt it.

All I care is that Curlin somehow stays with Pancho - that is a bond like Barbaro had with Messaging. But.... I think if Curlin retires, the cord will be severed between them. That would be sad, but.... Curlin would be safe. He's done enough. Let him rest, Jess. He gave you the world and you already had more than most... much more. Let him rest.

CURLIN for POTUS

2008-09-28T23:30:00.002-07:00

Okay, let's face it ~~ there is really one one possible choice that we can make on 11/4 - who will end horse slaugther in the USA. Yes, it is Curlin. He has always been interested in running (pardon the pun), and although Jess Jackson has not exactly warmed to the idea, esp. since Curlin may be racing in the BC Classic right before the election, Curlin is willing to serve his country as Commander in Chief, with Pancho as his VP running mate. Many of us have been hoping he would do it, and he doesn't even have to campaign because he already HAS campaigned and shown that he is A LEADER WITH EXPERIENCE. Heather from Ohio has graciously submitted this photo of Curlin to be distributed at the HAY and GRASS roots level - if you can write in on your ballot, we urge you to vote for CURLIN/PANCHO.

I DID IT AGAIN

2008-09-27T16:19:00.002-07:00

This time I almost missed the whole month of September - jeez. BUT CURLIN BROUGHT IT HOME TODAY, didn't he? OMG OMG OMG. Now he's won the Jockey Club Gold twice and is the highest earner in N. American horseracing. I think this colt has earned RETIREMENT, but I know that isn't gonna happen yet. I don't see him going to the BC - it's polytrack and we know how Steve A. feels about that. WHAT A MAGICAL COLT.

Here's the race today:

http://www.ntra.com/races.aspx?id=30242&section=races

Great Website re. Curlin (Liquid Gold)

2008-08-28T22:33:00.002-07:00

Good grief - I almost lost all of August somehow! Here is a great website, Curlin's Corner, full of great stuff about this most magnificent colt. They describe him in those red hues, and I see that too, but for me, he is.... LIQUID GOLD. Check this out and enjoy: http://www.nyra.com/Curlin/CurlinCorner.htm

The best for Curlin on Saturday in Saratoga! HORSE OF THE WORLD!

And - I did say it was back to dirt, didn't I? So glad that Gay Paree is out of the mix. I'd like to see him go to Japan where he will be given the honor and respect he's earned and deserves. Could he just be HOY again?

Curlin's next start

2008-08-02T22:50:00.001-07:00

We'll find out on TUESDAY - here's a very insightful blog: http://startelegramsports.typepad.com/west_points/2008/08/curlins-next-st.html
Looking more and more like dirt. What say you, Yetta?

Aw heck, gotta post one more photo

2008-08-01T12:11:00.001-07:00

Curlin in Dubai ... with the wonderfu Pancho!

One More from the Man O War

2008-08-01T12:04:00.005-07:00

This is from Della - in all his glory, Curlin shines at the Man O War. Is it back to the dirt? Something tells me it is since we haven't heard anything lately. Would love to see him go the the Breeders Cup - turf or dirt - SO I CAN SEE HIM! - then the Japan Cup. Just MHO. Oh, he just moves me! You?

Curlin painting

2008-07-25T07:20:00.001-07:00

Here's a link to a wonderful painting of Curlin done by Tom Chapman - with background info. on Curlin. Chapman Arts has some very fine stuff. Check it out: http://chapman-arts.com/showcase.html

MORE CURLIN at MOW

2008-07-19T19:24:00.002-07:00

Thank you Della for your permission to post these photos of Curlin that you took at the Belmont last weekend. He looks so strong; his coat is that gorgeous red; he is so ripped. And as far as I'm concerned, he did JUST FINE.

Yett'a's photos

2008-07-19T15:30:00.002-07:00

Just wanted to add that the photos taken by Yetta are officially from "Shoot-It Photography".
She does some wonderful work! I will post more in the future.

And.... EVENING ATTIRE - my GOD! He won his race today at the tender age of 10, giving him a spot in the Breeders Cup. I'm trying to find the replay. Will post when I do.

Replay

2008-07-17T20:29:00.001-07:00

It's been a few months since I posted this link - video of Curlin doing nothing but racing, running, loving it.... to a tune of U-2's. One of my favorite videos and I LOVE U2.

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=o6RpTZKJ1uI&NR=1

How "Bout Another Yetta Photo from the MOW

2008-07-17T20:25:00.002-07:00

ooops - my bad

2008-07-17T20:21:00.002-07:00

I neglected to give credit where it's due - the photo of Curlin getting his post-race bath at the MOW was taken by my dear friend Yetta. She has many photos of/at the races that day - to include "Blackie" (Better Talk Now) and Smarty (who looks GREAT). Thank you, Yetta - a TRUE CURLIN FAN - drove 1,000 miles one way to see him on Saturday. For me, it's about 2,500 miles so just a BIT too far to drive and get back to work on Monday.

Love ya, Curlin. Yetta, keep on shining. You da bomb.

Curlin - post-race bath, July 12

2008-07-16T20:00:00.002-07:00

Is he awesome or is he AWESOME????

Jess Jackson seeks fans' input

2008-07-16T18:49:00.002-07:00

HOOVES UP to Mr. Jackson and team. You can go here http://www.gocurlin.com/index.shtml and vote for what you'd like to see Curlin do next. I voted for turf - let's see how he does one more time. I wish we could write comments, but you've just got four choices to pick from. Anyone who votes "retire him" is out of their gourd because that is not going to happen. I still want to see him go to Japan, so actually I'd like to see him stay on the dirt, BUT I also want to see how he really takes to the turf.... if the second time isn't a charm, then they know it's not for him. I am totally against sending him to Paris to get disrepected and maybe even embarrassed. Yes, Curlin know who he is and what he is. The fans adore him here - and they will in Japan too. In Paris - never.

A friend of mine drove almost 1,000 miles last weekend to see him run at Belmont - she got lots of incredible photos. GOD, GOD is he ever CURLIN LIQUID GOLD.

Haskin on Curlin

2008-07-15T21:11:00.003-07:00

To me, Steve Haskin is one of the best writers around re. horseracing. Here's his latest blog, brilliant, and many great comments. http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/horse-racing-steve-haskin/archive/2008/07/14/Curlin-Revisited.aspx

Did Curllin do okay on the turf at the MOW? Hell, yes, he did. My Lord, it was his first turf race, and he came in second. I call that JUST FINE, thank you very much. He was still figuring out exactly what was under his feet when he crossed the wire behind Red Rocks, who ran a perfect tactical race. Do I want him to go to "gay Parie" - NO! Just my opinion. Have you been to Paris? They don't exactly like Americans - of any species. Take this boy to JAPAN, where those gracious people will adore him and give him the respect he deserves.

NO OTHER HORSE on the tracks today has the absolute presence of "Liquid Gold" - he is just magificent - he has never been out of the money since his first race. They tried him on the turf, still not sure if he likes it, but heck, they gave it a shot. I don't care if he wins, loses or poops on a red carpet, I just want him to be a happy horse and stay healthy. But then, I'm "The Rank Outsider" - don't bet, don't know jack, just love the horses.

Did anyone catch Discreet Treasure's race on Saturday? If not, check out calracing.com and put his name in for "Horse" on July 12 races. He ran so green and so crazy, but then KABOOM, who but Edgar Prado threaded him through and he won by what, a dozen lengths? One to watch. But what to I know? And who cares?

LOVE YOU CURLIN, you big hunk of caramel eye candy!

June has been one of those months....

2008-06-25T13:40:00.003-07:00

I have been remiss in not writing. But the Belmont really was very distressing for me. I needed to wait until I was more settled in my own mind about what happened and had reached some degree of acceptance. Now that all the dirt (and that is a perfect word for it) is settling, and all the theories have been put out there, including the newest one re. the loose shoe - for me, it no longer matters why or what happened - what matters is that Big Brown lived through a day in hell and seems not to have suffered permanent physical damage. I do, however, believe that the psychological factor did adversely affect him. The bucking and rearing up in the quarantine stall that morning - from a horse who had been fazed before by nothing, including Post 20 in the Derby with the screaming crowd right beside him - was a clear sign that this horse did not want to run THAT race THAT day - yes, he wanted to run, having been off his training schedule because of the cracked hoof - but not in that heat, not in a race of that magnitude - NOT FROM POST ONE. He had also shown quite a bit of general unhappiness even with Michelle, his exercise rider, earlier that week. Perhaps he was just TOO keyed up due to the reduction in his workouts. And the atrocious conditions - no water? I mean, WHAT? Where was the health department? Would any athletes in any other "sport" played the game having had no water available in the kind of heat and humidity? I've seen all the photos, now the one of Guadalcanal stepping on BB's right hind shoe, and I'm just glad it's all over and no horse died that day.

A week later our MAGNFICENT CURLIN reminded us of the good side of horseracing - how strong he remains, how poised he is, how much he has matured, and HOW GOOD HE REALLY IS. (Not that I have doubted it for 16 months now.) I am glad they will try him on the turf, and I wish him great success and a trip to Paris in the fall... and another victory. Curlin, wonderful Curlin - the PROOF that horses do not need to be racing at two in order to be Horse of the World at three and four. If owners cannot wait until their TBs are at least three, then they shouldn't be in the business to begin with- just my opinion.

The Triple Crown? I say - change the schedule or forget about it until the future generations of TB's are bred for stamina as well as speed. We have lost so many young ones on the track. Eight Belles was the catalyst for change. Jess Jackson is my hero. Rick Dutrow - shame on you. I have defended him on this blog and in other conversations, but after he failed to show up at the hearings last week because of a .....what, a VIRUS?...... he's lost my respect. How many of us go to WORK every day with some sort of malady? Those hearings were important; he was afraid to go. He could have gone - he CHOSE not to - so now, I smell guilt. IEAH owns him. He has to make a living, but HONOR is what is important in the end - and he seems to have none.

On a personal note, I just adopted a 30-month old Akita mix - the other THREE dogs have gracefully accepted him into the pack, but....... we have cats. His prey drive is high, so I've lost a lot of sleep trying to do the right thing for him and for the cats, stressing and worrying. I live in the AZ desert, and the heat is on, so Kit has to be inside most of the day. Since we got him on June 5th, when he's in the house, he's either tethered to me on a leash, tied to the doorknob, or in a big crate. One of the cats is okay with him. Two are terrified - and that terror and IF they run, kicks that prey drive into high gear. Exhausted. With time, hopefully he can learn that the cats are his pack too. But right now it's like having a new baby in the house - no sleep for mom.

What We Can Do for Big Brown

2008-05-29T23:10:00.002-07:00

"Get thee behind me, Satan" - Lucifer has simmered in me as FEAR over Big Brown's situation. I banish him NOW. What we can do, all of us, is to send love and faith to Big Brown and his connections - think what you may of them - love is the most powerful force in the universe. Someone who writes the most beautiful of all the words on Alex Brown Racing, Martita Goshen, visited Big Brown this week at Belmont. She went there with... a plate of cookies for Mr. Dutrow, only expecting to simply give them to someone to give to him. But something wonderful happened. Rick Dutrow greeted Martita and proceeded to have Michelle bring the big brown colt over to meet her! Martita allowed the horse to choose whether he wished to be touched. BB first nuzzled her hair then put his huge head on her shoulder. From there a heart-to-heart exchange occurred between this Angel of Light, Martita, and the horse from humble origins who just simply loves people... and trusts totally his trainer, Rick. For me, what Martita had to share about this amazing "close encounter" gave me what I needed to let go of the fear and step into the light - to send this horse LOVE. If we collectively do this, I think everything's gonna be all right. We must keep the faith. For the highest good.

VERY interesting blog

2008-05-27T20:32:00.002-07:00

Wow - I read the piece one time and was floored. Then I read it again and noticed a VERY significant typo. She wrote, about Big Brown's quarter crack, "God I hope it HEELS....." This is an author. She knows the difference between "heals" and "heels" - but this was her intuition coming through, right past her brain. She just published a book called "High Stakes"- about horseracing - and is rather concerned, considering it was written before Eight Belles perished in front of our eyes and Big Brown developed this new and disturbing condition. If that wasn't enough, she made that... typo? Typo? Or a sign? http://blog.lisajackson.com/?p=153

Apology to Rick Porter

2008-05-26T16:36:00.002-07:00

When I flamed Mr. Porter on May 9 I was raw with emotion - and I was wrong. I am very sorry about what I wrote. I now realize that he and all at Fair Hill loved that filly more than I will ever know. I hope my new version of the poem will help make amends. I know they aren't reading this, but in the Big Picture, it was put out there, full of negativity and blame. So I apologize.

Eight Belles - How Sweet the Sound

2008-05-26T16:31:00.002-07:00

Oh, if anyone is listening, I revised my poem in tribute to Eight Belles. I took out the blame and the anger and let her speak through me. This version I wrote on May 18. (IEAH - DO YOU HEAR THE BELLS OF EIGHT BELLES?)

EIGHT BELLES – HOW SWEET THE SOUND By SylverSky 18 May 08
Did you hear the bells chime in Kentucky?
The 134th Kentucky Derby ~ 1+3+4 = EIGHT May 3 ~ 5+3 = EIGHT The year: two thousand EIGHT
Eight Belles rang out on that fateful day. Eight Belles ~ the sound of mourning, the end of the watch.
But your watch, beautiful filly the color of storm clouds, has just begun.
The day before the skies were wet, the rains came down.
But on that day, the third of May, the heavens opened up to receive back an angel.
EIGHT times ten thundering hooves Flashed down the track, past the twin spires. EIGHT – the number of completion. Eight Belles – completed her time on Earth as a song in motion
Suddenly stopping on a high noteIn the dirt of Kentucky, on a Saturday afternoon, As a sister showed her brothers how to fly without fear. Nothing could stop her from completing the race on that day. Nothing could stop her from running until she succumbed to exhaustion Fragile ankles cracked from the stress of her terrible fall – not from grace but into it. Nothing and no one could keep her from doing what she had to do ~ To give one last clarion call to humanity: PLEASE REMEMBER WHY WE ARE HERE. Then the wings of the angels swept her up to soar in a sea of forgiveness
To run with the sky herd. Forever young.

We must hear the chimes of Eight Belles before we lose them all –
Because they, the horses, will leave. Some consider horses to be gods who came to earth To teach mankind beauty and compassion, To show us how to run toward something that makes life greater, not lesser, To seek that which sustains life, not destroys it. It has been said that a horse is love and courage on four legs Who will love you so much it will run its heart out for you. The Ancients said that the horse arrived on earth with silver reins made of nebula With a bit made of stars in his mouth. Eastern European legend says that the horses promised to stay with the human beings Until all humans could become as loyal, enduring, deep and peaceful as they are. That is the only reason they are still on earth.
They are still waiting for us to hear – the Belles.
Let us remember Eight Belles by hearing her heart-song
And the music of those who crossed before her. So many young ones gone in the wink of an eye ~
Back to the stars, eternal pastures, Home.
Hear the bells of Belles and remember those magnificent and noble beings ~
Now pieces of starlight..
The bells of Eight Belles whisper softly in the winds of change now.
Do you hear them? They do not clamor loudly, for that is not the way of the horse.May Mankind learn how to love deeply and show compassion always,
To honor not only the horse but all God’s creatures, to treat them with respect
And learn the lessons they are here to teach us.

Eight Belles ~ how sweet the sound – amazing grace.
Do you hear them?

Curlin Works May 26

2008-05-26T16:22:00.002-07:00

I've been pretty caught up in the Big Brown saga - especially the last two days - and my focus is on him right now. Personally, racing this brown beauty on June 7 is very worrisome. A quarter crack is a quarter crack. Would they race him if he had not won two jewels of the crown? Of course not. But...nothing is going to stop his connections from making him run that grueling 1.5 miles on a very hard track... the only thing that would prevent it is if BB were lame that morning. I don't believe the hype that he's improving. Sorry, but BB's hooves are his Achilles Heel - very appropriate term considering it's about feet. If this horse breaks down on national television the horse racing INDUSTRY (no longer qualifies as a sport IMHO) is completely finished. We are all watching you, IEAH. Screw this one up - and say goodbye to your hedgefunds even WITH the insurance money you will get. You'll be shunned by the entire nation. To risk a horse, any horse, but especially one with this beautiful heart, is just damn wrong. Racing him on 6/7 is a huge gamble - and the welfare of the horse is the last thing on IEAH's mindS - not Rick Dutrow - but they will not heed his advice unless it's what they want to hear. That's just how I see it. Anyway, CURLIN worked today and is looking good. His next race is June 14 at the Stephen Foster. GOD PLEASE PROTECT BIG BROWN.

http://racing.bloodhorse.com/article/45412.htm

Paris in the Autumn?

2008-05-10T20:02:00.002-07:00

Sing it now, "I love Paris in the AUTUMN...." Looks like our big boy may be enjoying Paris in October. This may mean he's not at the Breeders Cup - but that's p0lytrack, which I don't think Steve A. is too fond of (it sure got Pyro stuck). Check out the purse on the Arc - yikes... then check out Curlin's earnings - BIG YIKES! TAKE CARE OF HIM, STEVE!

Horse of the Year Curlin nominated for Arc
Curlin, the 2007 Horse of the Year and champion three-year-old male, is among 148 nominees for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (Fr-G1) on October 5 at Longchamp.
The purse for this year’s 2,400-meter (11.93-furlong) race has been doubled to approximately $6,178,798 (4-million euros), making it the world’s richest turf race.
Multiple Grade 1 winner Curlin made a special red carpet appearance at Churchill Downs on Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (G1) day on May 3. Majority owner Jess Jackson said the Smart Strike colt likely will make his next start in the $750,000 Stephen Foster Handicap (G1) on June 14 at the Louisville track.
Jackson was hesitant to discuss other races Curlin might run in this year. But he hinted another international start may be a possibility for the winner of the Emirates Airline Dubai World Cup (UAE-G1) on March 29 at Nad al Sheba Racecourse.
“I’d love to go some places that haven’t been showing Kentucky off,” Jackson said on Derby day. “That’s why we went to Dubai. Planting the American flag there was important. I’m a patriot, and I think we need a little boost for Kentucky, for the USA, particularly in the Middle East.”
Steve Asmussen trains Curlin, a career earner of $8,807,800.

Rick Porter - Did You Hear the Belles?

2008-05-09T21:29:00.002-07:00

If Rick Porter will contribute the $400,000 purse that EIGHT BELLES won at the Derby to various horse rescues and charities, then he will prove to me that he heard her bells - her farewell heartsong. She gave her life for that $400,000, and that is the least he can do to do right by his horse. He got millions in insurance; fine, keep it if he must. But that filly won that 400K, and we all know what she would want done with it. Someone wrote to me that this is a story about the yin and the yang - the Yin, the female - Eight Belles - the Yang, Barbaro. It is the cosmic law of balance. If their deaths were what it took to expose the dark side of horse racing once and for all, and if action is taken to correct the flaws, not just half-hearted "so sorry" and all that rot, then they did not die in vain. I challenge Rick Porter to show us that he really loved his girl by giving that purse to her brothers and sisters in need.

correction

2008-05-09T07:48:00.002-07:00

The petition is for the ringing of the eight bells at NEXT YEAR's Derby. I think that is appropriate too, but I also think they should be rung on May 17 before the Preakness. It would be a way of bringing people into a form of prayer - for Big Brown and the others who are racing that day - and collective prayer is a powerful thing. Big Brown knows what happened to his sister. He witnessed her death, and he knows she was chasing him with all her heart.

Hear the Bells of Eight Bells

2008-05-09T07:41:00.002-07:00

The universe is so full of synchronicities. I wrote my poem, "Did you Hear the Belles" - then yesterday I found this powerful website. Please turn on your audio and you WILL HEAR THE BELLS - see the words that personify the filly of our dreams, and be given the opportunity to sign a petition to ask for ringing of eight bells at the Preakness. I must add that I now do not believe the jockey guilty of any wrongdoing. Eight Belles was not run to her death; no, she ran to it on her own. That is how this girl was - she only knew how to run like the wind, and she was fearless and so, so fast. The wrong in this story is that she and so many TB's start racing so young, on legs not fully developed. I've always thought we should take a lesson from the Europeans, who breed differently and whose horses run on turf, not the dirt that can become slop or steel. It is not a solution unto itself, but perhaps it would stop some of the carnage.

http://8bellsforeightbelles.org/

Did You Hear the Belles?

2008-05-08T19:12:00.002-07:00

This is my poem and tribute to the filly who gave it all - Eight Belles

DID YOU HEAR THE BELLES?
By SylverSky

Did you hear the bells chime in Kentucky?

The 134th Kentucky Derby 1+3+4 = EIGHT May 3
5+3 = EIGHT The year: two thousand EIGHT

Eight Belles rang out on that fateful day.
Eight Belles ~ the sound of mourning.

The day before the skies were wet and dismal, but on that day darkness descended.
EIGHT times ten thundering hooves
Flashed down the track, past the twin spires.
EIGHT – the number of completion. Eight Belles – completed her life for our pleasure.
In the dirt of Kentucky, on a Saturday afternoon
A sister showed her brothers how to fly without fear.
Nothing could stop her from completing the race on that day.
Nothing could stop her from running until she succumbed to exhaustion
Fragile ankles cracked from the stress of her terrible fall – not from grace but into it.
Nothing and no one could keep her from doing what she had to do
To give one last clarion call to humanity:
PLEASE HELP US ~ REMEMBER WHY WE ARE HERE.
Then the wings of the angels swept her up as she soared in a sea of forgiveness
To run with the sky herd.

We must hear the chimes of Eight Belles before we lose them all –
Because they, the horses, will leave.

Some consider horses to be gods who came to earth
To teach mankind the beauty of the world and compassion
To show, to help, to teach to run toward something that makes life larger, not smaller. Something that sustains life, not kills it.
It has been said that a horse is made of love and courage on four legs
Who will love you so hard it will run its heart out for you.
The Ancients said that the horse arrived on earth with silver reins made of nebula
With a bit made of stars in his mouth.
In times of old the horse was considered close to Divine.
The Hungarians say that the horses promised to stay with the human beings
Until all humans could grow to be as loyal, enduring, as deep and peaceful as the horses
themselves.
That is the only reason they are still on earth – because we have failed to learn and failed them.

Let us remember Eight Belles by hearing her heartsong and those of all who died before her.
So many young ones gone in the wink of an eye ~ shackled to earth by greed
But finally running free.

Hear the bells and remember those magnificent and noble beings lost forever
And now pieces of starlight.

The bells of Eight Belles will always whisper now
Not clamor loudly for that is not the way of the horse.
Until we learn how to deeply love and show compassion always
The bells of Eight Bells will chime softly but ceaselessly
Until we all wake up, listen, understand and love.

Did you hear them?

Eight Belles - Hear Them Ring

2008-05-06T08:46:00.002-07:00

I have read many articles about this tragedy in the past few days. This one is the one that touched me the most. My focus on this blog now is going to shift. No longer can I see any glory in a business that doesn't get it. No longer can I enjoy seeing horses compete. Yes, they were born and bred to run, but FREE in the WIND, not in peril of disaster and death. For her, in her honor and memory, we have to HEAR THOSE BELLS of the beautiful Belle and work to make this a better world for ALL horses and sentient beings. I will start my new direction by posting this article... not just a link - the whole article. The bold is mine. They DO shoot horses; yes, they do. Tim Dahlberg, I bow to the Light within you - N'amaste.

OPINION
By Tim Dahlberg
updated 1:39 p.m. MT, Sun., May. 4, 2008
There won’t be a dramatic fight for life this time around. No national day of mourning for a brave horse who wouldn’t give up.
Schoolchildren won’t be sending cards.
The people who cried for Eight Belles got it out of the way at the track. They had no choice, because the business of racing goes on.
She ran with the big boys in the race of her life. She ended up paying for it with her life.
One moment she was flying down the stretch at Churchill Downs racing against all odds to become the first filly to win the Kentucky Derby in 20 years. The next she was thrashing in the dirt, trying desperately to get up before the decision was made to spare both her and us any further misery.
Two years ago we were transfixed by the fight to save Barbaro, who became a national icon as he struggled to recover from injuries that eventually cost him his life. Two weeks from now they’ll run the Preakness, and Eight Belles will barely get a mention.
Racing is a brutal business because it has to be. If we mourned every horse that lost its life early on the track or in the barn, we’d have no time left to cheer on those who can still run.
Barbaro was the exception, a horse and a story that allowed us to get all warm and fuzzy and forget for a time that these 1,000-pound beasts are bred and raised for maximum speed, not maximum life spans.
The cool efficiency that marked the end of Eight Belles was more the norm, a cruel reminder on the biggest of all stages that racing can be a deadly sport.
Say what you will about the sport of kings, but don’t say they aren’t prepared. They’ve done it enough to know the drill, and they performed it quickly enough so that the untimely demise of Eight Belles didn’t interfere with Big Brown’s victory ceremony or the hawking of tacos and fried chicken on national television.
The equine ambulance came out, and screens were thrown up to spare the crowd from watching. The track veterinarian reached for the needle that is always nearby.
After all, they don’t shoot horses anymore, do they?
The animal activists, of course, will raise an outcry over it all. They will call for a ban on the sport, and compare the fate of Eight Belles with that of the dogs Michael Vick and his cohorts euthanized in their own special ways.
Those in the industry, meanwhile, will debate what it all means, a process that had already begun Sunday morning in the stables at the famed track. Trainers talked how horses are bred too fragile these days for the stress that running around a track at 45 mph with someone clinging to your back causes, and how synthetic tracks might or might not help save some of them.
Most came to the same conclusion: Breakdowns and deaths have always been and will always be a part of the sport.
“No matter what happens, you’re always going to see horses break down on the track. That is part of this game. It’s a very sad part of the game, but you have to go through it,” said Big Brown trainer Rick Dutrow Jr., who should have been spending the day celebrating his horse’s big win. “For people coming out to the track and seeing that, it’s got to make them think, ‘Man, why would I want to go out there and see that happen to a horse?’ It’s got to be very disappointing to anyone who loves horses.”
Fellow trainer Nick Zito was just as philosophical.
“It was a very unfortunate thing yesterday, but again, in sports it happens a lot at high levels,” Zito said. “People get hurt, people lose their careers.”
People do, and sometimes they die, too. They are killed crashing cars into each other on the racetrack, or trading punches in the ring.
I’ve been at fights and watched it happen, and it’s a horror show. But I’ve never seen anyone euthanized or put to sleep or laid down, or whatever euphemism you want to use to describe what the vet was forced to do to Eight Belles.
It may happen all the time in racing — indeed, three horses were killed in one day at the Breeders’ Cup in 1990 — but when it happens on such a public stage for the second time in two years it becomes increasingly hard to watch a race just for the thrill of it all. The popularity of horse racing has been in a long decline to begin with, and having horses die in the dirt isn’t exactly a recipe for bringing fans back to the track.
Video

How dangerous is horse racing?May 4: On average, thoroughbreds suffer lethal breakdowns 1 ½ times for every thousand starts. But lately, the elite horses have come up lame more often. NBC’s Chris Jansing reports.
Nightly News
For now, though, the sport goes on. Eight Belles was a casualty, but unlike Barbaro she was disposed of quickly and now the focus of the sport will turn to the chances of Big Brown doing what hasn’t been done in 30 years.
A lot of people in racing who watched Big Brown come from all the way outside to win the Derby think he could become the first horse since Affirmed in 1978 to win the Triple Crown.
A lot of others just hope that he finishes the Preakness and the Belmont still standing on all four legs.

Deju Vu of the Worst Kind

2008-05-03T19:24:00.002-07:00

It has taken me four hours to be able to post about the Derby. Curlin's victory at the Breeder's Cup was marred by the death on the track of George Washington. And today it happened again. I love Big Brown - his heart and his courage - his brittle feet not stopping him from making history in two ways - only his fourth start and winning from post 20. I was so excited and thrilled to see that big colt running like there was no tomorrow. But.... he seemed so agitated during the gallop out - something was wrong. This was not the "fired up" adrenalin of just finishing a big race - this was a horse in emotional distress; he even threw his jockey. So we know this: Big Brown truly has a heart. He knew what happened; he saw Eight Belles down. He knew the second she was released from this world. He was anxious. I've read that he was acting like he wanted to run the race again. No, not at all. He was reacting to the anguish of the filly lying on the ground, being given the needle of death to end her suffering. Big Brown: win the Triple Crown for that beautiful girl who ran right behind you, so close - win it for her. And I know you will do it. This is the only way the Universe can even begin to make up for the blood on the tracks today as another young, YOUNG, horse died. Jess Jackson is right. We have to do something about this running of babies. Curlin PROVED without a DOUBT that you can at least give them another year before putting them out there with such risks involved. Eight Belles: the bell tolls for thee. You were loved; you DID belong there today with the colts, BUT your people should have known better than to put you in a field of 20 of them - that you would kill yourself trying to win. And that's exactly what happened. They were wrong and they know it. But that doesn't bring you back. Tragedy.

Curlin - Red Carpet and NEXT RACE!

2008-05-03T14:51:00.002-07:00

He's headed for the Stephen Foster on June 14th. I watched the ESPN coverage but didn't see much of the red carpet trip - did see him on the track looking wonderful and a bit of the red carpet. Did I miss something? I DVR'd it so guess I'll check back AFTER THE DERBY! GO BIG BROWN~

http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/racing-news/2008/May/03/Curlin-walks-red-carpet-at-Churchill.aspx

Curlin's Going to the Derby!!!!

2008-05-02T21:45:00.001-07:00

Curlin will be AT THE DERBY tomorrow - in the parade before Race 5.
I wouldn't miss this for the world!

http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/05-02-2008/0004805053&EDATE

Curlin's Campaign - Jess Jackson Comments April 26

2008-04-26T14:35:00.002-07:00

This is a fantastic piece about Curlin. Things in here I had no idea about, to include that Curlin was nervous before the Dubai WC (and Steve Asmussen managed to calm him down so the whites of his eyeballs weren't showing anymore (!)). Jess Jackson provides insight, wisdom and again has my complete respect for his view of the TB world - to include the Kentucky Derby for FOUR year olds not the babies. What a concept! Go, JJ! Curlin is fortunate that you own 80% of him, and I hope you get the other 20% before it's all said and done.

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/horse/columns/story?columnist=paulick_ray&id=3369113

No Curlin this year - but we've got BIG BROWN

2008-04-26T09:13:00.002-07:00

Big Brown is the Derby favorite - including mine (Pyro still has my heart though). He's got that "how can a horse with only three starts win THE Kentucky Derby?" thing goin' on around him, similar to what Curlin's doubters said about the Derby last year. Okay, Curlin didn't win the Derby, but he came in third (so far outside that you couldn't see him at the wire - gotta love the way he runs). Big Brown is a monster, he has won all three outings with a combined total of 29 lengths - similar to Curlin's four Derby preps (all at the age of three). Brown was given six months off after his maiden at age two in September because of the brittle hooves problems. Then he came back and WOW. This is a very interesting article about his trainer, Rick Dutrow, a maverick if I ever saw one and therefore I love the guy: http://www.drf.com/news/article/94024.html

YouTube/U2 - Curlin's Glory

2008-04-23T17:24:00.002-07:00

Wanted to re-post this one just in case anyone missed it (I posted it on March 1). The combo of Curlin's three-year old races and U2's "Walk On" is very inspirational stuff. This is just PURE CURLIN - running, running, running - living in the moment, shining. Enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o6RpTZKJ1uI&NR=1

Nice Tribute to Curlin

2008-04-23T17:15:00.002-07:00

Found this on another blog. I think this is what he looked like the other day in the fog at Keeneland before shipping to Churchill. And I can't help but think of and remember that bravest of hearts... Lost in the Fog. May Curlin's path always be illuminated by his inner Light - his Liquid Gold that burns in his soul.

Curlin and Pyro Arrive at Churchill

2008-04-22T21:28:00.002-07:00

WHOA, DUDE! Look at Curlin coming out of the van! He was REALLY feeling GOOD! He and Pyro just shipped in for Pyro's Derby race. Most of the video is Steve A. talking, but right at the beginning you see the beautiful and obviously VERY healthy HORSE OF THE WORLD letting everyone know exactly who and what he is - SUPERSTAR!

http://www.kentuckyderby.com/2008/

A Derby Belle??

2008-04-13T17:48:00.001-07:00

Hot off the wire - so exciting - the fabulous filly Eight Belles may be in the Derby!

http://tcm.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=44586

He's Home

2008-04-03T19:09:00.001-07:00

Curlin really knows how to "de-plane" well. I mean, this horse is good at everything he does!

http://www.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=44399

This one is the REAL heart warmer re. Pancho

2008-03-30T19:49:00.001-07:00

From Michele McDonald's blog fro Dubai (today)
Pancho’s Turn in the Spotlight
Among those waiting to greet Curlin as he galloped back triumphantly to the Nad Al Sheba winner’s circle was his nearly white stable pony, Pancho, who had accompanied him in the post parade while steered by exercise rider Carlos Rosas.
When Curlin walked out of sight into the enclosure that serves as both a parade ring and winner’s circle and Rosas followed him to see the ceremony, Pancho became distressed.
Toni Hodge, quarantine manager for the Dubai Racing Club, broke with tradition and led Pancho down into the winner’s area, where the stout Quarter Horse bounced on his toes as he caught sight of Curlin.
“He deserves to be here,” Hodge said of Pancho, who has become a favorite with Dubai Racing Club officials during his approximately six-week stay in Dubai with Curlin.
After being festooned with a bright red fringed cooler proclaiming him the winner of the world’s richest race, Curlin made his way out of the crowded enclosure, the intensity of the race still vividly on his face. Yet when he saw Pancho, his ears shot up, and the pair walked out together, sharing in a small way this win that they both had worked so hard to achieve.

THIS IS WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT!!!!!!!!!!!

Pancho - Curlin's best bud

2008-03-30T12:07:00.001-07:00

Another great blog from M. McDonald in Dubai with Curln:
http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/dubai/archive/2008/03/29/pancho-the-pony-irreplaceable-companion.aspx

"Sculpted Specimen with the Fiery Red Hair"

2008-03-30T09:49:00.002-07:00

Who, me? HA HA HA. This is a great blog from Michele McDonald, blogging for BloodHorse in Dubai. She tells us the insider stuff we didn't know - the day to day observations from those around Curln all the time - oh, how I envy them! http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/dubai/archive/2008/03/29/getting-to-know-the-real-curlin.aspx

King of the World

2008-03-29T20:47:00.002-07:00

I'm sure you've seen it, but here's the race that has given me an early birthday gift - and Curlin comes home ON my birthday - April 6. We have our hero, our champion, who is all heart and soul, whose demeanor and grace sets him far apart from the rest. We are so very blessed to be able to continue to watch his Dance. His love for running sings magical melodies to him as it flows through the rich blood in his veins. When he was walking in the ring witih Steve and Carlos right before the race I saw a golden aura all around him. He has truly loved his time in the desert. He will never forget it. Seeing him walking with such presence was like watching a living prayer, a hymn to the Creator who formed this creature, breathed life into him, and gave him to the world. We needed this. Curlin is a gift and an affirmation. Today all his colors radiated - from the gentle hues in the paddock, to the glow in the paddock walk, to the flame on the sand, and to the brilliance as he joined his beloved Poncho after his victory. This was magic.

http://www.ntra.com/races.aspx?id=29793&section=races

The World at his Hooves

2008-03-29T12:20:00.001-07:00

Steve A. had Curlin's welfare in mind first and foremost after the race - asking the press to give him room to walk off the race. CURLIN LIQUID GOLD!

Curlin Conquers the World
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by Claire NovakDate Posted: March 29, 2008Last Updated: March 29, 2008
Curlin rolls to victory in the Dubai World Cup.Photo: AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili
As 13 horses headed to the post in the $6 million Dubai World Cup (UAE-I), trainer Steve Asmussen stood in the paddock at Nad Al Sheba racecourse. “I’m just wanting the real Curlin to show up,” he said. Moments later, the Smart Strike colt obliterated his competition, rolling to a 7 ¾-length win and convincing viewers of one sure thing – right now the real Curlin is the best horse in the world.
Curlin never looked anything but a winner as he warmed up in the post parade heading into the March 29 event in Dubai. Even when the horse behind him, A.P. Arrow, broke away from his handler (who, in turn, was thrown from his pony) as the field approached the starting gate, the 2007 Horse of the Year remained unflappable and loaded with his usual professionalism. An overhead view from the cameras in the starting gate showed the 4-year-old runner on full alert, shifting nimbly below jockey Robby Albarado in the moments before the break.
No horse had ever won the World Cup from post position number 12, but the outside hole provided a perfect launching pad for Curlin’s preferred stalking trip. Settling himself in the center of the track and forwardly-placed in fourth behind the frontrunning Sway Yed, the colt rated comfortably through the race’s early stages. As Well Armed and Asiatic Boy made their bids heading up the backside, he inched up to third.
The real running began at the head of the stretch, when Albarado allowed the colt to unleash a move on Asiatic Boy, who had taken the lead over Well Armed. The colt powered past those two, then was kept to the task by his rider as he drew off to win without fully extending himself. A.P. Arrow, Great Hunter, Lucky Find, Jalil, Gloria De Campeao, Premium Tap, Sway Yed, Kocab, and Vermilion completed the order of finish.
“What a horse,” Albarado said while he rode back to the winner’s circle. “He does it all on race day. It’s easy when you ride a great horse like (him). He’s not even tired.”
Following the picture and once Albarado had dismounted, Asmussen had the welfare of his colt in mind as he ordered aside video crews so Curlin could keep moving.
“Come on guys, back up, the horse has to walk,” he said, and assistant trainer Scott Blasi made a rapid exit with exercise rider Carmen Rosas leading from the offside shank. Once the champion runner was on his way back to the barn, Asmussen was able to breathe a little easier.
“We’re very proud of Curlin; it’s a great honor to be involved with a horse like him and I hope we’re in the middle of putting him on top of everybody else,” he said. “He went back into training to show his greatness, and I think he did that today. He's spoiled us with his consistency and brilliance. Pre-race the horse was in great shape and he stepped from the stalls and just spoiled us again.”
Praise has been bountiful for Curlin’s connections, who brought the colt back for a 4-year-old campaign rather than retiring him to stud. Majority owner Jess Jackson was largely responsible for the decision, as his Stonewall Stable controls 80% interest in the colt. A 20% interest in Curlin is also owned by Midnight Cry Stable, the racing entity owned by incarcerated attorneys William J. Gallion and Shirley A. Cunningham Jr.
“I hope this helps Sheikh Mohammed (bin Rashid al Moktoum) promote this race,” Jackson said. “I truly feel that international racing at this racecourse – both on the dirt and turf – defines the champion.”
Curlin had the riders of the second- and third-place finishers in awe when they came back from the gallop out.
John Murtagh, the jockey aboard Asiatic Boy, called the winner “a monster” while assuring that his horse “ran a marvelous race and fought and fought to get his second place.”
Aaron Gryder,Well Armed’s pilot, said, “He ran fantastic; he broke well and had horses on him the whole way and never really got a big breather… (but) I saw Curlin on the outside of us, and he’s just a very talented horse.”
Bred in Kentucky by Fares Farm out of the Deputy Minister mare Sherriff’s Deputy, Curlin now owns an 8-1-2 record from 11 career starts. Success in the Dubai World Cup took his lifetime earnings to over $8.8 million. He will ship back to Keeneland on April 6. Plans for the rest of his 2008 campaign have yet to be announced.

Liquid Gold Flows to Victory in the Desert

2008-03-29T11:30:00.002-07:00

HE DID IT! HE IS THE WORLD CHAMP. He was so composed before the race, so calm, exuding power and confidence. They did a MAGNIFICENT JOB preparing him for this race, but in the end, Curlin's greatness comes from his heart. More later. I'm too excited to pull my thoughts together. This was a WIN for ALL TB's - yes, you can wait until they are three to put them on the tracks. Curlin, you had my heart already, but today you claimed it forever.

http://www.sportinglife.com/racing/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=racing/08/03/29/RACING_World.html

Curlin's Song from Dubai

2008-03-27T20:52:00.002-07:00

IRON MAN, for sure, but THIS is Curlin's song in Dubai. It is a haunting song of desert dreams.

21372.1
Led Zepellin's "Kashmir" - the lyrics have special meaning now.

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=_aBGn0ym9uk&feature=related
Oh let the sun beat down upon my face, stars to fill my dream
I am a traveler of both time and space, to be where I have been
To sit with elders of the gentle race, this world has seldom seen
They talk of days for which they sit and wait and all will be revealed
Talk and song from tongues of lilting grace, whose sounds caress my ear
But not a word I heard could I relate, the story was quite clear

Oh, oh.
Oh, I been flying... mama, there aint no denyin
Ive been flying, aint no denyin, no denyin
All I see turns to brown, as the sun burns the ground
And my eyes fill with sand, as I scan this wasted land
Trying to find, trying to find where I've been.

Oh, pilot of the storm who leaves no trace, like thoughts inside a dream
Heed the path that led me to that place, yellow desert stream
My shangri-la beneath the summer moon, I will return again
Sure as the dust that floats high and true, when movin through kashmir.

Oh, father of the four winds, fill my sails, across the sea of years
With no provision but an open face, along the straits of fear

Ohh. When I'm on, when I'm on my way, yeah
When I see, when I see the way, you stay-yeah
Ooh, yeah-yeah, ooh, yeah-yeah, when Im down...Ooh, yeah-yeah, ooh, yeah-yeah,
well Im down, so down
Ooh, my baby, oooh, my baby, let me take you there
Let me take you there. Let me take you there.

RUN SAFE OUR GOLDEN CHILD OF THE SUN!

Jess Jackson - MY HAT (Curlin cap) is OFF TO YOU!

2008-03-27T12:39:00.002-07:00

This is a wonderful, inspiring, brought me to tears article about Jess Jackson, 80% owner of Curlin - and I bet 100% owner before long - he WILL buy out those plaintiffs if my crystal ball is accurate. Jess is a maverick who has pissed off a lot of the "business" people by not taking the millions for stud fees (if he could - not sure with that stupid lawsuit still hanging) and instead letting Curlin run as a four-year old - and perhaps beyond - yeah, definitely longer than that. This man is amazing. He GETS IT. His attitude is that if Curlin ever gets beaten, OH WELL, he just got beat by a better horse that day. SO WHAT? Mr. Jess Jackson, YOU are what the sport needs so badly. I realize it takes money to run a TB business, and Mr. Jackson is already very wealthy. BUT - most people with that much money WOULD take what's on the table (i.e., the stud fee) because for them greed rules. Let's face it: did Street Sense's owners really need that stud fee to continue their farm/business? I doubt it. Curlin is worth, today, FORTY MILLION DOLLARS! Wait until March 29 - see what's he's worth then. But that means NOTHING to Jess Jackson. He has a horse whom he believes is one of the greatest of the century, and we have 92 years left in this one, and for that reason, and that reason alone, Curlin struts and glows and runs for US and the U.S. (yeah, that's it). Mr. Jackson, thank you for your gift of being able to see this horse as a four-year old loving what he's doing. GO CURLIN!!!! IRON MAN!!!!

http://www1.pressdemocrat.com/article/20080326/NEWS/525077668

Curlin Draws Post #12

2008-03-26T12:09:00.002-07:00

http://www.drf.com/news/article/93215.html

This is a lot better than anything on the inside, but.... wish it could have been post 8 or 9. Jalil got post 8 - THAT concerns me because I have a feeling about him, as in, he is really good and has drawn the perfect post position. (Poor A.P. Arrow at post 13.) Curlin loves the outside, so he will be happy at the break. My feeling is that Robby should let him stay right there, not to engage him by taking him into the pack, and trust Curlin's HORSEpower to bring it on home and cross the wire first. Curlin CAN do that - he IS Iron Man, after all. I don't see Curlin as a good "weaver" - like Pyro is and Street Sense was. He's a big and strong colt who does not take well to traffic jams (or the rail - his nemesis at the Belmont). His strengths are his courage, speed, mellow demeanor (if not at the rail) and heart, not his maneuverability (whew -what a word THAT is). I don't want anything to happen to him except to run the race, win OR lose, and come home as healthy as he is today.

That said, I am getting extremely nervous/anxious about the Big Race on 3/29. I thought I could watch it, and I do get HRTV, but I'm a wreck even now, three days away from the race. So I will probably cover my hands and do deep breathing until I know for sure he's safe - and maybe I'll watch the stretch run. MAYBE. I feel like a mother hen and I'm worried about him. I know he's in PRIMO condition and loves Dubai and is ready to race (one article said he was "bouncing" yesterday on the track), but this race is for so damn much money and it's going to just be a battlefield out there.

BREATHE BREATHE BREATHE

See and Hear Ozzy and BS Doing Iron Man

2008-03-25T08:46:00.004-07:00

Here is Black Sabbath doing Iron Man - years ago - WOW! Yes, Curlin, this is your song! (However, the colors on Iron Man in the animated video, the first one I posted, were those of PRYO!!! Now that's kinda cool, isn't it?)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MII3ns2KTBc&feature=related

Iron Man

2008-03-25T08:34:00.001-07:00

No "Happy Birthday to You" song for Curlin - it's IRON MAN by Black Sabbath:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfp9PRIxt-g

Happy Birthday Dear Curlin

2008-03-25T08:07:00.003-07:00

Four years old today - may your life be long and filled with golden moments. It's not whether you win or lose but how you play the game - you, Curlin, have already played a masterpiece.

Here's the "red" article

2008-03-24T19:47:00.000-07:00

http://cs.bloodhorse.com/blogs/dubai/archive/2008/03/24/Quintessential-Curlin_3A00_-The-Look-of-Perfection.aspx

where DID I read that?

2008-03-24T19:44:00.001-07:00

Okay, it wasn't in this article about the "red" color - did I dream it? Well, whatever, I see him in my mind's eye and he is a deep red color right now - like his blood is coursing strongly in his veins because he knows what's coming up in 5 days. He knows.

And the countdown begins.....

2008-03-24T19:30:00.002-07:00

Okay, I'm getting nervous. Curlin looked beautiful and commanding today, as always. He's ready to go... he's a burning flame of horse, and as noted in the blog linked, his coat is now a red hue - the rainbow colors of Curlin continue to radiate. I'm trying to settle down and not think too much about Saturday. The pressure on Curlin is intense although he doesn't process it as a human would. He just wants to go out there and be able to put all his power into action. I know Curlin is special, very special. For that reason, they MUST be super attentive to every single move and breath he makes and takes. If for any reason things don't unfold well on Saturday, they need to either scratch him or ease him up.

We cannot, CANNOT, have a repeat of the disaster that befell and killed George Washington at the Breeder's Cup. George was giving every indication of distress from the moment he left the gate, yet he was pushed and whipped until he could no longer move forward - still standing, proud and sad, not understanding what he had done to deserve this DIRT race in the mud in a foreign land, he was put down. I'll never get over it - nor can I forgive the thinking that led his connections to putting him in that race. Shame on them for all time.

So I am sending thoughtwaves to Curlin - Curlin, TELL THEM if you are in distress and then pray that they listen - no one wanted to hear Gorgeous George except those of us who BEFORE the race had a feeling of great foreboding. Before the Haskell I saw Curlin in the paddock (on tv) and felt that he was not his usual self - he was still tired and slightly depressed from losing the Belmont - oh so close! He was hot and didn't want to be there. And he lost. He was okay, but... he was certainly letting ME know that this was not his day. We HAVE to protect these athletes, these warriors, who run for the joy of it, for our entertainment and know nothing about greed.

Here's a good blog straight from Dubai: http://www.drf.com/news/article/93186.html

He's SO fine!!!!!!!!!!

2008-03-24T12:13:00.001-07:00

Check out the photo in this article. WOWZA! I made it my desktop background so I could see it even bigger and it is GORGEOUS. This is a horse who is proud, happy and ripped. Curlin in Dubai - it sure suits him. But the sheiks can't have him...no no no. We want him to come home!

http://www.brisnet.com/cgi-bin/editorial/news/article.cgi?id=10901

Lorenzo - one with his horses

2008-03-22T07:33:00.001-07:00

A beautiful, moving video of Lorenzo, a man who is no doubt a reincarnated stallion. You MUST WATCH this one! Wish he'd come to the U.S.! http://canecorso.com/lorenzo.htm

Nice Article on Pyro

2008-03-22T07:32:00.002-07:00

....who was a "little bit of a boy brat" as a two-year old. GO PYRO - FLAME IT!
http://tcm.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=44179

Sorry, ARTHUR C. Clarke

2008-03-22T07:14:00.002-07:00

I just woke up - still not awake enough to even be semi-cerebral.

Arther C. Clarke

2008-03-22T07:10:00.002-07:00

Excellent article re. "the passing of a titan" ~~~ he saw the future and was perhaps one of the most cerebral humans on our planet. http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080322/people_nm/arts_clarke_dc_2

Curlin's Challengers

2008-03-19T19:27:00.002-07:00

I just watched four of the Dubai preps (inclusive of Curlin's, of course). There seem to be three hot contenders: Jalil, Asiatic Boy and Happy Boy. Well, of those three, Happy Boy was certainly all that - that white/grey (are they technically grey? I'm the Rank Outsider, remember) horse really poured it on and won BIG in his race. But Curlin appears to be in absolute peak form and a happy boy himself over there enjoying the sun and royal treatment. I just hope to God he doesn't draw post #1. Steve, are you reading - take Curlin to the outside no matter what post he draws..... just in case you didn't know that. LOLx10.

Farewell to a Visionary

2008-03-19T16:56:00.002-07:00

Totally off the subject of horses, but I must pay homage to Arthur C. Clarke who passed away in Sri Lanka yesterday. His seminal short story "The Sentinel" written over 50 years ago, was the inspiration for Stanley Kubrick's masterpiece, and my favorite movie of all time (and nothing will ever surpass it) "2001: A Space Odyssey" - so ahead of its time, so cerebral, so..... prophetic in ways we have yet to realize. Arthur C. and Stanley K. collaborated to write the screenplay and turn the pyramid in "The Sentinel" into the mysterious, DNA altering, monolith in "2001" - and we're still trying to figure out what that thing really was (I will spare you my theory). I saw it for the first time in 1968 at the age of 21 during my "part-time hippie" days as a U of Florida undergraduate. All I can remember of that viewing is when Dave Bowman entered the monolith and light show began. I was just slightly tripping. I bet I've seen it 100 times in the 40 years since. It blows my mind every single time. Farewell, Arthur - you are now a Star Child too.

We will all see you on the next dimension.

Curlin Continues to Shine

2008-03-17T12:36:00.001-07:00

Curlin is looking better than ever - today's workout was fabulous!
http://news.bloodhorse.com/viewstory.asp?id=44115&source=rss

What Happened to War Pass?

2008-03-16T11:02:00.002-07:00

My personal opinion is that the horse was sick - and they should never have raced him in that condition. He had a fever all week - WHY make him run a race in that condition? (Oh, forgot, money.) His people were all well aware of his illness. He was upset in the gate (probably because he did NOT feel up to a race but nobody was listening), got into a jam with other horses just out of the gate and got dirt in his face, which he did not like, and suffered from cuts in his leg, and he did not "rate"well - as in, he did not want to be steadied/kept back. When the jock asked him to move out, there was no response. Well, I guess not. HE WAS SICK. Here's a good article on what happened?

http://www.courant.com/sports/other/hc-giddyup0316.artmar16,0,2944727.story

Let's just hope that War Pass comes out of this okay - in the article they are re-evaluating whether he will run in the the Wood Memorial on April 5 as was planned. Well, yeah, I guess so after running a tired and sick horse yesterday - who knows how that affected him? This is a concern I have about Curlin in Dubai - he's in peak condition now, but that race seems to wear out most of our primo horses. We want to see him come home in excellent health, no worse for the journey and the race, and to run again on American race tracks.

Curlin "awesome" in workout in Dubai

2008-03-10T14:34:00.001-07:00

He's looking good! http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/international-news/2008/March/10/Curlin-awesome-in-Nad-al-Sheba-workout.aspx

link to ABR

2008-03-09T12:05:00.000-07:00

This should take you to the thread on ABR on Autism Awareness.
http://forums.prospero.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=20672.8

Autism Awareness - Can You Help?

2008-03-09T11:59:00.002-07:00

Many of you may remember Afleet Alex's connection with the little girl who had cancer (who sadly did not make it) - the lemonade stands set up at the races to raise money for children's cancer research and cures. Autism Awareness has become another magnficent creature with a cause that lifted him up into national attention yesterday with his "against all odds" win. This message was posted today on the Alex Brown Racing forum. I'll put the link up in a bit. But first, I wanted everyone who reads this blog to read this post, from a mother of an autistic child who just happened "by chance" (but there are no coincidences) to see the race yesterday. Let's do something - let's get this horse with a cause to the Kentucky Derby.

Hi all!! I am not often home on Saturday evenings to watch the westcoast latter races of the day. I am usually working 7pm NY time. But, last nite, at the last minute, I had to call in sick for my shift as my dad, who babysits for my son while I work was sick. He has a stomach virus & thank God is much better today. At any rate, I was home to watch the El Comino Real race from Bay Meadows. I was thrilled to see a horse named Autism Awareness was racing in the race. I wanted very badly for him to win. As the horses were approaching the gate to start the race, I already knew that he was going at 60 to 1 odds. I said a quick prayer. I said. "Please God, let Autism Awareness win. Please let it be our turn now." You see, my 12 yr. old son, Morgan, is also autistic & I found myself feeling as though Autism Awareness was also my horse & the horse of every parent of an autistic child. This horse represented the hopes & dreams I have for my son. Before the horses even left the gate, I felt a calmness & just knew that Autism Awareness would win, against all odds. And he did!!! I stood in my kitchen clapping until my hands hurt. You have no idea what this miraculous win means to me.
I hope that the Taboaba's take Autism Awareness to the Kentucky Derby. He has certainly earned the right to go. I don't know if they have ready funds to pay the $6000 nomination fee. But, I would be thrilled to start a fund to get him there. If every parent, aunt or uncle or grandparent of an autistic child gave $1 in their child's name to pay for Autuistic Awareness's nomination into the TC races, the fee would unfortunately be raised very quickly as 1 in 150 children have been stricken with autism. We parents of autistic children network thruout the country & bond very quickly. We all live with the daily struggles that goes along with autism & we all pray that our children will lead a full & productive life. Via the internet as well as in our local communities, we are each other's support. If something good happens, the word gets spread quickly. Today, I am passing the word about Autistic Awareness. If Autistic Awareness runs in the TC races, there will be thousands & thousands of TVs tuned in to watch the races than ever watched horse racing before. Autism Awareness would leave the starting gate with thousands of parents watching their horse run. The boost for research would be immeasureable.
I wish I could get in touch with the Taboaba's to offer my congratulations & to offer my support. Is it once again God's plan to bring a horse into our midst for a higher cause? Is this another Barbaro Effect, to bring people together for all the children inflicted with autism?
May God bless Autistic Awareness & keep him healthy & happy. Colette

Autism Awareness

2008-03-08T21:17:00.002-07:00

This is the "feel good" story of the day. Autism Awareness, purchased as a yearling for $1,000, goes off as the 62-1 long shot at the El Camino Real - and WINS IT!

http://www.ntra.com/content.aspx?type=news&id=31292

THE LINK "THING" IS WORKING!

2008-03-08T20:01:00.001-07:00

http://www.ntra.com/races.aspx?id=30140&section=races

I have been trying this for two days - couldn't get a clickable link. So wouldn't you know it would be THIS time, when I decided to try to link the Gotham (rather Gothic perhaps due to the weather conditions) Stakes and HERE IT IS. It's rather humorous listening to the poor announcer who hadn't a lot to say for half the race since the entire field was covered in fog.

VISIONaire - how could any other horse have possibly won?

The irony is not lost on me......

2008-03-08T19:27:00.003-07:00

To think that a horse named VISIONaire won the Gotham Stakes in fog so thick no one could SEE a blasted thing! I mean, there has to be something serendipidous about that. Hmmmmm.

Visionaire - emerges from the pea soup

2008-03-08T16:40:00.003-07:00

If you watched the Gotham Stakes, you, like me, got to see a lot of fog and not much horse. It was absolutely eerie, creepy, especially when the announcer said, "And the three year olds have all disappeared" - yep, it was as if they had been whisked up into The Rapture or something. But then.... enough fog lifted for a glimpse of Visionaire's amazing come from.... somewhere, who really knows, but I think he was pretty far back. Through the mist he ran, with confident and powerful stride and burst of speed in the slop to get to the wire first. Congratulations to trainer Michael Matz, who has the hearts of all of us who loved Barbaro so much.

I heartily agree with this comment (since I can hardly watch a lot of races from start to finish with all those flashing hooves and recipes for disaster): "We went in the TV room and couldn’t see a darn thing,” said Barry Irwin of Team Valor International, which co-owns Visionaire along with Vision Racing. “That’s the way to watch a horse race: just watch the last eighth [of a mile], then you don’t get nervous.”

Pyro on Fire

2008-03-08T16:32:00.003-07:00

He ran a great race today - obviously those workouts with Curlin and Zanjero helped him calm down, mature and be cooler under pressure than he was before. He looked very, very strong out there and could have run the race immediately all over again - didn't seem the least bit winded or tired. It wasn't a completely easy race - he did have to prove that he can work through some traffic and issues. But he stayed closer to the lead this time, just waiting for the signal to IGNITE - then KABOOM, he did just that. Steve Asmussen has to be one very happy trainer - he's been given great colts, but he must be given the credit for what he's done with them.

So Curlin, your little buddy back home won a race today that proved the Risen Star was no "one shot" wonder horse. Pyro is the real deal - our FIRE HORSE.

Big Brown - One to Watch

2008-03-07T17:43:00.001-07:00

Big Brown will be racing at the Florida Derby on March 29 (a most auspicious day). He blasted his competition at Gulfstream on Wednesday and had a style very similar, to, dare I say it..... CURLIN - running more toward the outside and just doing the job - no fancy footwork, just POWER. For some reason I cannot seem to get "clickable" links working on here anymore (HELP, ANYONE?), but if you google "big brown florida derby" you can read about him. I managed to dig up his Gulfstream race and (sigh) the link to it isn't gonna work here either. He was a MACHINE coming down that stretch and won by over 12 lengths. Yep, one to watch. (Mike, add him to my list of Derby contenders.)

Jess Jackson

2008-03-07T11:54:00.000-07:00

Did you know about this? Curlin's owner, Jess Jackson, is a good guy, albeit a billionaire:

"Other kids will benefit as well. Part of Curlin's race proceeds from all three legs of the Triple Crown and beyond will go to the Curlin for Kids foundation, set up by Jackson before the Kentucky Derby. The foundation benefits numerous charities including Boys and Girls Clubs of America and the Smile Train, which provides free surgeries for children with cleft lips and palates. A Jackson spokesperson also said the company is considering creating a Curlin for Kids silk that can be worn by other jockeys to help raise even more money for the foundation."

Green Egg(s) - on my face

2008-03-06T09:58:00.000-07:00

Well, the joke's on me. In my "About Me" section I wrote that my "handle" - "The Rank Outsider" - came from Mike Brunker's column when he alluded to me as just that (in a humorous way, of course). Mike gently set the record straight in his column yesterday - in fact, he was referring to Numaany, not me, as the "rank outsider (literally)" - because of that crazy move in his maiden race when Numaany stopped running forward in the stretch and then started running to the outside where he saw them moving the starting gate. Here's the column from yesterday: http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/23456611/site/21683474/page/2/. I urge you to read Mike's musings on horseracing - he's very witty and brilliant - and, best of all, as I am certainly proof positive, he loves to hear from his readers - those "green" like me as well as those on the inside who know their stuff. Guess I'll have to adjust the "About Me" section a bit now that I finally "get" that Mike was calling Numaany "the rank outsider," not me. HOWEVER, the name still resonates with me, FOR me, because my observations are simply those of someone who loves to watch these beautiful creatures - running, trotting, or just standing in the paddock - or grazing in a field in a rescue sanctuary. Can I be "rank" - you betcha! And I've always felt like a "stranger in a strange land" - hence, an outsider So the handle sticks, and I have Mike Brunker to thank for it. WRITE ON, Mike! You're the bomb.

duh

2008-03-05T17:57:00.001-07:00

I KNOW how to spell "intuition" so let me correct my typo in that last post by saying that. I also know how to spell "video,' which I typo'ed in another blog title. It's been a rather grueling past couple of days for me. I need some rest. CURLIN for POTUS.

Possible Rival for the World Cup

2008-03-05T17:53:00.000-07:00

Asiatic Boy will be running in the Dubai World Cup also, and my intution tells me (plus what I've read about him) that he could be a threat to our Curlin. He is that good. Asiatic Boy will be running a prep soon, so he too will be familiar with the track, the lights at night, etc. All I care about, and I mean it, is that Curlin runs a SAFE race and comes home in as good a condition as he was when he went over there. Wonder if he's homesick? I doubt it - he's got Poncho there and is getting the red carpet treatment. Curlin is such a mellow guy and adapts well to new situations, so he's probably having a blast.

Barbaro's Legacy Event at Beauty's Haven

2008-03-03T07:48:00.000-07:00

Barbaro's Legacy 2008
at
Beauty's Haven Rescue
Save the Date
April 26, 2008

We invite you to come out for a day of friendship, food, and fun.
Beauty's Haven will be hosting an open house event to meet and greet
FOBs from far and wide. Local horse lovers are also welcome. Come
on out to learn more about our mission and meet our wonderful horses.
Take a tour of the property, enjoy a burger, and play a game or two.
All proceeds from the event will benefit Beauty's Haven.
Please email Sue or Anne for more info.
soozbiz@hotmail.com anneboris@windstream.net
We hope to see you there!
(Permission to crosspost)

Vidoe for Today

2008-03-02T12:35:00.000-07:00

Short but very sweet - again, I especially like the music. Enjoy. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VUnTWoKNFN4&feature=related

Beauty's Haven

2008-03-02T11:11:00.000-07:00

For all who may not be aware if it, there is a special horse rescue in the Ocala horse country of Florida called Beauty's Haven. I visited there in October 2007. The Angel in Charge is Theresa, a golden woman with a heart as soft as a whispering wind. And she does whisper to the horses who come to her - who are in desperate need of care, love and a gentle touch. The rescues are the essence of the Barbaro Legacy - this one has my heart. The Florida FOBs are going to have a Celebrate the Life of Barbaro Day at BH near the end of April (his birthday was April 29). This event will be for doing some "barn raising" around the property and perhaps receiving some donations to help Theresa with her work on the Road to Rescue. Please be sure to read the story of Nick the Arabian - he came to BH almost dead and had only several weeks to live due to the suffering he had endured for almost 30 years. He died at peace, in love, in Theresa's arms on July 27, 2007. All that could be done for him had been done, and it was time for him to go.
Please visit http://www.beautysequinerescue.org/

Curlin's Coat of Many Colors

2008-03-02T11:03:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed how many colors and hues are displayed in Curlin's coat? Sometimes he's golden; sometimes, as when covered in mud at the BC, he looks stunningly bronze. At times he looks like burnished copper. He appears especially light and bright in the Dubai desert sun. Then sometimes he's what a racing commentator called "a vivid chestnut". Vivid is a wonderful word to describe his coat: from dictionary: (a) very bright (light/color); very lifelike (description); very lively (imagination). He always, always is so beautiful to behold that it takes one's breath away. I have a hunch that as he matures, these variations in hue will become more pronounced and will actually reflect his inner feelings and emotions. Yes, like Big Red whose coat would turn a dark shade of auburn when he was racing at full gallop. Curlin's Coat of Many Colors - another wonder of our rainbow horse.

Those cornrows

2008-03-01T22:17:00.001-07:00

Someone suggested perhaps a bit of "Curlin trivia" for our enjoyment. So here's the first one: How many cornrows were in Curlin's mane during the post parade at the Breeders Cup? If anyone starts guessing, I'm in trouble because right now I don't know. I have some photos and can attempt to count them, but......

I love the way they GQ Curlin up for the races. He's always so tricked out - cornrows, tail bobs, just looking so fine. Then Robby starts unbraiding as they enter the track (I understand that is so he can grab his mane as needed - is that right?)

Stay tuned. Tomorrow I will write what I had planned to write today before I found that YouTube video with U2's music and just got blown away. That one is a keeper. Stay tuned.

Let's see - I think it's about 0930 hours on Sunday in Dubai right now. Curlin has been up for at least a few hours eating, walking, enjoying the sun, the sand, the new sights and sounds and LIFE! I believe Curlin is our Renaissance Man - now worldly, urbane and loving every second.

Curlin and U2

2008-03-01T08:41:00.000-07:00

If anyone read my profile, I wrote that I love U2 - one reason is that I believe they are a very "spiritual" band - they have a depth and passion to their songs that I hear with my heart. Last night I was organizing my Curlin "stuff" now that I have this blog going, and I got onto YouTube to see what else I might find. Lo and behold, a WONDERFUL video of Curlin with U2's "Walk On" as the sound track. This video is just Curlin running his races.... five minutes of poetry in motion...running and runnning and running. I found a few more good ones and will post a couple another time, but this is u2 so it really grabbed me - to see Curlin running to their music is almost more than I can bear..... swoon...............

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o6RpTZKJ1uI&NR=1

Countdown to 29 March

2008-02-29T13:08:00.000-07:00

From what I understand "keen" means bright, eager and rarin' to go - that is how the announcer described Curlin at the beginning of yesterday's race. Well, yep, our boy had four months' layoff and for sure was fired up to get back to business. They also mentioned Robby Albarado "tightly" holding the reins, meaning that he had to hold him back the whole race! Wow! And he still almost beat the track record. And that was carrying 15 pounds more than the other horses. The rest of the field wasn't exactly shabby; he did have at least one definite competitor in there, so this "romp" on the desert sands deserves accolades times 10. I also want to note that this was the first time Curlin had run at night under the bright lights. He's just an amazing colt with an incredible personality and ability to adjust to new conditions. Example: the total slop at the Breeders Cup, which he had never run on/IN either.

If you haven't seen the race, go to this link, then to February 28, then click on Race 5, the Jaguar Trophy (I like that name). And listen and watch as Curlin makes his 2008 debut - being restrained the entire time - or he would have blown the roof off the record but might have also extended himself too much for the..... BIG RACE. If you aren't able to access it via television (it's on ABC on March 29 at 1430 Eastern time) you can watch it from the link.
http://dubairacingclub.com/?cat=35

More tomorrow ~~~~~~~~ stay tuned! Send your good vibes/positive thoughts to our Golden Boy Curlin so far from home.

Today at the races - desert style - 2/28/08

2008-02-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

Did you see it? To me, Curlin looked like liquid gold running on the sands of the Dubai desert. He was in perfect form, albeit a "bit rank" at the onset, but Curlin does not like the rail - or the inside at all for that matter. He seemed so excited to be back in the gate, and so ready to just get on with it and run full out. Robby Albarado did a masterful job of letting him know that he should just settle in and enjoy the trip. So there he was, ears up, relaxed, calm, not even galloping at the end - and HE ALMOST BEAT THE TRACK RECORD - only one second off! Wait until the big day, March 29. I think the USA is going to have their Dubai World Cup Champ in Curlin. What an absolutely magnificent animal this is.