In a surprise political move Maryland State Senate President Mike Miller has brought the slots issue back to the table. Now, we have to ask two questions. The first is simple....Will this gather enough momentum to pass both the house and senate. The second question, the one I care about most......Will this bill benefit horse racing. Governor O'Malley, who has voiced support for a limited slots program to help save the horse racing industry may get pushed into a corner. The state has other budget issues, and the horse racing industry may take a back seat on the slots bill. The horse industry may be the odd man out in this new push. The industry has asked for slots for a decade, now the state may get slots, but with limited benefit to purses and breeding funds.
This is a nice political move by Mike Miller, but I think it is just that, a political move. It is almost too late in the session to get a bill like this passed.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Must be a slow news day
I was surfing around my usual horse racing sites, and I found this story about Kyle Kaenel linked on Equidaily. It must have been a slow day for the writer with the "San Mateo County Times", and an even slower news day over at Equidaily.
I have watched this guy at both Colonial and here in Maryland. He is not article worthy, unless you are writing an article about tall jocks that can't make weight. His name always had a +2 or more next to it on the changes sheet. I understand the public interest, pull at your heart strings angle about his father ( His father, "Cowboy" Jack Kaenel, won the Preakness Stakes in 1982 at age 16, then alcohol derailed his career), but that does not make him a better jockey.
To top it off, the writer asked Russel Baze for a quote about this kid. Baze gave the PC standard comments, and finished with; "Kaenal has the ability to be a top rider for a long time, so long as he's willing to fight to keep his weight down."
The only articles about Kyle Kaenel should be title "Bad Jockeys", and also include Luis Belmonte, and Katie Lee.
I have watched this guy at both Colonial and here in Maryland. He is not article worthy, unless you are writing an article about tall jocks that can't make weight. His name always had a +2 or more next to it on the changes sheet. I understand the public interest, pull at your heart strings angle about his father ( His father, "Cowboy" Jack Kaenel, won the Preakness Stakes in 1982 at age 16, then alcohol derailed his career), but that does not make him a better jockey.
To top it off, the writer asked Russel Baze for a quote about this kid. Baze gave the PC standard comments, and finished with; "Kaenal has the ability to be a top rider for a long time, so long as he's willing to fight to keep his weight down."
The only articles about Kyle Kaenel should be title "Bad Jockeys", and also include Luis Belmonte, and Katie Lee.
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Slots bill dies quietly
Slot machines are dead once more in the Maryland legislature. Is the state’s horse racing industry next to go? Below are some great quotes from The Baltimore Examiner.
A bill legalizing slots was quietly tabled in the Ways and Means Committee with new Gov. Martin O’Malley preferring to deal with it in 2008. A double-blow came when a racing industry proposal for $30 million in purse supplements to remain competitive with neighboring states was halved.
If you never attend racing, you may wonder, “So what?” Well, when that pretty green space of a farm becomes another housing development — clogging roads and overcrowding schools that further elevate state and property taxes to accommodate new residents — you’ll understand the sport’s importance.
Pennsylvania racing’s recent rise shows how quickly slots could restore Maryland. Philadelphia Park was nearly a haunted house in recent years, but slots filling the old grandstand recently caused a 40-car deep wait for valet parking. A percentage of profits for purses produced a fourfold increase over projections. The track now pays $300,000 daily in purses.
Maryland’s breeding industry is hemorrhaging. The 20,000 jobs related to thoroughbred racing are at risk. And don’t think the Preakness Stakes is untouchable.
One more year might be all Maryland racing can truly wait. It’s already a decade behind.
Saturday Maryland Update
To follow up on yesterdays herpes post, an announcement has been made that
Charles Town and Penn National have imposed restrictions on Maryland horses. So as expected, the wheels are beginning to fall off the bus.
The DRF has a good article about the fall of Maryland racing. They do a good job of explaining how Maryland was once the highest level of east coast racing.
Charles Town and Penn National have imposed restrictions on Maryland horses. So as expected, the wheels are beginning to fall off the bus.
The DRF has a good article about the fall of Maryland racing. They do a good job of explaining how Maryland was once the highest level of east coast racing.
Friday, February 23, 2007
OK....Who brought the Herpes
The Maryland Department of Agriculture has placed hold orders on eight farms in Maryland. Apparently seven horses were "possibly" exposed to the equine herpes virus while in Leesburg, Virginia. According to spokeswoman Sue duPont, none of the farms are associated with the states thoroughbred industry.
We went through this exact scenario a few years back. We the Pimlico Spring Meet approaching, we can not afford to have a quarantine placed on Maryland racing. Lets keep our figures crossed, and hope for the best.
We went through this exact scenario a few years back. We the Pimlico Spring Meet approaching, we can not afford to have a quarantine placed on Maryland racing. Lets keep our figures crossed, and hope for the best.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Pimlico - Spring Stakes Schedule
The Maryland Jockey Club released the 2007 Pimlico spring stakes schedule today.
The 31-day meeting starts April 19 and runs through June 9. The headline event of the eight-week meet is the 132nd running of the $1 million Preakness Stakes presented by "The Bug Boys" (just kidding), on May 19.
The meet will feature 26 stakes races for purses of almost $4 million. Fourteen of the added-money races are slated for Preakness week, including nine on Preakness day. The opening Saturday of the spring meet, April 21, features five stakes races and showcases Maryland-bred and Maryland-sired horses.
The May 18 card will feature five stakes races for fillies and mares, including the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes (gr. II), the Allaire duPont Breeders’ Cup Distaff, which was upgraded from grade III to grade II status, and the Adena Stallions’ Miss Preakness (gr. III).
The Maryland Jockey Club announced Dec. 20 that it had changed the name of the Sir Barton Stakes to the Barbaro Stakes. The mile and a sixteenth test for three-year-olds is one of eight added-money races on the Preakness undercard.
Other changes to the stakes schedule include: discontinuation of the Jim McKay Breeders’ Cup Handicap; name change of Hoover Stakes to Jim McKay Sprint; name change of Baltimore Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint to Baltimore City Turf Sprint; addition of the Whimsical Stakes to the May 18 card; and distance changes of Woodlawn Stakes (1 1/16th mile turf to one-mile turf), Hilltop Stakes (1 1/16th mile turf to one-mile turf), and Xtra Heat Stakes (five furlongs to 5 1/2 furlongs).
Enjoy it while you can....Only 31 day of racing this year, with no Pimlico Special. Who knows what cuts will be made next year. Hell, we may not even have any horse racing in Maryland next spring
The 31-day meeting starts April 19 and runs through June 9. The headline event of the eight-week meet is the 132nd running of the $1 million Preakness Stakes presented by "The Bug Boys" (just kidding), on May 19.
The meet will feature 26 stakes races for purses of almost $4 million. Fourteen of the added-money races are slated for Preakness week, including nine on Preakness day. The opening Saturday of the spring meet, April 21, features five stakes races and showcases Maryland-bred and Maryland-sired horses.
The May 18 card will feature five stakes races for fillies and mares, including the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes (gr. II), the Allaire duPont Breeders’ Cup Distaff, which was upgraded from grade III to grade II status, and the Adena Stallions’ Miss Preakness (gr. III).
The Maryland Jockey Club announced Dec. 20 that it had changed the name of the Sir Barton Stakes to the Barbaro Stakes. The mile and a sixteenth test for three-year-olds is one of eight added-money races on the Preakness undercard.
Other changes to the stakes schedule include: discontinuation of the Jim McKay Breeders’ Cup Handicap; name change of Hoover Stakes to Jim McKay Sprint; name change of Baltimore Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint to Baltimore City Turf Sprint; addition of the Whimsical Stakes to the May 18 card; and distance changes of Woodlawn Stakes (1 1/16th mile turf to one-mile turf), Hilltop Stakes (1 1/16th mile turf to one-mile turf), and Xtra Heat Stakes (five furlongs to 5 1/2 furlongs).
Enjoy it while you can....Only 31 day of racing this year, with no Pimlico Special. Who knows what cuts will be made next year. Hell, we may not even have any horse racing in Maryland next spring
Dear Governor O'Malley
Dear Governor O'Malley,
The Maryland horse industry is going down the crapper. The Maryland Jockey Club has canceled the Pimlico Special (Grade I) due to a shortage in available purse money, live racing days are being cut back every year, and our marquee track, Pimlico is a dilapidated hunk of metal in the middle of the ghetto.
Our neighbors to the north (Pennsylvania and Delaware) are expanding gambling in order to increase tax revenue and rejuvenate the multi-billion dollar horse industry. Pennsylvania has changed the rules for "Pennsylvania Bred" status, forcing owners and breeders to move horses and breeding operation to their state in order to reap the benefits of slot machines. Hence, Maryland is losing jobs, and tax revenue. Delaware has had slot machines for years, but now they are talking about legalized sports betting. I don't know if you are aware of this, but sports betting has generated a great deal of revenue for the state of Nevada. It is very possible that this revenue stream would be used to boost the already successful horse industry in Delaware. Once again, hurting the weak and frail Maryland horse industry. Finally, our friends to the west in West Virgina are going to try to keep up with the Joneses. They are pretty close to approving table games. If you have not picked up on the theme of this letter, this will also hurt the Maryland horse industry.
Partisan politics prevented our great state from approving slot machines over the last four years. We (fans of horse racing, owners, and breeders) had hoped that you would be the great savior of our beloved sport. Unfortunately, you have not even put slot machines (or anything that would help horse racing) on the table. So in conclusion, I ask you to OPEN YOUR FUCK'IN EYES, and see what is happening to horse racing and the thousands of jobs and billions of dollars that make up the industry in your state.
Love and Kisses,
Baloo
P.S. The Preakness stakes could be moved to Gulfstream quicker than the Colts left town in the 80's.
The Maryland horse industry is going down the crapper. The Maryland Jockey Club has canceled the Pimlico Special (Grade I) due to a shortage in available purse money, live racing days are being cut back every year, and our marquee track, Pimlico is a dilapidated hunk of metal in the middle of the ghetto.
Our neighbors to the north (Pennsylvania and Delaware) are expanding gambling in order to increase tax revenue and rejuvenate the multi-billion dollar horse industry. Pennsylvania has changed the rules for "Pennsylvania Bred" status, forcing owners and breeders to move horses and breeding operation to their state in order to reap the benefits of slot machines. Hence, Maryland is losing jobs, and tax revenue. Delaware has had slot machines for years, but now they are talking about legalized sports betting. I don't know if you are aware of this, but sports betting has generated a great deal of revenue for the state of Nevada. It is very possible that this revenue stream would be used to boost the already successful horse industry in Delaware. Once again, hurting the weak and frail Maryland horse industry. Finally, our friends to the west in West Virgina are going to try to keep up with the Joneses. They are pretty close to approving table games. If you have not picked up on the theme of this letter, this will also hurt the Maryland horse industry.
Partisan politics prevented our great state from approving slot machines over the last four years. We (fans of horse racing, owners, and breeders) had hoped that you would be the great savior of our beloved sport. Unfortunately, you have not even put slot machines (or anything that would help horse racing) on the table. So in conclusion, I ask you to OPEN YOUR FUCK'IN EYES, and see what is happening to horse racing and the thousands of jobs and billions of dollars that make up the industry in your state.
Love and Kisses,
Baloo
P.S. The Preakness stakes could be moved to Gulfstream quicker than the Colts left town in the 80's.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Racing down Wall Street
- Magna writes down its investment in an Austrian racino:
- Todd Pletcher becomes a shill for Youbet.com. I'm not sure if this has any significance to anything other than Pletcher's bank account, but I like what he has to say:
Sparing you the details of generally accepted accounting principles that few other than I care about, this means that there is no way in the world that they will be able to recover their investment in the facility. They have to reduce the value of the assets on their books related to this property to a level that actually reflects its profit-generating potential. The $59.7 million charge is net of income tax, which means the actual write-off is significantly higher. One wonders how long it will be until we see a similar press release relating to Gulfstream.AURORA, ON, Feb. 19 /CNW/ - Magna Entertainment Corp. ("MEC") (NASDAQ:MECA) today announced that it will record a non-cash asset impairment charge, net of income taxes, of approximately $59.7 million ($0.56per share) in the fourth quarter of 2006 related to Magna Racino(TM), MEC's racetrack located in Ebreichsdorf, just outside Vienna, Austria.
- Todd Pletcher becomes a shill for Youbet.com. I'm not sure if this has any significance to anything other than Pletcher's bank account, but I like what he has to say:
“A new generation of horse racing fans is discovering our sport online,” Pletcher said. “Youbet does the best job of taking horse racing to market for this key segment of younger fans and I’m delighted to be working with them to help expand the base and bring new fans to racing.”
Monday, February 19, 2007
General George Wrap Up
"The expected showdown came to fruition this afternoon when local favorite Ah Day wrested command early but was unable to hold off New York invader Silver Wagon, who charged by in deep stretch to capture the $300,000 Grade II General George Breeders’ Cup Handicap at Laurel Park.As expected, this was a great race. For once, a race lived up to the hype. Wish I could say the same for Hard Spun.
Silver Wagon, a six-year-old grey-roan son of Wagon Limit, carried jockey Edgar Prado to victory in 1:23.13 for the seven furlong distance run over the main track. They beat Ah Day and Ryan Fogelsonger by 1-1/4 lengths, while longshot speedster Ryan’s For Real held on to be third.
The race unfolded with Ryan’s For Real charging to the lead, with Ah Day in close attendance in second. Ah Day hooked the leader and forged to the front entering the far turn. He kept that position the next-to-the-last call, when Prado brought Silver Wagon out of traffic, gave him his head and took command."- Laurel Park Website
Spooky Mulder
The 9 year old gelding Spooky Mulder looks to be showing some signs of aging. Not a great performance yesterday at Laurel Park. The comments show that he "tired". I guess the deep sandy loam of the Maryland track took its toll on the guy. Or maybe it was quick fractions. Who knows, but we hope to see him running back soon. Another note, he had a tag of $50,000, he was running at $100K just a few months back.
General George - Ah Day
The Baltimore Sun has a great Article about Ah Day and the General George (GII), that will be run later today. Trainer King Leatherbury is very confident in his four year old gelded son of Malibu Moon. Ryan Fogelsonger will have the mount on Ah Day, as regular jockey Mario Pino will be riding Hard Spun down in Oaklawn. I was a little let down that Sweetnorthernsaint decided not to run, but all the local press has got me excited about Ah Day.
More later after the race!
More later after the race!
Friday, February 16, 2007
Maryland Update
Oprah Winney Wins Barbara Fritchie Breeders' Cup Handicap (GII). Jockey Mike Smith rode the winner for trainer Tony Dutrow. Tony was subbing for his brother Richard who is serving a 14-day suspension. Oprah Winneybeat seven other fillys and mares in 1:24.92 for seven furlongs. Laurel Park based Silmaril rallied to be second. Smart and Fancy finished third.
Future Fantasy Pulls Upset In John B. Campbell Handicap. Future Fantasy pulled off an upset victory in the $115,000 John B. Campbell Handicap, the co-feature on Saturday’s Laurel Park card. He won by 4-3/4 lengths in 1:53.74 for the nine furlong distance. Maryland Million Classic winner Due came in second, and favorite Bank President finished third.
Maryland Jockey Club Honors Rosie Napravnik. The ceremony was supposed to have happened three weeks ago, the day after Rosie broke her back. She was at the track today with news that she should be riding again in 5 to 8 weeks.
Silver Wagon and Edgar Prado are coming to town on Monday for the General George (GII). Click the link to read some good hype on the Laurel Park website. I will be pulling for local favorite Ah Day, but I think he will be greatly out classed.
Ron Franklin will ask the Maryland Racing Commission for reinstatement as a jockey during a hearing Tuesday afternoon. I never saw this guy ride, as Maryland took away his license away in 15 years ago, about 3 months before I made myself a regular at Pimlico. People are making a big deal about this, and he received a good size article in the paper. He does not even have any plans to ride in Maryland. Maryland needs to reinstate him, so he can get a license in Louisiana. Maybe someone can fill me in on why two great mounts on Spectacular Bid in 1979 makes him a hero. This guy has had more chances than Dwight Gooden (Sorry Mets Fans).
Future Fantasy Pulls Upset In John B. Campbell Handicap. Future Fantasy pulled off an upset victory in the $115,000 John B. Campbell Handicap, the co-feature on Saturday’s Laurel Park card. He won by 4-3/4 lengths in 1:53.74 for the nine furlong distance. Maryland Million Classic winner Due came in second, and favorite Bank President finished third.
Maryland Jockey Club Honors Rosie Napravnik. The ceremony was supposed to have happened three weeks ago, the day after Rosie broke her back. She was at the track today with news that she should be riding again in 5 to 8 weeks.
Silver Wagon and Edgar Prado are coming to town on Monday for the General George (GII). Click the link to read some good hype on the Laurel Park website. I will be pulling for local favorite Ah Day, but I think he will be greatly out classed.
Ron Franklin will ask the Maryland Racing Commission for reinstatement as a jockey during a hearing Tuesday afternoon. I never saw this guy ride, as Maryland took away his license away in 15 years ago, about 3 months before I made myself a regular at Pimlico. People are making a big deal about this, and he received a good size article in the paper. He does not even have any plans to ride in Maryland. Maryland needs to reinstate him, so he can get a license in Louisiana. Maybe someone can fill me in on why two great mounts on Spectacular Bid in 1979 makes him a hero. This guy has had more chances than Dwight Gooden (Sorry Mets Fans).
Thursday, February 15, 2007
New Look Standings
Don't forget to check out the "New Look" Standings on the bottom right hand column of the page. Don't they look sharp! Now all the TBA needs is the rest of the world to catch on to this great idea. For now enjoy the great looking TBA Standings. Eventually the rest of the world we be as smart as we are!
I Apologize, A Little
I wanted to apologize to the Maryland Jockey Club for my comments two days ago. I have not changed my mind, the promotions are still terrible. But, I have heard a bunch of radio spots in the last few days about this upcoming weekend of racing. The radio spots are great, they make it sound like a day at the track is fun for the entire family (I would agree). They are trying to get the word out, and they are also trying to get people out to the track. However, the free tote bag (after the 5th race for the first 4000 people) will not make people come. Radio ads are a great idea, I just wish you guys had a good promotion, or product to pitch. Keep trying guys, someday you may get it right!
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Valentines Day - Quick Hits
Valentines Day....The "Official" start of breeding season. At least for those that have not gambled on having a foal born on December 31st. Valentines Day and the start of breeding season, so romantic. When that beautiful young mare is brought into the breeding shed, held in place by four to five handlers, a 1500 pound beast jumps on her back and bites her until he is finished. So romantic!
General George (GII)- Well, I guess I will not get to see Sweetnorthernsaint and Ah Day go head to head in the General George."
General George (GII)- Well, I guess I will not get to see Sweetnorthernsaint and Ah Day go head to head in the General George."
Sweetnorthernsaint is going to pass on this weekend," said trainer Michael Trombetta, who had nominated the horse to the General George and Saturday's $115,000 John B. Campbell Handicap. "Our plan all along was not to rush him, and I've only had a chance to breeze him once since we shipped him back from Florida."Laurel Park - canceled racing Wednesday due to two solid inches of ice on the track. This is the first time a day of racing during the winter meet has been canceled since 1995.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Free Beer !
This past weekend I received my Maryland Jockey Club winter newsletter. This three page full color fold out has all the bells and whistles. Bright color graphics, photos, and big dollar signs on every promotional section. The only problem with this great mailing is that the promotions stink! You would think that an expensive marketing piece like this would have something for all levels of fans. Not just the big time gamblers that already go to the track often. I want to believe that The Maryland Jockey Club is trying to win new fans, and make the casual fan a regular visitor to the tracks. Let me share some of the non-gambling promotions.
Racing From South America - Wager on races from San Isidro, Argentina, Maronas, and Uruguay. What? I am a big racing fan, and I can care less about South American racing. Even if Invasor returned home I would not watch these races.
Jockey Autograph Session - Meet Maryland racing's all-stars, and have your photo taken with you favorite rider. This is a nice idea. I think a lot of people would be interested in meeting the jockeys. Now all you have to do is show up an hour and a half before the first race. How many people are going to come to the track at 11:00 when the first and only stakes race goes off at 5:00.
Freebie Fridays in February - Free Admission, Free Live Racing Program, Free Draft Beer with the purchase of a draft beer. This is a nice promotion. Going the extra mile for the fans. Between admission and a program, they are saving the fans $4.50. On top of that, it is buy one get one free beer. The only problem is that this should be done on a Saturday in the spring. Or a twilight card around the Pimlico meet. People are not taking off of work for buy one get one free beer. Once again, you are catering to the people who are already going to the track from 12:00-5:00 on Fridays.I am not a marketing genius, but I can tell you that these promotions are not winning over any casual fans, or brining in new ones. How about twilight racing and a concert after the card for a Friday night. I know my buddies and I would move happy hour to the track. It works great at Belmont. I don't want to bring this all back to slots again.....but people are not coming to the track to watch $5k and $10k claimers everyday. The casual fans want to see the big horses more than 3 days a year. Now that we lost the Pimlico Special, we will have fewer fans at the track this year. Hello... Maryland Jockey Club, work on the racing product, not the free tote bags.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Better Choices
As the Derby future wager pool was closing yesterday, I went outside with my Colibri cigar lighter and two crisp $1 bills. I proceeded to set each dollar ablaze and enjoyed the color, the warmth and the experience. I felt that this was a more enjoyable, productive use of two dollars than placing another bad bet in a poorly run future pool. Either way, I will never see those two dollars again.
Friday, February 09, 2007
Winter Sprintfest
The Maryland Jockey Club has released the list of nominees for the three stakes that make up the "Winter Sprintfest". The seven-furlong Grade II Barbara Fritchie Breeders’ Cup Handicap and the 1-1/8 mile John B. Campbell will be run on Saturday, February 17. The seven-furlong General George (GII) is slated for Monday, February 19.The highlight on the cards for me is the General George. Two Laurel Park based four year olds stars, Sweetnorthernsaint, and Ah Day will go head-to-head. In addition to the local stars, Bishop Court and Diabolical have also been nominated.
The Maryland Jockey Club has added some promotions to help lure the fans to the track for the weekend of racing. Autograph Sessions, Preakness ticket drawings, and a special winners circle presentation to last years top Maryland jock, Rosie Napravnik. For the kids, they will have face painting, family fun games, and a free sports bag.
It is sad when you need to run promotions on a day when you have some of the best horses in the country running at your track. Does free admission, a free sports bag, and face painting really bring more people to the track?
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Beating by a Dead Horse
Did this happen to any of you? As a person obsessed with horse racing, I saw this headline on CNN.com this morning and my first thought was about the champion and great sire, Deputy Minister:
Apparently, he faked his own death in 2004 and moved to Iraq in an effort to destabilize the government. As if the horse racing industry needed more bad press. Next thing you know, we'll hear that St. Liam and Electrocutionist are actually in Afghanistan working with Al Qaeda.
Deputy Minister Held in Iraq Killings Probe
U.S. and Iraqi forces raided an Iraqi Health Ministry complex in central Baghdad today and arrested a deputy minister, an Interior Ministry official said. Without naming the deputy minister, a U.S. military statement said Iraqi army forces had
captured a suspect implicated in the deaths of several Iraqi government officials.
Apparently, he faked his own death in 2004 and moved to Iraq in an effort to destabilize the government. As if the horse racing industry needed more bad press. Next thing you know, we'll hear that St. Liam and Electrocutionist are actually in Afghanistan working with Al Qaeda.
This could be very bad!!!!!
Maryland State Senator Kathy Klausmeier (Democrat from Baltimore County) has introduced Senate Bill 541, that would allow riverboat gambling out of Baltimore's Inner Harbor. The presents a much different approach than the slots bill that has been voted down over the last 4 years. In the past, proceeds would benefit education, infrastructure, and the horse industry. This bill would have 80% of revenue going to the operator, and 20% going to the Bay Restoration Fund (A very big topic in Maryland), and education.
I look at this bill in two ways. First, it could be very bad for horse racing. If the state approves slot machines, and they place them on boats instead of the tracks, horse racing is done. My second view would be that it offers a new look for a hard fought issue. In the past, many politician have said that they don't want slots to only boost the tracks. We have also heard the argument that gambling should not fund education. If Maryland has two differnt gambling bills, that fund different casues, some of the anti horse racing people may come around.
We will need to keep an eye on this one. And did I mention....Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon is completely against slots???????
I look at this bill in two ways. First, it could be very bad for horse racing. If the state approves slot machines, and they place them on boats instead of the tracks, horse racing is done. My second view would be that it offers a new look for a hard fought issue. In the past, many politician have said that they don't want slots to only boost the tracks. We have also heard the argument that gambling should not fund education. If Maryland has two differnt gambling bills, that fund different casues, some of the anti horse racing people may come around.
We will need to keep an eye on this one. And did I mention....Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon is completely against slots???????
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Expectations Hurt Integrity
I decided a few months back that I was going to take the plunge again into horse ownership. In the past, my ownership involvement had been in commercial racing partnerships. The kind where a farm or partnership company would offer ten percent shares in a horse. This was fun, and an easy way to get involved in the game. I did this with a local farm where I was able to go out and see the horses, and watch them work out. It was fun, but I started to question some of the decision making of the management company. The fun disappears when you ask yourself "Is this in the best interest of the horse, or the management company?" This time, I was going to go into ownership with a few buddies. The plan was to pick a trainer and go to the sales until we found what we, and the trainer liked. The thought was a two year old in training would offer up the best opportunity.
I started on my quest. I met with a number of trainers, pinhookers, and breeding operations. Everyone offered up different advice. Some advised about the downside of the industry, others promised a trip to Kentucky on the first Saturday in May. This was when I started to question the industry. While at the sales, someone would say "That colt is small, but a few months of Equipoise, and he'll be a monster." The more people I met, the more I questioned the integrity of the industry as a whole. I had to stop asking questions, because I did not want to hear the answers.
I love the sport of horse racing. I often turn a blind eye to the problems of the industry, because of my love for the game. Now that I am involved first hand, I am beginning to realize that it all starts with the owners. Owners have ridiculous expectations of the horses they buy. People go to the sales and by a $5,000 filly expecting to run it in a Maiden Special Weight, or $40,000 claiming event. They expect that a $25,000 two year old will be running for black type in months. Owners need to be more realistic about their horses. Trainers need to explain that a $10,000 purchase should be running with other horses of the same value. The trainers try to make you believe that with a few shots and supplements, you will have the next Lava Man or Smarty Jones. I have found that trainers need to foster the dreams of the owners in order to stay in business. If the dream of winning the Triple Crown or the Breeders Cup fades for the owners, the trainers will be done. The trainers must continue to do whatever it takes to make the horses step up in class. If they don't, the owners change trainers, or get out of the game.
An owners expectations are part of the reason for a lack of integrity of the trainers.
Think about it!
I started on my quest. I met with a number of trainers, pinhookers, and breeding operations. Everyone offered up different advice. Some advised about the downside of the industry, others promised a trip to Kentucky on the first Saturday in May. This was when I started to question the industry. While at the sales, someone would say "That colt is small, but a few months of Equipoise, and he'll be a monster." The more people I met, the more I questioned the integrity of the industry as a whole. I had to stop asking questions, because I did not want to hear the answers.
I love the sport of horse racing. I often turn a blind eye to the problems of the industry, because of my love for the game. Now that I am involved first hand, I am beginning to realize that it all starts with the owners. Owners have ridiculous expectations of the horses they buy. People go to the sales and by a $5,000 filly expecting to run it in a Maiden Special Weight, or $40,000 claiming event. They expect that a $25,000 two year old will be running for black type in months. Owners need to be more realistic about their horses. Trainers need to explain that a $10,000 purchase should be running with other horses of the same value. The trainers try to make you believe that with a few shots and supplements, you will have the next Lava Man or Smarty Jones. I have found that trainers need to foster the dreams of the owners in order to stay in business. If the dream of winning the Triple Crown or the Breeders Cup fades for the owners, the trainers will be done. The trainers must continue to do whatever it takes to make the horses step up in class. If they don't, the owners change trainers, or get out of the game.
An owners expectations are part of the reason for a lack of integrity of the trainers.
Think about it!
Saturday, February 03, 2007
The Jockeys vs. Jamaica Hospital
While watching the great races at Gulfstream today, I heard that the last four races at Aqueduct were canceled. I looked outside and there was no storm. I checked the internet and there was no report of any events that would cancel racing. It wasn't until checking the net after an evening out that I found the problem. Apparently, the jockeys have not been happy with the treatment they heave been receiving at Jamaica Hospital after accidents on the track.
Jose Santos had a particularly bad experience this week that lead to a discussion between the jocks and NYRA on what to do when a jockey has to be transported to the hospital. The riders were under the impression after this conference that they would be able to request to be taken to North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset. When Norberto Arroyo was hurt today and taken to Jamaica Hospital against his will, the jockeys decided not to ride anymore. The Sunday card was also canceled by NYRA.
I have no experiences with Jamaica hospital, but I have been working in the New York healthcare field for more than 11 years and I can certainly agree that Jamaica Hospital does not have the best reputation. It's not the worst hospital in the area, but I would rather my kids be taken to one of the many great hospitals in the region, such as North Shore. I admit that I may be biased here. Both of my kids were born there. My mother and my wife's grandmother were cured of there cancers there. And my father and father-in-law have had successful heart procedures there. It's a great hospital and if a jockey wants to take the extra 15 minutes to get there, let him go there.
The jockeys risk their bodies every day for our entertainment. When their bodies get broken, they deserve the best care available. I hope NYRA gives the colony the right to choose where to get that care.
Jose Santos had a particularly bad experience this week that lead to a discussion between the jocks and NYRA on what to do when a jockey has to be transported to the hospital. The riders were under the impression after this conference that they would be able to request to be taken to North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset. When Norberto Arroyo was hurt today and taken to Jamaica Hospital against his will, the jockeys decided not to ride anymore. The Sunday card was also canceled by NYRA.
I have no experiences with Jamaica hospital, but I have been working in the New York healthcare field for more than 11 years and I can certainly agree that Jamaica Hospital does not have the best reputation. It's not the worst hospital in the area, but I would rather my kids be taken to one of the many great hospitals in the region, such as North Shore. I admit that I may be biased here. Both of my kids were born there. My mother and my wife's grandmother were cured of there cancers there. And my father and father-in-law have had successful heart procedures there. It's a great hospital and if a jockey wants to take the extra 15 minutes to get there, let him go there.
The jockeys risk their bodies every day for our entertainment. When their bodies get broken, they deserve the best care available. I hope NYRA gives the colony the right to choose where to get that care.
Friday, February 02, 2007
Why We Mourn Barbaro
For those of you that are fans of sports in general, and not just horse racing, this is fantastic. It's an op-ed piece from the New York Times, and it makes it point well:
Why We Mourn Barbaro
By JEFF NEUMAN
Published: February 1, 2007
HE never talked about himself in the third person.
He didn’t trash-talk, taunt or hang on the rim.
Down the stretch of the Kentucky Derby, he didn’t turn and point at Bluegrass Cat, and he didn’t somersault over the finish line. After crossing the line, he didn’t pull out a Sharpie and autograph his saddle for his business manager.
He never referred to his handlers as “my supporting cast.”
He never tried to renegotiate his contract. He never turned down an eight-figure offer by saying, “I’ve got a family to feed, man.”
His only tattoo was discreetly hidden.
He did no commercials for cellphone plans, credit cards, fast food chains or time shares.
He never had his agent issue a statement in which he apologized “if anybody took my actions the wrong way.”
He never appeared before a Congressional committee and lied about his steroid use.
He never dated Paris Hilton.
He was never involved in an altercation with a belligerent fan outside a club at 4 in the morning. He was never arrested for drunken driving. He did not own an unregistered handgun.
He never claimed he’d been disrespected. He never left his competitors in the dust and then said, ”I didn’t have my A game.” He did not attribute his victories to the glory of his personal Savior.
Isiah Thomas never tried to trade for him.
He was never a presenter at the ESPYs.
He never claimed he was misquoted in his autobiography. He never confessed to a double murder in the subjunctive tense.
He trained, ate and slept. He ran his races, gave his best effort, accepted plaudits graciously, went back to his stall and prepared to do it again the next time out.
He never fathered multiple offspring out of wedlock. Alas.
Thank you Mr. Neuman for pointing out some of the greatness in our sport.
Source: www.equidaily.com
Why We Mourn Barbaro
By JEFF NEUMAN
Published: February 1, 2007
HE never talked about himself in the third person.
He didn’t trash-talk, taunt or hang on the rim.
Down the stretch of the Kentucky Derby, he didn’t turn and point at Bluegrass Cat, and he didn’t somersault over the finish line. After crossing the line, he didn’t pull out a Sharpie and autograph his saddle for his business manager.
He never referred to his handlers as “my supporting cast.”
He never tried to renegotiate his contract. He never turned down an eight-figure offer by saying, “I’ve got a family to feed, man.”
His only tattoo was discreetly hidden.
He did no commercials for cellphone plans, credit cards, fast food chains or time shares.
He never had his agent issue a statement in which he apologized “if anybody took my actions the wrong way.”
He never appeared before a Congressional committee and lied about his steroid use.
He never dated Paris Hilton.
He was never involved in an altercation with a belligerent fan outside a club at 4 in the morning. He was never arrested for drunken driving. He did not own an unregistered handgun.
He never claimed he’d been disrespected. He never left his competitors in the dust and then said, ”I didn’t have my A game.” He did not attribute his victories to the glory of his personal Savior.
Isiah Thomas never tried to trade for him.
He was never a presenter at the ESPYs.
He never claimed he was misquoted in his autobiography. He never confessed to a double murder in the subjunctive tense.
He trained, ate and slept. He ran his races, gave his best effort, accepted plaudits graciously, went back to his stall and prepared to do it again the next time out.
He never fathered multiple offspring out of wedlock. Alas.
Thank you Mr. Neuman for pointing out some of the greatness in our sport.
Source: www.equidaily.com
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