by Steve Byk
first published on November 2, 2006
Below are my final selections for BC XXIII.. My owns plays may vary somewhat based on the oddsboard, but the basic framework of my view of the day should be the core of the wagering.. Good luck! Enjoy the day…
by Steve Byk
first published on October 10, 2006
GREENWICH, NY – While the results of the Breeders’ Cup prep weekends continue to offer glimpses of the horses we will get to see at Churchill Downs on the first Saturday of November, it’s hard to call what we’re witnessing great racing. More and more, and aside from the 20 horse Kentucky Derby and full field Breeders’ Cup events, racing fans are now ‘treated’ in major stakes to what can only be called “performances”. These demonstrations of prowess versus watered-down competition, pale in comparison to actual renewals of the kinds of contests that produced high drama and stalwart efforts from great champions for decades.
by Steve Byk
first published on July 24, 2006
The arrival of Saratoga on the racing calendar is always highly anticipated, but no more so than here in the “foothills of the Adirondacks”. Forty six weeks of the year is dedicated to awaiting Opening Day at the Spa; in many of our minds a justification for living through Upstate New York winters. While for many a trip to Saratoga is a special yearly pilgrimage, for me personally, 2006 is especially evocative.
by Steve Byk
first published on June 25, 2006
The aftermath of the 2006 Triple Crown has produced a flood of debate. Heated exchanges among pundits, industry types and fans alike have poured over the difficulty of sweeping the Classics, the toll it takes on our three year olds and the merits of the trio’s scheduling and distances.
by Steve Byk
first published on May 22, 2006
Saturday’s horrific circumstances have affected race fans and non-fans alike and produced a flood of comments. Experts are debating the “quality of the breed”, the Triple Crown schedule and the specific circumstances of Barbaro’s travail. While I understand the general sentiments being expressed by people like Pat Forde, who called for Polytrack installation at all ovals, there are several elements to his piece (available at ESPN.com) that are contradictory and knee-jerk reactionary.
