by Steve Byk
first published on December 7, 2008

Few areas bridging on-track competition and the pari-mutuel wagering process generate greater consternation from fan and runner connections than the mercurial modus operandi of the stewards. On a daily basis, the arbiters in the judge’s stand hand down decisions that regularly show little consistency, uniformity or logic in application. The resultant frustrations, and frequent lack of recourse for all impacted by the decisions, contributes mightily to the ills that dog racing.

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by Steve Byk
first published on October 23, 2008

25th BREEDERS’ CUP — OAK TREE AT SANTA ANITA

DAY 1 (10/24)

3rd: BC Filly & Mare Sprint, F&M-3+, 7f (P6, P3, DD, Super)

Even with anticipated scratch of Indyanne, the pace of this affair appears hotter than a typical seven-eighths event. Stalkers/Closers should have the set up they look for. While Indian Blessing is surely the horse to beat after brilliant managed campaign, Ventura and Zaftig are coming up to this on pitch and should make this one of the weekend’s most exciting races. 

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by Steve Byk
first published on September 26, 2008

The closing of Yankee Stadium, as well as that of Shea Stadium and the next impending incantation of Madison Square Garden, will indelibly change the landscape of iconic sports venues in the Metropolitan area. My first experience at the “Stadium” came November 17, 1968 when my father took me to see our beloved Philadelphia Eagles play the New York Football Giants for my 9th birthday. 

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by Steve Byk
first published on July 22, 2008

Saratoga is here, and there are few times of the year more enjoyable to those of us that find thoroughbred racing to be the best past time available. The magic of the venue, nearly a century and a half old, is difficult to convey to anyone that has yet to visit, but its’ charms intoxicate virtually all that pass through. At 48, I myself am immersed in a fifth decade of Saratoga sojourns.

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by Steve Byk
first published on June 4, 2008

With excitement building daily towards Big Brown’s attempt to become the 12th winner of thoroughbred racing’s Triple Crown, an opportunity to cherish the task’s enormity is offered through an examination of the list of history’s great horses that failed in their attempts to sweep the sophomore Classics.

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