by Steve Byk
first published on November 23, 2003

When identifying potential Derby winners, we always like to look for “Mrs. Genter”. You know, Carl Nafzger describing to Unbridled’s dowager owner, “Mrs. Genter, you’ve won the Kentucky Derby!” The story… The hook. There’s always a great backstory to the winner of the rose blanket, and in 1990 it was the 80-something Francis finally finding Derby glory after 6 decades in the game. Last year it was our NY-bred gelding and his “regular guy” owners and crusty trainer. Next year, it may very well be a horse that was bought with the proceeds of 10 million doughnuts.

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by Steve Byk
first published on June 17, 2003 

Sunday’s feature at depressing Philadelphia Park was an ungraded stake offering a modest $37,700 purse. Maiden Specials and NY-bred allowances go for more in the 4th at Belmont, Aqueduct and Saratoga all year long. But at Philly Park, it was the day’s highlight. The 6f handicap for 3 year olds and up ended in a thrilling blanket finish taken by 7 year old Night Caller in a solid 1:09.1. The win for the son of Phone Trick was worth $22,260 for trainer John McCaslin, jockey Orlando Bocachica and owners E & G Stables.

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by Steve Byk
first published on May 8, 2003

We arrived back in Saratoga Wednesday afternoon after an overnight drive from Chicago, still exhilarated from an incredible Derby week in Louisville. While drained from an emotionally wrenching six days of frenetic and implausable activity and outcomes, we are anxious to relate some of the most memorable moments and images of Derby 129 to you…

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by Steve Byk
first published on May 1, 2003 

I have a short time available to get this to you, but here’s a quick view as we move to within 48 hours of the 129th Running of the Kentucky Derby..

From the rail..

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by Steve Byk
first published on April 24, 2003 

Horseplayers use all kinds of formulas to select winners. The potential for computations using speed figures, track variants, pace, and whatnot is unending. When picking the Derby, trackgoers reach down especially deep in their handicapping bag of tricks. But certain basics remain a constant, and we’ve come up with a formula to get a snapshot of the “playability” of the contenders…
(Form + Pedigree) / (Logic x Gut Feel) – Value = Derby Picks!!

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