by Steve Byk
first published on July 17, 2007
The retirement of equine heroes always marks a milestone of some kind for horseplayers and horse lovers alike. Whether the runner in question grabbed the admirer with flashy good looks or with pleasurable recall of mutuel window euphoria, the end of a career invariably produces a flood of memories or mental snapshots of particular moments.
by Steve Byk
first published on June 7, 2004
In evaluating Smarty Jones’ failed attempt at a Triple Crown sweep Saturday at Belmont, we were reminded of the effective Walgreen’s drugstore advertisements that explain that none of us live in the town of “Perfect”.
by Steve Byk
first published on May 20, 2004
With the Belmont Stakes looming as a final hurdle for Smarty Jones in his quest for the Triple Crown, talk of his breeding requires closer examination with the topic sure to be covered extensively over the next two weeks by the media. The colt is so obviously special, the type that enters the galaxy of racing on timetables like comets, with a multitude of contributions in his pedigree to account for his speed, tenacity and seemingly endless stamina. Though not a breeding expert, there are a number of things to impart in a discussion of his lineage on the dam side that may help everyone understand “how” Smarty Jones is able to do what he’s doing so effortlessly.
by Steve Byk
first published on January 31, 2004
If hard work and personal fortitude were the sole criteria for glory in thoroughbred racing, Don Cain would likely have a champion in his sophomore colt Revolver Six. Cain, a self-made success in the Kentucky coal business, drew into Saturday’s WEBN Stakes at Turfway with his homebred son of Fort Chaffee and is just hoping for the best with the maiden.
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.
