Happy Tuesday!
We added new portraits of Zenyatta’s boys to the Zenyatta Shop today.
Additionally, “The Queen’s Dance” Poster by Jamie Corum is back!
Along with this update we’re offering a promotion on all small prints. Customers who order at least one large print or poster are eligible for a 50% discount on small prints. Enter promo code SMALLPRINT at checkout.
Enjoy!
-Team Z
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Judy Goodnight God Bless You, Lola Mae, Charlie and all the Sweeties. The mighty Sea The Stars sired his first group winner Miss Titania today in Ireland. Love and hugs Sheena
Max
Sheena. Wonderful news. Sea The Stars, a great horse in his own right, is Galileo’s brother. Their mother Urban Sea won the Arc. Fabulous equine family. JudyB will be happy to know that Danzig is in his pedigree.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Sheena and Max:
Congrats to Titania and Sea The Stars. Love that Danzig connection. Love and Hugs, JB
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Max Sea The Stars was an incredible horse. Always felt he wasn’t given enough credit for his exploits.It was a marvellous feat of training by John Oxx to keep him in tip-top condition from the 2000 guineas in april to the Arc in October. Let’s hope all the little Starlings do well!! hugs Sheena
Max
Sheena. Agree. That is a feat in itself. Nijinsky as you know failed at the Arc. They say that winning the TC that year, especially the St. Leger, took too much out of him. He was also ill for most of that summer. Frankel is almost a carbon copy of Nijinsky in appearance, very regal looking horses. Nijinsky took after his mother, Flaming Page in looks and character, although Northern Dancer was not docile either.
Bluegrass Girl
Terry, Departing who finished 4th is number 6 on the dollars list in winnings.
He ran in the Preakness. Since then, he has only run in Grade 2 races.
His earnings: $1.3 million. Interesting.
FYI-the trainer Robertino Diodoro also trains Mr. Bossy Pants. BGG
Broadway Empire Upsets Departing in OK Derby
By Tom LaMarra, The Blood-Horse Updated: Sunday, September 29, 2013 9:36 PM
Broadway Empire, a Turf Paradise-based gelding who shipped to Oklahoma after back-to-back wins in Alberta, Canada, grabbed the early lead and never looked back en route to victory in the $400,000 Oklahoma Derby (VIDEO) at Remington Park Sept. 29.
Those left in his wake included 3-10 favorite Departing, who made his usual move entering the far turn but came under a ride and flattened out late to finish fourth. Departing had won the Super Derby and West Virginia Derby (both gr. II) this summer.
Excerpt
A Kentucky foal by Empire Maker out of the Belong to Me mare Broadway Hoofer, Broadway Empire was bred by Mercedes Stables. He is trained by Robertino Diodoro and was ridden by Rico Walcott, who is now 3-for-3 aboard the gelding.
Read more on BloodHorse.com: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/80984/broadway-empire-upsets-departing-in-ok-derby
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear BGG:
Wow, congrats to Broadway Empire. Thanks for all the great links. Hugs, JB
Terry Crow
BGG-It appears to me that the connections of Departing are using him like a hired gun, participating in big races at small tracks where the competition is weak. He has earned a lot of money, but I would not consider him to be even in the top 10 three-year-olds. Who has he ever beat? Just another reason not to use money earnings to measure the greatness of a horse.
judy berube from Rhode Island
Dear Mama Z, COZ, Red Prince and Baby Z:
Goodnight. Sweet Dreams. Love you all so much. Hugs, JB
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Does anyone know when the post position draw will be held this week for the Arc. If anyone finds out please post here. Will it be as late as Friday?
Ann Maree / Tennessee
Peggy, here are the early possible entries…post positions likely will be available at the same link later in the week. Hope this helps! http://www.racingpost.com/horses2/cards/card.sd?race_id=583120&r_date=2013-10-06#raceTabs=lc_
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Go Orfevre……………………………..Many prayers said for all of your safety
I’m so hoping you get a good post position this year. And, listen stay away from Blarney Stone. OK
Bluegrass Girl
Racing Social tweet on Monday Sept. 30
Six days until the World’s third richest turf race the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in Longchamp France (Sunday) and last year’s second place-finisher the Japanese galloper Orfevre is holding favouritism ($3.50) off his dominant victory in the Qatar Prix Foy.
Bluegrass Girl
Peggy,
Here is an excellent analysis which you might like to read.
Timeform on 26 Sept
Matt Gardner has previewed the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.
Find out who he thinks will win the big race
http://www.timeform.com/display_articles.asp?page=join_Feature.asp
Hugs, Keta
Donna H
Absolutely wonderful looking boys!!!
Shannon From Cool
Yesterday, the Zenyatta Stakes at Santa Anita made me miss our dear Queen Zenyatta all the more.
HeidiK, Vallejo,Ca (bride to be)
I am so sore from all the dancing in the heals. However, I uploaded some pics to my fb page. Here’s the link.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10201876017812478&set=t.100000972726130&type=3&theater
Sue Fredrick Happy as a lark
Heidi,
Congratulations to you both!! I can’t pull up your pics, keeps saying unavailable, but if your feet hurt you must have had a great time. Best wishes and hugs
Bluegrass Girl
Heidi
Beautiful!! Congratulations!
Hugs, Keta
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
I can’t get them either Heidi, but I’m glad you had what sounds like a great day!
HeidiK, Vallejo,Ca (bride to be)
Yes, it was a beautiful day!! I don’t know why you can’t access the pics. Maybe, I’ll upload some on the forum side, a lil later?
Janet Newman
I could not see them either. I think your privacy settings which are important, do not allow those not your FB friends to view them.
I am glad you had a great day.
Sue FLCPRC
Very nice it must have been wonderful.
love Sue
Lisag In Texas
I will have to go to FB, won’t let me get there from here, (at work). Cannot wait to see them. Lisag
Lisag In Texas
I will have to go to FB to enjoy them, at work now and FB is restricted. Cannot wait to see them. Lisag
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear Max and Sandy Have ordered Hovis’ book!!!yay!!!Hugs Sheena
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
YAY indeed Sheena. I know you will enjoy it – which one did you get? I’m still working on the second one, and need to say THANKS to MAX for the info (now several pages back) that Bransby Rescue WILL ship to the US. I was pretty peeved with Horse & Hound (who sent very polite emails, but nothing doing!).
Max
Sheena and Sandy. I ordered both as gifts. The delivery choices are UK, Europe and the Rest of the World. Being in the ROTW all this time without even realizing it until now may mean that delivery could take time. Let us know when your book arrives, Sheena.
Eileen
Does anyone know if the shop is ever going to add T shirts and sweatshirts in its inventory?
Sue FLCPRC
I got a tee last year around Christmas. Maybe they will add them back :)
Sue
Bluegrass Girl
ST NICHOLAS ABBEY UPDATE Coolmore Stud on Mon. Sept 30
St Nicholas Abbey update – The surgeons at Fethard Equine Hospital couldn’t be happier with St Nicholas Abbey’s progress to date
Recently fitted with a lighter and less restrictive cast, he is more mobile and is putting more confident weight on the injured leg
St Nicholas Abbey’s appetite is good and he continues to gain weight. His blood work remains stable and his medication has been much reduced
Janet Newman
This is very good news. Continue prayers for his recovery.
Sue Fredrick Happy as a lark
Great news, he’s going to be another miracle boy if this continues.
Max
Relieved to hear this news about Nick. It was a tough time for him, but he had great care and the right attitude. Power up Nick.
Marshall (NC broad)
Thanks so much for the update! Had wondered about St. Nicholas Abbey and how he was progressing. So happy to hear positive reports. Will continue to keep him in my prayers for healing. St. Francis, please keep watch over him, and keep him safe.
Power up, SNA! Hugs
Bluegrass Girl
Dumplings & Z-sters,
I have been hiding in plain sight-as so many of you know.It was necessary.
The Blog has been a quiet safe place for several months.
So, I will be staying under the name Bluegrass Girl-a salute to my roots.
I will be signing Comments as Keta And, feel free to use Keta.
Thank you each and all for your loving support
Hugs, Keta
Sue FLCPRC
Very good glad all is well :)
Sue
Janet Newman
However you want, will support your choice.
Lisag In Texas
I think the whole thing is a shame, but you gotta do what you gotta do, Keta.
Terry Crow
Sign-We know this is really you. Keta would never hide.
Randy
Keta/BGG – Have always loved reading your informative posts no matter what name you use.
Terry – Once again you’ve started my morning by making me laugh… thank you!
Sue Fredrick Happy as a lark
For those interested Skip Over Troubles new rescue had her vet exam today and besides needing her teeth floated results were good. There are new pics on the website of her getting a bath (which are pretty hard to take) but she is doing quite well so far………bless her heart. Still can’t believe this little girl can walk but she must have a will to live and a lot of spunk. Check is out if you care to. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Skip-Over-Trouble-Equine-Rescue/167144120104168
Janet Newman
Poor girl. I had trouble with Paypal, so I sent a donation via snail mail.
Maryp NY
A – OK. All is well.
Max
BGG. Having a nom de guerre or plume is always a nice touch. I’m also enjoying the peace and hope that it continues. Love your posts.
Janet Newman
Terry, Judy, and others who posted on the previous page.
I knew I was not the only one thinking that the Kentucky Derby being linked with Yum just sounded stupid. I have a hard time watching the college bowl games since they have been linked with Dorito’s and so on. I have not watched one in a while, but I suppose the players will have the company logos somewhere on their uniforms.
I grew up in southwestern PA and when they replaced the name of the Civic Arena to Mellon Arena and have since torn that down and built Consol Energy Center. Just made me grit my teeth.
I am getting old!
Barbara Wood (Texas)
I know what you mean, Janet. We don’t like it either. Many banks and doctors’ offices here have taken over buildings formerly owned by grocery stores and other businesses–so much so that we now refer to the Safeway cardioiogy office, etc., the Western Sizzlin’ Bank, etc…..
Terry Crow
i would never buy a product because of a commercial, especially if a celebrity is involved, but I will NOT buy a product because of a commercial or celebrity endorsement. I agree, Janet. I now intentionally do not buy Doritos. Besides, if the company was not paying an outrageous fee for such an endorsement, it could lower the price of its product. In fact, all advertising should cease and prices lowered accordingly.
Barbara Wood (Texas)
TC, GP–and especially the drug advertisements during the dinner hour!
Bluegrass Girl
Terry said:Debbie-I missed the results. Who did Kentucky lose to in football this week?
Terry & Debbie,
KY plays tonight. What are the chances of beating Alabama? Hugs, Keta
John Clay tweet on Mon. Sept. 30
Kentucky-Alabama will be a 7 p.m. kickoff on ESPN2.
Bet the horses during the day, watch football at night.
October as it was meant to be.
Terry Crow
The good thing about Kentucky playing on Monday Night Football, or should I say football on Monday night, is that most football fans will be watching The Saints playing the Dolphins. Surely the Gods of college football could come up with a better game than this on a Monday night. Kentucky playing Alabama? Don’t let the kids watch.
Bluegrass Girl
Belmont Park notes: Princess of Sylmar unlikely to run again this year
By David Grening Daily Racing Form 09/29/2013 3:16PM
ELMONT, N.Y. – Though no decision has been made, Princess of Sylmar most likely will not run again this year but will be pointed to a 2014 campaign, her owner said Sunday
On Saturday at Belmont Park, Princess of Sylmar upset two-time champion Royal Delta in the Grade 1 Beldame Invitational, becoming the first 3-year-old filly to win that race since Imperial Gesture in 2002. It was the sixth win from seven starts and the fourth Grade 1 victory this year for Princess of Sylmar, who also won the Kentucky Oaks, Coaching Club American Oaks, and Alabama
Ed Stanco, the owner of Princess of Sylmar, would have to supplement his filly to the Breeders’ Cup Distaff for a fee of $100,000. But that is not playing a role in the decision, he said. Stanco added that he had no plans to consider running her against males in the Classic.
http://www.drf.com/news/belmont-park-notes-princess-sylmar-unlikely-run-again-year
Terry Crow
Princess of Sylmar has had a great year but the fact that the owner felt compelled to mention that he is not planning to run her in the BCC was not needed. She would have little or no chance to defeat older males in that race. She is no Zenyatta.
Bluegrass Girl
For shirlee & all MMM fans–a Must Read
Mucho Macho Man has class for fairytale ending
By Sam Walker RacingPost.com 30 SEP 2013
WHEN he was born he lay still and silent on the turf. The lifeless body was three weeks overdue and his carers could do nothing but rub and pray, rub and pray. In the end they stopped rubbing and just prayed.
In the same state, 300 miles to the south, Kathy Ritvo was in a bad way. Hooked up to a intravenous machine that kept her failing heart functioning, she would spend a further five months in the critical care unit before a donor could be found.
http://www.racingpost.com/news/horse-racing/kathy-ritvo-world-class-mucho-macho-man-has-class-for-fairytale-ending/1539126/international/#newsArchiveTabs=last7DaysNews
Favorite quote from the article:
Sometimes the best horse in a race also has the best story.
These are the results we remember; those which feed our emotional and sporting appetites in one glorious sitting.
Terry Crow
I agree with just about all of the handicapping angles in this article. I also agree that MMM has a huge shot to win the BCC classic. Regardless of who you might be rooting for, if MMM wins the BCC this, to quote Bogart in the Maltese Falcon, is the stuff that dreams are made of. When the movie comes out, I will be in line.
Peggy (N) South Georgia
Dear BGG
Loved reading this. Thank You
casey
JOYFUL VICTORY has been retired. She will be offered at the November Select Sale.
Fox Hill Farm:
FROM RICK PORTER: JOYFUL VICTORY RETIRED
I have decided that Joyful Victory has done all and more than Larry Jones and I have asked of her during the last four years. I have been very proud to race Joyful Victory in the red and white silks of Fox Hill Farm but it is time for her to begin her career in the breeding shed. She will fit right in with any of the top broodmare bands worldwide. She is by the top sire, Tapit and is his leading earner in 2013 and 5th leading lifetime earner. She ticks all the boxes to be a successful broodmare. I went to Santa Anita yesterday hoping to see her win her last career start but it was not to be. At least I was able to witness her final race. Joyful Victory won or hit the board in 12 of her 16 starts in graded stakes. She raced at 10 different tracks. She retires with a record of 20-7-5-4 and was a millionaire with earnings of $1,252,679. She has been entered in the Fasig-Tipton November Select Sale and will be consigned by Taylor Made Sales Agency. I sure will miss watching this gorgeous gray mare race at the top of the sport.
Sandy (Northeast Ohio)
I was really hoping to see her run – she was one of very few in my virtual stable. Best wishes for her new career – hope somebody wonderful buys her in November.
sheena.davies(wales)
Dear BGG Thanks for the update on St Nick’s Abbey. Such good news for this lovely horse.Hugs Sheena
@Sue Fredrick What a brave little girl! she certainly has plenty of spunk. God bless her on her long road to full health.It makes me sick to think of humans being so cruel.Hugs Sheena
Bluegrass Girl
NEW BLOG Alert
COZ GOES TO TRAINING!!\