November 3, 2011

Breeders' Cup - Racing's Greatest Day

Most novice fans of horse racing would scoff at the notion of a day greater than the hallowed Kentucky Derby Saturday. But insiders know that the Breeders' Cup is the day that brings together the best of the best across North America and Europe. While many are debating whether Havre de Grace can best the boys in the Classic finale on Saturday, to me this year's edition begins and ends with one name... GOLDIKOVA.

I still get goose-bumps when thinking of seeing the blue-white silks on Olivier Peslier's back flash wide on the far turn from my railbird position at last year's Turf Mile, also at Churchill Downs. She went on to win that race for the third consecutive year and was even brought back for an unfathomable "four-peat" (sorry Pat Riley but I didn't use "your" word!). In my opinion, this would be a record that will stand longer than the triple crown drought if she were to accomplish this feat. Even if not, props to the owners for allowing her to continue racing into her prime years.

My SRS partners and I will be watching this weekend with anticipation that perhaps one of our stable runners (Posse's Starlet, Herbert Hughes) can make the starting gate next year at Santa Anita. But until then, my excitement will be channeled through my good friend Clay's hope - Dayatthespa - in the Juvenile Fillies Turf. Bring her home, Clay!!

For those interested, I will be passing along a few hunch bets on Saturday through my Twitter account @DerbyTalk.

Let's get out there and cash some tickets!!!