August Stable Interview: Firestone Racing
Aug 1, 2015 3:02:07 GMT -5
S u N f r O s t ~ and Cruisey like this
Post by Isabelle on Aug 1, 2015 3:02:07 GMT -5
AUGUST 2015 STABLE INTERVIEW WITH FIRESTONE RACING (CRUISEY)[/u][/i]
In this very first issue of the Stable Interviews, I (Isabelle of North Diamond Manor), got an exclusive on Firestone Racing (hosted by Cruisey). With absentee owners, FR is managed by the head trainer Carter Leeson, who gave me an amazing inside look at this well established stable. With top racing contenders and a growing breeding program, FR is on the fast track in the GHF/TW Thoroughbred racing world. I was privileged to get to share a day with the stars of FR, it will not be one I will soon forget! Please feel free to give comments and questions at the end of the article, I will be sure to pass them on to Mr. Lesson to respond to.
Isabelle: I'm so pleased to meet you Mr. Leeson, and I'm looking forward to our interview all about Firestone Racing! Before we take a tour, may I ask you a few questions about the stable? When was FR established, and on what principles has it been founded?
Carter Leeson: It’s a pleasure meeting you too! Well, Firestone Racing was established not by me, but by Kiana and Ryan Reiner in 2014. Before I was hired, the barn used to be called Xenia Racing Stables in 2009 or 2010, but was soon shut down due to financial difficulties. I can’t say much for Xenia, but Firestone really focuses on letting the horse do their own thing, and really forming a bond between each rider and horse so that we can achieve maximum training and racing results.
Isabelle: Will you tell me a little bit about the first day you began your employment at FR? How did you feel, what were your favorite moments, what lasts in your mind? Who were the first horses you trained?
CL: Ah, the first day of employment. When I first got the job, Firestone really only had three horses which made my job relatively easy. I remember going to pick up Devil’s Blessing, and I wasn’t really sure what I had gotten myself into. At that point, my first three horses were Cian, Speak Easy, and Inferno. I knew from the moment I saw Speak Easy that that horse would do something great, despite him looking like he wants to fall asleep half the time! I will definitely remember the first workout I had ever planned with those three; each one of them blew me away in some way or another!
Isabelle: What does FR focus on, any particular surface, furlong lengths, or bloodlines? Besides winning of course, what sort of objectives and goals do you have?
CL: At first, I believe I had goals to focus on the turf track, mainly milers was all that we had. Bloodlines were never an important issue to us, they were just a bonus! We have had many horses prove themselves with little to no information on their background, which really tells you that sometimes bloodlines don’t even come into play! Now, we have anything and everything across the board, which makes it fun…sometimes –laughs-. My main objective for the horses of Firestone is to let them really find their stride themselves, whether it be distance wise or surface wise. Honestly, I’d be lying if I say winning doesn’t matter, because it does, but sometimes I have to understand that not all horses are going to win, and that’s okay because there is always another career for them somewhere else.
Isabelle: That is a wonderful point, every life is worthwhile in some way. It's very refreshing to find someone willing to let go and find that place rather than destroy a life. Please explain the basic roster you hold, do you like to campaign racers for a few years or hold them on longer? Do you prefer racing or breeding more, and what are your future plans for bloodline stock?
CL: Since we are a fairly new barn, we usually campaign our two year olds right at the start so that they have a chance at breaking their maiden early on; if they don’t then we wait and see until the maiden races are smaller and easier to handle. Most of our stock race till the age of five years old; unless they have really proven something then maybe they will retire at age four. For example, Silver Serendipity will be retiring at the end of Year Fifteen, and she is only four years old, but Aquatic Addiction will be retiring as a five year old. It all depends on how much they raced as two and three year olds; how much experience they have really. Personally, I prefer racing more, but the breeding is up to Jenna Stafford and our jockey Johnny. I think their plans are to breed more within the barn, and to start up newer lines. We do have a few reserves to outside horses which we plan to use, but the main focus is to start up new lines.
Isabelle: In what areas does your staff shine, are they any you would like recognize? How long have you worked with them, are you looking to expand your staff?
CL: Jenna Stafford does a phenomenal job with the youngsters over at Firestone Stud, and although she is a very recent hire, we can’t be happier that she’s joined the Firestone team. Honestly all of our jockeys are amazing, they each have their own unique way of dealing with the horses and it’s great that they all work together. Talia has been with us the longest, as well as Sammie and Johnny. Devon and James came in when we started to get more horses that the original three couldn’t handle with their already-busy schedule. Eventually we will need to expand when we have the yearlings come in for training, but as of now everything is flowing pretty nicely.
Isabelle: What would you consider the greatest assets of FR in terms of staff, training, facilities and general operations, not including the horses?
CL: It definitely helps having your own track to practice on if you don’t want to trailer over to The Wire or Green Horse Fields. It’s really great that Kiana and Ryan have supplied us with great facilities, including the Equivibe recovery treatment which is amazing for post-race recovery off of an injury or just general massaging. All of the staff, including grooms and stable hands, work together and efficiently to help things run smoother. I, for one, am thankful for them otherwise I would probably be bald by now! –laughs-. I’d say we’re pretty organized; I’d like to call myself a neat-freak and very organized, which could get annoying but it works!
Isabelle: Oh gosh, you're talking to the queen of organization here, no annoyance judgments to be passed. What makes you passionate about FR, what keeps you here year after year? What drives you in your career and how does FR support that?
CL: I absolutely love my job, I’m blessed that I’ve been given the opportunity to work with such amazing animals that try so hard to please their riders or owners. I’ve said it before but everyone is so welcoming and genuinely happy to see you every morning, they’re all so passionate about the horses and want to see them do well. It’s really touching to see an animal loved so much and not just seen as a money-maker. Sure, there are definitely ups and downs, but that is how life goes. I don’t think I’d ever leave this place, I love it too much!
Isabelle: Well I think I can speak on behalf of many stables around here that we would very sorry to see you go. Has FR won any stable awards? Do you have any HOF or BHOF horses residing with you? If so, where they ones you campaigned or did you acquire them once their status was already established?
CL: –chuckles- No, we have not and do not, but we are certainly working on it! We do, however, have many descendants and ancestors of HOF/BHOF lineage, who of which we are hoping to follow in their footsteps. We do have multiple grade one winners, though!
Isabelle: I'd love to get a tour of the stables now, would you be willing to take me through the older racehorse barn first? Tell me about your stars, the ones who will be going to breeding in the next year or so. Which should be watched in particular and why?
CL: Of course, let’s go get started. Some of them may be turned out, but for now I’ll show you whose inside. Here we have Arlequinn, the 5yo son of Memorial’s Blaze x Dynasty.
Isabelle: Oooh! A Dynasty baby! -takes a moment to coo over first son of her favorite horse in the entire world- I recently acquired his dam . . . sorry. -clears throat and backs up a few centimeters, still ogling Dynasty baby-
CL: He’s being retired at the end of Y15, however we were thinking before of retiring him earlier, seeing as there was hardly any races to fit him. He’s surprised us this year, honestly, and is only one win away from Grade Two.
Isabelle: Good, good boy Arlequinn . . -coos some more and sneaks him some sugar cubes when Carter isn't looking, then gives him a kiss on the nose and scampers up behind Carter once more-
CL: Beside him is Lost In Memories, who is one of our unusually coloured horses. She is actually related to Arlequinn through her sire. We have plans to race her next year, then she will be retiring. Beside her is Ghost Rider (cue Gia neighing at the top of her lungs), and you can tell she’s not the most quiet one here. Silver Serendipity is beside her, but she is outside enjoying some sun right now. She will be retiring this year as a grade one. I do think she will be one to watch out for in the breeding shed, she could throw some nice sprinting foals in the future. I think she’s a tough contender for the BC Turf Sprint this year; she is not one to take lightly. Coco Cabana seems to be outside as well, but he is just across the aisle from her. He will be racing another year, and I really think next year he will finally hit a consistent stride. Coco’s a tough horse, and definitely not one to give up on so easily. Across from him is White Rose, who will also be racing another year. This year is her year for us to get to know her, so it’s been a bit slow for her. Next year though she could be one to watch out for. Beside Coco is our beloved Aquatic Addiction. (Carter pets the huge stallion, smiling) He’s definitely one of my favourite older horses; he’s absolutely phenomenal! He’ll be retiring this year and is definitely a major threat for the BC Sprint.
Isabelle: -makes mental note to check up on Silver Serendipity and Aquatic Addiction for future sprinting baby options-
CL: Sophie’s Voice is beside him, who will also be retiring. They will actually be having a baby together, but shh don’t tell them yet –winks-.
Isabelle: -plans super secret baby shower to blow surprise tomororw-
CL: She’s come far this season and I can’t wait to see her perform in the F&M Sprint. In the last two stalls here are Devil’s Blessing and Inferno, although Inferno seems to be out now. They were actually on lease to another farm but those farms shut down sooner than I had anticipated, so they will continue to race until next year. Inferno’s been great since his injury, and he’s definitely on a roll. Devil’s Blessing is taking things day by day, but he’s in top shape and ready to win!
Isabelle: Now for the three year olds, do you have a favorite for this year? I personally have a little soft spot for Speak Easy and his blazing win in the Kentucky Derby this year. I'd love some sneak peek tid-bits about him if you're willing to dish.
CL: (Carter laughs) I definitely have to agree with you there. Sonny is an amazing horse, and one of my first so I can’t deny that soft spot for this bag of lazy bones. (Cue Sonny snoring because he’s sleeping in his stall) Well, as you can see, Sonny loves his sleep. He would probably sleep all day if he could, but that doesn’t hinder his amazing talent. He has an itchy spot right below his left ear, and when you scratch it his lip flaps and he just goes to heaven! I also really love Siren Call, who is just down the aisle. She’s a feisty little girl and really fun to train. I think she could really take the Triple Sprinter Tiara this year; she really deserves it. Beside Sonny is Dark Maiden; she may be small but she’s coming along nicely. She’s a bit slower developing than the rest of the classic string, but we are just giving her the time she needs. Whispering Melody is outside, but she’s normally beside Mai. We recently found out that her dam was a better turf runner, and was actually dual surfaced, so we are switching her to the turf to see how she does there. Refute is beside her, and he’s definitely been picking up his game. I’m excited to see how the rest of the season goes for him to see if he can pick up a HOTY race soon. Flashing The Declaration is also outside, but he’s really doing a lot better than his juvenile season. He really enjoys undercard races, so I think that’s where we will be keeping him. Vetanda is in the same boat, and is stabled beside Flasher. He’s a late bloomer too, but that’s okay because he will continue to race and improve. Silent Heart used to be beside Dark Maiden, but she was transferred over to another barn in a sale a while ago. Unfortunately, alongside Devil’s Blessing and Inferno, she was shipped back to us and now races with us once again. Ever since her switch over to the turf she’s been fantastic and we hope she continues to improve.
Isabelle: What are your juveniles up to? Any threats for some of the triple crowns next season? I love how Innerstellar is shaping up this season. I snagged a future breeding reserve to him a while back, and I'd love a few minutes with him and maybe some little inside info?
CL: My juveniles are up to a lot of trouble these days; it’s hard to keep up! Barely Smokin is high strung, but definitely not the worst of the bunch. He’s already gotten three HOTY points this year and I really think he could be a Triple Crown threat next year. Fire Goddess is quite literally on fire this season, she’s almost a win away from Grade Three. She’s doing really well in the undercards, which has set her up nicely for some HOTY wins this year. She could be a threat to the Triple Tiara next year; we’ll see how she matches up with the boys! Hellfire is outside, but she is beside Fancy. She, too, has been doing exceptional this season. We’re not sure which Triple Crown she will be headed to, but it looks like the Canadian Triple Crown from this point onwards! Like A Lady has also been extremely consistent and wonderful, and although not a fun groom, she’s a fun ride according to Sammie and they really work well together. They could really work well in the Turf Triple Crown next year. Scintilla is outside with Hellfire, but man has she ever been consistent. She doesn’t have a lot of wins, but every race has been in the money and/or HOTY graded, and although she really works best at 12F, she’s a major threat to the Turf Triple Tiara next year. Our newest juvenile is Dancing On Nails, and he reminds me of a Red Herring version 2. He’s tough, works hard, and never gives up, and is a total goofball. He’s cost me already over a thousand dollars just on tack and blanket repairs, but he’s an exceptional racer and could be a real threat to the Turf Triple Sprinter Crown next year.
Isabelle: -follows closely behind offering apple slices and sugar cubes to those noses eager to accept-
CL: Ahhh, Innerstellar. I will have to warn you he will probably attack you, he’s not the friendliest horse (chuckles).
Isabelle: -keeps distance and tosses treats from afar-
CL: He’s definitely a hard worker on the track, and his hotness sometimes pays off. Though he can be the biggest arsehole, I have the scars to prove it, his race ethic is great, and definitely will get him far whether it be the Breeder’s Cup or the Triple Sprinter Crown. He is certainly a big ball of aggressive energy that only Devon can tap into…God knows I’ve tried but failed! I have no doubts about any of my juveniles, they’re all so special!
Isabelle: Can you select a favorite yearling and weanling to bring into the spotlight-I know how hard that can be to choose! I also took notice of Patriot; I recently acquired his sire and am excited to see how he goes for you. Any particular racing style or plan in the works for him?
CL: Oh boy that is going to be a tough one…I like each and every one of them so far! But if I had to choose, I am dying for my Catching Fire baby, Winning Fire, to hit the tracks. If she’s anything like her sister, then she’s set for the rest of her life. I love my Souvenir filly, too. Her name is Enchanting Soldier, and she is definitely going to be a stunner on the tracks. As for weanlings, my favourite definitely has to be Red Hot Secret. He is the first foal out of Red Herring, and I’m really excited to see if he follows in his father’s footsteps.
Isabelle: -coos at baby fuzzy foals and bribes them all with treats and pets and is extremely happy being the center of a sea of pretty babies-
CL: I’m going to give a shout out to Worldbreaker filly, Peacebreaker, because I really think she could be something great. Ah yes, Patriot. I noticed that Everyday Hero was with you guys, and I’m excited as well to see how he does. So far, Pat really seems to be taking to a preceding racing style, whether it is dirt or turf. I think he will be a horse that heavily relies on the rail to make his move, but not too heavily otherwise he could get boxed in. I definitely would like him running and working there so that in the future he could get a real nice feeling of it.
Isabelle: How is your breeding stock filling out over the years, what would you consider to be your foundation FR lines that others might look to for future reserves?
CL: I can definitely say that our breeding stock isn’t as great as some of the other barns in the area. But as our racers retire, they are definitely adding that class and the all-important lineage to produce successful foals. I’d say Tempered Passion is one of our key foundation sires, considering he was one of the first ever studs at Firestone. No Reservations is an integral part of the Firestone foundation lines as well, considering he comes from unknown bloodlines himself and his first foal, Wired, whom of which you own, will be hitting the tracks fairly soon. When that boy hits the track, and does well for certain, Firestone will be glad that we have No Reservations as a foundation.
Isabelle: We are super excited for Wired, out of my baby Dynasty. -preens- I think it's a super charged match, that colt is always sprinting everywhere already. Is there a certain special horse around here that perhaps hasn't won major races or bred exceptional foals necessarily, but holds a special place for you or FR?
CL: I do know one horse that Kiana has had in her heart, and that would be Terror Smile. She bought her overseas in 2009, completely unbroken and unraced, with no information on her background. Unfortunately she went through some hard times that forced her to separate from the mare, causing Smiles to be sold to another farm while she sorted her life out. Luckily for her, when she returned from her hiatus Smiles was up for sale as a broodmare prospect. It was great to see them reunited after so many years, and Kiana was lucky she had found the mare when she did. As for myself, I have a little soft spot for Silent Heart. She’s such an attractive little filly with a huge heart, and although her race record isn’t something like Sun King’s, she’s a real trooper and has been through some slumps.
Isabelle: Please let us know which horse has made the greatest contribution to FR and why.
CL: Honestly, I probably couldn’t choose. But, I would like to give a sincere thanks to Ripley Marsh of Witch Creek Stables for giving us Red Herring. That stallion really helped us get a name going for ourselves, and really gave us a good shot at winning races in our first year as an establishment. Without a doubt he helped me become a better trainer, and who knows where we would be without a big name like Red.
Isabelle: Which horse are you personally the most proud of, and why?
CL: I don’t like to show favouritism, but I am going to succumb to the pressure –laughs-. I am so proud of our little Speak Easy, one of the very first horses we bought. Even from the get-go he was dominating his two year old career against horses with proven bloodlines, more HOTY exposure, and more experience overall. I was so surprised to see him as the favourite for the Breeder’s Cup Juvenile last year, and although he came a very close second, he definitely won that race in my heart. It sounds so cheesy…I know, but it’s true. I would have never imagined one of our horses last year as the favourite for any Breeder’s Cup race; maybe this year but definitely not last. I’m hoping he can do it again this year…surprise me that is. I hate surprises, but this horse gives me the best surprises sometimes and that’s what makes me love him.
Isabelle: Ah! I adore surprises. I'll have to attempt to convert you someday. -wink- What are the plans for the rest of this racing season, any special campaigns or horses being retired before the end of the year?
CL: Well, I don’t want to give out too much information for you –winks-, but most of our HOTY ready three year olds and older horses will be hitting the major HOTY winter races. Siren is due to run in the rest of the Sprinter Triple Tiara, Sonny is hitting whatever HOTY races there are, Demi is running in the Senior Superstars Turf Sprint series, Theo is running the Senior Superstars Dirt Sprint series, and that’s as much as I’ve got planned in terms of Major HOTY. Some of our juveniles will be hitting the Turf Challenge and the Youth Challenge, and the rest you can find in the undercards! No horses will be retired before the end of the year unless we really feel like they need to.
Isabelle: As a longer standing stable around GHF/TW, do you have any suggestions or advice for those older than you, those who are your peers, and those up and coming stables who are just getting into the business?
CL: To be honest I don’t have any advice for those older than me because they are definitely wiser than me! To those getting into the business, just work your butts off regardless of race type or whatever. Your horses will surprise you, and sometimes the winners are the ones you think are the undercards! I’m really bad at giving advice –chuckles-.
Isabelle: Which stable do you admire the most, and why? Do you have any particular business friends that have inspired you or lifelong friendships that have supported you?
CL: I do really enjoy watching both Witch Creek and Intrepid Racing. They’ve been around for a while and really know the tips and tricks around racing – one day I hope Firestone can be as great as they are. I don’t have many friends, which is one of my downfalls, but everyone that is around me and my work has been so supportive and reliable. Not to say I don’t want to meet new people, because I do, but so far the opportunity has not presented itself. Although I do sometimes participate in breeding business with most, if not all, the barns around The Wire and Green Horse Fields. All of the stables around here are really awesome when it comes to leasing, breeding, training, and selling horses within barns. The atmosphere is great!
Isabelle: Well you can certainly add myself and NDM to your list of friends and contacts from now on! Do you have any last comments you'd like to say about yourself, your staff, the horses, or FR itself?
CL: All I have to say is watch out. With our current runners and our future runners, I can guarantee that we will catch you and we will surprise you. I’d like to think our string is getting stronger and stronger as the years go on, and that’s what I love about working here.
Isabelle: Well Mr. Leeson, I sincerely thank you again for allowing me this exclusive access to FR. It was so exciting to hear all about your foundations, your current stars, and the bombshells waiting in the wings for the next few years! I'm glad I've already established some future breeding plans with your stable, perhaps we can collaborate on some more endeavors in the upcoming racing seasons.
In this very first issue of the Stable Interviews, I (Isabelle of North Diamond Manor), got an exclusive on Firestone Racing (hosted by Cruisey). With absentee owners, FR is managed by the head trainer Carter Leeson, who gave me an amazing inside look at this well established stable. With top racing contenders and a growing breeding program, FR is on the fast track in the GHF/TW Thoroughbred racing world. I was privileged to get to share a day with the stars of FR, it will not be one I will soon forget! Please feel free to give comments and questions at the end of the article, I will be sure to pass them on to Mr. Lesson to respond to.
Isabelle: I'm so pleased to meet you Mr. Leeson, and I'm looking forward to our interview all about Firestone Racing! Before we take a tour, may I ask you a few questions about the stable? When was FR established, and on what principles has it been founded?
Carter Leeson: It’s a pleasure meeting you too! Well, Firestone Racing was established not by me, but by Kiana and Ryan Reiner in 2014. Before I was hired, the barn used to be called Xenia Racing Stables in 2009 or 2010, but was soon shut down due to financial difficulties. I can’t say much for Xenia, but Firestone really focuses on letting the horse do their own thing, and really forming a bond between each rider and horse so that we can achieve maximum training and racing results.
Isabelle: Will you tell me a little bit about the first day you began your employment at FR? How did you feel, what were your favorite moments, what lasts in your mind? Who were the first horses you trained?
CL: Ah, the first day of employment. When I first got the job, Firestone really only had three horses which made my job relatively easy. I remember going to pick up Devil’s Blessing, and I wasn’t really sure what I had gotten myself into. At that point, my first three horses were Cian, Speak Easy, and Inferno. I knew from the moment I saw Speak Easy that that horse would do something great, despite him looking like he wants to fall asleep half the time! I will definitely remember the first workout I had ever planned with those three; each one of them blew me away in some way or another!
Isabelle: What does FR focus on, any particular surface, furlong lengths, or bloodlines? Besides winning of course, what sort of objectives and goals do you have?
CL: At first, I believe I had goals to focus on the turf track, mainly milers was all that we had. Bloodlines were never an important issue to us, they were just a bonus! We have had many horses prove themselves with little to no information on their background, which really tells you that sometimes bloodlines don’t even come into play! Now, we have anything and everything across the board, which makes it fun…sometimes –laughs-. My main objective for the horses of Firestone is to let them really find their stride themselves, whether it be distance wise or surface wise. Honestly, I’d be lying if I say winning doesn’t matter, because it does, but sometimes I have to understand that not all horses are going to win, and that’s okay because there is always another career for them somewhere else.
Isabelle: That is a wonderful point, every life is worthwhile in some way. It's very refreshing to find someone willing to let go and find that place rather than destroy a life. Please explain the basic roster you hold, do you like to campaign racers for a few years or hold them on longer? Do you prefer racing or breeding more, and what are your future plans for bloodline stock?
CL: Since we are a fairly new barn, we usually campaign our two year olds right at the start so that they have a chance at breaking their maiden early on; if they don’t then we wait and see until the maiden races are smaller and easier to handle. Most of our stock race till the age of five years old; unless they have really proven something then maybe they will retire at age four. For example, Silver Serendipity will be retiring at the end of Year Fifteen, and she is only four years old, but Aquatic Addiction will be retiring as a five year old. It all depends on how much they raced as two and three year olds; how much experience they have really. Personally, I prefer racing more, but the breeding is up to Jenna Stafford and our jockey Johnny. I think their plans are to breed more within the barn, and to start up newer lines. We do have a few reserves to outside horses which we plan to use, but the main focus is to start up new lines.
Isabelle: In what areas does your staff shine, are they any you would like recognize? How long have you worked with them, are you looking to expand your staff?
CL: Jenna Stafford does a phenomenal job with the youngsters over at Firestone Stud, and although she is a very recent hire, we can’t be happier that she’s joined the Firestone team. Honestly all of our jockeys are amazing, they each have their own unique way of dealing with the horses and it’s great that they all work together. Talia has been with us the longest, as well as Sammie and Johnny. Devon and James came in when we started to get more horses that the original three couldn’t handle with their already-busy schedule. Eventually we will need to expand when we have the yearlings come in for training, but as of now everything is flowing pretty nicely.
Isabelle: What would you consider the greatest assets of FR in terms of staff, training, facilities and general operations, not including the horses?
CL: It definitely helps having your own track to practice on if you don’t want to trailer over to The Wire or Green Horse Fields. It’s really great that Kiana and Ryan have supplied us with great facilities, including the Equivibe recovery treatment which is amazing for post-race recovery off of an injury or just general massaging. All of the staff, including grooms and stable hands, work together and efficiently to help things run smoother. I, for one, am thankful for them otherwise I would probably be bald by now! –laughs-. I’d say we’re pretty organized; I’d like to call myself a neat-freak and very organized, which could get annoying but it works!
Isabelle: Oh gosh, you're talking to the queen of organization here, no annoyance judgments to be passed. What makes you passionate about FR, what keeps you here year after year? What drives you in your career and how does FR support that?
CL: I absolutely love my job, I’m blessed that I’ve been given the opportunity to work with such amazing animals that try so hard to please their riders or owners. I’ve said it before but everyone is so welcoming and genuinely happy to see you every morning, they’re all so passionate about the horses and want to see them do well. It’s really touching to see an animal loved so much and not just seen as a money-maker. Sure, there are definitely ups and downs, but that is how life goes. I don’t think I’d ever leave this place, I love it too much!
Isabelle: Well I think I can speak on behalf of many stables around here that we would very sorry to see you go. Has FR won any stable awards? Do you have any HOF or BHOF horses residing with you? If so, where they ones you campaigned or did you acquire them once their status was already established?
CL: –chuckles- No, we have not and do not, but we are certainly working on it! We do, however, have many descendants and ancestors of HOF/BHOF lineage, who of which we are hoping to follow in their footsteps. We do have multiple grade one winners, though!
Isabelle: I'd love to get a tour of the stables now, would you be willing to take me through the older racehorse barn first? Tell me about your stars, the ones who will be going to breeding in the next year or so. Which should be watched in particular and why?
CL: Of course, let’s go get started. Some of them may be turned out, but for now I’ll show you whose inside. Here we have Arlequinn, the 5yo son of Memorial’s Blaze x Dynasty.
Isabelle: Oooh! A Dynasty baby! -takes a moment to coo over first son of her favorite horse in the entire world- I recently acquired his dam . . . sorry. -clears throat and backs up a few centimeters, still ogling Dynasty baby-
CL: He’s being retired at the end of Y15, however we were thinking before of retiring him earlier, seeing as there was hardly any races to fit him. He’s surprised us this year, honestly, and is only one win away from Grade Two.
Isabelle: Good, good boy Arlequinn . . -coos some more and sneaks him some sugar cubes when Carter isn't looking, then gives him a kiss on the nose and scampers up behind Carter once more-
CL: Beside him is Lost In Memories, who is one of our unusually coloured horses. She is actually related to Arlequinn through her sire. We have plans to race her next year, then she will be retiring. Beside her is Ghost Rider (cue Gia neighing at the top of her lungs), and you can tell she’s not the most quiet one here. Silver Serendipity is beside her, but she is outside enjoying some sun right now. She will be retiring this year as a grade one. I do think she will be one to watch out for in the breeding shed, she could throw some nice sprinting foals in the future. I think she’s a tough contender for the BC Turf Sprint this year; she is not one to take lightly. Coco Cabana seems to be outside as well, but he is just across the aisle from her. He will be racing another year, and I really think next year he will finally hit a consistent stride. Coco’s a tough horse, and definitely not one to give up on so easily. Across from him is White Rose, who will also be racing another year. This year is her year for us to get to know her, so it’s been a bit slow for her. Next year though she could be one to watch out for. Beside Coco is our beloved Aquatic Addiction. (Carter pets the huge stallion, smiling) He’s definitely one of my favourite older horses; he’s absolutely phenomenal! He’ll be retiring this year and is definitely a major threat for the BC Sprint.
Isabelle: -makes mental note to check up on Silver Serendipity and Aquatic Addiction for future sprinting baby options-
CL: Sophie’s Voice is beside him, who will also be retiring. They will actually be having a baby together, but shh don’t tell them yet –winks-.
Isabelle: -plans super secret baby shower to blow surprise tomororw-
CL: She’s come far this season and I can’t wait to see her perform in the F&M Sprint. In the last two stalls here are Devil’s Blessing and Inferno, although Inferno seems to be out now. They were actually on lease to another farm but those farms shut down sooner than I had anticipated, so they will continue to race until next year. Inferno’s been great since his injury, and he’s definitely on a roll. Devil’s Blessing is taking things day by day, but he’s in top shape and ready to win!
Isabelle: Now for the three year olds, do you have a favorite for this year? I personally have a little soft spot for Speak Easy and his blazing win in the Kentucky Derby this year. I'd love some sneak peek tid-bits about him if you're willing to dish.
CL: (Carter laughs) I definitely have to agree with you there. Sonny is an amazing horse, and one of my first so I can’t deny that soft spot for this bag of lazy bones. (Cue Sonny snoring because he’s sleeping in his stall) Well, as you can see, Sonny loves his sleep. He would probably sleep all day if he could, but that doesn’t hinder his amazing talent. He has an itchy spot right below his left ear, and when you scratch it his lip flaps and he just goes to heaven! I also really love Siren Call, who is just down the aisle. She’s a feisty little girl and really fun to train. I think she could really take the Triple Sprinter Tiara this year; she really deserves it. Beside Sonny is Dark Maiden; she may be small but she’s coming along nicely. She’s a bit slower developing than the rest of the classic string, but we are just giving her the time she needs. Whispering Melody is outside, but she’s normally beside Mai. We recently found out that her dam was a better turf runner, and was actually dual surfaced, so we are switching her to the turf to see how she does there. Refute is beside her, and he’s definitely been picking up his game. I’m excited to see how the rest of the season goes for him to see if he can pick up a HOTY race soon. Flashing The Declaration is also outside, but he’s really doing a lot better than his juvenile season. He really enjoys undercard races, so I think that’s where we will be keeping him. Vetanda is in the same boat, and is stabled beside Flasher. He’s a late bloomer too, but that’s okay because he will continue to race and improve. Silent Heart used to be beside Dark Maiden, but she was transferred over to another barn in a sale a while ago. Unfortunately, alongside Devil’s Blessing and Inferno, she was shipped back to us and now races with us once again. Ever since her switch over to the turf she’s been fantastic and we hope she continues to improve.
Isabelle: What are your juveniles up to? Any threats for some of the triple crowns next season? I love how Innerstellar is shaping up this season. I snagged a future breeding reserve to him a while back, and I'd love a few minutes with him and maybe some little inside info?
CL: My juveniles are up to a lot of trouble these days; it’s hard to keep up! Barely Smokin is high strung, but definitely not the worst of the bunch. He’s already gotten three HOTY points this year and I really think he could be a Triple Crown threat next year. Fire Goddess is quite literally on fire this season, she’s almost a win away from Grade Three. She’s doing really well in the undercards, which has set her up nicely for some HOTY wins this year. She could be a threat to the Triple Tiara next year; we’ll see how she matches up with the boys! Hellfire is outside, but she is beside Fancy. She, too, has been doing exceptional this season. We’re not sure which Triple Crown she will be headed to, but it looks like the Canadian Triple Crown from this point onwards! Like A Lady has also been extremely consistent and wonderful, and although not a fun groom, she’s a fun ride according to Sammie and they really work well together. They could really work well in the Turf Triple Crown next year. Scintilla is outside with Hellfire, but man has she ever been consistent. She doesn’t have a lot of wins, but every race has been in the money and/or HOTY graded, and although she really works best at 12F, she’s a major threat to the Turf Triple Tiara next year. Our newest juvenile is Dancing On Nails, and he reminds me of a Red Herring version 2. He’s tough, works hard, and never gives up, and is a total goofball. He’s cost me already over a thousand dollars just on tack and blanket repairs, but he’s an exceptional racer and could be a real threat to the Turf Triple Sprinter Crown next year.
Isabelle: -follows closely behind offering apple slices and sugar cubes to those noses eager to accept-
CL: Ahhh, Innerstellar. I will have to warn you he will probably attack you, he’s not the friendliest horse (chuckles).
Isabelle: -keeps distance and tosses treats from afar-
CL: He’s definitely a hard worker on the track, and his hotness sometimes pays off. Though he can be the biggest arsehole, I have the scars to prove it, his race ethic is great, and definitely will get him far whether it be the Breeder’s Cup or the Triple Sprinter Crown. He is certainly a big ball of aggressive energy that only Devon can tap into…God knows I’ve tried but failed! I have no doubts about any of my juveniles, they’re all so special!
Isabelle: Can you select a favorite yearling and weanling to bring into the spotlight-I know how hard that can be to choose! I also took notice of Patriot; I recently acquired his sire and am excited to see how he goes for you. Any particular racing style or plan in the works for him?
CL: Oh boy that is going to be a tough one…I like each and every one of them so far! But if I had to choose, I am dying for my Catching Fire baby, Winning Fire, to hit the tracks. If she’s anything like her sister, then she’s set for the rest of her life. I love my Souvenir filly, too. Her name is Enchanting Soldier, and she is definitely going to be a stunner on the tracks. As for weanlings, my favourite definitely has to be Red Hot Secret. He is the first foal out of Red Herring, and I’m really excited to see if he follows in his father’s footsteps.
Isabelle: -coos at baby fuzzy foals and bribes them all with treats and pets and is extremely happy being the center of a sea of pretty babies-
CL: I’m going to give a shout out to Worldbreaker filly, Peacebreaker, because I really think she could be something great. Ah yes, Patriot. I noticed that Everyday Hero was with you guys, and I’m excited as well to see how he does. So far, Pat really seems to be taking to a preceding racing style, whether it is dirt or turf. I think he will be a horse that heavily relies on the rail to make his move, but not too heavily otherwise he could get boxed in. I definitely would like him running and working there so that in the future he could get a real nice feeling of it.
Isabelle: How is your breeding stock filling out over the years, what would you consider to be your foundation FR lines that others might look to for future reserves?
CL: I can definitely say that our breeding stock isn’t as great as some of the other barns in the area. But as our racers retire, they are definitely adding that class and the all-important lineage to produce successful foals. I’d say Tempered Passion is one of our key foundation sires, considering he was one of the first ever studs at Firestone. No Reservations is an integral part of the Firestone foundation lines as well, considering he comes from unknown bloodlines himself and his first foal, Wired, whom of which you own, will be hitting the tracks fairly soon. When that boy hits the track, and does well for certain, Firestone will be glad that we have No Reservations as a foundation.
Isabelle: We are super excited for Wired, out of my baby Dynasty. -preens- I think it's a super charged match, that colt is always sprinting everywhere already. Is there a certain special horse around here that perhaps hasn't won major races or bred exceptional foals necessarily, but holds a special place for you or FR?
CL: I do know one horse that Kiana has had in her heart, and that would be Terror Smile. She bought her overseas in 2009, completely unbroken and unraced, with no information on her background. Unfortunately she went through some hard times that forced her to separate from the mare, causing Smiles to be sold to another farm while she sorted her life out. Luckily for her, when she returned from her hiatus Smiles was up for sale as a broodmare prospect. It was great to see them reunited after so many years, and Kiana was lucky she had found the mare when she did. As for myself, I have a little soft spot for Silent Heart. She’s such an attractive little filly with a huge heart, and although her race record isn’t something like Sun King’s, she’s a real trooper and has been through some slumps.
Isabelle: Please let us know which horse has made the greatest contribution to FR and why.
CL: Honestly, I probably couldn’t choose. But, I would like to give a sincere thanks to Ripley Marsh of Witch Creek Stables for giving us Red Herring. That stallion really helped us get a name going for ourselves, and really gave us a good shot at winning races in our first year as an establishment. Without a doubt he helped me become a better trainer, and who knows where we would be without a big name like Red.
Isabelle: Which horse are you personally the most proud of, and why?
CL: I don’t like to show favouritism, but I am going to succumb to the pressure –laughs-. I am so proud of our little Speak Easy, one of the very first horses we bought. Even from the get-go he was dominating his two year old career against horses with proven bloodlines, more HOTY exposure, and more experience overall. I was so surprised to see him as the favourite for the Breeder’s Cup Juvenile last year, and although he came a very close second, he definitely won that race in my heart. It sounds so cheesy…I know, but it’s true. I would have never imagined one of our horses last year as the favourite for any Breeder’s Cup race; maybe this year but definitely not last. I’m hoping he can do it again this year…surprise me that is. I hate surprises, but this horse gives me the best surprises sometimes and that’s what makes me love him.
Isabelle: Ah! I adore surprises. I'll have to attempt to convert you someday. -wink- What are the plans for the rest of this racing season, any special campaigns or horses being retired before the end of the year?
CL: Well, I don’t want to give out too much information for you –winks-, but most of our HOTY ready three year olds and older horses will be hitting the major HOTY winter races. Siren is due to run in the rest of the Sprinter Triple Tiara, Sonny is hitting whatever HOTY races there are, Demi is running in the Senior Superstars Turf Sprint series, Theo is running the Senior Superstars Dirt Sprint series, and that’s as much as I’ve got planned in terms of Major HOTY. Some of our juveniles will be hitting the Turf Challenge and the Youth Challenge, and the rest you can find in the undercards! No horses will be retired before the end of the year unless we really feel like they need to.
Isabelle: As a longer standing stable around GHF/TW, do you have any suggestions or advice for those older than you, those who are your peers, and those up and coming stables who are just getting into the business?
CL: To be honest I don’t have any advice for those older than me because they are definitely wiser than me! To those getting into the business, just work your butts off regardless of race type or whatever. Your horses will surprise you, and sometimes the winners are the ones you think are the undercards! I’m really bad at giving advice –chuckles-.
Isabelle: Which stable do you admire the most, and why? Do you have any particular business friends that have inspired you or lifelong friendships that have supported you?
CL: I do really enjoy watching both Witch Creek and Intrepid Racing. They’ve been around for a while and really know the tips and tricks around racing – one day I hope Firestone can be as great as they are. I don’t have many friends, which is one of my downfalls, but everyone that is around me and my work has been so supportive and reliable. Not to say I don’t want to meet new people, because I do, but so far the opportunity has not presented itself. Although I do sometimes participate in breeding business with most, if not all, the barns around The Wire and Green Horse Fields. All of the stables around here are really awesome when it comes to leasing, breeding, training, and selling horses within barns. The atmosphere is great!
Isabelle: Well you can certainly add myself and NDM to your list of friends and contacts from now on! Do you have any last comments you'd like to say about yourself, your staff, the horses, or FR itself?
CL: All I have to say is watch out. With our current runners and our future runners, I can guarantee that we will catch you and we will surprise you. I’d like to think our string is getting stronger and stronger as the years go on, and that’s what I love about working here.
Isabelle: Well Mr. Leeson, I sincerely thank you again for allowing me this exclusive access to FR. It was so exciting to hear all about your foundations, your current stars, and the bombshells waiting in the wings for the next few years! I'm glad I've already established some future breeding plans with your stable, perhaps we can collaborate on some more endeavors in the upcoming racing seasons.
