Post by S u N f r O s t ~ on Jun 6, 2013 17:24:12 GMT -5
I just dug these two articles out of the old Gallop board, currently hidden. Enjoy!
BREEDERS CUP RECAP FROM Y10
The Breeders Cup, as per usual, was full of class. It featured all races of the past, with one new addition. This was the Breeders Cup Juvenile Sprint, a six furlong sprint on the dirt for grade five and up two year olds. It attracted a first field of three horses, which was the average field size for the day. Luckily, no races were cancelled this year. Each and every Breeders Cup race featured a proud winner. Let's start with the first race on the card, the Breeders Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf.
The Juvenile Fillies Turf is run over eight furlongs on the turf for two year old fillies that are grade five and up only. The past winner of this race was Windbreaker of Star Thoroughbreds, who has since gone on to become a talented turf sprinter. It featured a field of five nice horses. Going into the race, it was hard to pick a favorite. All of the fillies had proven themselves in some way. Strike A Pose of Star Thoroughbreds had won the Azalea Cup Fillies, while Broadway featured a lot of experience. When the field was set on their way, Broadway and Forbidden Enchantment immediately began dueling for the lead. It looked like they had put away the rest of the field, when suddenly it became apparent that they were tiring. This was when Strike A Pose shot for the lead, taking her opportunity. She had been keeping close behind them for some time, showing the experience she had gained with her Azalea win. Quintessential also took advantage and went with Strike A Pose, while Wild Kiss did nothing and remained in dead last. The crowd thought for sure Wild Kiss was out of it, when suddenly the filly raced for the front right at the end of the race. She showed some sprinting capability as she just managed to steal the win from Strike A Pose. Strike A Pose settled for second, with Quintessential in third. This race was a nail biting one. Wild Kiss is bred and owned by Stride Of Perfection Stables. She is by DW Flamekissed and out of Hall Of Fame turf mare Wild Flower, making her a half sister to grade one turfer Wildly Natural. All eyes will be on her in the Turf Triple Crown next year.
After the Juvenile Fillies Turf came the Filly And Mare Sprint. The previous winner of this race was Cry Out Chaos of Star Thoroughbreds, who is currently up for sale. Run over seven furlongs on the dirt, it was open to three year olds and up, females only, who had broken their maiden. It was also basically a match race, with only two entries, Native Gold and Mystical Melody. Going into the race, Mystical Melody was the slight favorite. She was a grade three and had more experience than Native Gold. However, Mystical Melody was not a sprinting type, while Native Gold would be running one of her favorite distances. However, Mystical Melody did not fail to disappoint. She took the lead from the beginning of the race and stayed there, never seeming to tire. Mystical Melody, owned by Stride Of Perfection Stables, is by Seattle Song and out of On To Dancing, which makes her related to horses such as Secret Miracle, On To The Spotlight, Sweet Stalker and Radiance. Turning four, she will be watched carefully next season to see if she ascends to grade one status.
Following this race was the Juvenile Fillies, run over eight and a half furlongs on the dirt for two year old fillies that had broken their maiden. The past winner of this race was Born To Soar of Star Thoroughbreds, who has gone on to be a Triple Tiara champion. It was hard to pick a favorite for this race, but it was easy to pick out the long shot in the field, Fire Dancer. Compared to her two other competitors, Silverianna and Afterglow, Fire Dancer had fewer wins, though just as much experience. When the field was sent on their way, it was a crowd near the front. With no clear front runner in the field, no horse wanted the lead, and the pace was slow. Afterglow eventually just took the lead and stayed there, holding off the late charges of Silverianna and Fire Dancer. It was basically a pack race the whole time, with no filly wanting the lead, but Afterglow came out on top. Owned by Silver Stride Stables, Afterglow is by Sweet Sugar Cane and out of Luscia. She is related to grade one turf horse Deadly Desires as well as the admirable dirt mare Alluring Assault. People will be watching her eagerly next year to see if she tackles the Triple Tiara or the Triple Crown.
The Filly and Mare Turf was next. Ten furlongs on the turf, it was open to three year old and up fillies and mares that were at least grade four. The past winner of this race was Wildly Natural of Stride Of Perfection Stables, who has continued to excel in major turf races. A field of three came together for this race. It was hard to pick a favorite between these three fillies; all of them had been consistent lately, and all could take the race. Starting off, all three mares set a really slow pace. Each runs a closer style, after all, so nobody wanted the lead. Eventually, Ignacia of Star Thoroughbreds just took the lead and began to widen it throughout the race. Destined For Glory was moved up a bit in pursuit of her, and Sillenia stayed close to Destined For Glory. Unfortunately for Ignacia, by the end of the race she had burned herself out by going for that lead. Rumor has it that this racing style, which is the one she prefers, actually tires her out very quickly, which is why Star Thoroughbreds has her as a closer. Sillenia and Destined For Glory duked it out as Ignacia tired, but eventually Sillenia came out on top, defending SOPS's claim to the race. Owned by Stride Of Perfection Stables, Sillenia is by Grand Silence and out of Tamaraq. Currently grade three, she is expected to step up as SOPS's main turfer next year.
One of the main highlights of the day, the Ladies Classic, came next. Three horses took to the post. Run over nine furlongs on the dirt, it was open to three year old and up fillies and mares who were at least grade four. The past winner of this race was Fleet Goddess of Akita Rose Stables, who rose to grade one. All eyes were on Born To Soar of Star Thoroughbreds, Triple Tiara champion who was expected to take the win. Some eyes were also focused on Dark Sunrise of Stride Of Perfection Stables, who was the only horse to face Born To Soar in the Triple Tiara and came second to her every time. Others looked to Xalbadora of Close Racing to surprise and take the win. However, the favorite did not disappoint. Born To Soar took the lead at the beginning, with Dark Sunrise and Xalbadora a couple lengths behind her. When the time came, the two fillies in the back dashed forward, but just couldn't catch up to Born To Soar. Having an uncontested lead throughout the race, the top filly still had plenty left, and pulled away. Born To Soar is owned by Star Thoroughbreds. She is by Hall Of Fame stallion The Natural and out of Born To Fly. The racing world awaits what this talented filly will do during her four year old season.
Another match race of sorts came next in the Breeders Cup Marathon. Twelve furlongs on the dirt, for grade four horses of both genders that were three years old and up, it attracted a two horse, filly only field. The past winner of this race was Bank On Greatness of Star Thoroughbreds, who went on to win another Breeders Cup race at this meet. Vindictive Fury of Star Thoroughbreds and Dashing In The Firelight of Stride Of Perfection Stables came forward to duke it out. Both mares had done excellently this year, so it was tough for the crowd to decide a favorite. From the start, it was an exciting race, with Vindictive Fury gunning for the lead and staying there. Dashing In The Firelight took up a typical closing position and hung around in the back. She made her move a fraction too late, and lost the race to Vindictive Fury by a neck in a pulse-pounding sprint to the finish that had the crowd roaring. Vindictive Fury is by two Hall Of Famers, Everyday Hero and Rising Fury. She will be turning five next year, and the racing world waits to see if Vindictive Fury will either slow down or continue to speed up next year.
A very competitive race in the Juvenile Turf came next. Eight furlongs on the turf for two year olds that had broken their maidens only, a four horse field consisting of three colts and one filly came together. Last year, the field consisted of eight horses, and the filly in the field, Sillenia of Stride Of Perfection Stables, managed to win it with her. In an attempt to repeat the filly domination of this race, SOPS sent their filly Axis Mundae today. It was hard to decide a favorite between two amazing colts, Silent Fury of Star Thoroughbreds and Executioner's Apprentice of upcoming Prison Hill Stables. When the race started, Chicago Blues (who somehow slipped into the race even though he was three xD) took the lead but quickly ran out of energy. This led the way for Silent Fury to take the lead. However, he was pressured a lot by Executioner's Apprentice, who was skillfully placed. Silent Fury was outdone by this, and got in the way of Axis Mundae. The filly was trying to close in, but got slightly boxed in, and had to swing out and find her stride again. Unfortunately, it was too late for her, as Executioner's Apprentice had pushed away Silent Fury and won the race, with Silent Fury just behind him in second. Executioner's Apprentice has an unknown pedigree, but a lot of class. People will be watching him eagerly to see what he shows the racing world next.
The Dirt Mile, open to grade fours and up who were at least three years old, had a field of five. The past winner of this race was Silent Wings of Stride Of Perfection Stables, who has gone on to win major legs in the Senior Superstar series and competed in the Classic this year. Going in, the slight favorite was Bank On Greatness of Star Thoroughbreds. As Triple Crown champion Impressario's full brother, a lot was expected of him. Bank On Greatness did not disappoint. Starting off, The Goodness and TDI Live This Lie fought for the lead. Bank On Greatness took a position behind them, while Mr. Hat and Clogs took a closing position. By the end of the race, The Goodness had tired from the speed duel and faded back. Mr. Hat and Clogs was closing strong, and Bank On Greatness was right ahead of them. TDI Live This Lie worked to maintain his lead. He was overtaken by Bank On Greatness but not by Mr. Hat and Clogs. By the end of the race, it was Bank On Greatness of Star Thoroughbreds that took the win. By Merry Bay King and out of Bank On Silver, Bank On Greatness is related to too many great names to count. Eyes have been on him ever since he was born. Turning five years old next year, the racing world is excited to see what he'll do.
The new Breeders Cup race, the Juvenile Sprint, was next on the card. It attracted a three horse field consisting of filly Seraphim, upcoming colt Aztareal and experienced colt Biohazard. The favorite for the race was Eagle Cup winner Seraphim of Star Thoroughbreds. Breaking from the gates, Biohazard shot to the lead, with Seraphim close by his side. Aztareal comfortably took a position just off of them and waited. The pace remained hot throughout the race, with Biohazard setting it and Seraphim comfortably running along. In the final furlong, Seraphim charged for the lead. Biohazard tired back to last. Aztareal leaped forward a fraction too late to snag the lead, but Seraphim managed to put him away and win by a nose. Seraphim is by Flying Colours and out Requiem. Through her dam, she is related to turf sprinter Deadly Desires, and her sire is a Hall of Fame sprinter. Seraphim proved those sprinting bloodlines today. Star Thoroughbreds is expected to take this filly through the major sprints next year.
The five horse Turf Sprint was next on the card. Run over six and a half furlongs on the turf, it was open to three year olds and up who had broken their maiden. The past winner of this race was Akita Rose Stables' Dash of Sugar, an extremely talented sprinter mare. Going into the race, the favorite was seasoned grade one Breeders Cup Sprint winner Pegasus Wings of Stride Of Perfection Stables. Windbreaker of Star Thoroughbreds was second choice due to her classy win in the Girl's Festival. Starting out, the favorite Pegasus Wings took the lead, with She's De Grey close beside him. Seattle Sun followed them closely, with White Chocolate and Windbreaker bringing up the rear. Two furlongs in, Pegasus Wings took off, forcing the pace. She's De Grey was blown off. Seattle Sun took this opportunity to gain speed. White Chocolate reacted quickly, while Windbreaker took some time to get going. By the end of the race, Pegasus Wings held off Seattle Sun, and Windbreaker managed to get going to snag third. Pegasus Wings is owned by Stride Of Perfection Stables. He is out of Hall Of Fame stallion Royal Red Richard and grade three Breeders Cup Distaff winner Forbidden Wings. He had a perfect season this year, and many are looking forward to Pegasus Wings defending his claim to top sprinter next year.
Coming up next was the highly anticipated Breeders Cup Juvenile. The winner of this eight and a half furlong battle to the death race on the dirt usually becomes the top contender for next year's Triple Crown. Past winners of this race include Impressario, who became Triple Crown champion as well as attained various other titles, Radiance, who won the Belmont Stakes and the Breeders Cup Classic, and last year's winner Furious Passion of Star Thoroughbreds, who also became the winner of the Triple Crown this season. There was no clear favorite in this race. Euphorion, with his champion bloodlines, was hailed by many. Sunset Crusade, with his surprising win in the Youth Challenge juvenile series, was hailed by others as having an excellent chance to upset. Dark Charmer, with his sudden rise to power, was expected to only get better. And Flashy Wings, who had surprised the racing world by rising so quickly through the ranks, was expected to defend his title as best two year old. As they broke from the gates, Sunset Crusade took the lead. Euphorion and Flashy Wings ran side by side behind him, while Dark Charmer brought up the rear. The pace was unhurried for the first three furlongs, until Euphorion was brought up to challenge his stablemate. It looked like Star Thoroughbreds was planning a one-two finish with this approach. By the sixth furlong, though, Euphorion was dropping off the pace, not liking it. Dark Charmer was ghosting closer. Flashy Wings was looking good, holding his own and waiting for the right moment. In the seventh furlong, Flashy Wings was released, and bounded right by Sunset Crusade to take the win. His assault was perfectly timed to hold off Dark Charmer's charge. Dark Charmer was blocked by the bodies of Sunset Crusade and Flashy Wings, while Euphorion struggled to rise to the pace again. It was an extremely close finish. Flashy Wings of Stride Of Perfection Stables ended up on top, with Sunset Crusade second and Dark Charmer third. Flashy Wings is by News Flash and out of Forbidden Wings. He is expected to challenge for either the Triple Crown or the Turf triple Crown next year.
The next race was the six furlong dash on the dirt known as the Breeders Cup Sprint. Open to three year olds and up who had attained at least grade four status, a field of three came forward to challenge. The past winner of this race was Pegasus Wings, who went on to continue his reign as top sprinter. The crowd favorite was Here's The King of Star Thoroughbreds, who had, under a carefully controlled sprinting campaign, proven himself a capable sprinter. He did not disappoint. When they broke from the gates, Limited Bluez took the front with an impressive break. Super Sparky hung around his stablemate Here's The King, who had a closing position. Uncontested throughout, Blue had plenty left at the end, but not enough to complete stop Here's The King. The stallion swept by to win, while Blue settled for second, and Super Sparky clinched third. Here's The King is owned by Star Thoroughbreds. He is by Royal Red Richard and out of Here's Hell. His half brother Pegasus Wings won the Turf Sprint today. The two brothers are expected to meet up during the sprints next year, as both are dual surfaced sprinters.
Coming up next was the Breeders Cup Turf. This is, without a doubt, the biggest race on the turf calendar. The three top turf horses came together to face off for the final time. Each had beaten the others multiple times, and now they were coming together to see who could prevail. There was no clear favorite, though many of the crowd appeared to be cheering for Lawliet's Girl of Star Thoroughbreds, who had had a fantastic season, and who's family had a history of winning this race. Run over twelve furlongs on the turf, it was open to top class three year olds and up who were at least grade three. The first winner of this race was Merry Bay King, and the last winner of it was his son Impressario. Lawliet's Girl, also a foal of Merry Bay King's, was expected to continue the family tradition. Meanwhile, SOPS had a long history of winning this race with their turfers. It was family versus stable tradition here. As they broke, Lawliet's Girl quickly took the lead. Wildly Natural and Foolish Lad ran side by side, as they had practiced, somewhere behind her. Coming into the stretch, both unleashed their closing kicks, but only Foolish Lad's was enough to get by Lawliet's Girl and clench the win. Foolish Lad is owned by Stride Of Perfection Stables. He is by Karls Nickel and out of Foolish Entity. He is entering stud after this win, as is Lawliet's Girl, and both are expected to produce top turf foals.
After the Breeders Cup Turf came the race everybody was looking forward to, the Breeders Cup Classic. Open to three years old and older racehorses running over ten furlongs on the dirt that were at least grade three, the field was interesting. Furious Passion, Triple Crown champion of Star Thoroughbreds, was the favorite. However, Silent Wings of Stride Of Perfection Stables, with her impressive performance this year, was also being watched. This was her top distance, though, so she had a bit of a disadvantage. Moondance of Silver Stride Stables was also being closely watched, as she had recently risen to new heights under new ownership. The race started with every horse playing to their running styles; Silent Wings led, with Moondance close behind and Furious Passion farther back. It looked like nothing would change, when suddenly Silent Wings began to tire. Moondance and Furious Passion took advantage of this, and both passed her. Silent Wings hated this and gave a final burst, but Moondance pushed harder. She managed to win the race, with Silent Wings in second and Furious Passion settling for third. Moondance is owned by Silver Stride Stables. She is by Dancing In The Moonlight and out of Foolish Entity. Interestingly enough, her half brother through dam Foolish Lad also won the Breeders Cup Turf today. After this surprising win from her, Moondance is expected to improve by huge leaps and bounds and take the dirt races by storm next year.
This Breeders Cup was extremely exciting, as there were newer stables duking it out with older stables. There were good races and good horses all around. These races set the tone for the Horse of the Year award nominations, as well as for next year. Thanks for reading, and good luck in future races!
DANTE'S AMUSING GALLOP FILLERS
NOTICE TO ALL DIRT TRACK STAFF
The tractor to unpack the dirt track is to only be used by those with a driving licence. The betting stand has been run over again, and it needs to stop.
- GHF Track Team
Jockies Beware!
Throwing up in the staff washrooms is strictly prohibited, as is your use of public/non-employee washrooms during hours in which the track is open.
- GHF marketing management
LOST:
Case of 12 Monster Energy Drinks
Was last seen in the jockey clubhouse off the main GHF venue.
If found, please return to Tobias Lancaster ( (630) 251-9060) ASAP. Morning workouts just won't be the same for me if I don't have one before I ride.
- Tobias Lancaster, PHS
PS: You may have a drink or two from the case, as long as I get at least 8 back.
BREEDERS CUP RECAP FROM Y10
The Breeders Cup, as per usual, was full of class. It featured all races of the past, with one new addition. This was the Breeders Cup Juvenile Sprint, a six furlong sprint on the dirt for grade five and up two year olds. It attracted a first field of three horses, which was the average field size for the day. Luckily, no races were cancelled this year. Each and every Breeders Cup race featured a proud winner. Let's start with the first race on the card, the Breeders Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf.
The Juvenile Fillies Turf is run over eight furlongs on the turf for two year old fillies that are grade five and up only. The past winner of this race was Windbreaker of Star Thoroughbreds, who has since gone on to become a talented turf sprinter. It featured a field of five nice horses. Going into the race, it was hard to pick a favorite. All of the fillies had proven themselves in some way. Strike A Pose of Star Thoroughbreds had won the Azalea Cup Fillies, while Broadway featured a lot of experience. When the field was set on their way, Broadway and Forbidden Enchantment immediately began dueling for the lead. It looked like they had put away the rest of the field, when suddenly it became apparent that they were tiring. This was when Strike A Pose shot for the lead, taking her opportunity. She had been keeping close behind them for some time, showing the experience she had gained with her Azalea win. Quintessential also took advantage and went with Strike A Pose, while Wild Kiss did nothing and remained in dead last. The crowd thought for sure Wild Kiss was out of it, when suddenly the filly raced for the front right at the end of the race. She showed some sprinting capability as she just managed to steal the win from Strike A Pose. Strike A Pose settled for second, with Quintessential in third. This race was a nail biting one. Wild Kiss is bred and owned by Stride Of Perfection Stables. She is by DW Flamekissed and out of Hall Of Fame turf mare Wild Flower, making her a half sister to grade one turfer Wildly Natural. All eyes will be on her in the Turf Triple Crown next year.
After the Juvenile Fillies Turf came the Filly And Mare Sprint. The previous winner of this race was Cry Out Chaos of Star Thoroughbreds, who is currently up for sale. Run over seven furlongs on the dirt, it was open to three year olds and up, females only, who had broken their maiden. It was also basically a match race, with only two entries, Native Gold and Mystical Melody. Going into the race, Mystical Melody was the slight favorite. She was a grade three and had more experience than Native Gold. However, Mystical Melody was not a sprinting type, while Native Gold would be running one of her favorite distances. However, Mystical Melody did not fail to disappoint. She took the lead from the beginning of the race and stayed there, never seeming to tire. Mystical Melody, owned by Stride Of Perfection Stables, is by Seattle Song and out of On To Dancing, which makes her related to horses such as Secret Miracle, On To The Spotlight, Sweet Stalker and Radiance. Turning four, she will be watched carefully next season to see if she ascends to grade one status.
Following this race was the Juvenile Fillies, run over eight and a half furlongs on the dirt for two year old fillies that had broken their maiden. The past winner of this race was Born To Soar of Star Thoroughbreds, who has gone on to be a Triple Tiara champion. It was hard to pick a favorite for this race, but it was easy to pick out the long shot in the field, Fire Dancer. Compared to her two other competitors, Silverianna and Afterglow, Fire Dancer had fewer wins, though just as much experience. When the field was sent on their way, it was a crowd near the front. With no clear front runner in the field, no horse wanted the lead, and the pace was slow. Afterglow eventually just took the lead and stayed there, holding off the late charges of Silverianna and Fire Dancer. It was basically a pack race the whole time, with no filly wanting the lead, but Afterglow came out on top. Owned by Silver Stride Stables, Afterglow is by Sweet Sugar Cane and out of Luscia. She is related to grade one turf horse Deadly Desires as well as the admirable dirt mare Alluring Assault. People will be watching her eagerly next year to see if she tackles the Triple Tiara or the Triple Crown.
The Filly and Mare Turf was next. Ten furlongs on the turf, it was open to three year old and up fillies and mares that were at least grade four. The past winner of this race was Wildly Natural of Stride Of Perfection Stables, who has continued to excel in major turf races. A field of three came together for this race. It was hard to pick a favorite between these three fillies; all of them had been consistent lately, and all could take the race. Starting off, all three mares set a really slow pace. Each runs a closer style, after all, so nobody wanted the lead. Eventually, Ignacia of Star Thoroughbreds just took the lead and began to widen it throughout the race. Destined For Glory was moved up a bit in pursuit of her, and Sillenia stayed close to Destined For Glory. Unfortunately for Ignacia, by the end of the race she had burned herself out by going for that lead. Rumor has it that this racing style, which is the one she prefers, actually tires her out very quickly, which is why Star Thoroughbreds has her as a closer. Sillenia and Destined For Glory duked it out as Ignacia tired, but eventually Sillenia came out on top, defending SOPS's claim to the race. Owned by Stride Of Perfection Stables, Sillenia is by Grand Silence and out of Tamaraq. Currently grade three, she is expected to step up as SOPS's main turfer next year.
One of the main highlights of the day, the Ladies Classic, came next. Three horses took to the post. Run over nine furlongs on the dirt, it was open to three year old and up fillies and mares who were at least grade four. The past winner of this race was Fleet Goddess of Akita Rose Stables, who rose to grade one. All eyes were on Born To Soar of Star Thoroughbreds, Triple Tiara champion who was expected to take the win. Some eyes were also focused on Dark Sunrise of Stride Of Perfection Stables, who was the only horse to face Born To Soar in the Triple Tiara and came second to her every time. Others looked to Xalbadora of Close Racing to surprise and take the win. However, the favorite did not disappoint. Born To Soar took the lead at the beginning, with Dark Sunrise and Xalbadora a couple lengths behind her. When the time came, the two fillies in the back dashed forward, but just couldn't catch up to Born To Soar. Having an uncontested lead throughout the race, the top filly still had plenty left, and pulled away. Born To Soar is owned by Star Thoroughbreds. She is by Hall Of Fame stallion The Natural and out of Born To Fly. The racing world awaits what this talented filly will do during her four year old season.
Another match race of sorts came next in the Breeders Cup Marathon. Twelve furlongs on the dirt, for grade four horses of both genders that were three years old and up, it attracted a two horse, filly only field. The past winner of this race was Bank On Greatness of Star Thoroughbreds, who went on to win another Breeders Cup race at this meet. Vindictive Fury of Star Thoroughbreds and Dashing In The Firelight of Stride Of Perfection Stables came forward to duke it out. Both mares had done excellently this year, so it was tough for the crowd to decide a favorite. From the start, it was an exciting race, with Vindictive Fury gunning for the lead and staying there. Dashing In The Firelight took up a typical closing position and hung around in the back. She made her move a fraction too late, and lost the race to Vindictive Fury by a neck in a pulse-pounding sprint to the finish that had the crowd roaring. Vindictive Fury is by two Hall Of Famers, Everyday Hero and Rising Fury. She will be turning five next year, and the racing world waits to see if Vindictive Fury will either slow down or continue to speed up next year.
A very competitive race in the Juvenile Turf came next. Eight furlongs on the turf for two year olds that had broken their maidens only, a four horse field consisting of three colts and one filly came together. Last year, the field consisted of eight horses, and the filly in the field, Sillenia of Stride Of Perfection Stables, managed to win it with her. In an attempt to repeat the filly domination of this race, SOPS sent their filly Axis Mundae today. It was hard to decide a favorite between two amazing colts, Silent Fury of Star Thoroughbreds and Executioner's Apprentice of upcoming Prison Hill Stables. When the race started, Chicago Blues (who somehow slipped into the race even though he was three xD) took the lead but quickly ran out of energy. This led the way for Silent Fury to take the lead. However, he was pressured a lot by Executioner's Apprentice, who was skillfully placed. Silent Fury was outdone by this, and got in the way of Axis Mundae. The filly was trying to close in, but got slightly boxed in, and had to swing out and find her stride again. Unfortunately, it was too late for her, as Executioner's Apprentice had pushed away Silent Fury and won the race, with Silent Fury just behind him in second. Executioner's Apprentice has an unknown pedigree, but a lot of class. People will be watching him eagerly to see what he shows the racing world next.
The Dirt Mile, open to grade fours and up who were at least three years old, had a field of five. The past winner of this race was Silent Wings of Stride Of Perfection Stables, who has gone on to win major legs in the Senior Superstar series and competed in the Classic this year. Going in, the slight favorite was Bank On Greatness of Star Thoroughbreds. As Triple Crown champion Impressario's full brother, a lot was expected of him. Bank On Greatness did not disappoint. Starting off, The Goodness and TDI Live This Lie fought for the lead. Bank On Greatness took a position behind them, while Mr. Hat and Clogs took a closing position. By the end of the race, The Goodness had tired from the speed duel and faded back. Mr. Hat and Clogs was closing strong, and Bank On Greatness was right ahead of them. TDI Live This Lie worked to maintain his lead. He was overtaken by Bank On Greatness but not by Mr. Hat and Clogs. By the end of the race, it was Bank On Greatness of Star Thoroughbreds that took the win. By Merry Bay King and out of Bank On Silver, Bank On Greatness is related to too many great names to count. Eyes have been on him ever since he was born. Turning five years old next year, the racing world is excited to see what he'll do.
The new Breeders Cup race, the Juvenile Sprint, was next on the card. It attracted a three horse field consisting of filly Seraphim, upcoming colt Aztareal and experienced colt Biohazard. The favorite for the race was Eagle Cup winner Seraphim of Star Thoroughbreds. Breaking from the gates, Biohazard shot to the lead, with Seraphim close by his side. Aztareal comfortably took a position just off of them and waited. The pace remained hot throughout the race, with Biohazard setting it and Seraphim comfortably running along. In the final furlong, Seraphim charged for the lead. Biohazard tired back to last. Aztareal leaped forward a fraction too late to snag the lead, but Seraphim managed to put him away and win by a nose. Seraphim is by Flying Colours and out Requiem. Through her dam, she is related to turf sprinter Deadly Desires, and her sire is a Hall of Fame sprinter. Seraphim proved those sprinting bloodlines today. Star Thoroughbreds is expected to take this filly through the major sprints next year.
The five horse Turf Sprint was next on the card. Run over six and a half furlongs on the turf, it was open to three year olds and up who had broken their maiden. The past winner of this race was Akita Rose Stables' Dash of Sugar, an extremely talented sprinter mare. Going into the race, the favorite was seasoned grade one Breeders Cup Sprint winner Pegasus Wings of Stride Of Perfection Stables. Windbreaker of Star Thoroughbreds was second choice due to her classy win in the Girl's Festival. Starting out, the favorite Pegasus Wings took the lead, with She's De Grey close beside him. Seattle Sun followed them closely, with White Chocolate and Windbreaker bringing up the rear. Two furlongs in, Pegasus Wings took off, forcing the pace. She's De Grey was blown off. Seattle Sun took this opportunity to gain speed. White Chocolate reacted quickly, while Windbreaker took some time to get going. By the end of the race, Pegasus Wings held off Seattle Sun, and Windbreaker managed to get going to snag third. Pegasus Wings is owned by Stride Of Perfection Stables. He is out of Hall Of Fame stallion Royal Red Richard and grade three Breeders Cup Distaff winner Forbidden Wings. He had a perfect season this year, and many are looking forward to Pegasus Wings defending his claim to top sprinter next year.
Coming up next was the highly anticipated Breeders Cup Juvenile. The winner of this eight and a half furlong battle to the death race on the dirt usually becomes the top contender for next year's Triple Crown. Past winners of this race include Impressario, who became Triple Crown champion as well as attained various other titles, Radiance, who won the Belmont Stakes and the Breeders Cup Classic, and last year's winner Furious Passion of Star Thoroughbreds, who also became the winner of the Triple Crown this season. There was no clear favorite in this race. Euphorion, with his champion bloodlines, was hailed by many. Sunset Crusade, with his surprising win in the Youth Challenge juvenile series, was hailed by others as having an excellent chance to upset. Dark Charmer, with his sudden rise to power, was expected to only get better. And Flashy Wings, who had surprised the racing world by rising so quickly through the ranks, was expected to defend his title as best two year old. As they broke from the gates, Sunset Crusade took the lead. Euphorion and Flashy Wings ran side by side behind him, while Dark Charmer brought up the rear. The pace was unhurried for the first three furlongs, until Euphorion was brought up to challenge his stablemate. It looked like Star Thoroughbreds was planning a one-two finish with this approach. By the sixth furlong, though, Euphorion was dropping off the pace, not liking it. Dark Charmer was ghosting closer. Flashy Wings was looking good, holding his own and waiting for the right moment. In the seventh furlong, Flashy Wings was released, and bounded right by Sunset Crusade to take the win. His assault was perfectly timed to hold off Dark Charmer's charge. Dark Charmer was blocked by the bodies of Sunset Crusade and Flashy Wings, while Euphorion struggled to rise to the pace again. It was an extremely close finish. Flashy Wings of Stride Of Perfection Stables ended up on top, with Sunset Crusade second and Dark Charmer third. Flashy Wings is by News Flash and out of Forbidden Wings. He is expected to challenge for either the Triple Crown or the Turf triple Crown next year.
The next race was the six furlong dash on the dirt known as the Breeders Cup Sprint. Open to three year olds and up who had attained at least grade four status, a field of three came forward to challenge. The past winner of this race was Pegasus Wings, who went on to continue his reign as top sprinter. The crowd favorite was Here's The King of Star Thoroughbreds, who had, under a carefully controlled sprinting campaign, proven himself a capable sprinter. He did not disappoint. When they broke from the gates, Limited Bluez took the front with an impressive break. Super Sparky hung around his stablemate Here's The King, who had a closing position. Uncontested throughout, Blue had plenty left at the end, but not enough to complete stop Here's The King. The stallion swept by to win, while Blue settled for second, and Super Sparky clinched third. Here's The King is owned by Star Thoroughbreds. He is by Royal Red Richard and out of Here's Hell. His half brother Pegasus Wings won the Turf Sprint today. The two brothers are expected to meet up during the sprints next year, as both are dual surfaced sprinters.
Coming up next was the Breeders Cup Turf. This is, without a doubt, the biggest race on the turf calendar. The three top turf horses came together to face off for the final time. Each had beaten the others multiple times, and now they were coming together to see who could prevail. There was no clear favorite, though many of the crowd appeared to be cheering for Lawliet's Girl of Star Thoroughbreds, who had had a fantastic season, and who's family had a history of winning this race. Run over twelve furlongs on the turf, it was open to top class three year olds and up who were at least grade three. The first winner of this race was Merry Bay King, and the last winner of it was his son Impressario. Lawliet's Girl, also a foal of Merry Bay King's, was expected to continue the family tradition. Meanwhile, SOPS had a long history of winning this race with their turfers. It was family versus stable tradition here. As they broke, Lawliet's Girl quickly took the lead. Wildly Natural and Foolish Lad ran side by side, as they had practiced, somewhere behind her. Coming into the stretch, both unleashed their closing kicks, but only Foolish Lad's was enough to get by Lawliet's Girl and clench the win. Foolish Lad is owned by Stride Of Perfection Stables. He is by Karls Nickel and out of Foolish Entity. He is entering stud after this win, as is Lawliet's Girl, and both are expected to produce top turf foals.
After the Breeders Cup Turf came the race everybody was looking forward to, the Breeders Cup Classic. Open to three years old and older racehorses running over ten furlongs on the dirt that were at least grade three, the field was interesting. Furious Passion, Triple Crown champion of Star Thoroughbreds, was the favorite. However, Silent Wings of Stride Of Perfection Stables, with her impressive performance this year, was also being watched. This was her top distance, though, so she had a bit of a disadvantage. Moondance of Silver Stride Stables was also being closely watched, as she had recently risen to new heights under new ownership. The race started with every horse playing to their running styles; Silent Wings led, with Moondance close behind and Furious Passion farther back. It looked like nothing would change, when suddenly Silent Wings began to tire. Moondance and Furious Passion took advantage of this, and both passed her. Silent Wings hated this and gave a final burst, but Moondance pushed harder. She managed to win the race, with Silent Wings in second and Furious Passion settling for third. Moondance is owned by Silver Stride Stables. She is by Dancing In The Moonlight and out of Foolish Entity. Interestingly enough, her half brother through dam Foolish Lad also won the Breeders Cup Turf today. After this surprising win from her, Moondance is expected to improve by huge leaps and bounds and take the dirt races by storm next year.
This Breeders Cup was extremely exciting, as there were newer stables duking it out with older stables. There were good races and good horses all around. These races set the tone for the Horse of the Year award nominations, as well as for next year. Thanks for reading, and good luck in future races!
DANTE'S AMUSING GALLOP FILLERS
NOTICE TO ALL DIRT TRACK STAFF
The tractor to unpack the dirt track is to only be used by those with a driving licence. The betting stand has been run over again, and it needs to stop.
- GHF Track Team
Jockies Beware!
Throwing up in the staff washrooms is strictly prohibited, as is your use of public/non-employee washrooms during hours in which the track is open.
- GHF marketing management
LOST:
Case of 12 Monster Energy Drinks
Was last seen in the jockey clubhouse off the main GHF venue.
If found, please return to Tobias Lancaster ( (630) 251-9060) ASAP. Morning workouts just won't be the same for me if I don't have one before I ride.
- Tobias Lancaster, PHS
PS: You may have a drink or two from the case, as long as I get at least 8 back.
