At the Post. - Breeder's Cup Blow Outs.

[Cavallo]

<sub>Here are the workouts for the horses from Intrepid that will be making attempts in their respective Breeder's Cup Races.

Here is this year's lineup for workouts:
-Acantha & Kyle Landing with Samhain & Michael Landing-
-Restricted Access & Kyle Landing with Anodyne & Jeff Saunders-
-Nightshade & Michael Landing with Arachne & Jeff Saunders-
-Bellefire & Adele Rodgers with Indian Darling & Ariel Winslow-
-Princetta & Estella Marino with Firebird & Michael Landing-
-Flying Solo & Kyle Landing-</sub>

[Cavallo]

With A Flash.
Acantha & Kyle Landing with Samhain & Michael Landing

The morning light was barely breaking through the night veil as Nick Landing strode purposefully over to the rail. His skin tingled in the morning haze, electric currents ran down his spine and to every extremity of his body. This was it. He heard the whispers of people rushing to the rail in his wake and click and whirr of cameras. Nick smiled graciously to the press and crowds. He knew that all of their workouts would be watched, but as he took to the rail, the press and people seemed to back off and give the owner and head trainer of Intrepid his space to do his job.

Nick looked down at his clipboard. It was odd. This year Nick Landing would not be riding in the Breeder's Cup; this go around he got to be just the head trainer and it was refreshing to say the least. He still felt the pressure though of the upcoming races, almost as acutely as if he himself was scheduled to race. He took pride in his horses. Each thoroughbred that raced in his silks, carried the weight of his name and his stable and they were not out to just compete in this year's BC. No. They were in it to win it. Acantha and Samhain were listed as the first horses to be worked out and as Nick looked around at the gathering crowd at this hour in the morning, well it seemed that his two juveniles were worthy of some attention.

Nick's crystal blue eyes gazed down the track as two juveniles came cantering down the turf. Both juveniles were in top form and Nick couldn't help, but admire the form of his two thoroughbreds. Acantha naturally led the charge in their approach to the rail. Kyle's eyes were bright as he sat astride on one of the most refined fillies in Intrepid's barn. Prick was all grace and agility, muscles rippled in untapped ease, her eyes cold and focused. This was a filly that fit her nickname to a "T". While striking and beautiful to behold, the filly was too focused on her job to give much mind to other horses and rowdy humans. The crowd's faded whispers rose to a new level as Acantha reached the rail first. Nick held out a flat palm to the filly and she sniffed it briefly and then stepped back slightly, not entirely interested in the man. And why should she be, when there was a track to conquer this morning? Nick chuckled and smiled up at his beaming cousin. He opened his mouth about to give his instructions again, when Samhain and Michael busted onto the scene.

The black colt tossed his crown defiantly as he creeped up on Acantha's right side. Michael stopped the colt a respectful distance, knowing the Warlock son's ability to get physical with his competition and that was exactly what he viewed the bay filly as. Samhain was a commanding presence that simply could not be ignored. His black coat shone with the care and attention, his body sleek and muscled with a dripping sense of authority. His dark brown eyes flashed with challenge and fire and Acantha turned her head slightly to take in her more rowdy stablemate with a cold evaluating eye.

Looking at both of these horses, Nick couldn't stop the sense of pride that welled up and filled his chest. He was proud to have these two racing in Intrepid's name and he would be even more proud when they ran the competition off of their feet. Now that he had both rider's attention, Nick didn't waste any more time. They had a tight schedule to keep and they needed to use their allotted track time wisely. The last thing he wanted was to invade another stable's workout time. I know you both know the instructions, but here they are again. Gallop them five and then a two furlong breeze. Don't let them out too much. We need them fresh for race day. Just give them a teaser for what to expect on race day. Michael and Kyle gave each other knowing looks and turned their mounts on a dime.

There was the constant whir of clicking cameras and scribbled notes, but it all faded into the background as Nick watched the two thoroughbreds roll so effortlessly into a gallop. Acantha took the lead and Samhain was stalking the cold and focused filly with a thinly veiled facade of complacency. Both juveniles had come off of solid victories and it reflected in their every motion. Prick cruised like a queen surveying her own realm, every stride reaching and achieving exactly what she desires. This was a filly that was in complete control of herself and was now starting to get a hold of what she was capable of. Acantha would be facing tough competition in this year's Juvenile Fillies Turf, but as Nick watched the smooth confident strides of his BC candidate, he felt a calm assurance. Prick was more than ready to take on these fillies. From the current entrants, it would seem that Prick and In the Spotlight would be leading the race, but what most didn't know was the unique way in which his front runner filly ran. Prick ran easily in the front and what amazed him was that Prick always could seal the deal with a closer flair. She had reserves that astonished even Nick, especially given that Prick was only a juvenile. She had shown that she was more than capable of coming home in the winner's circle and her grit, class and determination ensured she would be bringing her "A-game" to her race. She was a filly to be taken seriously and as she galloped out at home on the turf, Nick and the crowd was enraptured by her confidence and capabilities.

Samhain was not to be outdone though. Even from behind Acantha, Samhain was a looming foreboding force. His hooves found their home in the turf as Michael galloped the black colt off the moderate pace that the lead filly set. There was a fiery determination to everything Sammy did, it was as if a sleeping giant had been awakened and he was all grit and determination. His calculating eyes sharked every move the filly made. Muscles of both horses snapped and rippled as they warmed up into a fluid firing motion.

A five furlong gallop flew by in under a minute. Nick inhaled sharply. They two weren't even gunning it. Acantha ran with grace and power and a cold detachment. She was simply waiting now, for Sammy to make his move. Their turn of foot was impressive to say the least as both filly and colt roared to life and pulled their bodies up another notch over the turf. Samhain was swift in his vengeance, pulling up alongside to share a glaring glance with his partner. Kyle felt the cold rage boiling up to the surface, but Prick made no move. She was not one to be goaded.

The two juveniles crashed through the last two furlongs, stride for stride they galloped, air filling their cavernous lungs with fuel and power to fight. Samhain rallied with lengths left and that was all the cue Prick needed. She pushed down deep and tapped into another gear, the gear that was renowned for holding off all comers and in less than 15 seconds had clenched a neck lead over the black colt to conclude the workout.

Acantha cruised out easing her pace with a haughty flick of her tail, while Samhain cruised up and past the bay filly with a vindictive shake of his head, his head snaking to place a nip on the filly, but Michael was quick to bring the unruly Warlock son in-hand. Nick had clicked his stopwatch at the final marker and was more than pleased. These were record times and Nick knew it. He watched as the two juveniles pointed off the tracks to be hosed off and walked. It looked like Intrepid's Breeder Cup Dreams were off with a flash.

[Cavallo]

Off Limits
Restricted Access & Kyle Landing with Anodyne & Jeff Saunders

The crowds were still talking in a hushed roar as Acantha and Samhin danced off the track. Nick checked his watch and looked at the clipboard. He had a few minutes to relocate for the next heat on the dirt. Restricted Access and Anodyne were next on the workout schedule. He wasted no time bothering with the press as Nick simply turned and walked, smiling politely as people moved out of his way. There wasn't much time to waste today. His stride was long and efficient and in no time he was drinking in the familiar site of a well combed dirt track.

Oro suddenly appeared charging through the gap with an energy and zest that was all her. Nick's heart rate picked up in excitement as he watched Kyle and Oro trot out onto the field. The flaming chestnut filly was everything that a polished thoroughbred should be. Her form rippled in toned quality as the vivacious sprite took to the dirt like a fish to the water. The filly had found her stride and confidence looked good on the slender and sleek formed filly. She'd just placed in the Joe O'Farrel with class and style and it was exactly the confidence booster the feisty filly needed. The look of a champion is what this filly had and it communicated itself in every flex of her muscles. Kyle was all grins as he eased the filly out.

The crowds were again in a whisper. Restricted Access was a filly that possessed a rare appeal. She wasn't the one people would automatically whisper about, but with every performance she was winning the crowd over, bit by bit. Nick had been more than pleased with the With a Snap daughter. She was consistently in the money and now after consecutive second places, it seemed as though the filly had now come into the understanding of what it was going to require of her to get the wins. Knowledge was priceless, especially for a juvenile, it was what could mean the difference between a win or a lose. People were interested to see what this half-sibling to G1 Winners, Lynara's Kingdom and Dashing in the Firelight would do. It had been a while since the tracks had seen an active With a Snap foal since Lynara and the tracks were eager to see the stallion prove his lines again and as of now, Restricted Access was the sole active foal of Dash For Cash. Nick loved her lines and loved the passion he saw in her smooth action. There was no doubt about it this was a filly that she loved the dirt. Oro was a new breed for Intrepid and so far it looked to be a threatening combination for this years Breeder's Cup.

The crowd noticed the new form of the filly and Nick saw their appreciation for Oro reflected in their eyes. Pride touched his features and nodded to Kyle as they cantered by. The whispers didn't stop though as another forceful presence took hold of the track. Jeff Saunders and Anodyne were a fiercely beautiful pair. Arrogance and fire sparked out of the bay colt's eyes. His form was bulkier, his chest a wall of solid developed muscle. The crowd visibly reacted to the bay Augusto son. The deceased black stallion had a legacy that was unparalleled with offspring like Augusta, Warlock, Atalanta championing his name and it looked like Anodyne wasn't going to be the exception.

There was a fleeting look to the Augusto son and an imperiousness that was all form his dam's side, the exotic command that was all the Determination and Djerba combination. There wasn't a horse in any other barn that had the rare Djerba strain and the aggressive bay colt was doing his long gone descendants proud. This was the colt who even in his defeat in the Just A Trot Futurity had stilled managed to notch respect amongst the local track. He was all power, passion and fire armed with cunning intellect. Jeff's arms flexed powerfully as he kept Dye from lashing out and extending after the leading Oro. He was quick to demand the attention from the bystanders. He was not to be outdone and he let be known as he reached up and out over the dirt. Dye had never been the horse to lack confidence in himself and it showed with every stride, every arrogant flick of his tail, Dye commanded the scene.

The orders were the same and Nick waved Jeff and Kyle on. Dye immediately asserted his place and galloped along the outside of the sleek formed Oro. Kyle flashed Jeff a competitive smile and the Britain returned the smile with an edgy one of his own. Competition wasn't lacking within the house of Intrepid and it only served to make them better in the races. Jeff and Dye galloped well in hand over the dirt and moved two paths off the rail, effectively placing themselves in front of Oro and Kyle. The fiery filly's eyes locked possessively onto the bay that flaunted his position ahead. Easy Oro, we won't be loosing it now. We'll show them in the end. Kyle allowed his calmed assurance to seep down into his live wire mount and Oro became a striking sight, poised and ready to close the deal at the faintest cue.

Dye galloped the five furlongs, his lead unquestioned and as solid as ever. Nick's eyes studied the solid motion of the Augusto son. The colt couldn't have been in any better form than what he was in. These had never been an awkward moment for Dye and he wasn't all talk. It showed in every race that he ran that Dye was a horse who was aware of his surroundings and aware of his own capabilities. Paired with a hot and feisty temper, Nick felt confident in Dye's chances in this year's Juvenile. He would give the crowd the show they wanted and all the while Nick knew Jeff and Dye would run the race with smarts and cunning. It showed in the conservative way in which Jeff steered the colt, every stride was measured and valued. Nick was pleasantly surprised with Oro's progress as she galloped. This wasn't the insecure filly that had come into Intrepid, no this was a new creature and it was evident. There was no panic in her strides or worry, but rather an implicit trust in her rider and an unshakable confidence in her own abilities.

Both had raced recently, so Nick had stuck once again to the short workout. He leaned in closer and he felt the crowd hold their breath as the two juveniles fly into the two furlong finale. Jeff smiled and had only to ease up slightly on the tension and Dye was off with amazing acceleration. There were rumbles of approval as the bay colt rocketed off the turn into the final stretch. The chestnut filly was hot on the colt's tail and then pulling up to face down the Goliath. The bay colt towered almost an entire hand and his bulkier frame boasted of pound on pound muscle, but Oro was not without her own talent and like a rusted penny, the grime was being pushed away to reveal the copper shine that was all its own.

Oro, let's give these people something to gossip about. Kyle gave his filly his cue and Oro didn't hesitate. Her execution was flawless as she tapped into her wealth and pressed in closer to the large colt. Dye flashed fire, almost lashing out, but Jeff was quick to check and re-channel the mammoth into the run. Use it the right way Dye....let's crush 'em. Oro had used the brief moment to inch her lead, but Dye's response was cruel. In a flash, the colt had launched ahead and began to pull away, his longer bigger form extending to fly over the dirt. Kyle and Oro rallied to inch up just a nose behind the larger colt in a grand exhibition.

Nick pulled back from the rail and exhaled and clicked his own stopwatch as the juveniles finished in hand. At a minute and some change, it was a time that would lend to a record pace come Breeder's Cup day. Jeff had to fight to rein in the roaring to go Anodyne and Kyle had to keep his own filly from going savage on the brutish colt. Easy girl. You did your job...and we'll get our day come race day...we'll get our day. He praised the lathered filly and pointed her off the track first. Jeff was still muscling the colt down, but he wore a pleased grin on his face. Anodyne was every bit ready to give the run of his life and once the colt had recognized that the run was done, he turned even more surly, but conceded to Jeff's wishes and was pointed off the track for a cool down. Nick smiled and slapped the rail in his approach, pleased beyond all doubts that nothing was off limits for his horses this year. Nothing.

[Cavallo]

Give Me the Sign.
Nightshade & Michael Landing with Arachne & Jeff Saunders

Nick stared off into the gap as Anodyne and Jeff finally made their exit. The lack of the horses' presence was immediately felt and the crowd began to breathe again. This was only two workouts in and one stable and already there was a level of class being exhibited here that demanded attention, respect and admiration. Even Nick was feeling the awe that he had for the juveniles that would be running in Intrepid's black and silver silks. The workouts here had him convinced that the juvenile string was more than ready to bring their best on race day.

Nick Allowed himself a breather before the next wave and as the excitement died down, he methodically began to think through the next workout. Nightshade and Arachne. The two grade one fillies were two of the best dirt runners on the tracks and Nick was super protective of both. Arachne was one of the last Augusta foals that was active and racing on the tracks. Her twin brother Apollo Bear had faded into the background with Akita Rose's disappearance and all that remained to actively enforce the Augusta line was Ara. The dark bay filly hadn't even raced in her juvenile year, but she'd come out swinging to become one of the top contenders in the Triple Tiara. Her four year old season hadn't proven to be any less illustrious and now...she was a grade one proven filly ready to take on the BC with everything she had. They had been pointed to this one race for the entire season and Nick knew Ara and Jeff weren't going to disappoint him.

Nick casually checked his watch again and returned to the rail. His presence on the rail was noted and the crowd quickly prepped themselves for a much anticipated exhibition: the dirt queens of Intrepid. Jeff and Arachne were first to break through the gap. Ara had a steeled glint to her eyes as she forced her way onto the dirt like she was pushing imaginary competition out of the way. Nick chuckled at the feisty filly. Ara was giving him all the signs he needed to know were there. She was ready - ready to run and race well in this year's Dirt Mile. This year's dirt mile was a small, but competitive field with a few surprises thrown in. Nick hadn't expected Lynara's Kingdom to be in the dirt mile, with most of her victories this year on the turf sprints and but Nick still welcomed the competition. Arachne had proven her capabilities at the 8-10 furlong mark and to be the pace setter with a little more to give in what was most likely going to be a fast field...well the field was geared to Ara's advantage.

Jeff felt like a king as he rode Ara over the dirt track over to the rail where Nick was waiting. He knew that the crowds eyes were glued to his dark filly and he didn't mind. Arachne trotted smoothly, completely at home and in her element over to the rail at Jeff's guidance. She stopped regally a few feet from Nick and the people took the opportunity to snap prime posing pictures, Ara glared at the intruders fiercely and stamped her right foreleg in warning. She may be pretty, but she was still Ara, ever selective about who she let get close to her. Nick nodded to Jeff, Where's Michael and Atropa? The legendary duo would finally be worked together for the first time for the open public to see. It was always an event that the staff secretly enjoyed, the facing off of Arachne and Nightshade. The two fillies simply hated each other and there simply was no better prep for these two than for them to face off and piss each other off. Nick was secretly pleased to finally share this secret treat with the public.

Jeff was about to speak, when both men and the filly heard the huffs and puffs of the awaited competition. The crowd's whispers escalated as Atropa and Michael rode through the gap and onto the dirt. Michael and Atropa didn't waste anytime in asserting themselves and Jeff instantly had his hands full as Ara backpedaled and attempted to turn to her right to savage the black bay filly. Ara didn't have to be told who Atropa was, she would know the younger filly a mile away. It wasn't easy to forget competition that routinely got under your skin and the relationship between Atropa and Ara was evidence to that fact. Jeff spun the fired up Ara a good two feet away from the dancing Atropa. The cameras flashed as they caught the raw tension and disgust the two horses had for one another, it was enrapturing to say the least. Nick rolled his eyes with an amused grin on his face, as he waited for Michael and Jeff to get their mounts settled tolerably. Michael checked Atropa as she thought about returning a leering lunge at the older filly, but settled begrudgingly under Michael's touch. Her eyes still shot fire at the older mare, but was content enough in the moment to glare.

Okay you two. Here's the deal. Gallop them for five and then I want a four furlong breeze. You won't need to encourage them much, they're each looking for redemption from their races. Michael and Jeff nodded. Ara and Jeff didn't hesitate to turn on the spot and take off down the dirt, anything to put some distance between themselves and the pain in the neck Atropa. The reporters tried to ask Nick questions about the fillies, Were their recent losses an indicator of their current form? Could they cut it out for the BC? All of which he simply ignored. Nightshade had hit a solid wall of competition in the Dubai World Cup and he was extremely proud of how well she'd performed in the given field. He also knew that this kind of loss would only fuel the Frontier daughter's fiery spirit in her next outing and the same went for Ara. The Augusta daughter was on the right track and after placing a third in her last BC outing, Nick was certain that all her added experience was only going to give her all the more of an advantage on race day.

Arachne led the gallop, every stride was like a painter's powerful stroke, each movement measured and intentional. It was hard to believe that this was this filly's only second year of racing. She carried herself with an air of arrogance that could only come with age and experience. She was poised to strike and Jeff could feel the coiled tension within his mount. There was no greater feeling than sitting on a loaded powder keg. Nick knew he didn't need to address these reporters. He'd let his horses do all the talking for him and he liked what they were saying.

Nightshade and Michael were hot on Ara and Jeff's heels, stalking their every motion as they galloped in the outside lane on Ara's right. Michael could feel the untapped power and passion boiling just underneath Atropa's calm facade. Nightshade had effectively demolished the public's doubts about her form with her smashing victory against the industries' top horses in the Dubai Filly Cup. She wasn't anywhere near to being done with her racing career and it showed in the hunger in her eyes and the power of her form. Nick couldn't help, but feel the awe and respect for these two racing legends. What horse could boast a record like Atropa's and what horse had reached the acclaim and power as Ara in her two years of racing. They were giving off all the signs of champions.

The five furlong gallop gave the handicappers a fine display. It would be impossible for these two fillies to slough off when they were in close vicinity to one another. The gallop showed off every rippling muscle and the refined form of each thoroughbred. There could be no question about their form or fitness. Each was at peak performance and only growing sharper. Nick knew Y14 was probably going to be prime years for his dirt queens and it reflected in the smooth, quick traveling motion of the two dark thoroughbreds as they sailed over their domain. As they flew into the final four furlongs, Ara was quick and efficient in her turn of foot, her action and motion getting nods of approval from the crowd. Eyes were locked onto the dueling fillies as Nightshade came to life in the final dash. The amazing thing about Atropa was that it never mattered how fast the front end was going, Nightshade had the speed and stamina in spades to close the gap. The competition had every right to fear and respect this legendary closer and Nick knew that Nightshade would be going up against high caliber in this year's BC, but he wasn't worried.

As Arachne held on fiercely to her lead, Nightshade rose to the challenge in the final furlongs at a rate of speed that sucked the wind out of Micahel's mouth. There was no doubt about it that Atropa was on point and as they roared up beside their arch nemesis the true show was put on. The throbbing hatred these fillies shared for one another was dripping and apparent as the two ran in parallel form and fashion, eyes locked onto each other in a battle of wills. Neither one would bow and neither one would cave. The staff always took bets before hand on who would win today's battle and it could never truly be predicted.

The final furlong loomed and both fillies put on even more speed in a mad dash to victory. Arachne had led since the start, but even Jeff knew that she had more in her. Nightshade however was dying to close the deal and in the final moment put on a touch of more speed, but Arachne lurched ahead, defiance emitting from her every poor to nose a win over the younger filly as the duo thundered by the finish in a powerful and comforting display to Nick's mindset. He knew each of his fillies were facing solid competition, but they had already confirmed that they had gone above giving signs of readiness, they demonstrated it. Come what may, these were two fillies that would either be in the winner's circle or die trying.

[Cavallo]

To the Top.
Bellefire & Adele Rodgers with Indian Darling & Ariel Winslow

The crowd was all worked up with the powerful flaunting of power that had just taken place on the tracks, but Nick and the crew wasn't done yet. Things were only getting more interesting as the two dark fillies were wrestled off the dirt track and two more took their places. Both fillies were one win away from the grade two realm, but each possessed a certain level of desperation and desire that would put other horses to shame. Bellefire bay body was like dancing blood in the sunlight as Adele rode the War Admiral daughter out onto the tracks. This was a filly that created quite a buzz on the tracks. When Intrepid had made their return to the tracks, it had been Lily who had made a smashing return to claim her win and climb up in the grades. Over the next month she'd racked up enough wins to claim the G3 realm and now with another month of racing she was one win from being a grade two. In a nutshell, Bellefire was a filly with buzz, power and stellar form. Nick knew that Lily would be completely at home in this year's running of the dirt marathon and he was very much looking forward to see her performance. Adele's touch had been magical this fall, with all of her mounts climbing the ranks and notching wins and places. His heart beamed with pride and possessiveness as Adele rode the defiant looking Lily onto the tracks. She trotted with a mark of measure, her wide eyes intelligently scoping the track, looking for her competition.

Ariel Winslow had that look of complete satisfaction and arrogance on her face as she rode out on the bay daughter of Native Flame. Indian Darling was the picture of health, competitiveness and form as she took to the dirt track with an ease that would rattle any competitor's nerves, in reality it only served to annoy the aggressive Lily, but Darla pretended not to notice as Ariel guided her up to the rail where Nick waited. Nick's eyes turned from the War Admiral daughter as they settled on the classic looking bay daughter of Native Flame. Her first outing with IRS had resulted in a third place finish and Nick had wisely re-entered the filly and the Native Flame daughter had proven to him and the crowds that Darla was more than comfortable racing in the black and silver silks of Intrepid. Darla was a winner of two legs of the Risorgimento Cup series and also a winner of one of the Triple Tiara prep races, needless to say, Darla was a top dirt competitor in the three year old division and one that hadn't gotten as much recognition as one would think, something that Nick and Intrepid would use to their advantage.

Lily's violent gaze fell into the darker bay and recognition instantly flared in her eyes. This was the very filly that had snatched a victory over her in the Saint Jeane Stakes race on The Wire. A powerful foreleg struck the dirt below, as she pawed the ground in her irritation. It was clear and evident that Lily had a certain disdain for the plain bay that had foiled her on her last outing. Adele touched her mount lightly and the fire tinted bay stilled momentarily, reassured by Adele's reaffirming touch. Nick smiled as he took both fillies in. Belefire was the classic dirt pedigree of speed and stamina with a flagrant attitude and it was paying off for her. Nick had no doubts of Lily's ability to compete in the BC, she was exactly where she needed to be at this point and she could only go up. Indian Darling had a calm self-assurance that was all her and bore all the markings of her Witch Creek training. Nick was absolutely positive that WCS had let one of the greats loose from their barns and she'd proven that with her most recent win. Nick was going to make Witch Creek regret having ever sold him this filly. It was about time for Intrepid to return the favor to their partners.

Alright, both of these fillies are pretty fresh coming off of last week, so they don't need a long workout. Both women nodded and coolly regarded each other from their mounts. Nick raised an eyebrow, it wasn't like Adele to become coldly competitive, but it looked like the newest jockey was bringing out a harder edge in his seasoned jockey. He smiled slightly at the thought and continued on with his instructions, Take them five furlongs, gallop them for three and let them let off some steam in the final two. Nothing too extensive, we don't need them weary on race day. Both women nodded again and Adele and Lily didn't hesitate to turn and gallop off.

Indian Darling locked onto Bellefire with a look of indignation and needed no encouragement from Ariel to take off in pursuit after their competition. There was no denying it, as Nick watched his two fillies take off, Intrepid had some of the strongest contenders for the dirt and their future was looking all the more brighter in that department. Nightshade, Arachne, Bellefire, Indian Darling, Predator, Ramirez, Top Admiral and growing in the ranks Anodyne, Restricted Access...yes it was safe to say that Nick held a powerful hand when it came to the dirt. Y14's juveniles looked to be equally as promising. If there was one thing Nick knew how to do right, it was the dirt horses and he knew both Bellefire and Indian Darling would continue to prove his own prowess on the dirt when they notched themselves top honors in this year's BC.

Bellefire was in her element as she galloped out over the dirt. Her body was rippling poetry in motion, full of power and confidence that oozed from her every pore. Adele rode the brilliant looking bay and felt the complete confidence in her mount. Every once in a while, Adele could sense Lily flipping her ears back trying to locate the sounds of her nemesis. One thing was for sure, Darla wouldn't be sneaking up on Lily this go around. Adele smiled as she rode the filly over the dirt and thought about the past few months. This was a filly marked with greatness and it showed in every race she ran and every workout she completed. The only way to get better was to sharpen yourself up against the best and that's exactly what was the key to their success. Lily had never been the type of horse to settle back and take the easy wins...no she thrived on the challenge and now here they were headed into one of the biggest BC fields this year and against one of their very own stablemates. If that wasn't a challenge...

Indian Darling was practically self-automated as she skimmed the dirt surface, hooves barely kissing the surface as Ariel sat perched in her saddle. A feeling of empowerment settled onto the duo as they ran off the pace that Bellefire had set. Darla didn't mind the spiteful dirt that kicked back into her face from Lily's hooves, in fact she almost relished that she got that kind of emotion from her stablemate. It seemed their little Darla was turning into a bit of an instigator and Ariel was more than fine with that.

The two fillies made short work of their three furlong gallop, what with the high competitive spirits permeating the air and Nick knew that this wasn't going to be a long drag-out battle. With the large BC field and some of the top dirt competitors, the pace was going to be anything, but slow so speed and tactics were going to be crucial. There wasn't going to be room for rash mistakes. His eyes were glued to the fillies as they made their moves, tactically placing themselves for their two furlong blow out.

Adele peeked back to see the flashing smile of the new jockey Ariel Winslow. The Canadaian had somehow found a way to irritate her, which was a big deal for the ever kind and gentle Adele. She clucked to Lily and the filly was only all to willing to put on some more speed - anything to put some distance between herself and the thundering approach of her rival. As Bellefire roared to life, Indian Darling and Ariel were swift in their approach, but Lily's start put their charge at bay for a few exhilarating seconds. Frustrated that she wasn't gaining, Ariel had to check Darla before she fully exerted herself, but she was pleased with the fight in her filly and gradually eased the plain brown wrapper filly with the finish looming. Pleased to finally be able to challenge the haughty Bellefire, Darla didn't need any encouragement as she put on s burst of speed that rocked Ariel. The final furlong loomed and now both fillies were engaged in a complete battle. Darla pulled her head up alongside Lily's with a glinting fire, but Lily was too fired up and on a roll to maintain with the later charge from Darla. With a defiant flash in her eyes and a grin from Adele, the powerhouse duo edged out the raging Darla and disturbed Ariel.

A seething sense of loss welled up in Ariel and her mount as they put on a final burst of speed to catch the slowing Lily in a show of final defiance. Adele slapped Lily's neck as the bright bay looked out haughtily at her nemesis, her sense of revenge momentarily satisfied. Nick nodded to each rider as they galloped by to the gap. With the fire he'd just seen and the times he'd just clocked, Nick knew that these were two fillies that were going to take Intrepid to the top and it was going to start this week with this year's running of the BC.

[Cavallo]

Can't Touch This.
Princetta & Estella Marino with Firebird & Michael Landing

The crew had had a restful evening, as much as they could anyways with the impending thrill that the Breeder's Cup always brought. Estella Marino hadn't been able to catch a single wink as she'd laid in her bed the night before Malva's final workout before her official BC debut. She couldn't believe it. If someone had told her that in the five months she'd come to Intrepid that she would have a legitimate BC contender, well...she would have laughed in their face and yet here she was. Dawn approached and Stella didn't wait a single second to spring up out of her bed, shower and get dressed for the day. It was Malva's and Fire's turn today to take ownership of the turf in their preparation for their respective BC attempts.

Running more like a school girl rather than walking like the twenty-three year old that she actually was. Reality was simply refusing to sit in as she made her way with familiarity in the predawn darkness. She walked right up to an luminescent ghost, Malva's nearly white coat gave her an ethereal appearance, but Stella wasn't afraid of the apparition. If anything she was afraid that this one of a kind filly would disappear into the morning mist, never to be found again. Hey there Malva, you look pretty wide awake. You ready to stretch your legs and show the boss that exotic form of yours? The nearly white filly nickered and shook her head, but put up with the woman's affectionate pats. Malva really wasn't the sentimental type, but she knew this woman well enough to appreciate the attention. The filly's ears pricked with attention as Stella turned away and returned with the jingle of equipment.

There was the sound of another life about in the barn and Stella looked up from leading out Malva to see Michael leading Firebird down to the cross-ties. She nodded to their fellow barn mate and for once she was glad that Firebird wouldn't be their true competition on BC race day. The flame licked Oddside son was in perfect form and looked extremely bright eyed as he toyed around with Michael's gloves in his side pocket before he could push the colt away. She chuckled, it seemed everyone was in bright spirits this morning and she knew that this simply came from the magic that was the BC.

Both horses didn't give their riders much hassle as they set about to the grooming and tacking process. Firebird practically purred under Michael's hands and the older man didn't mind the reaction he was able to illicit from the five year old stallion. Michael's heart was full and sad all at the same time. This was it for Fire, the end of his productive and fulfilling career and he'd been with him every step of the way. He'd remembered the exact time the Oddside son had been born and grown up into a leggy and hopeful two year old that had filled a void with his loss of Atalanta as a ride. He chuckled at the old thought that came unbidden. He'd been so jealous of his cousin as he raced Atalanta into her juvy BC race and yet here he was now with the very horse that had given him his own first BC win against some of the top turfers that had raced on the GHF and TW tracks. It was almost impossible to imagine that this was the end - it just didn't seem real. Even as he tacked up the energetic stallion, for his last professional workout, reality refused to settle in. This was a routine that had been practiced between this pair now for five years, why did it have to stop now? Surely there'd be more...but yet as he cinched up Fire's saddle, Michael felt an odd sting in his eyes and he quickly coughed out the offending dust of his nose and eyes.

Stella watched the man and the stallion with a growing envy. There was such an easiness about the way the two of them interacted. They didn't even have to try to understand the other - they just did. Theirs was a relationship of years, of trials, failures and success, everything that was needed to cement a pair to together so naturally and implicitly. Malva nudged Stella's shoulder in an attempt to use the woman as an itching post, but Stella chuckling pushed the filly's head away. The two of them had a great future spread out ahead of them and if it looked anything like Michael's and Fire's, well, she was more than okay with that.

Come on Malva, let's get the jump on these two. She rubbed behind the filly's ear and led her out of the barn into the morning fog. Both woman and horse breathed in deeply of the fresh air. It was a piercing cold and a cool breeze caused a shiver to run down Stella's back as she zipped up her windbreaker and slipped her gloves on. Regardless of the cold though, it was a beautiful dawn and the tracks were empty. Just the way Nick had wanted. Estella's eyes pierced through the morning haze as the stadium lights ghostly lit up the track. She saw Nick and Beth leaning on the rail, their cups of coffee steaming with tendrils of smoke in the cold weather. Beth was here. Her heart rate picked up a bit and the nearly white filly sensed the rise in her human's heart rate and nudged the girl as if to reassure the frail human. Stop being stupid Stella. It's just Beth. She wouldn't have entered Princetta in the BC if she wasn't pleased with both of us. Stella felt grudging admiration for the ever loving Beth Cavallo. After all, if it hadn't been for her taking a chance on her, well, who knows how long she would have been stuck exercising horses for Intrepid. If Beth saw something great in her, then it must be there...she just had to believe it now for herself. It isn't a fluke you're in the BC Stella. Malva's earned this and you are going to give her every chance she's earned. No matter what. Malva snorted and Beth and Nick noted the pair's presence with a wave. Well, Malva. My pep talk is all done. What do you say you do your thing and we blow Fire and Michael away? Hopping up into the saddle, Michael was laughing already aboard the chestnut who was eyeing up the much smaller Malva. Firebird towered over the grey, but as usual, Princetta didn't seem the least bit concerned.

Stella's cheeks flamed as she found her seat in the saddle. How long had Michael been there? What had he heard? Kill me. Michael's eyes twinkled with amusement, but he said nothing as he nudged Fire into the gap and onto the turf. So much for getting the jump on them. Stella pushed Malva into motion and the filly moved fluidly over the track, her eyes bright and intelligent as both horses were pointed over to the rail where Nick and Beth awaited.

Beth's eyes were solely for the one thoroughbred that she owned. Sure she had a share in some of the horses at Intrepid, but Malva was special and unique - she was completely and 100% hers, lock, stock and barrel. It had been years since she'd taken on the thoroughbred industry, being personally more interested in the Landing family's Arabian branch, but the typey head and exotic look of Malva had caught her eye in Kirsten's reclaim sale and then once she'd heard the filly's pedigree it'd been a done deal. There was no doubt about it, the foundation she'd laid with the more quieter natured filly was paying off, but it was under Estella Marino's touch that the GS Gallant Prince granddaughter was blossoming. She took in her Italian jockey, her dirty blonde hair swept back into a sleek ponytail hidden under her black riding helmet. She sat light in the saddle and yet had good contact with the filly, her hands were like whispers on the reins, but Malva was attuned to every motion her hands sent down into her sensitive mouth. This was a powerful combination if she ever saw one and suddenly some of her anxiousness settled. You and Malva look to have great contact today. Beth chuckled as the usually fiery Stella became a bit more demure around her. Nick nodded his agreement, It's true Estella. I think Beth might have picked a true winning pair. His blue eyes communicated his confidence in the woman. She would turn out fine on BC day.

Nick's eyes took on a more playful look as he looked up to his brother sitting astride a practically shuffling Firebird. The chestnut stallion had no clue. As far as he was concerned, racing was his life and it had been for the past five years. He wouldn't change the stallion's outlook for anything. There was no faded weariness about the chestnut, only the characteristic over-energized passion that had carried Fire through five years of racing. Endurance was something that Nick hoped Fire passed on to his offspring and he was intrigued to see if the public would show any interest in the stallion upon his retirement. He shook his head. Now wasn't the time to be thinking that far ahead into the future. There was a race to prepare for now and two jockeys were looking down expectantly at him. Right. Anyways. Michael and Fire - you both are looking great, but here's the drill for this morning. Firebird is going off three weeks of rest. He's practically about to explode and coming off of an intimidating second place finish in the Tropical Trespass Invitational. He's sharp and in good form, but Michael I need you to let him let a bit of steam off. We don't want him too hyped on race day that he starts acting stupid. Michael laughed as Fire was only just giving an all to perfect example of the pent up energy her possessed as the chestnut stallion practically was dancing in place. Beth muffled a laugh at the over exuberant horse as Nick rolled his eyes humorously and began to address Estella, Estella, Malva is only coming off of two weeks rest. Let her gallop the second half of the five furlong gallop at a more increased rate with Firebird here and then both of you go ahead and let them duke it out for another three furlongs. Let them let off some steam, but don't let them overextend. We want them refreshed for race day, not feeling like their coming off of a race.

Estella felt her heartbeat in her throat and only barely remembered even nodding to the boss before somehow posting on Malva's back before breaking into the prescribed five furlong gallop. Get it together Stella... She shook her head and was fully in the game, her eyes glued on the professionally galloping Firebird. Michael and Fire made this all look so easy. Malva watched the older stallion with keen interest and as the filly revved up her pace, Stella quickly remembered the boss' orders and checked her. Not yet there girl. Soon.

The wind was biting and cold, but Michael didn't feel it all that much as he galloped Firebird hard over the turf. It was going take much more than this to wind his mount, even with the cold. In fact, Firebird seemed only to be able to notice his own excitement at finally being able to stretch out his pent up muscles. The frisky stallion enjoyed the rush of the wind, the cold air caressing and flowing over his aerodynamic frame - he was built for speed, he was built to run and he was finally released to do exactly what he was good at. He reached in for more, but Michael was quick to check the stallion and he grudgingly acquiesced. There must be more later.

The five furlong gallop was a joke. Firebird burned through it in seconds and Malva was running ever so coolly behind the leader with a cold determination that was just begging to be unleashed. Though the stallion was galloping at a much higher rate, the grey filly was not to be shaken and her shorter legs flew in a blur, but she wasn't wavering - she was built to go the distances. The time was drawing near and on cue, Michael let the reigning BC Mile Winner loose on the turf, daring the smaller horse to take him on. The chestnut stallion began to unfurl a fraction of his speed as Malva and Stella did the same and began to slowly close the gap on the outside. Three furlongs in racing was not long and it was even shorter when you were flying.

Stella sucked in her air and let the filly go with only a furlong remaining and it was exactly the challenge that Firebird had been hoping for. All fight and fashion, Malva glared over at the older horse and she was not intimidated. Fire glared back and took heart. Michael asked for just a smidgen more and the stallion instantly responded - milliseconds before Stella and Malva to claim again a workout win.

Both horses galloped out as their riders gradually pulled them up. Beth and Nick watched with wide and eager eyes. That rider of yours - she has guts and Malva didn't give an inch. If Michael hadn't had the natural timing to move when he had... Beth nodded. Nick didn't have to even finish his sentence. Firebird was one of the best turf horses in the barn and it looked like Nick and Intrepid might have a viable turf replacement for Y14. One thing was for sure - the competition had better be ready or they were never going to touch this.

[Cavallo]

Solo Hours.
Flying Solo & Kyle Landing

Kyle watched astride Solo as Michael and Fire wrapped up their last professional workout for Firebird's career. He smiled at his cousin and knew the emotions he had to be feeling. He'd practically cried like a baby when Atalanta had retired, though no one had caught him at it. He nodded to Michael as he rode by, the flaming chestnut lightly lathered and geared up for another go as he snorted competitively to Solo. The bay stallion snorted and attempted to lunge for Fire's shoulder as he passed, but Kyle was quick to press the stallion forward. It was always forward motion with Solo. Bad things happened when Kyle didn't press the bay forward, his mind was too prone to dwell on more problematic events, like turning around and egging Firebird into an all out speed duel.

Kyle was fully adept though at keeping Solo occupied as he pressed the bounding stallion over the turf and to the white rail, where Nick leaned over the edge. The distance to the rail was quickly closed with Solo's flying action. Kyle reined back the bay just in time to keep Solo from headbutting the boss right in his noggin. Nick saw the incoming stallion coming in hot and he instinctively jumped back as Kyle brought the stallion up short. Nick glared up at Kyle who wore a sheepish grin as he sat astride a prancing Solo. Geez Kyle! Are you trying to kill me?, the trainer gruffly growled out, but you could see the twinkle of amusement in his eyes.

Sorry Nick, Solo just has a lot of energy. The bay stallion as if on cue shook his head out powerfully and pawed the ground, clumping up the turf underneath his forelegs. Nick laughed and just shook his head before giving his instructions. Okay, Solo needs to let off a little steam so let's gallop him for three furlongs and then let him loose for five. Kyle nodded and spun the stallion around to gallop down the turf.

The beautiful thing about Solo was that he never needed any competition to give his best, it was simply the kind of horse that Solo was - he was never a stallion of half measures and Kyle was going to count on that for BC race day. The duo went flying over the turf at a gallop that communicated the ease with which Solo used his power. Kyle rode the thoroughbred with all the ease of a seasoned professional. The stallions muscles rippled with a toned quality as his body extended and contracted with each stride, his nose reaching out for more - he was always wanting more. Kyle checked their pace and kept the overeager stallion in line. Keep it easy. Not yet boy. The stallion grudgingly accommodated, but Kyle felt the constant tension in his hands. This would never be a horse that would lack in passion, zest, zeal and power.

Nick watched the pair as they galloped into the back stretch and he couldn't help, but to admire how far the Flying Solo had come since his arrival from Dreamvalley Stables. The stallion had been nervous and flighty, his abounding energy being channeled in all the wrong ways, but add a solid jockey and some time and consistency and Solo had immediately begun to turn around his career. This season had been extremely quiet for the bay stallion, but Nick knew that he was more than hungry and more than ready to stick it to the competition. His form was perfect, muscles lining his frame and even from the rail, Nick could see the fire and fight in his every movement and stride. It was hard not to be drawn in by the stallion's spirit and Nick hoped that come race day he would match his spirit with his talent. The day was coming and Nick hoped that that day would be soon.

Kyle knew Solo would be marked as the underdog, but he also knew that they could use this to their advantage. Just because they might not have raced as much this season didn't mean his talent and form and waned. He was every inch the racehorse that he had been bred to be and it was time to show the world. Kyle guided the stallion to the bend and began to ease out his eager mount. There was nothing more that Solo wanted to do than to chase down the wind and as Kyle eased his hand, he eased into a sprint that gave Kyle a rush that could only come from riding the wind.

Nick watched as the solo pair flew to their finish, there was no hesitation or doubt in their form, only pure confidence and their thrill of the hunt. One thing was certain, this was a stallion that had no problems running by himself and Nick knew he'd only get better with the added competition.