Fireball Birdie shipped to Sam Houston Race Park and had his first unrecorded half-mile over the main track while on the inside of a stablemate. Our son of Uncle Mo did everything on his own, galloping out willingly past the wire. The Asmussen barn was pleased with our colt and will continue to increase the intensity in the coming weeks.
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
Seize The Grey's Trainer Honored as Inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award at the Kentucky Derby Museum
Or cut and paste to your browser:
https://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/275172/q-and-a-lukas-reflects-on-honor-of-ky-derby-museum-award?utm_source=BHTW&utm_medium=social
Simply Enchanting Update
Simply Enchanting returned to the track this morning at Santa Anita. While she was supposed to go back to the track last Thursday, the daughter of Nyquist spiked a temperature and a routine blood sample came back a little off. This was likely caused by her travels and never escalated to anything more than a minor temperature.
Following a few days of walking and antibiotics, her temp returned to normal, and she received the green light to jog this morning. Our 3-year-old filly will gradually pick up the pace and return to a normal training routine in the coming days.
We do not expect this to impact her future plans, but we'll report back if anything is amiss.
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| Simply Enchanting in Sunland Park Paddock Photo credits to Barry Glick |
English Jubilee Update
English Jubilee did not draw into the field or onto the Also Eligible list for this coming Sunday's MSW going long on the lawn at Gulfstream, though she did put in a strong 1/2-mile on the turf at Palm Meadows this past Friday in tandem with Gallant Mischief, which should tighten her up nicely for a return to racing.
There's a mile turf MSW on the 10th and a 1 1/16-miles turf MSW on the 24th, both at Gulfstream, so we'll keep an eye on both as possible preps to get the Ontario-Bred filly primed for Woodbine in April.
We'll update our "Upcoming" list above to removed the MSW she didn't draw in to for March 3rd and add the MSW on the 10th that is a possibility.
Good Cop Update
Our 2YO son of Tiz The Law, Good Cop/ is doing well at Ocala Stud where he is logging the miles on the track with extended gallops.
In the next couple of weeks the Tiz the Law colt will have a strong enough foundation to begin a breeze program.
Team Eclipse will be traveling to the Ocala area in a couple weeks and we look forward to their report on his progress.
Monday, February 26, 2024
Catalyst Update
Catalyst has continued in good order at the Ten Mile Creek training center since her last race. Right now, Steve has his eyes on a maiden special weight for straight three-year-olds on Mar. 8 going a flat mile but still ideally prefers to find a race going longer. At this time that is our only option in the current condition which runs through Mar. 14.
Seize The Grey - Road to the Roses Update
SEIZE THE GREY ("Ceasar") returned in good shape after his Oaklawn race on Saturday, and tentative plans are being mapped out for him.
According to D. Wayne Lukas: "Seize the Grey could use the one-mile $200,000 Hot Springs Stakes March 23 as a bridge to a Kentucky Derby points race at Keeneland—$1 million Blue Grass Stakes (G1) April 6 or the $400,000 Lexington Stakes (G3) April 13."
Ceasar has been nominated to the Blue Grass Stakes, so now we wait to see how this all plays out.
Sunday, February 25, 2024
Seize The Grey - Media
This article includes a quote from trainer D. Wayne Lukas on what Seize The Grey's next steps will probably be.
Lukas Strikes Twice with Lemon Muffin, Seize The Grey
Adaay In Asia Update
Adaay in Asia remained on schedule this morning, breezing five furlongs in 1:00.60 at Santa Anita. The daughter of Adaay cruised down the backstretch and stayed steady down the lane. Phil D’Amato remains happy with our mare and continues to wait for a sprinting dirt option to be written.
She was also nominated to the G2 Buena Vista (mile on the turf) on Mar. 2nd as a backup but our plan remains to wait for the extra.
We will report back with any additional news.
Legitify Works First 5F
Santa Anita 2/24/2024 Dirt 5F 1:02.00 Handily 51/86
Legitify's first 5F work yesterday implies he's moving forward. If a follow-up report is posted, we'll include it below.
Lane Way Work Out and Update
Santa Anita 2/24/2024 Dirt 5F 1:00.20 Handily 9/86
Lane Way Workout Report
Lane Way breezed a solo five furlongs in 1:00.20 this morning at Santa Anita. Under his regular exercise rider Jose Contreras, your veteran son of Into Mischief did it under a strong hold impressively. Trainer Richard Mandella couldn’t be happier with Lane Way at the moment and has him penciled in for one final work ahead of our target race on Mar. 9th, the G3 San Simeon.
Magical Ways Wins
Magical Ways, a gelded son of Mclean's Music who we formerly owned until he was claimed, won his race on Sunday at Aqueduct in a very nice stretch effort, earning an 89 Equibase speed figure.
We look forward to his continued success in his 5YO year.
Magical Ways finished 1st by 1 1/4 lengths, on February 24, 2024, at AQUEDUCT in Race 4.
Aqueduct 2/24/2024 4 Starter Allowance 1ST 89 E-Speed Figure
Mo Temptation Update
Mo Temptation had her first official work back this morning at San Luis Rey Downs, covering one furlong in :11.40. As planned, assistant Kim Marrs is bringing her back gradually and will continue on a slow progression plan.
Mo Temptation has always been an aggressive type when it comes to her training so it is not a surprise she worked on the quicker side but Kim slowed her down as much as possible.
Pending all continues well, next week she will breeze a quarter (two furlongs.)
Saturday, February 24, 2024
Seize The Grey Sizzles at Oaklawn Park!
It was quite a comeback for Seize The Grey after his 3 month freshening at Highlander Training Center in Texas this winter. He went into the first race at Oaklawn Park today probably a bit lacking for fitness, but didn't let that stop him from grabbing the lead and winning by daylight!
Our message from MRH was:
Congratulations to all owners as Seize the Grey proves to be much the best in his 3-year-old debut in today’s opener at Oaklawn Park. With a perfect trip under jockey Nik Juarez, our son of Arrogate traveled nicely and battled on in the stretch to win to notch his second career victory. While we knew Seize the Grey might have needed the race from a fitness standpoint, the ‘Coach’ was confident with his readiness and we can only expect him to improve with this race under his belt. It's time to start dreaming again, and first and foremost we will see how he exits this hard trying effort but pending all continues well, a Kentucky Derby prep will be next for this exciting colt.
We'll post further info and a few photos from his race as we receive them in the coming days.
It's time to start dreaming again, indeed!
Hooray for Seize The Grey!
View Nik Juarez's Jockey Cam of Seize The Grey's Win
Our Commentary:
In all honesty, "Ceasar" wasn't expected to win yesterday, not because he doesn't have the talent, but because he wasn't yet back to the level of fitness needed after his 3 month layoff. This was supposed to be a race-to-fitness scenario, but Ceasar had his own ideas. His heart got him to the wire first, and those last few strides where he dug deep and extended his stride reminded us so much of his sire Arrogate. We hope this bodes well for things to come later this year, but to be sure, if he comes back good from this effort and his legend of a trainer decides to take him forward, his next out will be at a higher level of competition and will probably be in the Bluegrass state. (That was a clue. 😉 ) We'll keep you posted on any official news.
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| Photo credits go to Robert Yates Seize The Grey - 02-24-2024 - Oaklawn Win |
POST RACE UPDATE - February 25, 2024
Seize the Grey exited yesterday's race in good physical order and earned a career-best 82 Beyer Speed Figure (90 Equibase Figure). We want to thank not only the Lukas barn but Highlander Training Center for having this colt so well prepared for his return to the races. While his break was short, to come into the track atmosphere and only have three works and perform as he did was ultra impressive. It's always rewarding when a plan comes to fruition but even more exciting as this puts us back in the Derby contention.
In addition, jockey Nik Juarez passed along a video to all Seize the Grey owners following his impressive win. An updated copy of his lifetime past performances can also be seen above. We will discuss with the ‘Coach’ in the coming days and come back with our race plan.
Message from Nik Juarez, Seize The Grey's Jockey
INSIDER NEWSLETTER REPORT
Seize the Grey returned to the races with a thrilling one-length victory in Oaklawn Park's opener this past Saturday! After an exciting two year old season in which he not only defeated Dornoch at Saratoga to break his maiden and finished well in the G3. Iroquoise to earn points towards the Kentucky Derby trail, Seize the Grey earned a rest.
He enjoyed a month of turnout in addition to three months of training at Highlander Training Center before returning to the starting gate. Our now 3-year-old colt by Arrogate kicked off his three year old season by earning a career-best 82 Beyer Speed Figure and seemed to have more in the tank. With a great ride from jockey Nik Juarez, Seize the Grey traveled nicely and battled on in the stretch to notch his second career victory.
With a win in his 3-year-old debut under his belt, his trainer D. Wayne Lukas is confident in this colt and expects him to continue to improve. Lukas was quoted saying that Seize the Grey could use the one-mile $200,000 Hot Springs S. on Mar. 23 as a bridge to a Kentucky Derby points race at Keeneland—either the $1-million G1 Blue Grass S. Apr. 6 or the $400,000 G3 Lexington S. April 13.
So, owners, it's time to start dreaming again.
Secret Crush Work Out and Report
Secret Crush had his first work back since his debut on Friday morning at Palm Beach Downs. Breezing on the inside of stablemate Heartened (MSW winner), your son of Candy Ride worked steadily to complete a half mile in :48.74. This work continued past the wire for the duo and Secret Crush galloped out well. This was a decent first work back.
We plan to target a one-mile maiden special weight at Gulfstream Park on Mar. 16. As mentioned in the initial race recap, trainer Todd Pletcher's immediate thoughts were to get this colt more distance.
He will have two additional leading up to the race and we would expect at least one of those to be a bit more serious as he prepares for the added distance.
Friday, February 23, 2024
Seize The Grey - Race Analysis for his 3YO Debut Tomorrow Morning at Oaklawn Park
Following a productive 2-year-old campaign, Seize the Grey is set to return to the races in tomorrow’s opener at Oaklawn Park, a first-level allowance going 1 1/16 miles. With five races under his belt last year, it was decided that following his third-place finish at Keeneland, a mental and physical freshener would do Seize the Grey a world of good ahead of his 3-year-old campaign. With three months at Highlander Training Center in Texas, the son of Arrogate was able to get a month of turnout in addition to a solid foundation before being shipped back to "The Coach."
With four works at Highlander and three official breezes at Oaklawn, Seize the Grey will realistically need the race but we expect him to improve with a race under his belt. However, trainer D. Wayne Lukas felt it was a great starting point ahead of his 3-year-old campaign with this race being a shorter field and the timing of it.
The Lukas barn has been pleased with your colt’s training, highlighted by a sharp five-furlong drill last week and is excited to see him back in the starting gate tomorrow. He will break from post position #5 in a seven-horse field and the race has a post time of 12:00 p.m. CT. With Nik Juarez in the irons for the first time, Seize the Grey has been slated as the morning-line fourth choice at odds of 9-2. Good luck to all owners!
Horse-by-horse analysis:
#1 Gewurztraminer (20-1): Co-longest shot on the board. Auction price-restricted maiden special weight winner as a 2-year-old was then sold for 250K in the Fasig Tipton horses of racing age sale. Since joining the Riley Mott barn and stretching out in distance, he has not been able to take a step forward. Expect him to be forwardly placed but don't imagine he will be around late.
#2 Mikealicious (20-1): MSW winner at a mile here at Oaklawn two races back, but then was beaten 9+ lengths in an allowance last time out. His numbers are on the slower side, but trainer Mike Maker is always dangerous.
#3 Maximus Magic (15-1): $50,000 maiden claimer winner two back at Oaklawn. Was beaten over 20 lengths in his first try against winners. Don't see it here.
#4 Imperial Gun (9-5): Impressive MSW winner going 8 1/2 panels at Oaklawn on Dec. 31 for trainer Steve Asmussen. Gets top jockey Tyler Gaffalione and is tactical. Does lack some experience in this field, but is the horse to beat if he can repeat that last effort. Also worth noting he will receive Lasix for the first time.
#6 Footprint (5-2): Kenny McPeek brings this consistent son of Dialed In. Slow from the gate, but has a nice turn of foot. Third beaten a head in an allowance last time and we know the distance won’t be an issue. McPeek and jockey Brian Hernandez took two stakes together here earlier in the month. Can not be overlooked.
#7 Blown Cover (2-1): $650,000 yearling purchase by Gun Runner and debut MSW winner at Horseshoe Indy going a mile. Beaten double digits last time out in an allowance at Fair Grounds, but has the right to be in the mix. Improving in Beyer Speed Figures each start but still seems a touch slow for the winning end of things. Expect him being a factor in the early stages as well.
Coexist Clocks in with a New Work
Our friend (formerly owned) Coexist was back with a nice breeze today at the Fair Grounds, which was a relief to us considering her last out where she hit the gate. We're very glad she was not injured in the incident and is back on the work tab. Pretty solid work, though we know she can turn in speedier performances.
Coexist (4-Year-Old Filly)
Date: February 23, 2024
Track: FAIR GROUNDS
Distance: Four Furlongs
Time: 48:60 Breezing
Track Condition: Fast
Surface: Dirt
Rank: 26/102
Thursday, February 22, 2024
Adaay In Asia - Change of Plans
Trainer Phil D'Amato has decided not to run Adaay In Asia in the stakes race and instead is looking for an allowance to try her on dirt. Since she is training so beautiful on that surface, the team wants to explore dirt as an option.
We'll remove her race from the "Upcoming" list and let you know when plans are finalized for her next out.
Mo Temptation Update
Assistant trainer Kim Marrs provided an update on Mo Temptation this morning, reporting all continues well since she picked up galloping.
She is expected to have her first minor breeze this coming Saturday at San Luis Rey Downs. She will only breeze an eighth of a mile, gradually increasing the intensity of her training.
Patience continues to be in order for our daughter of Mo Town as she returns to training.
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
Simply Enchanting Nominated to the Kentucky Oaks
Simply Enchanting has official been nominated to the 2024 Kentucky Oaks!
Guinevere Runs 3rd on Debut
Guinevere had a bit of a rough trip tonight at Turfway Park R#5. Breaking slow from the #1 post, she attempted to improve her position going into the turn but was unable to negotiate the traffic. Eventually moving to the outside, she rallied to take 3rd in her debut.
Prior to the race, she was very professional and looked great in the paddock, handling all the sights, sounds and crowd that came to see her extremely well, and standing quietly for the saddling. She is a very large filly and this was commented on several times by the announcers and people present.
We're very excited to see what she can do going forward as she learns the ropes and gains experience.
We'll include the post-race report once it's available.
POST RACE REPORT
Guinevere finished a promising 3RD in her career debut in today’s 5th race at Turfway Park, beaten by 4 1/4 lengths. Breaking a step slow, the daughter of Justify found her rhythm early but was shut off when trying to maneuver on the inside of the eventual winner #3 Winnable (Justify).
She entered the backstretch in fourth and settled nicely about three lengths off of the leaders. Her jockey Abel Cedillo opted to put her in the clear near the half-mile pole and she responded well when the pace began to quicken. Our 3-year-old filly entered the final turn four-wide and battled on gamely through the stretch.
Breaking from the rail and going two turns on debut is never an easy task and Guinevere will surely gain plenty of experience from today’s race as well as fitness. As you will hear from Wesley, Guinevere came back a little tired and will surely benefit both physically and mentally. There is plenty to build off from this debut and hope to possibly see her at Keeneland this spring. We will discuss with the Ward barn in the coming days to see how she exited this race and we will report back with any news to share.
Guinevere Debuts Tonight: Analysis of her First Start
Today marks a monumental day for Guinevere, our daughter of Justify, as she makes her debut in the 5th race at Turfway Park. The one-mile maiden special weight drew a full field of 12 horses with Guinevere in post position #1.
Trainer Wesley Ward is known for winning on debut mainly with two-year-olds and is more than capable of getting it done with older horses as well. From a sample size of 29, Ward strikes at 24% with 3yo first-time starters. Our filly has had plenty of foundation (ten breezes) put into her which makes the route of ground not of concern. With that said, a debut around two turns is never an easy task. Over the last few weeks, reports have been positive from Ward regarding Guinevere’s morning activity and it seems she has taken a step forward. Her sire, Justify, continues to impress and is advertised as the best young sire in the world. Already with five G1 winners, it starts even before then with a 17% win rate on debut and he is capable of producing a horse that runs on any surface. As impressive as they have been early on, they seem to only get better with time.
Of course, we hope Guinevere starts her career off with a bang but anything can happen on debut. Breaking from the one hole, it would be ideal to get out of the gates alertly. Going around two turns, the rail draw is less of a factor but we would prefer to see her involved in the race and have to overcome the least amount possible. Abel Cedillo who recently moved his tack from CA to KY will be in the irons. Ward and Cedillo have teamed up for one win in only two starts but by no surprise Cedillo has made a quick impact at Turfway, winning at 17% from his last 100 starts.
Guinevere has been slated as the morning-line second choice with odds of 4-1. There are a few interesting horses in the field which you can read more about below, but the clear horse to beat will be #9 Moonlight Gambler. She holds a major class and experience edge over us and the majority of the field. If Moonlight Gambler comes back firing off a brief break, she “should” be tough to beat.
We wish Guinevere the a safe and productive first race!
About the competition:
#2 Spellcheck (9/2): Daughter of Candy Ride has two elongated sprints under her belt and should appreciate the added distance. Her dam was a MSW winner going long on the turf at Del Mar.
#3 Winnable (12/1): Another well-bred Justify filly making her debut around two turns. Was entered back in November but was scratched. Disappeared from the work tab for 55 days and has only had five works leading up to this. While she likely didn’t leave training during that time, from a fitness standpoint this one may be a bit short.
#4 My Sexy Blonde (20/1): Unsuccessful in two tries. Lacks any speed and would need to get much faster.
#5 Pink Moon (20/1): Did no running on debut when sprinting but it was a very live race. The winner, Nice as Pie, returned to not only win a first-level allowance but also the Valdale S. on Feb. 10th. The runner-up, Poolside With Slim returned to win impressively on the stretch-out at Gulfstream and the third-place finisher Fantastical also returned to win on the stretch-out at Turfway. Would still need to see a completely different horse but she will get Lasix, blinkers, and a route of ground which could change the result.
#6 Waggle Pass (15/1): Was second most recently when running for Md $50,000. The added ground should benefit her but concerns she is simply a notch below.
SCRATCHED #7 Aldora (5/1): Exits the same race as Pink Moon (see above). Race two back was very solid but three of four starts have not been good. A little surprised with the morning line odds but this is another well-bred filly who should appreciate the return to two turns.
#8 Stakeout (8/1): Interesting runner for Godolphin. Was fifth on debut when sprinting, has come back to work well, and gets Lasix in career start number two. Worth a look at the price.
#9 Moonlight Gambler (3/1): The class of the field and the one to beat. Was fifth in the G2 Jessamine last Fall and was very competitive at the MSW level.
SCRATCHED #10 Nellie Thursday (12/1): FTS (first-time starter) by Lemon Drop Kid. Not surprising she is starting around two turns but the DeVaux barn has been cold this meet. The barn is capable of winning on debut and strikes at 11% debut at a mile or more. Leaning to watch one.
#11 Toffee Apple (12/1): Debut effort was very good but failed to repeat it in her next start. Still needs to be respected given that debut and her dam was a talented runner for Chad Brown who likely never got to show her true potential due to setbacks. Was a MSW winner at the Spa around two turns on grass.
#12 Sharper Gal (20/1): Has done zero running in two starts. Would need to change things around completely.
Tuesday, February 20, 2024
Simply Enchanting After Sunland Oaks Report
Simply Enchanting exited her recent third-place finish in the Sunland Park Oaks in good order and returned to Santa Anita late last night. They did report in the accompanying video that she had a minor nick which has been treated and is not expected to cause any issues.
With weather hitting the Arcadia area, the track will potentially re-open Thursday and she will likely have a light leg-stretching jog. Assistant trainer Julie Witt passed along a video of Ella (Simply Enchanting’s barn name) back in her stall this morning who was very alert during a rainy morning at Santa Anita.
The daughter of Nyquist earned a 63 Beyer Speed Figure and a 79 Equibase Speed Figure. We will report back with any news as she returns to a normal training routine.
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| Simply Enchanting on the Sunland Park for Sunland Oaks Sunday 02/18/2024 |
Monday, February 19, 2024
Simply Enchanting has Black Type and Kentucky Oaks Points in 2nd Start!
Having Simply Enchanting come to the Land of Enchantment for her second start was quite a treat, and we were even able to attend this one in person!
Simply Enchanting ran an admirable race considering everything that was thrown at her on her 2nd start - winning and stakes winning competition, unfamiliar track, deeper surface, higher altitude, and longer distance than her first race by 4 furlongs - half a mile!
She ran 2nd until the second turn, even getting her nose in front at one point, but she was caught by the eventual winner on the turn and squeezed out of position. Antonio Fresu took her to the outside, but she had lost some ground and was unable to catch the two horses dueling for the lead. Still she never stopped running and put in a valiant effort trying to close the distance.
We're so proud of what she was able to overcome and accomplish. I'm sure it was a great learning experience for her, and will improve her fitness for the next out. Earning six points, she's currently ranked at #30 on the Kentucky Oaks leader board which wouldn't currently get her into the gate, but there's still time to earn additional points if she continues to improve.
Coverage of race can be seen here:
After Race Recap:
Simply Enchanting made her stakes debut a positive one on Sunday in the Sunland Park Oaks at Sunland Park in New Mexico. Finishing third, the daughter of Nyquist earned her first stakes placing and earned 6 Kentucky Oaks points in the process. With this only being her second career start, it’s safe to say she will gain a ton of experience and confidence from her first try going two turns.
Trainer Phil D’Amato and jockey Antonio Fresu remain pleased with the filly and we’ll be looking for stakes options next time out as well. There was a great turnout of owners onsite at Sunland Park, thanks to all who made the trip!
Magical Ways to Run on Saturday
Our formerly owned McLean's Music gelding, Magical Ways, will make his next start on Saturday (the same day as Seize The Grey's 3YO season debut). He will be running at Aqueduct.
Details have been added to the "Upcoming" information at the top of the page.
Seize The Grey to Start 3YO Season on the Rebel Stakes Undercard
Seize the Grey exited his recent breeze in good physical order and D. Wayne Lukas reached out regarding entering our son of Arrogate in a first-level allowance going one mile and one-sixteenth on Saturday, February 24th at Oaklawn Park.
With the race being a short-field and unlikely to be run back for 3-4 weeks, ‘The Coach’ felt this would be a good starting point for him. Admittedly, he will likely need this race from a fitness standpoint but it will point us on a good path for the remainder of the year. This will be "Ceasar's" 3YO debut.
Seize the Grey drew post 5 (of 7) in next Saturday’s opener and Nick Juarez will be in the irons. Post time for race 1 will be 12:00 p.m. CT. The race has been added to our upcoming list above for quick reference.
We will follow up with our race overview and any pre-race reports in the coming days.
Go, Ceasar!
Photo credits 2023 Cheryl Horton
Sunday, February 18, 2024
Adaay in Asia Works
Another sharp work for our veteran mare, Adaay in Asia, today, this time at 5f!
She is trained by Phil D'Amato, the same trainer as our 3YO filly Simply Enchanting who is embarking on her Kentucky Oaks trail. :)
Santa Anita 2/18/2024 Dirt 5F 1:00.40 Handily 21/121
Happy "Actual" Birthdays This Week!
- Guinevere (Royal Duet) ~ February 20, 2021
- Simply Enchanting ~ February 22, 2021
This is a very big week for our two birthday girls!
As you may know, today is a very big day for our lovely Nyquist daughter, Simply Enchanting, as she makes her stakes debut in only her second start. We're sending her special good wishes and, hopefully, a few pats and happy kudos will be coming her way. Many thanks to her trainer Phil D'Amato.
Go, Chant!
And on Wednesday, Guinevere will make her highly anticipated career debut at Turfway Park for trainer Wesley Ward! Best wishes, Guiney, as you begin your road to future success. Also thanks to your trainer, the "King of Keeneland," Wesley Ward, for the excellent preparations for your debut.
Go Guinney!
Saturday, February 17, 2024
Seize The Grey Moving Forward
Seize the Grey picked up the intensity yesterday morning, breezing five furlongs in 1:00.60 at Oaklawn Park, working in company with stablemate Market Street (G2-placed but unplaced in the G3 Iroquois last year where "Ceasar" ran 4th).
Our son of Arrogate continues to gain fitness every week as we inch closer to his return to the races. The Lukas barn has been pleased with your colt since he shipped back from Highlander Training Center, reporting this was a "solid" breeze.
We will discuss potential race plans and timing with D. Wayne in the near future and report back.
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| Photo credits to Dale Hargrove Taken at Saratoga last year with Eclipse Award nominee Jaime Torres up |
Lane Way Turns in Excellent Work!
Lane Way breezed five furlongs in :59.80 while on the outside of Greer My Dear this morning at Santa Anita ($250,000 Medaglia d’Oro filly). Breaking about two lengths off of his workmate, our veteran traveled nicely and finished up very well, easily taking the upper hand at the wire.
The Mandella barn couldn’t be happier with our son of Into Mischief as we remain on target for the G3 San Simeon on Mar. 9th at Santa Anita.
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We were sent a private video of the work (which, sadly, we are unable to share here) and Lane Way looked very dominant and in command, starting behind the nice Medaglia d'Oro filly and easily passing her as the wire approached, taking long, athletic strides. We were delighted by his performance and very excited that he's heading for his next Grade 3 test in early March.
We have high hopes that Lane Way can make another run at the Breeders Cup again this year. Now that he's a 7YO, this could be his last hurrah, though we suspect based on his works and the excellent management by Richard Mandella, that he is going to continue to improve for at least the next calendar year. :)
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| Photo credits Gary Tasich Lane Way wearing his Breeders Cup saddle cloth taken prior to the 2023 Breeders Cup |
Friday, February 16, 2024
Simply Enchanting Set to Run in Sunland Park Oaks!
Simply Enchanting, 3YO daughter of Nyquist wowed on debut in January and now is set to make her highly-anticipated stakes debut in the Sunland Park Oaks at Sunland Park in New Mexico this Sunday, February 18th. (See info above these posts for specifics.)
Currently slated as the third choice on the morning line, the Phil D'Amato trainee will have jockey Antonio Fresu back in the irons for the $250,000 stakes race, not to mention the Kentucky Oaks points on the line! The winner will earn 20 points, second place 10, and third place 6 points, fourth place 4 points and fifth place 2 points toward this years' 2024 Kentucky Oaks (the Kentucky Derby for fillies held the day before the Kentucky Derby, the first Friday in May).
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This is admittedly a big ask for "Chant" in only her 2nd trip, and our wishes as partners on this talented and very special filly is that she run a very safe and productive race. If she wins or places, it will be a huge bonus with Kentucky Oaks points on the line.
Best wishes, Chant! You go, girl!
Photo credits to Ernie Belmonte/Past the Wire
Thursday, February 15, 2024
English Jubilee Work in Florida and Update
English Jubilee's work yesterday:
Palm Meadows Training Center 2/14/2024 Turf 5F 1:04.90 Breezing 11/11
We were a little concerned about English Jubilee's slow numbers, but the info we received this morning has reassured us there is nothing to worry about and the slow work was by intention:
English Jubilee got in a nice endurance-building workout on the turf at Palm Meadows yesterday for Mark Casse. The daughter of English Channel has done well since being given the latter part of the Fall and the beginning of winter off to freshen.
If all goes well, she'll run in a 9-furlong turf MSW at Gulfstream Park on March 3rd.
This is a race designed to set English Jubilee up to be able to be on top of her game when the meet reopens at Woodbine.
English Jubilee is a really nice filly with top turf breeding and we believe her 2YO races followed by a freshening may have set her up beautifully for the summer at Woodbine in Canada.
She had three starts in her 2YO season, with the last showing her top speed figure of a very respectable 84 in a stakes race in October where she just missed placing.
Her 2YO races were as follows:
Woodbine 10/14/2023 8 Cup and Saucer Stakes (Black Type) 4TH 84
Woodbine 10/7/2023 5 Maiden Special Weight TB 7TH 64
Woodbine 9/17/2023 8 Maiden Special Weight TB 5TH 73
Looking forward to her first start in 2024!
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
Fireball Birdie Update
Fireball Birdie had his second three-furlong drill this morning at Louisiana Downs, covering the ground in :39 flat. Working in company with stablemate Structured, our son of Uncle Mo continues to progress in his training and can be expected to breeze his first half-mile next week. Steve Asmussen is his trainer.
Louisiana Downs 2/14/2024 Dirt 3F 39.00 Breezing 3/4
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
Pioneer Prince Turns in a 6F Bullet
Pioneer Prince comin atcha!
Prince ran a 6f bullet work yesterday morning at Santa Anita, completing the exercise in 1:13.20 handily for the fastest of five workouts at that distance. We anticipate he'll be pointed to his next start after one additional work. Photo credits to Carrie Lynn Barker for this photo from a recent work.
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| Pioneer Prince Comin' Atcha Photo credits to partner Carrie Lynn Barker |
Monday, February 12, 2024
Seismic Beauty Update
Seismic Beauty transitioned to an outside stall/pen at Julie Adair-Stack’s farm in Rowland Heights and continues to be hand-walked daily. Julie reported that the daughter of Uncle Mo has been a breeze to deal with and there have been no complications since shipping to her.
Simply Enchanting Draws Post Position 2 in the Sunland Oaks on Feb 18th
We are very excited to announce the latest news on our Nyquist daughter, Simply Enchanting.
She has drawn post position 2 of a six horse field for Sunday's Sunland Park Oaks! It's a listed stakes and she will earn Kentucky Oaks points if she places 1st - 5th, with 20 point going to the winner. The race is a mile, and two turns, on dirt.
She'll keep her jockey, Antonio Fresu, who guided her to an exhilarating victory in her debut earlier this month.
This will be a unique and valuable experience for her, shipping in on Wednesday night to train on a new track, which may be a bonus later in this spring. :)
Go, Chant!
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| Simply Enchanting winning on debut Photo credits 2024 Ernie Belmonte/Past The Wire |
Adaay In Asia Works
Looked like a pretty sharp work from our 5YO veteran mare Adaay In Asia today.
Santa Anita 2/12/2024 Dirt 4F 48.00 Handily 12/47
We'll post the official report from Phil D'Amato's barn when we receive it.
Side Note: We hope to meet trainer Phil D'Amato at Sunland Park on Sunday when he is expected to bring Simply Enchanting to Sunland Park (El Paso) for the Sunland Oaks. Kentucky Oaks points are on the line!
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| Photo credits Ernie Belmonte/Past The Wire Adaay In Asia from a previous work at Santa Anita |
Sunday, February 11, 2024
Lane Way Being Pointed Toward Stakes
Following a few days of missed training due to rain hitting the Arcadia area, Lane Way was able to get back on the work tab this morning and covered four furlongs in :47.40. In this solo move under his regular exercise rider Jose Contreras, your son of Into Mischief traveled nicely throughout and did it within himself for a very nice time!
Santa Anita 2/11/2024 Dirt 4F 47.40 Handily 5/143
Trainer Richard Mandella reported that it was nice to see him back into a good rhythm and would like to point our veteran for the G3 San Simeon on Mar. 9th (down the hill) at Santa Anita.
Pending he exits the work in good order, our veteran will remain on a weekly breeze schedule and we will continue to report on his progress leading up to that target.
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| Photo credits to Queen Ross (from a past race) |
Lane Way Update: Smokin'!
Lane Way turned in an impressive work this morning going 4 furlongs. It was the 5th fastest time of 134 works at Santa Anita!
Simply Enchanting - Major Update
Woohoo! We said Simply Enchanting's next start might be auspicious, but this was a curve even WE didn't see coming!
SIMPLY ENCHANTING HAS BEEN ENTERED IN THE SUNLAND OAKS RIGHT HERE IN NEW MEXICO NEXT SUNDAY. FEBRUARY 17th!
The field is small but notable, including entries by Steven Asmussen and New Mexico's own Todd Fincher, who also trains Senor Buscador.
Plans, of course, could change, but based on her spectacular debut, trainer Phil D'Amato intends to put her on the Kentucky Oaks trail.
We're very excited with this development and will keep you posted.
Simply Enchanting Race Entry
Following our workout report, Simply Enchanting was officially entered in Sunday’s Sunland Park Oaks going one flat mile on the dirt. Breaking from post 2 in a 6-horse field, jockey Antonio Fresu will return in the irons. The daughter of Nyquist has been slated as the third-choice with odds of 7-2.
The Sunland Park Oaks has been carded as the 7th race of the day with a post time of 3:13 p.m. MT. We will report back with our race overview and race-day lottery in the coming days.
Saturday, February 10, 2024
Ocala Event and Naming of La Cuvee 21 (The Royal Duet)
It's a very busy day today on the partnership stable front.
In addition to Secret Crush's debut and 4th place finish at Gulfstream in Florida, the Ocala Showcase was going on in Ocala, FL where three of our fillies were showcased -- Lady Blitz, Here's The Kicker, and the newly named Isle Blue.
We were particularly happy with the video of Isle Blue, who is maturing beautifully and from what the trainers are saying, is an absolute pleasure to work with. This daughter of the late great sire Speightstown, out of a Curlin mare, is showing a lot of promise to date, and seems to be the barn favorite. We will look forward to her potential debut later this year or in 2025.
Lady Blitz was also looking sensational, and has added a lot of weight and is carrying a nice shine. She led the filly parade on the track work, and looked like a pro. Being a veteran of several races, she is by far the most experienced of the field, and her professionalism really showed. The added time for her to mature should be a huge plus for her. Lady Blitz is from the first crop of Audible (Into Mischief), and he has already sired a potential Derby horse, so we've got our fingers crossed that she'll blossom in her 3YO year.
Here's The Kicker, our lovely dappled grey daughter of Liam's Map, also ran in the works, but was placed at the back of the pack. Although she looks healthy and happy, we have some concerns about how little she seems to have matured during her break. The team reported she has become fast friends with Lady Blitz, and they share a pasture together. It's possible she just won't have what it takes to be a racehorse, but at this point in the game, she could still completely surprise us. Time will tell.
Finally...
The name for our Cotai Glory son, La Cuvee '21 (temporary name) was announced at the Ocala Showcase today! The name chosen for the colt that's part of our The Royal Duet pair is.....
Once the Jockey Club officially approves the name, we'll make the appropriate changes on the site to the page and labels, however, since he's part of The Royal Duet, the page itself at the top of this site will not change, nor will the label on the side bar and on past posts since he's still a part of The Royal Duet bundle. (Whew! Makes our job a little easier.)
Straight to Glory is the last of our unnamed horses, as even the 2YOs (Isle Blue and Good Cop) have already been named. For the first time, we have a stable of fully named horses. (Unless we buy a yearling at some point, but right now, that is NOT in the plan! :) )
Secret Crush Runs a Rank 4th on Debut
Wow, Secret Crush really ran green today. He was very keyed up before the race. Fought Irad in the warm up (see photo), didn't want to load and apparently unseated Irad Ortiz, was all over the place on the track, fought Irad trying to get him a better path, and still finished 4th and closing. He passed horses late in spite of running so rank.
He should be better next time, and possibly with more distance, since he started figuring things out late in the race. Sadly, I think the Derby is out at this point. He really needed to make his debut count this late in the game. But that's okay. Plenty of other stakes to point toward.
Just hoping he came back safe and sound. He was fighting so hard in the backstretch that for a moment I thought he might have been injured, so his on-the-board finish was both a surprise and a relief.
More photos, race commentary and other info coming soon and this post will be updated. The video of the race in below.
In spite of his wild run, Equibase posted an E-speed figure of 73 for his debut. Considering his trip, not bad at all!
Secret Crush Race Recap |
Secret Crush checked in fourth for his career debut today at Gulfstream Park, beaten by 9 3/4 lengths. Hesitant behind the starting gate, our 3-year-old colt eventually loaded after unseating Irad Ortiz Jr. He walked into the gate with no trouble, riderless, and then behaved well until the break. He broke with the leaders, but was not quick enough to follow the early pace (:22.06 for the first quarter and :44.90 for the half-mile).
Down the backstretch, he chased the leaders about 6+ lengths off the lead and struggled to get into a smooth rhythm early. Irad did his best to keep him wide early on but had to attempt to save ground into the turn and Secret Crush did not take the kickback well. On a positive note, he made up ground late, finishing on the inside to take fourth.
Irad and trainer Todd Pletcher both reported that Secret Crush was green from the get-go and didn’t love the kickback (dirt in his face) down the backstretch. However, both were positive and feel your colt learned a lot from today’s race and should be more comfortable stretching out in the future.
We will discuss the race further with the Pletcher barn in the coming days and see how he exited today’s race. We'll report back with any news.
Follow Up Report
Secret Crush exited his career debut on Saturday in good physical order and remained at Gulfstream Park for the time being. He earned a 64 Beyer Speed Figure for his fourth-place finish. As you will hear from jockey Irad Ortiz following the race, Secret Crush needed experience and should only improve from this race. The son of Candy Ride was very green but finished up well in the later stages. We will continue to report back on his progress as he returns to training in Florida.
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