Thursday, March 17, 2011

Nicanor to Race Sunday in the $150,000 Canadian Turf Stakes (Gr. III)

Nicanor will make his five year old debut on Sunday in the $150,000 Canadian Turf Stakes (Grade III) at Gulfstream Park.  The feature race of the day, post time is about 5:26, and it is the 10th race of eleven on the card.

Nicanor will be making his first start in over three months, his last start being at Aqueduct on November 26, where he finished third in the Three Coins Up Stakes.  After taking a month off, he has had five published works at Palm Meadows training center, his latest on February 21st, where he went four furlongs in 49.70 seconds.  Julien Leparoux will be on Nicanor for the second time, the first being a 5th place finish in an allowance race at Keeneland on April 8, 2010.  In that race, Nicanor was coming into the race after a nearly ten month lay-off.  Nicanor easily could have had the lead, but Julien restrained him going into the first turn to race in second beyond the eventual winner, Unbridle’s Dream.  He did finish 5th in this race, but, it was a blanket finish with the top five being within a length of each other.

Looking at this field, I really think it is anyone’s race to win.  There should be plenty of pace, which might work against Nicanor on this day.  I do think Nicanor needs the lead going into the first turn if he has any shot at winning.  At this point in his career, it is quite obvious that Nicanor is a better racehorse with the lead.  In his four victories, he has lead at every point of call.  The drop back in distance to a mile should also benefit Nicanor, especially with this field.  The perfect example would be his victory at Belmont Park on September  24th.  On that day, Ramon Dominguez gave Nicanor a perfect ride by letting him run his own race, in the lead.  At the top of the stretch, Nicanor heard the others coming and hit another gear completely on his own to take home the victory.  If Julien follows that blueprint, I honestly think Nicanor will hold the others off to get his first graded stakes victory.  If Julien puts the brakes on Nicanor early like he did at Keeneland, I don’t think Nicanor has any shot at winning against this talented, experienced field.


The morning line favorite is the four year old gelding, Yankee Fourtune.  Trained by Kiaran McLaughlin and ridden by Victor Santiago, this horse is a perfect five for five on the turf.  He is also coming into the race off a lay-off, his last race was on November 13, where he won the Commonwealth Turf Stakes(Grade III) at Churchill Downs. 

The second choice is the five year old gelding Zifzaf, which surprised me a little.  His last race was in the Grade I Woodbine Mile Stakes back on September 19, a race he led until giving way in the last eighth before finishing fifth(Court Vision won).  Ironically, Julien Leparoux had the mount that day.  Zifzaf is trained by James Toner, with Javier Castellano getting the mount. 

Little Mike, a four year old gelding, is the third choice at odds of 5-1.  This is the horse that worries me the most.  He will, most likely, try to set the pace on the lead (along with Nicanor).  He is coming into the race in good form, with two starts on the Gulfstream Park turf this year.  He won the Grade III Ft. Lauderdale Stakes on January 9, going wire to wire to win by a nose in the 8.5 furlong race.  In his next start on February 5th, the Grade I Gulfstream Park Turf Handicap, he led until giving way the last eighth of a mile to finish 6th.  Joe Bravo will get the ride for the fourth time in a row on the Dale Romans trained gelding.
I believe those are the three biggest threats for Nicanor in this very evenly matched field, we shall see.  I don’t think the lay-off for Nicanor will hurt him at all, he has been training well coming into the race and he is ready to get his first stakes victory, if he has the lead and stays out of trouble.

Here are the career marks for each in the field:

(Post Position, Horse, Starts, Wins, Seconds, Thirds, Earning’s)

1. Society’s Chairman, 25 Starts, 7 Wins, 5 Seconds, 5 Thirds, Earning’s $ 674,521
2. Zifzaf, 10 Starts, 3 Wins, 0 Seconds, 3 Thirds, Earning’s $ 139,900
3. NICANOR, 13 Starts, 4 Wins, 2 Seconds, 2 Thirds, Earning’s $ 139,990
4. Twilight Meteor, 20 Starts, 5 Wins, 4 Seconds, 4 Thirds, Earning’s $ 651,150
5. Dr. Smarty Jack, 15 Starts, 2 Wins, 4 Seconds, 3 Thirds, Earning’s $ 108,819
6. Yankee Fourtune, 6 Starts, 5 Wins, 0 Seconds, 0 Thirds, Earning’s $ 238,512
7. Little Mike, 11 Starts, 5 Wins, 2 Seconds, 0 Thirds, Earning’s $ 215,970
8. Rogue Victory, 24 Starts, 5 Wins, 5 Seconds, 1 Thirds, Earning’s $ 216,601
9. Tannersville, 12 Starts, 5 Wins, 1 Seconds, 1 Thirds, Earning’s $ 154,035
10. China, 6 Starts, 3 Wins, 2 Seconds, 0 Thirds, Earning’s $ 120,072

$150,000 Canadian Turf Stakes (Grade III, Race #10, 5:26 post time), 4 Years and Up, 1 Mile on the Turf

(Post Position, Horse, A/S, Jockey, Weight, Trainer, Morning Line Odds)

1. Society’s Chairman, 8/H, Jose Lezcano, 117 pounds, Roger Attfield, 6/1
2. Zifzaf, 5/G, Javier Castellano, 117 pounds, James Toner, 4/1
3. NICANOR, 5/H, Julien Leparoux, 117 pounds, Mr. Michael Matz, 8/1
4. Twilight Meteor, 7/H, Alex Solis, 121 pounds, Martin Wolfson, 8/1
5. Dr. Smarty Jack, 5/H, Elvis Trujillo, 117 pounds , Michelle Nihei, 12/1
6. Yankee Fourtune, 4/G, Victor Santiago, 121 pounds, Kiaran McLaughlin, 3/1
7. Little Mike, 4/G, Joe Bravo, 121 pounds, Dale Romans, 5/1
8. Rogue Victory, 6/H, 117 pounds, Kent Desormeaux, George Weaver, 8/1
9. Tannersville, 4/C, 117 pounds, Luis Jurado, Henry Collazo, 12/1 (long shot that scares me)
10. China, 4/C, 117 pounds, Rajiv Maragh, Todd Quast, 20/1

Godspeed Nicanor…


Nicanor prior to The Eight Thirty Stakes at Delaware Park, August 25, 2010 Photo by Greg Jones
 
Nicanor prior to his victory at Delaware Park on June 16, 2009
Photo by Elaine Deutsch

Nicanor winning at Delaware Park on June 16, 2009
Photo by Elaine Deutsch

Nicanor exiting the winner’s circle at Belmont Park, September 24, 2010
Photo by Greg Jones
258 Comments:
Go Nic!! Run fast, and be Safe! Godspeed Nic and Julien!
horsenut23 26 Feb 2011 5:21 PM
Go Nicanor.  Hope you give all those other horses a run for their money. And hope you have a great 5 year old campaign
Alex 26 Feb 2011 5:24 PM
You go boy, make your brothers proud.  be safe.
pgallop 26 Feb 2011 5:55 PM
Good Luck  Nicanor, hopefully I will be watching if all pans out!
anniedixie65 26 Feb 2011 5:59 PM
We love you, Nicanor!  Please come home safely and sound (and, hopefully, with another win under your saddle)...  We'll love you in any case.
Cal Gal 26 Feb 2011 6:02 PM
This is gonna be so exciting - GO NICANOR!!!!!
XXOO
nvsally 26 Feb 2011 6:08 PM
Good luck, Nicanor!
-Keelerman 26 Feb 2011 6:27 PM
Greg, Peter says that Nicanor is a man now, so I see Nicanor breaking from the gate really quick.  Little Mike is right there with him and after Nicanor takes a good look at him, he lets Little Mike take the lead, and Nicanor settles nicely into a stalking position.  Nicanor passes Little Mike in the last furlong and wins the race.  China, yes China, and Twilight Meteor will be right there with Nicanor at the end.
In my mind, if Nicanor tries to take the lead too early from Little Mike, they will both tire, and Nicanor will lose.
Peter also says that Nicanor listens better now, so we shall see.  
Mary 26 Feb 2011 6:31 PM
Go Nic!  Make us proud! Have a safe trip.
PatC 26 Feb 2011 7:30 PM
It will be so nice to see Nicanor race tomorrow. I hope he takes the lead and stays there, pulling away in the last quarter!!
"Be Safe Nic"
Linda/Maryland 26 Feb 2011 8:30 PM
Yipee! Yay! and Yahoo!  The long wait is over.  Loads of luck but mostly be safe.  Hopefully you'll start your new year with a big win.  Show your little brothers how its done.
zowie 26 Feb 2011 8:32 PM
Nicanor you are such a blessing to us all.You are such a handsome man.I know you will do it tomorrow and impress us all.I love you Nicanor and I can't wait to see you race to victory!!You can do it!!
Tracy 26 Feb 2011 9:19 PM
I was wondering where the brothers were, and what they were up to.  Now I know.  Can't wait for tomorrow.  Will be glued to TVG for the race.  I think JL will give him a GREAT ride and hopefully right into the Winner's Circle. I hope that Nicanor is in good form as it's been awhile between races.  I'm sure MM knows best.  Godspeed Nicanor.  Run fast from the gate AND, NEVER LOOK BACK!!!  
Robin from Maryland 26 Feb 2011 9:40 PM
Mary,
While not ideal for turf races, Nicanor is best when he has the lead.  I hope being in the third hole coming out of the gate, he can beat Little Mike and Yankee Fourtune going into the short first turn.  If that happens, Nicanor should relax and Julien can get him to slow down. I hope to see splits around :24, :49, and then 1:14 at six furlongs with Nicanor leading the way.  If the splits are near those times, I think he can reach down and hold off the field, especially with Nicanor being shortened up to a one mile race.  If the splits are faster with Nicanor on the lead, it will be very tough for Nicanor in the stretch to hold this field from passing him.
Mr. Brette might have said Nicanor has become a man, but, he is a stubborn man, and he wants and needs to have the lead to perform at his best, IMHO.
Robin,
TVG will not be covering the race live, HRTV will be covering the race.  I will post the replay the moment it is available from Bloodhorse.  
Greg J. 26 Feb 2011 10:09 PM
Good Luck Nic!
Mike Relva 26 Feb 2011 10:51 PM
Nicanor,
You are so beautiful. Wishing you all the best tomorrow.
Are we still waiting for a report on DynaKing? I assume that topic has been moved to this blog? Thanks.
Barbara W 26 Feb 2011 11:01 PM
Good Luck Nicanor
Greg, Thanks for the great post on the race
MJ 26 Feb 2011 11:30 PM
Greg, I agree, in the past Nicanor did best on the lead, but that was yesterday and tomorrow is a new day.  I have watched all of his races so many times, too many to count.
I'm very worried about Little Mike.  He is fast and likes the lead, and my fear is that he and Nicanor will get into a duel for the lead and cook one another.
In this race, I believe that Little Mike will set the pace.  
Mary 26 Feb 2011 11:57 PM
Finally he gets to race! Now if the jockey will just let him run... Thank you so much for the update-Good luck Nicanor!!
Cassidy 27 Feb 2011 12:03 AM
Great read. Lots of cheers will be heard for Nic tomorrow.
jane 27 Feb 2011 12:43 AM
Thank You Greg...wonderful post and love seeing the pictures again. He is such a handsome man. Still want to call him a colt but can't do that now that he is 5.
Run safely Nicanor and above all have fun!!  We will all love you whether you win or not. Your our boy always.
Greg, do we look here or on the other site for updates on Dyna King/Gifted? Thanks.
Lou in TX 27 Feb 2011 1:40 AM
Good luck Nicky!!  The most important thing is to finish safely. As soon as that gait opens, fly out of there and don't even look at the competition.  We all know you can win this race.
Godspeed!
Chris K 27 Feb 2011 2:15 AM
The finish line is yours Nicanor!
Love your braid on the forehead! Great pics of this champion. Barbaro will be alongside you all the way!
Fran Loszynski 27 Feb 2011 8:20 AM
Thanks for the great handicapping of Nic's race.  It will be interesting to see an older and wiser Nicanor.
Go Nicanor!!!!
PattyTX1 27 Feb 2011 9:11 AM
THIS HORSE NEEDS A BETTER JOCKEY, IS CALVIN AVAILABLE?
JOE 27 Feb 2011 9:54 AM
Joe,
While I respect your opinion, I believe Mr. Matz has chosen the best available jockey for Nicanor in today's race.  That could change if Julien decides to restrain Nicanor going into the first turn :)
While I am a huge fan of Mr. Borel, he is currently racing at Oaklawn, not Gulfstream Park.  Also, I don't think Calvin has ever ridden a horse for Mr. Matz?
Calvin's stats for the year (yes, I know he had a horrible injury, a broken jaw):
78 starts, 9 wins, 7 seconds, 11 thirds, with earning's of $265,449.
Julien's stats this year:
231 starts, 28 wins, 27 seconds, 28 thirds, with earning's of $1,508,541, which ranks 6th out of 887 jockeys.
Greg J. 27 Feb 2011 10:11 AM
Thanks, Greg, for the update on Nicanor and the outline of the race.  My wish is for a safe race and of course, a big win for Nicanor!
txhorsefan 27 Feb 2011 10:21 AM
Joe,
I wouldn't want Calvin on any horse of mine.  He is just too whip happy, and I think it is to the point of abuse.  My opinion only.
JAJ 27 Feb 2011 10:44 AM
Go Nicanor! As always, you are wished speed and a safe return by a whole ton of fans!
Greg, thanks for all of your updates and pieces of wisdom!!!!
Irene 27 Feb 2011 10:49 AM
Greg J.,
I like your analogy, keep it up.
Good Luck today Nicanor!!!  Be safe, have loads of fun, stay calm, and happy...wsp
Ragsy 27 Feb 2011 11:35 AM
Can't wait to see your safe return. Have fun posing for winner's circle photos!
MRO 27 Feb 2011 11:50 AM
I just hope the long lay-off isn't too much for Nicanor to overcome.
Points in his favor that it may have no effect on him:
1.)  Matz is willing to start him in a fairly large turf race
2.)  Julien agreed to ride Nicanor.
Of course, perhaps that is the only mount Julien was offered in the race.
Still, I'm inclined to believe that Mr. Matz believes Nicanor has the 'right stuff' to win it all and that he, at least, feels that the layoff shouldn't be a problem.
With that being said, GO NICANOR!
rams2050 27 Feb 2011 12:05 PM
Rams2050,
Well said, and fingers crossed that you are correct!
Greg J. 27 Feb 2011 12:11 PM
Good Luck Nicanor!  May you be strong and fly fast over the grass.  I hope Julien allows you to go to the front and helps you relax.  You are a big strapping boy.  This is your chance to shine!  Make Lael stable proud!
CentralValleyDame 27 Feb 2011 12:20 PM
GREG
Special thanks for your pics and updates.
Mike Relva 27 Feb 2011 1:50 PM
Thanks, Greg, for the update, race analysis, and pictures! I will be watching Nicanor this afternoon. I'd also like to say that you are missed as a poster on the other BH blogs (Steve's and Jason's). Comment there soon if you have the time! Thanks again!
Karen in Texas 27 Feb 2011 2:36 PM
Greg J, you never disappoint us with your reports!  Thank you for all the facts, stats, updates and fab pics.  Job well done.
Will be cheering for Nicanor and Julien to show us just what those two can do when they want to.  Should be exciting for all.
Can't help but cheer for those older fellas, too.  Don't see that many 7 and 8-y-olds these days.  Wish them the very best.
Go Nicanor!
Love 'em all 27 Feb 2011 2:58 PM
Any news on Lentenor and Margano?! Would be great to hear on them....
megan 27 Feb 2011 4:13 PM
Godspeed sweet Nicanor.  You have what it takes to win, focus and run like the wind.  We love you and always will.
RuthG 27 Feb 2011 4:28 PM
GregJ
I just love the way your making comments along the way keep doing it...
Bless Nicanor "the First Brother".
Ragsy 27 Feb 2011 5:17 PM
FYI,
6 minutes to post,
Nicanor currently at 13-1 odds, and he looks very calm and fit...
Greg J. 27 Feb 2011 5:20 PM
Good Luck Nicky!!  Win or lose, we love you unconditionally.  You deserve extra mints tonight.
Chris K 27 Feb 2011 5:27 PM
Oh brother...this blindly waiting is killing me. Looks like Julian is having a pretty good day....got my fingers crossed....
But coming home safe is No 1...
Irene 27 Feb 2011 5:37 PM
Safe race for all,
Nicanor finished 5th,
Little Mike won.
Greg J. 27 Feb 2011 5:43 PM
Hopefully he came off this race sound...not sure what happened, maybe a prep before this one? Greg? Any insight?
PatC 27 Feb 2011 5:48 PM
Greg, You and Mary nailed it - both worried about Little Mike. I'll await replay before further comment.
diastu 27 Feb 2011 5:59 PM
Nicanor?  Overated!  With one of the best jockies on him, he still can't run.
Kristen Ohler 27 Feb 2011 6:05 PM
Nicanor won our hearts and thats all that matters...
Azeri's 3 year old filly is getting ready to make her debut, her name ARIENZA hope she makes it at Oaklawn...
Ragsy 27 Feb 2011 6:07 PM
Megan:  Lentenor and Margano are still at Steven's.  They will both be going up to Fair Hill together in the spring.
lobieb 27 Feb 2011 6:11 PM
I agree, I hope he comes back to the barn sound, he appeared to be boxed in on the back stretch or that Leparoux felt he wasn't right for a second and was pulling him up... not sure what happened, but whatever it was in the backstretch did hamper his running.
mrskrabitz 27 Feb 2011 6:18 PM
Greg...we need your views as to why Nicanor seem to back up.  Was Julian trying to hold him back or was the pace just too fast? Poor baby, looked like he was really trying to get up front. Will we ever know what Julian might have have told MM?
We love you Nic, the main thing is you came home safe and healthy.
Lou in TX 27 Feb 2011 6:20 PM
Pat,
I don't know, I will forever say that Nicanor has to have the lead, no matter what the times or field, he is just plain better when he is on the lead, he is comfortable and he hates to be behind, IMHO.
Ideal? No, but, it is what it is.
I just wish jockey's would throw common sense out the window and let him go to the lead and let the race play out in the future.
Yes, I know logic says he probably needed a race after the lay-off, BUT, I just hope whichever jockey rides Nicanor next, looks at the Belmont replay with Ramon on board.
That is the ONLY way Nicanor is happy and comfortable, on the lead from the start.
Do that and see what happens, please.
Congrats to Little Mike and his connections, a very fast and impressive victory.
Less then a second off the track record, set by Mr. Light on January 3, 2005, where he went a mile on the Gulfstream turf in 1:31.41, the time for this race was 1:32.37, with very fast splits of 22.70, 45.42, 1:08.65, and 1:32.37.
Would Nicanor have won if he had the lead with those fractions?  Tough to say, but, impossible to know for sure.
My take on the race:
Nicanor had a quick break, he was on the rail in second going into the first turn, it looked like Julien held him back a bit at that point when Little Mike took the lead.  Nicanor went a little wide, then he was still in second, got sandwiched a little with a horse on both sides, he sped up to retain second entering the backstretch.  Then, I believe, Julien thought the pace was too much to sustain, he held him back a little more into the final turn, he was in about seventh going into the final turn.  Then he went a little wide and showed some speed, and got up for 5th, missing 4th by a nose.
Here is the replay of the race:
www.bloodhorse.com/.../canadian-turf-s
Greg J. 27 Feb 2011 6:26 PM
Chart said that Nicanor steadied and didn't recover.
My Smarty, Dr. Smarty Jack, was bumped at the start and was not a factor. He finished next to last.
Pokey 27 Feb 2011 6:30 PM
Kristen,
Thanks you for your opinion.
Actually, since Nicanor went off at odds of 18-1, which made him the 7th choice in the field of ten, with him finishing 5th, he was not "overrated"  :)
Greg J. 27 Feb 2011 6:35 PM
I actually don't think it was that bad of an effort.  After all, Twilight Meteor, more highly rated going into the race, finished worse as did a couple other of the top picks.
Nicanor was coming off of a 3 month layoff and thrown into some pretty good company.  The pace was fast and Nicanor did seem to get bottled up there for a while.  Whether -- or how much -- that affected him is for Julien to say -- and we'll probably never know what he says, either.
I think the race was good for him and he will be sharper next time out.
rams2050 27 Feb 2011 6:42 PM
Bonjour Nicanor,
I watched the race today on TVG. I thought you came in 4th.
Is it 4th or 5th?
Maybe you need a different jockey
who understands you knowing that you like to take the lead at the start of the race.
You have been off for a few months, and hopefully Mr. Matz will let you race more often in order to get the practice.
You did the best you can. Keep practicing and you will win eventually.
What has happened to Lentenor? We don't hear much about him any longer. How about your younger brother, Margeno? What is happening with him?
Lots of love, Nicanor!
P.S. You will be 5 years old on March 15th.
Lise from Maine 27 Feb 2011 6:46 PM
Rams2050,
Agreed, not a bad effort at all, especially after a three month lay-off.
Lisa,
Lentenor should resume training very soon, he was given some time off to just be a "horse".
Margano is currently at Stephens Thoroughbreds in Ocala Florida, he will be sent to Mr. Matz when the Stephens believe he is good and ready.
Greg J. 27 Feb 2011 6:52 PM
Nicanor loses again. Maybe it was the layoff or the way in which he is forced to race. He likes the lead and does not like to come from behind. Hopefully, he is sound and will improve next time.
ofelia 27 Feb 2011 6:53 PM
I love you Nicanor!
Tracy 27 Feb 2011 6:54 PM
I don't know what to think of this race.  I wouldn't think his work schedule prepared him for a mile in 1:32.37.
He got outrun, checked and spit the bit.  I would suspect he was really short going into the race.  I'm not a believer in 4f works trying to get a horse ready for a graded stakes race.
I don't know what to think.
JAJ 27 Feb 2011 7:23 PM
Greg J
I'm not saying he's overated for just this race, I'm saying in general he is.  He's not Barbaro and never will be as good as him.  Lets move on to the next brother.
Kristen Ohler 27 Feb 2011 7:30 PM
Kristen,
That's what I hate more then anything, since he isn't winning, let's just move on to the next horse?  Thank goodness I don't echo your thoughts.
Not once have I, or anyone on this blog ever said Nicanor was Barbaro.  There will never be another Barbaro, nor will there ever be another Nicanor, they are both unique.
I am a fan of this sport, and I follow these great athlete's from the stakes races to the low level claiming races.  Sorry to disappoint, I don't think I have ever "moved on" from a particular horse I have followed, which I couldn't be more proud of.
Greg J. 27 Feb 2011 8:01 PM
This may sound a little addled, but why would a jockey slow a horse down so he doesn't get worn out when you only have a couple more furlongs to go? I saw the race and when Julien slowed Nicanor up, I said, "oh no, now what?" I knew then he had no chance of winning, let alone coming in second or third. Julien appeared to be riding Nicanor like they were going a mile and a quarter instead of a mile.
And don't get me wrong, the way Little Mike was running, no one was going to beat him, but I think if Julien hadn't slowed Nicanor up, Nicanor may have eked out a third.
Glad you are safe Nicanor. Good luck on your next race.
Kathy 27 Feb 2011 8:08 PM
Greg J.
I'm a huge fan of racing and I'm sorry you can't let me have my own opinion.  I've been following this horse since his first race and he just is not that good of a race horse.  People are jumping off To Honor and Serve's band wagon and saying he is over rated and much worse.  Not 1 race makes a bad racehorse.  Nicanor just doesn't seem to be that good of a horse.  I would love to see him win, I just don't think he will.  There's another horse I follow named Northern Indy.  By AP Indy, they keep putting him in these stake races and he NEVER even hits the board.  He was scratched this weekend out of a stakes race.  I'm only saying sometimes these horses are put in races they don't stand a chance of winning.
Kristen Ohler 27 Feb 2011 8:24 PM
Nicanor finished 5th in a field of 10 at 18/1 so it was not a bad effort.We all know he is not in the same class as his famous brother Barbaro so let us just hope he can move on and improve of
that run.
John T 27 Feb 2011 8:53 PM
That was probably the worst ride Nicanor has ever had.  Julien Leparoux did exactly what he did last spring. Instead of letting Nicanor run his own race, he held him back and put him where he doesn't like to be. He blew the race a quarter mile into it. Watch all of his races and the more a jockey tries to play with his rhythm, the worse off he gets. Just pathetic...  
Jim 27 Feb 2011 8:57 PM
KRISTEN
Greg's point is correct. Most of us are realistic and know as Greg says "only one Barbaro". If he were never to win again(I don't believe that will happen) he's still a wonderful horse and will always support him no matter.
Mike Relva 27 Feb 2011 9:08 PM
GREG J
Couldn't agree more w/ you. That separates the true fans from the so called.
Mike Relva 27 Feb 2011 9:10 PM
He ran his best =) I love Nicanor and Lentenor and we need to stop trying to compare them to Barbaro. Barbaro was a one of a kind horse, just because they are full brothers doesn't mean they'll be as good! We just want them to run their best! Nicanor does his best and that's all we can ask for. Any sibling to Barbaro will win my heart because Barbaro won my heart, but I know having another Barbaro is a lot to ask for. Good job Nicanor. You tried buddy!
OldFashionedRunner 27 Feb 2011 9:22 PM
Mike,
Thank you.
Jim,
"Just pathetic" indeed!
Greg J. 27 Feb 2011 9:30 PM
Saw a replay of the race on TVG.   I'm feeling like he probably needed this race.  Hopefully he comes back sound.  Just watching him run brings back wonderful memories of Barbaro and, sadly that's all we have.  Even though I know the brothers will never be another Barbaro - it's still nice to dream. Your OK Nicanor and we all love you for you.
Robin from Maryland 27 Feb 2011 9:34 PM
Kathy,
I saw the race on my teeny tiny computer screen and didn't see a head on, so I didn't get a good look at the race.  It looked like Nicanor got into a tight spot and ended up having to check.  I don't think Leparoux wanted to slow down, but he had to because there was no place for him to run.  Once he was checked, he didn't really have a response.
They were going really quick today.  I can't believe he was fit enough to go a mile that quickly based on how few works he had.  If he had more 6f and maybe a 7f breeze thrown in, but to send him to a graded stakes race off a handful of breezes?  He just isn't that good a horse to be able to overcome his lack of fitness.
I sure would love to hear an honest opinion from the rider.
JAJ 27 Feb 2011 10:23 PM
Nicanor ran Well and came out of it SAFE~! That is the most important thing. I don't think Nicanor wants any jockey to hold him back, not even for one second. He wants to run his own race. Maybe just one time they should just let him go.
IMHO
Linda/Maryland 27 Feb 2011 10:39 PM
KRISTEN
No one is trying to take your right of opinion away. But,don't try to spin it when you were the one that stated that it "was time to move on to the next bro". I've been a fan of THAS and although he lost yesterday still a fan. I attempt to keep things in prospective,as with Nicanor.
Mike Relva 27 Feb 2011 10:39 PM
No, Nicanor is not Barbaro. I know we have high expectations for him.
I only think that he is a horse who is hard headed and wants to run it "his way" anything else won't do for him.. He obviously hasn't changed his mind yet. I don't think he ever will. I think that he has to be allowed to run his own race. He wants to get in the front and stay there.
Linda/Maryland 27 Feb 2011 10:45 PM
well I see he's still losing and yes Kristen your right he is just a racehorse who if he didn't have a famous brother wouldn't be talked about at all.
I must say the jockey didn't give him the best trip.The horse obviously has to be on the lead to win so why did he drop him back?
2 time valley pllayer of the year 27 Feb 2011 11:08 PM
Nicanor is Nicanor,he has no clue that we all fuss over him.He just knows he is loved by alot of people and enjoys it as it should be.He is special just the way he is would not change a thing about him,just glad he's here for us to get all silly about!
Tracy 27 Feb 2011 11:20 PM
Was Nicanor wearing a Win-a-Lot on his bridle? I noticed that he swung wide going into the clubhouse turn and into the homestretch. He certainly did not "spit the bit" because he lost ground coming into the final turn and passed the same horses in the stretch. Having a horse that makes it to the races and wins is an accomplishment in itself.If you dont like the horse,why are you following his career and commenting?
Mike-Can you clear up the issue with the bridle...all I can see is something white that looks like a win-a-lot?
downhomesunset 27 Feb 2011 11:34 PM
We FOB's will always love the brothers!!! We will never move on! They are part of our family and you don't move on from family.
I agree with with all of you who think Nicanor should be allowed to run his own race his way. Why can't they get it??? Poor Nic must be really frustrated. Surely MM has come to that conclusion as well.  Now, if he can just find a jockey who's willing to let him run his own race. Where's Rosie?  Sure wish she was ridibg at Gulfstream instead of in Louisana. Well, at least he came home safe. We can be gratefrul for that at least.
Lou in TX 28 Feb 2011 12:12 AM
Well, That was about what I expected after a 3 month lay off. I had hoped he would have done better, but im not dissapointed since my expectations were not that high anyway. He certainly looked fabulous. Im sure Nic really needed this race and will do much better next time out. There are a couple things I would have liked to have seen, such as Nicanor on the outside of the field. We know from past expererience that he does not like being hemmed in on the inside of other horses. His having to check, only made that more obvious, in my opinion. And, like several people already pointed out, Nicanor does not like having dirt/grass kicked up in his face, He likes to be on the front end. He went against a good bunch in this race and the experience will build on the foundation he already has.
I'd be willing to bet there are people out there who think Kristin is also, overrated.
Criminal Type 28 Feb 2011 6:24 AM
I just keep feeling there is something untapped in Nicanor.  I don't know, maybe it is a jockey issue.  When he first began racing, the expectations were just so unreal because he is Barbaro's brother.  Nic isn't Barbaro, there was only ONE Barbaro.  We love him win or lose.  I think he's had an ok career.  I do agree w/Greg though that when considering his next jockey, they need to look at the Belmont tape...  
Joy 28 Feb 2011 7:46 AM
Kristen, we love you! That being said, this blog is for all the Barbaro siblings...all the way through their entire careers...fast or slow and win or lose or never even race...♥
Rachel 28 Feb 2011 7:55 AM
I live in Louisiana, and Rosie is doing a great job down here.  Maybe Ramon can get the mount next time.  
Mary 28 Feb 2011 9:46 AM
Joy:
I feel the same as you. I don't think we've seen all that Nicanor is capable yet.
I'm not willing to toss him by the way-side yet just because he wasn't a super star already by 2 or 3. Actually, I am more impressed by a horse that runs long and stays sound.
I think the Barbaro family needs that, since Barbaro broke down. He's still be waved around as the banner for the whole "racing is evil" crowd, you know. (grrr)
Besides "Goods things come to those who wait." I'll be waiting for Nicanor. Just like I have since the beginning. He's my favourite no matter what he or the other brothers do.
And even if he doesn't become a great race horse, perhaps he'll sire some. ;)
As I recall, though, CIGAR didn't start out as a super star either. They had to find out what he liked first. ;)
Arem 28 Feb 2011 10:23 AM
I'm so happy to see Nickie race again and am waiting paitently to see Lenny race.
When little Margano starts training, I'll be so happy.  We are so lucky to have this wonderful blog to keep us up with all of Barbaro's siblings and their parents.
I won't go to the racetrack, so this is the only way I can keep up with them.
Barbaro Fan for Life and Beyond 28 Feb 2011 11:10 AM
The only jockey I've seen on him where he truly relaxed was Rosie. She just relaxed and let him have a long rein and he relaxed and put his head down. Problem with a horse who has to have it his way on the lead is will he have the gas to finish, but at least if he's not fighting he's saving some gas to hopefully finish.
Like Well Armed, he "likes to go to the front and 'catch me if you can.'" He didn't always win but that was his style.
Love all of these horses, no matter how they do. They are all so different.
Pixie Lou 28 Feb 2011 11:16 AM
In spite of the lousy ride yesterday, Nic finished ahead of some good horses.  When Julien took him into the traffic, he had to check him when it got too crowded.  He needs a jockey who will keep him out of traffic  and will let him run on the lead and control the pace.  Maybe Joe Bravo should get a ride on Nicanor, to expand our list of jockeys who have given him good rides:  Rosie, Ramon, Johnny V.
Joe isn't afraid to give a horse his head and let him go to the front.  Some horses are not good in the middle of the pack, some are.  Some horses do best on the lead, some don't. They are individuals, we should realize that and hope that this is Julien Leparoux's last ride on Nicanor.  
Cal Gal 28 Feb 2011 11:35 AM
Nicanor knows far more than any of us what went on during yesterday's race, so be it.  I respect a horse like Nicanor.
Congrats to Little Mike ... but more cheers to the 'senior gentleman' that took second.
Society’s Chairman, 8/H.  And, what a great name!
Love 'em all 28 Feb 2011 11:45 AM
Though not a frequent contributor, am a frequent reader.  Agree with many comments about the race, both before and after.  Glad Nic came out of the race a-ok!!
However, when is someone going to just let this horse run!!  If he's a true sprinter, then let him go all out for 6F or 7F and see what happens!!  I understand that Matz's stable may prevent him from having a steady jockey; but gosh, we have yet to see the full potential of this horse!!  Hopefully, one day, we will have the pleasure!!
Golf Girl 28 Feb 2011 12:32 PM
When the connections realize that Nicanor and Lentenor are decent allowance horses, these guys might win a race.
Both have a decent earnings (over 10k per start) record, which isn't bad.
Neither of these are stakes horses.  Put them where they belong or retire them.
The best (stakes finish) either has done in 24 starts combined are Nicanor's 2 3rd place finish in ungraded stakes last year.
Mr. Matz and the Jacksons should take off their rose colored glasses and enjoy these horses for what they are.
IF either starts winning allowance races, move them up to higher races, then possibly stakes races.  I doubt they're talented enough.
QUIT blaming the riders!
Harrison Bergeron 28 Feb 2011 1:10 PM
Golf Girl, I so completely agree with you!  We have yet to see what Nicanor can do -- had an indication when he broke his Maiden by 15-3/4 lengths all those months ago.  But except for some decent, though modest wins since, he's been for the most part throttled when he was in a venue where a win would have been a major boost to his confidence and reputation.  At some point, it is my hope that he will get that moment -- he has it in him to do so.  Let's put a rider on Nic who will help him demonstrate his true ability.
Ramon? Rosie? Johnnie V?  Heck, maybe even Joe Bravo, who has never been on Nicanor.  But who's stated philosophy about riding Little Mike certainly coincides with ours.  Just please no more Julien...
Cal Gal 28 Feb 2011 1:15 PM
Kristen -- Nicanor may not be Barbaro - or even anywhere near Barbaro's class -- but that doesn't mean we can't love and appreciate him on his own merits.
Nicanor has already won over $144,000 in racing; that is none too shabby, in my opinion.
Plus, he is still sound and happy, as far as we know, which is the major thing all of us FOBs are hoping for.
Mr. Matz must have seen something in Nicanor to put him in a race with such classy company.  And, in truth, off a 3 month layoff I thought he acquitted himself rather well.  After being checked he came back game for another try -- or at least it appeared that he did -- but by then the leaders were too far out in front for Nicanor to catch them.
Still, I thought it was a great race and I am hoping that Mr. Matz can move Nicanor on from here and into other races where Nicanor can really show his stuff.
Win or lose, I thoroughly enjoy reading about the 'boys' and their exploits.  In some small way coming to this blog every day to reac about the boys is akin to actually being an owner, albeit with none of the expense. (smile)
rams2050 28 Feb 2011 1:23 PM
Nicanor is by far the greatest in my heart and to hear all the negatives about him is sad.. Nicanor has capabilities untouched for his wonderful (almost) 5 years..
3 cheers for all racehorses!!
To Honor And Serve is one hell of a horse and he will come back ...such a georgous horse.
Ragsy 28 Feb 2011 1:31 PM
I have this fantasy...that one day, after just too much frustration, Peter Brette becomes Nicanor's jockey and rides him to win after win after win -- all GRI Stakes races!  Peter knows Nic better than anyone else who has ever been on his back.  Peter has worked long and hard to bring Nicanor to the point where he is fit and ready and able to run and win a big race.  Nic has it in him, but certain jockeys can't or won't enable him to do what he can do.
No more Julien Leparoux!
Marigold 28 Feb 2011 2:03 PM
I watched the jockey in the first 3/4 of the race, and he was standing up with his rear in the air and his hands down low, holding Nicanor in. He may have had to check that one time, but the damage was already done, Nic had wasted energy asking to be let loose. I think he finished up okay, but he never really had a chance to even place. This is a strong horse with a mind of his own, for sure... and the right jockey, or rather the right ride, would have served him better. Leparoux is a good jock, but he's not the right fit for this horse.
longtimeracingfan 28 Feb 2011 2:15 PM
Harrison Bergeron,
I tend to agree with you.  Unfortunately, once you run through your conditions there aren't any allowance races left for you.  That leaves claiming races or stakes races.
I wish everyone would stop blaming the jockeys.
Nicanor was run off his feet, got into close quarters and had to check.  After that he was done finishing 2/3/4 lenghts in front of the last place finisher who the charts said was "through early."  He didn't come on at the end--he passed tiring horses.
Leparoux didn't fight with him.  Nicanor was never comfortable and looked to me like a horse run off his feet.  Or maybe he has a bit of a breathing problem, which is why he is now wearing that noseband.  Like I said, it would be interesting to have Leparoux give an honest opinion of the race.
JAJ 28 Feb 2011 3:14 PM
IMO, Ramon gave Nicanor the best ride.  Leparoux is just not a good fit for him.  I do question putting him in stakes company after a 3 month layoff.  Obviously MM and Peter thought he was ready, but I'm not sure he had enough workouts or was fit enough to run with this crowd.  I guess they know best.
Mary 28 Feb 2011 3:14 PM
JAJ, that is all well and good, but WHO got him into close quarters?  The Jockey!  In fact, that particular jockey had him kind of all over the place in that race.  There is a head on replay which apparently shows that pretty clearly.
Marigold 28 Feb 2011 3:44 PM
HARRISON B.
FYI,they aren't wearing "rose colored glasses". I totally disagree! Do you think they can win every race they enter? BTW he's coming off a layoff!
Mike Relva 28 Feb 2011 4:00 PM
I too was worried about the 3 month lay off, but I think he did really well considering this. Maybe this means Nicanor will be racing more. As far as being overrated and moving on, Mike R, Greg J, rams2050, and criminal type all said it best. Nicanor will always have my heart!
Penny in TX 28 Feb 2011 4:32 PM
Oh, come on Mike Relva.  Half--half!!!--the field were coming off a layoff.  That's five horses and the other four horses had a longer layoff than Nicanor.  The second and third place horses were coming off longer layoffs than Nicanor.
What ever the reason, it wasn't a good race.  The betting public thought the horse was in over his head.  While I agree they can't win every race, they shouldn't go to post at something like 18 to 1 or whatever he went off at.
I don't know, just a gut feeling.  He never once relaxed and I kinda thought he was let go to run at the beginning.  He never found his stride.  I wonder if he is panicking a tiny bit worrying about his breathing.  It's been in the back of my mind for awhile just the way he carries his head so high.  I might be completely off base, but it is a feeling I've had for awhile and then to have him show up with that noseband.
JAJ 28 Feb 2011 4:53 PM
I WILL ALWAYS BE GRATEFUL FOR NICANOR.  I WAS VERY UPSET OVER BARBARO'S PASSING AND WE ALL WERE.  BUT WHO WAS THERE TO MEND OUR BROKEN HEARTS NICANOR AND I THINK HE DID A FINE JOB OF IT.  HE MAY NOT BE THE BEST RACE HORSE.  BUT HE WITH HIS ATTITUDE ALONE AT TIMES I LAUGHED MY ASS OFF BECAUSE OF HIM.  WASN'T HE THE ONE THAT SAT DOWN IN THE GATE????  HE DESERVES  A GOOD LIFE I HOPE WHEN HE RETIRES HE GETS THE BEST LIFE HE CAN POSSIBLE GET.  I KINDA AGREE WITH KRISTINE.  WE ARE GOING TO HAVE TO AGREE AT SOMETIME THAT HE MIGHT BE DONE RACING. HE CARRIED OUR WOUNDED HEARTS ON HIS  BACK EVERY TIME HE RACED AND AT TIMES HE MADE ME LAUGH MY ASS OFF WITH IS ATTITUDE HE HEALED MY HEART FROM BARBARO.  THERE WILL NEVER BE A NOTHER BARBARO AND WE ALL WANTED HIM TO REPEAT WHAT BARBARO DID.  BUT NICANOR DID IT HIS WAY.   HE WILL ALWAYS BE IN OUR HEARTS NO MATTER WHAT AHE DOES BUT I JUST HOPE HE LIVES THE REST OF HIS LIFE IN A WORLD OF LUXURY BECAUSE HE DESERVES IT.
jclson(Fan of Nicanor) 28 Feb 2011 4:54 PM
Looked to me like Leparoux decided the pace was a little quick for him and took him back a little.  Nicanor did not appear to be fighting his to me, non of us knows whether that was a good choice or not, but the jockey apparently thought it was the right thing to do.  Not a bad effort, it will be interesting to see where he goes from here.
Springsmom83 28 Feb 2011 5:07 PM
Well, Nicanor didn't win, but he didn't run all that badly! Despite a less than perfect trip, he still managed to run fifth while beaten slightly less than seven lengths. My quick caculations show that he ran the mile in 1:33 4/5, not bad at all! I'm confident that he will win a stakes race someday.
Greg J;
You run a magnificent blog. I greatly enjoy it! Keep up the good work!
-Keelerman
www.veteransoftheturf.blogspot.com
-Keelerman 28 Feb 2011 5:26 PM
Sometimes trainers cant seem to get the best out of their horse on race day, Keyed Entry was a very fast horse but Pletcher never seemed to get the best out of him on a regular basis. Nicanor has the talent they just havent gotten it out of him in a race yet.
gehana 28 Feb 2011 5:30 PM
Ramon or Rosie are my favorites, it seems they are the only ones that help Nic win...
Ragsy 28 Feb 2011 5:48 PM
JAJ
Unlike a couple months ago,not going to respond and give  what you want,which is to engage in debating you.
Mike Relva 28 Feb 2011 6:33 PM
JAJ, please explain about the breathing and the nose band.  Thanks.
I think you are right he did not relax and never found his stride.  Still think he is a great horse.
Mary 28 Feb 2011 7:03 PM
Thanks Rachel, obviously I'm on the wrong blog.
Kristen Ohler 28 Feb 2011 7:13 PM
Can't believe some of the bickering that occurs here, regardless of anyone's opinion.  My analysis would start with the fact that the winner clearly put forth a Grade 1 effort.  To wire the field with those splits and final time was outstanding, and fun to watch.  Nicanor did have to steady; my thought is at best he could have moved up one place.  It seems obvious, to me anyway, where his class is currently.  He won at the highest allowance condition on the New York circuit, and is slightly below placing in Graded competion.  He is competitive at the ungraded level, and if he can move forward off of this race very well, another Grade 3 turf mile (if they can find them) seems logical.  I would agree with the assesment that his work tab wasn't seemingly sufficient to prepare off the layoff- but I am sure the connections knew they were being aggressive with placement.  FWIW, the ride seemed ok, but I bet Leparoux, or his agent for that matter, would even tell you that his forte isn't riding on the lead; I can't say I understand that choice.  Overrated?  How?  Overfollowed yes; but he is probably the first colt to ever be so closely followed-day to day almost.  One colt of the +- 30,000 born in 2006, followed as such, and he is running in stakes races (any idea what the percentages are?).  His ability to get there has brought in how many casual racing fans?  I have been a part of two groups that have owned combined over 80 horses, maybe not of Nicanor's pedigree, but sires have included Arch, Stephen Got Even, Bernstien---mostly acquired via claim; there's been one (1)stakes entry in an Illinois restricted race.  This horse on his own merit would be teriffic, he's got a couple of 3 figure beyers--he takes MORE critcism because of who he is.
brettzky99 28 Feb 2011 7:28 PM
Brettzky99,
Nice to see you here, and thank you for your wise words!
Greg J. 28 Feb 2011 8:34 PM
Mary,
That noseband holds the bit differently in the horse's mouth which affects the back of the tongue which affects the soft palate.
I have always had in the back of my mind that his high head carriage might be signifying a breathing issue.  Heads will often go up when they can't breath.  I really don't know, it is just a nagging thought in the back of my mind.
That noseband seems to be more common in the last year or two, but in fairly recent time it was very, very uncommon even three years ago.  I think Citation wore one and of course, Seattle Slew.
JAJ 28 Feb 2011 9:13 PM
Brettzky99,SO good to hear from you again! -- have missed hearing from you.  The voice of reason.
Ramon Dominguez rides comfortably on the lead, so does Rosie Naprovnik, and I think Johnnie V. as well, and now we know Joe Bravo does, too.  Julien has never seemed to, at least with Nic.  However, maybe Michael Matz wasn't looking for a win, but conditioning.  Just read an article about To Honor and Serve in which his trainer put him in a big race for the conditioning and experience with an eye to another race ahead.  For all we know, perhaps Nicanor's trainer is doing the same thing and there is something else they are pointing towards.  We'll just have to watch and see.
Cal Gal 28 Feb 2011 9:19 PM
the powers that be should allow
nicky to be nicky... zenyatta was
allowed to run "her" way and look
at the results.. since nicky doesn't run all that often why can't rosie come to ride him...she
is only an hour away by plane..lets
get real again... it seems to me
that he runs just often enough to keep his fans happy.. most race
horses run far more often than
lenny or nicky... and why is that?
nmh 28 Feb 2011 9:35 PM
Cal Gal 28 Feb 2011 9:39 PM
Any word on how LVR is doing? Is she still pregnant and if so do they know the sex of the foal? Please any update would be appreciated.
Fan of the Sport 28 Feb 2011 10:07 PM
Fan of the Sport...as far as we know LVR is in foal and due around the first of May. It has been said that she is carrying another colt. So we have another brother to love and cherish. Hope this helps. The connections have been very hush hush about LVR since she lost her last foal which was a filly. She is doing fine as far as we know. Not much news on that front.
Lou in TX 28 Feb 2011 11:37 PM
Finally watched the replay - 3 times. Yes he was bunched up after a game start, but I did not like seeing him backed up like he had a reverse gear! I don't think that was Nic's doing. The body English of both Nic and the jockey showed him being held back and not liking it. I think he could have gotten a 3rd or 4th out of this race if riden differently. I would also like to see a softer touch on him, like Rosie, but also more frequent starts. Brettzky99 - great to see you post again with good observations and comments.
diastu 01 Mar 2011 2:19 AM
I am thankful Nicanor put in effort to run, at least he seemed as if still wanted to run, still is competitive, I just think he needed to race, next time he will get er done
NancyC 01 Mar 2011 3:39 AM
nmh,
You don't just uproot a jockey from a track where she's doing quite well to put her on an allowance horse at a track 4 hours+ by air away. (there are no nonstop flights)
Please be realistic.
Nicanor is a lovely horse, good looking, kind eye, wonderful disposition, etc, but he has yet to prove that he's the type of RACEHORSE that warrants someone flying for a ride on him.
This horse has had 7 different jockeys in 14 starts.
Just curious......why did Prado quit riding Lael horses?
I may be wrong, but I don't believe he has ridden any since Bahama Bound in April of 2010, and only a handful since Barbaro's last race.
JAJ, I'm mostly a lurker here, but I enjoy your logical posts.
Gonzalez 01 Mar 2011 9:54 AM
Edgar Prado rode Nicanor in his first ever race, when he grabbed a quarter and was pulled up.  Edgar has. for personal reasons, decided not to ride the brothers but has made no decision regarding Lael horses.  Edgar is very busy riding  up and down the Eastern Seabord and isn't usually available.
Cal Gal 01 Mar 2011 10:54 AM
Gonzalez, I talked to Edgar Prado on facebook and i asked him tht questioned and he said When he rode Nicanor and he hurt his leg Nicanor reacted almost the same way Barbaro did. He thought he had Barbaro all over again reliving the horrible nightmare.  He said he will never be able to ride one of barbaro's brothers again.  He gets goosbumps just seeing them in a race He was in a race with one of them and he was very uncomfortble knowing Barbaros brother was there.  He rides thousands of races and never gets uncomfortable till he sees them.  
jclson(fan of nicanor) 01 Mar 2011 3:24 PM
Cal Gal,
When was Nicanor ever pulled up?  He's never been pulled up.  Never.
Why do you say Edgar has for personal reasons decided not to ride the brothers.  When did he ever say that?  I've never heard a jockey ever turn down a ride on a horse unless it is for a better horse or s/he believed the horse was dangerous to ride.
JAJ 01 Mar 2011 3:26 PM
jclson, that was what I was alluding to but felt I couldn't reveal.  Edgar is a caring, kind man who is still grieving over his great good friend, Barbaro, and the brothers bring it all back home to him.  I certainly can understand his feelings. We all heard it secondhand but you heard it from the proverbial "horses mouth".
JAJ, read the post before yours.  Edgar "wrapped him up" to save him for another day."  I misspoke. Sue me...
Cal Gal 01 Mar 2011 3:51 PM
Jclson(fan of nicanor),
If Prado ever said that, he shouldn't be riding.  It would seem he no longer has the courage to be a jockey.
JAJ 01 Mar 2011 4:02 PM
nicky grabbed a quarter in his first race and was pulled up..it
took him several months to recover
and race again...as far as i know
he hasn't been injuried since.. so
that doesn't explain why he isn't
raced more often...and lenny?
who knows...
nmh 01 Mar 2011 5:05 PM
just a footnote to add...
edgar prado saved barbaro's life...
he didn't die because of a broken
leg... it had healed and dr.
richardson said he couldn't race
but could stand at stud.. he died
from the complications of lamitis
in two other feet...
nmh 01 Mar 2011 5:11 PM
Nmh,
First, Nicanor wasn't "pulled up" when he grabbed his quarter coming out of the gate in his debut at Gulfstream Park on January 31, 2009.  During that race, Nicanor bumped with the colt Andiron, who was to his right, causing Nicanor to stumble a few strides out (this is where the slight injury happened).  Edgar and Nicanor were now bringing up the back of the pack, but, Nicanor recovered nicely from the troubled break and made up alot of ground on the field despite Edgar trying to restrain him.  Nicanor probably made up about fifteen lengths to catch up to get near the front runners, then made a move at the leaders on the turn, but, that is where Nicanor hit the wall and was out of gas from using all that energy to get back in the race, and his foot was probably sore at this point.
Edgar's quote after the race, "We got a horrible break, he stumbled out of the gate. After that, I realized we didn't have much today. I thought I could get him in position to do something after the start, but he just didn't have anything after that. I didn't want to do anything stupid."
Mr. Matz on the race, "He grabbed the quarter of the left front leg leaving the gate, he wasn't comfortable, so Edgar just wrapped up on him."
It didn't take long for Nicanor to recover from this at all, he had a four furlong work sixteen days later, and his next race was on March 7th (5 weeks after the debut), where he placed second to the impressive Custom for Carlos in a seven furlong maiden special weight race at Gulfstream Park on the dirt.
Also, Nicanor was injured during a gallop the week prior to his scheduled start in the $750,000 Virginia Derby (Grade 2) on August 7, 2009.  Nicanor was going to be the favorite for the race.  His injury was explained by Mr. Matz at that time, "He has some bruised fetlocks, bone bruising".  Due to that injury, Nicanor's next start was over nine months later in an allowance race at Keeneland on April 8, 2010.
Finally, Nicanor also grabbed his quarter coming out of the gate during the Sussex Stakes at Delaware Park on July 10, 2010, a race where he placed third in the mud.  This was also a very minor injury, he raced seven weeks later.
Hope that helped.
Greg J. 01 Mar 2011 8:32 PM
JAJ,
First, I really don't know why I am responding to your comment regarding Edgar, but, I am (I swear, you have said the same exact comment in the past on this blog).  Anyways, you say Edgar has no courage if he said that?  Wow, you obviously don't know Edgar or understand the man at all.  One of the greatest jockey's of this generation, and to say that, it boggles my brain!  Edgar Prado, I guarantee you, has more courage in his little finger then you have in your whole body.  I will end it there, just because it really isn't worth me saying more.  I know what your long reply will be, since I have already read it here before, so, go ahead anyways if you must (if I had the time, I would find it, then copy and paste it here to save you the time).
Question, have you read Edgar's book?  If so, I suggest you read it again, if not, I would be glad to send you my copy!
Greg J. 01 Mar 2011 8:47 PM
It's a joke when some question an individuals courage when they don't even know them. Classy!
Mike Relva 01 Mar 2011 9:04 PM
Mike,
Joke isn't even the word!  While I have backed JAJ before, her comment here about Edgar is beyond defending, because it cannot be defended at all.  To not understand why he cannot bring himself to ride a brother of Barbaro after what he went through with Barbaro is completely beyond me!  He tried once with Nicanor, but, after the grabbed quarter and the feeling's he must have felt, who the hell could blame him?  Certainly not me!
Greg J. 01 Mar 2011 9:21 PM
I will say it again, if a jockey can't ride a horse because he is worried of it getting hurt, either the horse is a physical wreck who shouldn't be racing or the jockey doesn't have what it takes to be a jockey any more.  Only one sentence Greg J.
JAJ 01 Mar 2011 9:22 PM
JAJ,
First, thank you for only one sentence.  Second, while in theory, you might be correct, BUT, not everything is black and white, there are always exceptions to every rule, this is easily one of those cases!  After reading many of your comments, I don't think you will ever "get it", everything in your world is black and white, with no exceptions, which I find sad.  To each their own...
Greg J. 01 Mar 2011 10:00 PM
Got to watch Nicanor's race and was impressed by his run. He's a front runner why not let him be. Some horses are what we call a  one-run horse and need to be in front or near the front in order to have a chance. With Rosie out for the rest of the year, why not try Amber Tamburello or even DeShawn Parker. I've seen him do things with what we would call mediocre or run of the mill horse that no other jockey has done. He's get them to win races when even their regular jockey couldn't. Maybe that's what Nic needs a jockey that's gonna work with the horse as he is, and not a superstar jockey that's gonna ride him the way he wants to. Maybe Nic is a better one-turn mid-range runner, has he ever ran a 7f? Just a thought.
rajahsmom 02 Mar 2011 12:18 AM
Why not let Nic choose his own jockey, they are the two who have to run the race. If the horse is not comfortable with the jockey, he's not going to run his best. Look at what happened when Baffert put Martin Garcia on Looking at Lucky, also when Mike Smith rode Drosselmeyer. Sometimes you have to find the right horse/jockey fit. I totally understand why Edgar doesn't want to ride Barbaro's brothers. He's too emotionally invested in that family, to be able to do what's best on the track. This doesn't make him a bad jockey, but a smart one, he knows that he can't afford to be afraid on a horse. It's life and death on the track, and you can't afford to be scared for you or the horse. Why not just audition jockeys for Nic and see which pair clicks, not wait til the big race and find out.
rajahsmom 02 Mar 2011 12:48 AM
I don't want to add fuel to the fire but I certainly can understand where Edgar is coming from.  He loved Barbaro and was deeply hurt and grief stricken by his death. He had a bond with Barbaro and that makes all the difference in the world as to his feelings for him. His brothers look soo much like him and have some of his characteristics, that it is easy for me to see how this would affect Edgar. He loves the brothers as much as we do! Honestly, I get a little scared everytime one of them races. I don't feel comfortable until I know they came home safely.
Another example: Mike Smith and Zenyatta. He has a very close bond with her and if anything should happen to her, he would be devastated. It doesn't matter he's not riding her anymore, they have a special bond.  What else can you say??
Lou in TX 02 Mar 2011 2:51 AM
FYI,
Sorry for changing topics, but, I just posted an update on Dyna King/Gifted on previous thread.
If everyone can take a moment and think of him today, it would help,
Thank You...
Greg J. 02 Mar 2011 7:56 AM
Prayers for DynaKing/Gifted!  He is a wonderful horse who needs some extra prayers!
Greg, you are a gifted writer, and this blog has been a pure joy with your excellent reports!
Linda 02 Mar 2011 8:32 AM
At the risk of fueling the fire myself, JAJ is not the only one questioning where Prado is mentally. Others on an unrelated forum have also questioned Edgar's ability to separate his job from the one horse, Barbaro - and not only on Nic/Len but on most of his mounts of the past couple years, at least. These are not casual fans, but experienced handicappers. Can you blame him for feeling the way he does about the Barbaro experience? Certainly not - but maybe he should hang up his silks if he can't effectively sit a horse without envisioning impending doom at every outing. The jockey not only serves the horse and his connections, but also the betting public, and if he can't make rational decisions about his horse in a race due to a hangup about a single mount's catastrophic injury, he is doing a disservice to all of the above, including himself. I would say if that is the case, he needs to either get some help or retire.
Flame on, y'all.
Pokey 02 Mar 2011 8:33 AM
Just got word from Handyman, who works with Nic, the he does NOT have a breathing problem.
So JAJ you can put your mind at ease.
Now we can put that assumption to bed and move on!
Lou in TX 02 Mar 2011 11:51 AM
GregJ
You are correct..and thank you for changing the subject.
Can we please leave Edgar Prado alone...good grief!!
MOST have admiration and respect for this man.
Ragsy 02 Mar 2011 12:52 PM
What happened to Rosie?
Ragsy 02 Mar 2011 1:52 PM
JAJ,  I cannot prove it was Edgar I talked to.  It was on facebook chat But I am only stating what was said to me.  He was so upset with Barbaro and he will never be the same Edgar Prado, there is a piece of his heart that Barbaro took with him when he died.    He rides because it is his profession and a career.  I"m not going to argue about it.  You are a person that loves to argue and challenge what people say on here.  To be honest, if I worried what everybody wrote on here like you do,  I'd make myself sick. Get a life and when your done sueing Cal Gal,  sue me next.  
jclson(Fan of Nicanor) 02 Mar 2011 1:53 PM
Greg, What happened to Dyna King he take a turn for the worst???   What happened???  If i was in edgar 's shoes. Look what he went through He was right there when everything happened to Barbaro.  How can he go to Preakness and not relive the emotion of that day.  I see the Preakness and that is what i think of Barbaro.  Can you imagine Edgar's feelings when Nicanor got hurt.  Yes it was a better outcome but still the emotion he would have had.  The huge trauma he went thorugh with Barbaro.  Just to have it again acouple years later to Barbaro's brother.  My heart goes out for Edgar
jclson( Fan of Nicanor) 02 Mar 2011 2:09 PM
I cannot believe that anyone in his or her right mind could possibly disparage Edgar Prada, a man who showed nothing but class during the entire unfortunate Barbaro episode.
Could it be that Barbaro, Mr. Matz and the Jacksons just meant or mean so much to Edgar that he cannot bear to be part of any additional sadness that might possibly come their way should something ill-fated happen to one of the brothers while he was riding?
That isn't a lack of courage; it is a lack of empathy on the part of anyone foolish or ignorant enough to term it a 'lack of courage.'
Edgar Prado should be the standard by which every jockey riding today is measured.  Thoroughbred horses and horse racing would be much the better for it.
I salute Edgar Prado for his remarkable courage AND humanity.
rams2050 02 Mar 2011 2:11 PM
Lou in TX, you are absolutely correct when you talk about Edgar being emotionally invested with Barbaro and his brothers. Anyone that has a strong connection with animals of any kind know that feeling. My heart is in my throat when any of the brothers race. I love to see them run, but it still gets to you.
Prayers for Dyna King. Which ever way it goes we know he will be taken care of. Bless his heart.  
Penny in TX 02 Mar 2011 2:15 PM
Rams2050, there is an entire contingent of us who adore Edgar and admire his presence of mind in the Barbaro/Preakness trauma and later, in the Nicanor/quarter grab incident. He is a loving man (He adored his beloved Barbaro) and was very caring about the brothers, as well.  We love Edgar for that, and his courage is never in question.  It is almost sacreligious to suggest otherwise.  And, it's true, someone who is close to him has unequivocally stated that Nicanor has never had breathing problems.
Cal Gal 02 Mar 2011 2:30 PM
Hi Greg,
Thanks for the update on Lentenor and Margano.
I am going to hope that Margano will be the 2012 Kentucky Derby winner.
I check this forum every so often to see if one of the brothers of Barbaro are racing any time soon.
I love to watch them race, and I get overly excited during the race shouting for them to "get moving."
Even if they lose, I still enjoy watching them.
I am surprised that various barns
(such as Mr. Matz) still don't have websites in order to entice the fans.
The Zenyatta team had the right idea by allowing the fans to see and pat Zenyatta. It all worked out since nothing negative happened to her.
Thank you!
Lise from Maine 02 Mar 2011 3:22 PM
All reports about Margano are so positive and exciting.  Can hardly wait for him to get to Fair Hill -- 3 brothers together!!
So incredible.  
Cal Gal 02 Mar 2011 3:46 PM
Talked with Judy few minutes ago. As always she's very generous with her time and answers questions in a honest,concise manner. DK is improving from the past few days.
Mike Relva 02 Mar 2011 6:49 PM
Thank you, Mike, for  your time -- and the good news.
rams2050 02 Mar 2011 7:54 PM
RAMS2050
You're welcome! While a few thought Judy should have thrown in the towel from the beginning,the fact is this is a work in progress that requires time and patience.
Mike Relva 02 Mar 2011 8:52 PM
Ragsy,
They may be thinking of Rosemary Homeister Jr. who is pregnant and out indefinitely.  If so, wrong Rosie!!
Rosie Napravnik is the leading rider at the Fairgrounds.  Congrats to "our" Rosie!!
Cal Gal 02 Mar 2011 8:54 PM
Mike Relva...thanks for the good news about Dyna King/Gifted. I certainly feel better knowing he is improving. Like Judy said he may continue to have set backs but if they can be treated and relieve the pain, that's wonderful! God Bless him!
Lou in TX 02 Mar 2011 9:26 PM
Hi Mike Relva! Thanks for the update on Dyna King/Gifted. He is such a deserving warrior, hoping he continues to improve and has his comfort/pain managed for years to come! How are your horses?
horsenut23 02 Mar 2011 10:52 PM
Good Morning,  Lou in TX i get nervouse as well.  When you love animals like we do i guess that is just natural. You know it isn't just us Other jockey's have a connection to Barbaro as well.  Calvin Barel has Barbaro pictures on his wall on facebook and i got kinda jeolous like why does he have pictures of Barbaro.  So i made a comment on his message on facebook sure enough he said Barbaro got to everybody even to jockey's Again i don't really know if it is truly them i'm talking to.  It could be fan club or friend Mike Smith said When he was riding Zenyatta He said now i know how Edgar felt with Barbaro because Zenyatta got to him the same way. So these jockey's have feelings like we do they are human.
jclson(Fan of Nicanor) 03 Mar 2011 9:06 AM
HORSENUT23/LOU IN TX
Thanks! How are both of you?
Mike Relva 03 Mar 2011 9:08 AM
Thank you, Mike Relva, for the report on DynaKing. I pray for huim daily.
Barbara W 03 Mar 2011 9:52 AM
Mike Relva, I'm good, busy with my granddaughter(2yr), my dogs and volunteering at the Therapeutic Riding Center. Hope you are well?
horsenut23 03 Mar 2011 11:39 AM
I'm only saying this once and I think alot of people on this blog will agree.  JAJ, my blood started boiling over with your know it all attitude towards people on this blog, and now i have to read your rude comments about Edgar Prado?!?  Do you even know Edgar?  I highly doubt you do and obviously, you haven't read his book because you would have given Greg another rude comment back to him regarding his question.  I had the great opportunity to see him inducted into the Racing Hall of Fame in Saratoga.  The Jacksons were there along with Dr. Richardson and he had nothing but praise for Edgar.  There wasn't a dry eye in the house when he talked about Barbaro and I forget how long his standing ovation was.  You don't know anything about Edgar, so I suggest you keep your ignorant rude comments about him to yourself.
Deby 03 Mar 2011 5:19 PM
Mike Relva:
I am planning a Tuscon trip again in September.  I visit Chelokee at the University of Arizona where he is standing.  I'll be in Arizona for 3 nights.  I was looking at mapquest, I don't think Hearts of Tucson is that far away from the airport?  Am I right?  I think it's pretty cool that you went and visited the Tin Man in CA and they gave you a shoe!  After I leave Arizona, I'm heading to San Diego.  Where is the Tin Man in CA?  
Deby 03 Mar 2011 5:26 PM
Mike R...thanks for asking. Doing fine. I've been busy with my 3 Grandchildren ( 8, 11, 13). Was at a track meet for the 13 yr. old Tuesday and nearly froze to death before the meet was over around 10 p.m.  It was only 48 but that's cold for someone in a short sleeve T-shirt and no jacket.
So glad to hear Dyna KIng/Gifted is doing better. We appreciate your updates along with Greg's.
Lou in TX 03 Mar 2011 6:41 PM
BARBARA W
Thank you! I'm planning to fly there and visit him next month.
Mike Relva 03 Mar 2011 7:08 PM
You guys
My heart is tearing open, my georgous GSD, a showdog and his close friend, a terrier crossed my neighbors drive and he shot them dead.  Agony is tearing me apart and I don't understand why this had to happened.  All the insurance and loving care given makes me wonder about human beings..I am without feeling at this time...total agony...
Ragsy 03 Mar 2011 7:12 PM
Cal Gal
Thank God Rosie is ok, when I saw that I guess, I panicked.
yeah, A.Rosie Nap. has Fairgournds taken care of...
3 cheers for Dyna King!!!!!!
Ragsy 03 Mar 2011 7:57 PM
Just had to comment on Edgar Prado and his relationship with Barbaro and my comments are backed up by articles in the Baltimore Sun and Orlando Sentinel on 7/15/2006. After Barbaro had a turn for the worst and Dean Richardson talked about his recovery being "a long shot",  Edgar drove from his home in New York, leaving at 4:30 AM, to be with Barbaro at that crucial time and the horse even put his head on Edgar's shoulder and slept.  I feel Edgar not only saved Barbaro on Preakness Day but is one of the reasons the horse lasted another six months from that July setback.  I totally respect Edgar Prado and whatever decision he makes regarding the Barbaro brothers.
Jackie in Ohio 03 Mar 2011 8:19 PM
I will never forget that Edgar was in his home country when told that Barbaro was euthanized.  His heart was shattered with the news.
God Bless Edgar Prado there is none like him....
See ya, gotta leave, my heart too is broken....  
Ragsy 03 Mar 2011 8:44 PM
RAGSY
I wanted to express my sorrow and concern. Did you call the police?
Mike Relva 03 Mar 2011 8:56 PM
Oh, Ragsy, I am so sorry for you loss.  My heart is bleeding for you.
airwave53 03 Mar 2011 11:00 PM
Ragsy...so sorry about your loved ones. I'd definitely call the police. Can't think of why this person would do such a thing. What a cold hearted thing to do. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Please take care.
Lou in TX 03 Mar 2011 11:02 PM
Deby Thank you very much what you said to jaj.  If Barbaro would know the kind of fan she or he is He would turn in his grave.  Having a low person like tht on her is a disgrace.   RAGSY I am no sorry for your loss.  What can i say to make you feel better.  There day is coming when they meet the lord
jclson(Fan of NIcanor) 03 Mar 2011 11:29 PM
Ragsy -- I am so sorry for your loss.  What pain you must be feeling.
I will be praying for you.  I hope that the law or the ASPCA is dealing with the man who shot your beloved dog and his or her buddy.
That is beyond insane.
Again, please accept my condolences and sympathy.
rams2050 03 Mar 2011 11:36 PM
 RAGSY
I know there's really nothing anyone can say right now to ease your pain, but I too would like to offer my condolences for your loss.  It must be especially difficult in your case as there was no reason for such a thing to happen except perhaps human stupidity.
Zowie 04 Mar 2011 2:22 AM
Ragsy,
Sue the %$#@ out of that guy and press charges is the police feel it is appropriate.  Damn, damn, damn that person who did such a cruel thing!
Cal Gal 04 Mar 2011 2:54 AM
Aw gee, Ragsy, I am so sorry to hear what has happened to your GSD and buddy. The loss of a GSD friend is bad enough but how it happened...
Wishing you the best...hang in there....
Irene 04 Mar 2011 4:45 AM
Everyone "Thank You" for the kind words. The Sheriff's office told me that people are not nice anymore and there is nothing they can do..isn't that awful.
Now, I will be afraid to take my 2 female GSD'S out of their yard..
But, I do, now,  understand why this grown man sits with a gun and a relative goes over to stay with him daily,he has done bad things 2 too many people, he's evil.
Ragsy 04 Mar 2011 9:34 AM
Ragsy--my heart breaks also for your loss. Please know your "family" here shares your sorrow.
Mike Relva--thank you. Wish I could go too. Will be looking for your report.
Barbara W 04 Mar 2011 9:54 AM
Ragsy. my condolences on the loss your you GSD and his little terrier friend. :(   I do hope you call the police and he gets charged.
horsenut23 04 Mar 2011 10:13 AM
Ragsy:  I'm so sorry for your loss.  We just had to have two pets put down, but the loss of yours in such an awful way is even more heartbreaking.  God, some humans are just beyond understanding.  This is taking a long time to type because Victoria the cat is insisting on walking on the keyboard.  I think she's sending her condolences as well.
Jean in Chicago 04 Mar 2011 12:36 PM
Ragsy, so sorry for your loss.  Where do you live?  I must say that in New Orleans, an arrest would have been made.
You need to look at state law, because you may have grounds to sue.  What happened to your pet is deplorable at best.
Mary 04 Mar 2011 8:36 PM
In most states, what your neighbor did, is a criminal offense.  You really need a lawyer. Please let me know where you live.
Mary 04 Mar 2011 8:39 PM
Ragsy,  I can't believe the sheriff can't do anything about it Why?????  The man will pay for his crime one way or another.  He will stand infront of GOD one day.   Evil people like that will pay.  It hope this will ease your pain GOD BLESS RAGSY
jclson(Fan of Nicanor) 04 Mar 2011 8:47 PM
RAGSY
How old is this guy? Please consider my advice and contact a lawyer,( a good one).
Mike Relva 04 Mar 2011 9:48 PM
Ragsy,  Just saw the heartbreaking news about your beloved Shepherd.  I am so very sorry that he and his little terrier buddy were killed.  What a shock for all concerned.  I kept deleting sentences because there is so little to say to comfort you;  just know that those here are mourning with you.  Susan
Terlingua 04 Mar 2011 10:37 PM
Holy Buckets-the Prado issue has to settle down.  I am not all that familiar with Prado, and have not read his book.  I am familiar with Arlington Park though, and I can state this: The Michael Matz barn was absolutely FURIOUS with Edgar Prado due to him taking another mount in the Arlington Million in 2004, when he was supposed to ride Kickin Kris, for whom he was the regular jockey.  Matz publicly swore he wouldn't ever ride for the barn again.  It wasn't until after Prado switched agents, that Matz granted him the opportunity to ride for the stable again, obviously prior to the Holy Bull in 2006.  What's missing from all of the jockey conversation, is the enormous role the agents play in the decision making process of who they will ride (they actually do make the decision in most cases).  I would never try to speak for Edgar Prado, because I simply don't know his disposition; but a couple of things are quite obvious: 1.  His agent is positioning him as a second or third call mount in 2 major stables (Pletcher and Dutrow Jr.) 2. There is one fatal breakdown per approximately every 500 starts for horses racing, in general.  If each race, for the sake of math, had 10 starters, and there were 10 races each day, there would be one breakdown every five racing days; jocks do have to accept this negative aspect of the sport, like everyone.  Ramon Domiguez will have approx. 1500 mounts this year, which would equate to 3 breakdowns by average.
To talk jockey selections by trainers without talking agents is just not realistic.
brettzky99 05 Mar 2011 12:25 AM
Brettzky99,
First, I just wanted to add, this discussion is all about Edgar and riding the brothers of Barbaro.  It is all about his close connection with Barbaro and how, god forbid, if he was on one of the brothers and they got injured, he just couldn't deal with that, IMHO. I, for one, cannot blame him in the least for feeling this way at all.  After all, he is human and after the emotions he went through with Barbaro, I completely understand where he is coming from.
With all due respect Brettzky99, the whole fiasco with Kickin Kris had nothing to do with Edgar and Mr. Matz, it was all about Mr. Frieze.  Mr. Matz never had any ill feeling's towards Edgar at all, thoughout the whole ordeal, that is public knowledge.
Mr. Frieze promised Mr. Matz that Edgar would ride Kickin Kris once he was told that Magistretti would not run.  Five days befor the Arlington Million, Mr. Frieze was informed Magistretti would indeed be in the race, Edgar would get the mount(yes, Mr. Matz was extremely upset with this decision!), and Mr. Frieze was able to get Kent Desormeaux to ride Kickin Kris for Mr. Matz.
Kickin Kris and Kent D. did win the race after Powerscourt was DQ'ed from 1st to 4th due to interference in the stretch, ironically, Edgar and Magistretti would finish second.
Another thing, I need to correct you, Mr. Frieze WAS Edgar's agent when Edgar and Barbaro won the Derby.  Mr. Matz started to use Edgar again after a little over a year since the Arlington Million argument.  Edgar and Mr. Frieze parted ways in 2009, after over ten years together, not prior to the 2006 Kentucky Derby.
Finally, you are correct when you state, "To talk jockey selections by trainers without talking agents is just not realistic", but, in this particular discussion, regarding Edgar riding either one of Barbaro's brothers, I don't think it comes into play.  This is one case where it would be Edgar's call directly, not the agent's, there are exceptions to every rule.
Greg J. 05 Mar 2011 8:44 AM
Ragsy,
I am so sorry to hear about your German Shepherd.
I think you live in Oklahoma Ragsy. And I was doing a little checking and found a law in the state of Oklahoma that says ranchers or farmers can shoot dogs if the farmer/rancher claims that they are chasing or injuring their cattle. And if Oklahoma has one law, it probably has several with a simular outcome. This may have something to do with the reason the sheriff couldn't do anything about it.
Ragsy's dog and his friend were probably just standing there minding their own business on this ""D"-Head's" property when he shot them. If this guy owns even one sheep, goat, pig, it appears he can get away with it. The law needs to be modified otherwise any person who lacks feelings or is simply in a bad mood can get away with shooting a dog just because he says the dog is chasing his livestock.
Kathy 05 Mar 2011 9:05 AM
Ragsy,
My heart goes out to you, I am so sorry...
Greg J. 05 Mar 2011 9:09 AM
Ragsy if you will let me know the state in which you live, I can research your state's laws on animal cruelty.  I cannot think of any state in the union where shooting a dog is lawful, unless the animal is posing a danger to society.
I can perhaps find an attorney in your state who will handle your case pro bono.
You are terribly depressed right now, it's part of the grieving process, but in due course the depression will be replaced with anger.  When this happens, hopefully, you will let me help you.
This individual will kill again; lets not let that happen.  
Mary 05 Mar 2011 9:20 AM
Kathy, the rancher/farmer must have physical evidence that the dogs were chasing and injurying his livestock.  Otherwise, many animals would be shot for no good reason, i.e., killing domesticated animals for the fun of it. There may be federal law on this also.
Mary 05 Mar 2011 9:27 AM
Ragsy,
I am tormented by your loss. You are very brave, not to have retaliated against this neighbor. My dogs are "my children", God help this "person", and I use the word lightly, if he had done this to one of my Dobermans!
His consequences would have been out of my control.
Linda/Maryland 05 Mar 2011 11:26 AM
Ragsy,  I wish there were words to describe how badly I feel that this evil and sick person shot and killed your beloved companions.  May they rest in peace and may you find healing through time and perhaps legal recourse.  My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you...
Janet 05 Mar 2011 5:05 PM
Mary,
The statute said that all it takes is chasing the livestock.
§4-41.  Animals chasing or injuring livestock - Right to kill - Liability of owner - Court proceedings - Definitions.
A.  It shall be lawful for a person to kill any animal of the family canidae or the family felidae found chasing livestock off the premises of the owner of such animal if the person is the owner or occupant of the property on which the animal is chasing the livestock or if the person is authorized to kill such an animal by the owner or occupant of such property.  The owner of any such animal that kills or injures any livestock shall be jointly and severally liable to any person so damaged, to the full amount of the injury done.  The court, before whom a recovery is had for any such injury, shall declare the animal found to have occasioned the injury to be a common nuisance, and order the defendant to kill or cause to be killed, such animal within twenty-four (24) hours after the rendition of the judgment.  Appeals shall be allowed in all such cases.  Such appeals shall be prosecuted in such manner as prescribed by general statutes governing appeals.
Mary, I know you are a lawyer and I am not. To a lay person, this sounds to me like they can. Here is the website. www.oklegislature.gov/osStatuesTitle.html
Kathy 05 Mar 2011 6:37 PM
LINDA/MARYLAND
My thoughts exactly. I have a much beloved dog and feel the same.
Mike Relva 05 Mar 2011 7:37 PM
Ragsy..please let Mary help you. There has to be some recourse for this individual. He sounds like a mean hateful piece of trash. Wish I could help relieve your pain. It's hard enough loosing an animal that's sick but to loose one in that manner is unspeakable! Please accept someone's help and make that monster pay.
Lou in TX 05 Mar 2011 7:54 PM
Ragsy, I am so sorry to hear about your precious GSD and  his terrier friend. It is beyond belief why anyone would do this to someone's pet just for walking through their yard. It is also hard to believe that there is nothing the sheriff will do, we recently had two cases in Fairfax Va where individuals were arrested and charged with shooting someone's pet dogs. It is beyond cruel. Our pets are a part of our family, my heart really hurts for you at this time.
Mary, I agree, he probably will kill again, this may not even be this first case.
Greg, thank you for the news on Dyna King. I've been sick for awhile, my heart really sank when I heard that he wasn't doing well. We have really taken to loving Dyna King and wish him the best with tons of DynaLove!
Mike Relva, wish I were lucky enough to get a Tin Man horse shoe!
Nicky, hope you have rested up since your race, we'd love to see you again! I love the picture I saw of Nicky where he had a braid coming down his forehead.
Nicky,Lennie and Margano, you are going to be Big Brothers soon!
sandieh 05 Mar 2011 8:11 PM
Whats going on with the brothers?
I think their names are Lentenor and Margano.
Brandi 05 Mar 2011 9:08 PM
In Texas, as long as you are not discharging a firearm in the city limits, it is legal to shoot dogs that come onto your property.  While it is sad, it was entirely preventable.    
AngelaFromAbilene 06 Mar 2011 6:18 AM
Good morning everyone!
I decided it was high time I sent another donation to Heart of Tucson for Dyna King/Gifted today. I left a message at Heart of Tucson saying the donation was for D.K.  I wasn't expecting a call back, but low and behold, Judy called me back Saturday afternoon and we had a nice chat for about 15 minutes. We discussed Gifted and in fact she was standing right by him when she called. Gifted was in good spirits Saturday, standing for a long period of time and was eating well. Gifted is on a new treatment that will hopefully help his sore, achy feet. We also discussed "dog patch" south of Tucson; an incredibly scary place, especially for animals.
And she says, Mike Relva checks in all the time. Thank you Mike for being a caring person.
And I just wanted to say, when I spoke with Judy today, I can tell you that she is a totally committed person to all animals. When we discussed "dog patch", she said they take pictures of scenes that they can't show on their website because they are really bad. And Judy, I hope to visit your place soon. I am probably 8 or 9 hours away. Thanks for taking care of Dyna King!
Kathy 06 Mar 2011 6:23 AM
Mary, Everyone
My nieece is a (Juvie)prosecutor in Tulsa and have spoken with her. I am quite shaken and can't think straight right now.
All I remember is working in the Tuplip bed around a buried horse,a horse that JAJ and Horsefirst helped me with.
My dogs were with me, then numerous rounds of shooting occured and spooked my dogs and off they went in different directions,  forgive me but I can't think to continue, to much confusion in my brain.  
Ragsy 06 Mar 2011 7:37 AM
Kathy, thank you.  I really need to know more about the circumstances under which the animals were killed.  Oklahoma likely has other statutes relative to animal cruelty.  
Mary 06 Mar 2011 10:15 AM
SANDIEH
Sorry you haven't been feeling well,hope you feel better soon!
Mike Relva 06 Mar 2011 11:46 AM
KATHY
Thanks for the kind words.
Mike Relva 06 Mar 2011 11:47 AM
I to made another donation to Heart of Tuscon for Dyna King/Gifted. Hope this helps with some of his expenses.
Ragsy..please take care of yourself. Can't begin to imagine what you are going through. I know your head must be spinning with all our suggestions. Take a deep breath and think slowly. I'm sure you are confused with all our suggestions. Just know our thoughts and prayers are with you now. We all care about you.
Lou in TX 06 Mar 2011 1:17 PM
Angela
Yes, this incident was totally preventable, I changed the fence to a 6 footer because my docile   GSD could jump a 5 footer,locked my gates because the GSD could open them and that in its self slowed me down in saving them.
This sweetheart climbed the fence and my terrier dug under before I could get to them, the ground was soft due to water pipe replacement.  They appeared to be operating on the fear factor and paid dearly.
Please, ( smile ) help me understand what else I could have done, I am wracking my brain trying to see where or what I could have changed. after all, I still have my 2 girls (GSD)  oh, all GSD'S are and have been spayed or neutered.
Let me tell you the hell I have been through living here.  I have been robbed since day one, the gas from my truck,riding mower and the tractor fuel have been stolen on a daily basis, all I have to do is leave the property.
There is no law out in the boonies..
While asking if this fella shot my dogs this relative that babysits this grownup stated, well, you know that sugar in gas kills an engine.
over 1.5 year ago I was fed up with the thiefs and my losses, I sugared 5 gallons of gas and it was stolen. This creep was complaining about his losses..now, how do you rate this kinda human?
Yes, guess I must move back to civilization
Ragsy 06 Mar 2011 2:30 PM
Sandie
I am so sorry you have been sick..and thank you, your very nice...along with Mike, GregJ, Lou,Mary,Penny,Horsenut,Kathy,
Angela,Linda/M,
AND EVERYONE
Ragsy 06 Mar 2011 2:39 PM
Ragsy, were both of the dogs yours?
Had your neighbor ever said he'd shoot your dogs if they came onto his property?
Have you had any sort of, polite or otherwise, exchange with your neighbor?
He certainly is hateful.
Cal Gal 06 Mar 2011 2:41 PM
SO, he was the one that stole your gasoline?  Killing your dogs was Payback for putting sugar in your gasoline???  He ought to be charged!!!
What a monster!!
Cal Gal 06 Mar 2011 9:43 PM
Ragsy, it is appalling how some people treat animals. I also own a German Sheppard, have owned different ones all my life. They can be big sweethearts. My biggest concern is for your safety. Please be very careful because the man does seem to be not all there. Stay safe and I am so sorry this is happening to you.
Penny in TX 07 Mar 2011 11:13 AM
Actually he has been a good neighbor in words Cal Gal, he has never complained about my dogs and he wanted to buy one but judging on how he cared for his animals, I would not sell or give him one because they deserve bettter care than they were willing to give.  
Ragsy 07 Mar 2011 12:48 PM
Lou in TX--thanks for prodding me to send another donation for DK.
Ragsy--please keep us updated on your plight. We care. We have dogs that we love dearly--a German Shepherd and a lab mix--both adoptees. Praying for your peace and justice for your loved ones.
Barbara W 07 Mar 2011 2:10 PM
Mike Relva, thank you and I do feel better. It saddens me to hear about the loss of Ragsy's Shepherd.That has to be one sick man.
Lou in Tx, your words fit exactly what I could not find the words to say.
Ragsy, I can feel the pain and grief in your posts. Remember, the only dog that I ever owned was when I was twelve, a beautiful large bone German Shepherd. She was in my yard and only six months old when someone poisoned her. She was very protective and I still miss her. Such a shocking loss, may God Bless you and keep you safe.
I read today where its official, Rachel Alexander is in foal to Curlin. Atta boy, Curlin!
Hopefully soon we will hear about Zenyatta!
Thursday is Margano's (Babynor) birthday, this 2 years has really gone by fast. A big boy now that looks a lot like his Daddyformer.Maybe we could get a birthday picture!
sandieh 07 Mar 2011 8:49 PM
Hey everyone,
Judy has new pictures of Dyna King/Gifted on Facebook with his new treatment boots on.
Kathy 08 Mar 2011 11:53 PM
The photos of Dyna King/Gifted on Facebook are superb. Thank you Judy.
Kathy 09 Mar 2011 12:34 AM
Just look how good Dyna King looks in this photo.  He has really improved.
Does anyone know what they are medicating his feet with?
www.facebook.com/group.php!/photo.php?fbid=10150124328671520&set=o.94549935886&theater&pid=6638528&id=649621519
rams2050 09 Mar 2011 3:56 PM
GOOD NEWS FOB'S!!!!! Lentenor is back at Palm Meadows from his vacation. And the adorable Margano will be going to Fair Hill in April.  It's reported that Lentenor looks great and the twinkle is back in his eyes again. Also, he is not in shape yet so it will probably be awhile before he's ready to race. How's that for good news!!!
Lou in TX 09 Mar 2011 8:42 PM
Rams2050,
Here is what Judy wrote yesterday,
"We took lots of pictures today of Gifted getting his foot soaks with his new boots, and the cleantrax. He was very patient with us all, and had to wear them for an hour. I got tired before he did, lol."
Here is a link of the latest photos of Dyna King/Gifted, he looks amazing!  I included a couple of before and after photos side by side, amazing how far he has come in three months!  Every day Dyna King is fighting to survive, he is a fighter, along with that and all the people that care for him, he just has to beat this!
Here is a link to the latest photos of Dyna King/Gifted, taken yesterday at HEART of Tucson(in the right margin, are all the photos of Dyna King/Gifted in his own set):
www.flickr.com/.../8212290@N04
Greg J. 09 Mar 2011 9:22 PM
HEY GREG
Thanks for the update,it's certainly good news and a reason to feel DK is on the way back. We appreciate your devotion.
Mike Relva 09 Mar 2011 10:26 PM
DynaKing looks good, hope he can keep his spirits up and pain down.  
NancyC 10 Mar 2011 12:57 AM
Thanks Greg and Mike....love the pics of Dyna King/Gifted.
Lou in TX 10 Mar 2011 1:12 AM
What a blessing to see DynaKing improving and the fact that he has so many generous,kind loving friends..Thank You Gregj for the pictures.  It really warms my heart.
Sandie, its great to know Rachel Alexandra is pregnant and for the info about Lentenor and Margano..Thank You too...
I don't want to say anything else about my dogs I get too upset... I thank all.
Ragsy 10 Mar 2011 8:13 AM
If love were a drug then DynaKing would be completely cured.
He looks great, thanks to Judy and all the people at Heart of Tucson.  I cannot believe the difference in his body condition!
And he has such a kind eye!  You can tell he knows that Heart cares and that he is doing his best to get better for them.
Thanks, Heart of Tucson.  And thank you, too, Greg, for the new link and information.
rams2050 10 Mar 2011 1:13 PM
For anyone who is interested in what Cleantrax is and what it does, here is some information I got online from one of the folks who consults for the company that sells the stuff.  By the way, it sounds like a miracle potion.  Here's hoping it works its magic on DK:
The active ingredient in CleanTrax is oxyclorsine, which was developed by a large chemical company in New York to treat human finger-and toenail infections. It is pending approval at the US FDA for this purpose, but has been approved by the FDA for use in irrigating the human bladder in resisitant urinary tract infections. The product is called Clorpactin and can be researched in the Physicians Desk Reference. It is used extensively by urologists and is used off-label to irrigate bed sores and sterilize trauma and surgeries. It is currently in clinical trials to treat peridontal disease. The compound is non-necrotizing, extremely surface active and destroys bacteria, viruses, fungi and fungal spores on contact in either the liquid or vapor form.
The chemical structure is very unique. First, a chlorine-based compound has been structured in a way that it will not freely dissociate. Most chlorine-based substances (bleach, pool chlorine, chlorine dioxide [White Lightning]] come apart upon exposure to air, releasing free chlorine,  with the following consequences a) they only kill surface growth and do not kill fungal spores; and B) they cause water to dissociate to capture the hydrogen, forming dilute hydrochloric acid, which is necrotizing and burns tissue on contact.
Second, the stabilized chlorine-based compound is linked to a monomeric oxygen, which gives the whole compond a charge and makes it extremely surface active, allowing it to rapidly penetrate small crevices. Monomeric oxygen will also penetrate a spore coat and kill spores. When oxyclorsine contacts organic material, such as a hoof, the chlorine-based compound and the monomeric oxygen begin to separate, a process which takes about 100 minutes to be complete, thus, two 45 minute soaks with effective penetration of the hoofs. Both the chlorine-based compound and the monomeric oxygen are volatile and begin to vaporize once they are in the hoof layers, attacking fungus and fungal spores with two active substances in both the liquid and vapor states.
The chemical company in New York is one of my consulting clients, which is how we obtained the animal rights to the product. Before putting it into the US market about 10 years ago, we conducted a study in 350 horses with a variety of hoof infections. The study was conducted at the farrier school at Cornell University and the farrier unit at the University of Florida. The animals were treated and were then monitored for two years. No horse treated had a recurrence of the same infection and in 99% of the horses, it only required one treatment without hoof resection. It was during these studies that we worked out the logistics for using the product on horses.
One of the major users of CleanTrax in the US is Dr. Scott Morrison, who runs the podiatry center at Rood & Riddle in Lexington, KY. Scott has used the product on horses with fungal attacks on the coffin bone that result in degeneration of that structure. For this purpose, he soaks the front feet in CleanTrax, surgically intervenes and then soaks the interior in a fresh CleanTrax solution. This apparently sterilizes the area without localized necrosis and supports grafting onto the damaged area. He has now done this successfully in several horses.
rams2050 10 Mar 2011 1:16 PM
More Good News!  Zenyatta is in foal!!  Now she and RA will be having their foals almost at the same time.! It's nice to have good news for a change.
Lou in TX 10 Mar 2011 1:29 PM
Great news! Thank you so much, Judy, Greg, and Mike R.
This coupled with Zenyatta's news makes my day!
Barbara W 10 Mar 2011 3:34 PM
Greg, what a big difference in the before and after pictures of DynaKing, looks like he has come a long way. And Greg, you slipped in a picture of our Darling Barbaro, right above one of DynaKing. I smiled with love in my heart for the boys when I saw that. Thank you for something very special.
Happy Birthday sweet Margano! hope to see you real soon!
sandieh 10 Mar 2011 10:47 PM
Rams2050, thanks for the information. I worked in a hospital in Houston TX on a surgical floor where we did a lot of debridement of wounds, bed sores and we did a lot of testing of new drugs. We never knew who was receiving the "real" drugs and wasn't. It's a shame there isn't a smaller hyperberic chamber that could not isolate certain areas to increase oxygen flow to damaged tissues. We used that a lot with great results.  
Pennny in TX 11 Mar 2011 12:25 PM
Lou in Texas, any news about our boys is good news -- thank you1!1  Greg, the pix of Dyna King are fantastic -- he looks like a different horse!  The new meds he's being flushed with sound very promising.  This boy deserves every chance at life and a happy one.  He's more than earned it. Thank you for the update and the photos!!
Cal Gal 11 Mar 2011 1:31 PM
Hey Sandieh which picture is Barbaro i thought they were all of Dyna king I never noticed Barbaro.  I"m looking but i can't tell.
jclson(Fan of Nicanor) 12 Mar 2011 1:37 PM
Sandieh never mind i saw it.  Dyna King looks alot like Lentenor without the Star But i have to tell you i see Barbaro in all of them In those few weeks I can't get over how much Dyna King improved All the love being sent to him and the spirit of his Half brother Barbaro.  He is special horse.
Jclson(Fan of Nicanor) 12 Mar 2011 1:43 PM
Has anyone else read that article on the DRF site comparing Life At Ten to Barbaro? I don't know when I've been so mad! The reporters rational is unbelievable, If I were Michael Matz, I think I would sue.  
Yes It's True, Sherry 12 Mar 2011 10:51 PM
Hey...where is everybody????  I haven't seen a new post in several days. Did you all see Miss Match win her race? Too bad she's not with MM anymore.
I haven't seen any comments about Lentenor or Margano since I posted about them.  No comments??? I was really happy to hear about both of them.  Maybe one day when they are all together at Fair Hill, we'll get a family picture. Wouldn't that be great! All 3 brothers together for the very first time. That's a milestone. Maybe Lentenor got to know Margano while they were at Stephens. Now Nicanor can meet his younger brother. Yea!!! OK I'll move on.  Hope everyone has a nice Sunday.
Lou in TX 13 Mar 2011 11:52 AM
Yes It's True, Sherry,
Just what should Matz sue for?  I recorded the whole pre-Preakness coverage.  I still feel by the looks on ALL of Barbaro's connections faces, they had a feeling that something was amiss.  Hindsight is a wonderful thing.  Unfortunately, we'll never know the exact cause of Barbaro's injury.
Matz has no reason to sue the DRF.  In my opinion, they were spot on.
Boy wonder worked this morning.  4f in 0:48.50.  I wonder whhere they'll run him next.  Hopefully a race where he's not in over his head.
Gonzalez 14 Mar 2011 11:46 AM
Lou in Tx. I would love to have that family picture. I hope we can hear some news soon about how Margano is doing. Just love these Brothers..
sandieh 14 Mar 2011 6:47 PM
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, GREG!!! AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY, NICANOR!!!
Cal Gal 15 Mar 2011 12:39 PM
Happy Birthday Nicanor!!! How does it feel being 5? Hope you get lots of treats today.  You did a good job working yesterday.
Happy B-day to you to GJ.
Lou in TX 15 Mar 2011 2:06 PM
Happy Birthday to the birthday boys, Nicanor and Greg. Greg may be older, but this is Nic's blog. I hope both of you have a great, enjoyable day. May you both have have your menu favorites today.
Kathy 15 Mar 2011 5:17 PM
Lou in TX,
I can't wait to see all three brothers in a video or photo. I hope someone drops by at Fair Hill this summer and snaps a picture of all three of them so we can see the family photo.
And I also hope that all three brothers are side-by-side in the same barn so they can get acquainted.
Kathy 15 Mar 2011 5:22 PM
Nicky, Happy Birthday, Darling!
Greg, heard it's YOUR Birthday to! May you be blessed with loads of happiness and good health!March babies! (I share my birthday with Margano, lucky me)!
sandieh 15 Mar 2011 7:04 PM
Thanks for the Birthday wishes :)
A very happy 5th birthday to Nicanor!  I cannot believe it has been five years since Nicanor arrived into this world, where does the time go?  
After his nice work yesterday at Palm Meadows, where he went four furlongs in :48.50 seconds, which was 4th quickest out of the 29 that worked the distance, looks like he will next race at Keeneland soon.
Just an FYI, I will have my last entry for the blog posted Thursday, thanks...
Greg J. 15 Mar 2011 11:23 PM
Sorry to hear about your last post. But will definitely look forward to it. What are we going to do now??? How will we learn about our boys???
Is there any chance you will go to Keenland for Nicanor's next race? Or will work not make it impossible for you? Cheese, alot of questions. Sorry.
Greg, hope you had a great day and things are better for you.
Lou in TX 16 Mar 2011 12:34 AM
GregJ
Sorry about that last entry Thursday, its been nice having you at the helm..
Ragsy 16 Mar 2011 1:16 PM
Gee Greg...but you are one of us! I hope you will not be disappearing..
and thanks for all of the informed, sensitive and grounded information that you have shared with us all, over the years. Please do not go away! Happy trails!
Irene 16 Mar 2011 2:03 PM
Just in:  Nicanor is running on Saturday in the Tampa Bay Stakes, post position 12, jockey confusion --both M. Allen and O Rossi have been listed -- never heard of either of them!
Cal Gal 16 Mar 2011 4:26 PM
However, as of now, there is no one listed for Nic, at least not on the DRF.
Cal Gal 16 Mar 2011 5:11 PM
<<<What Cal Gal said.. Really quick turnaround for Nicanor. I'm thinking he needed the Canadian  off the layoff, Hope he does better at Tampa. Good luck Nicanor, Stay safe.
Criminal Type 16 Mar 2011 5:29 PM
Greg, sorry that Thursday is your last entry, wish you the best whatever you do. And, Irene is right, you are one of us, you are and have been family to us. You have listened to the good,the bad and always tried to help us maintain a friendly liaison with our fellow FOB's.I hope that BloodHorse will let us keep this blog, so that we can continue to be updated on Barbaro's family.
With respect to you Greg, thank you for all your patience and making this possible for us.
sandieh 16 Mar 2011 5:43 PM
Cal Gal, what time is Nicky running? Oh boy, great news, lots of luck Nicky!
We are getting close to foal time, we will all be God-parents soon!
sandieh 16 Mar 2011 5:49 PM
Oh Greg, say it isn't so. We will miss you.  Good news about Nicanor. Best of luck to him.  It must be getting close for LVR. Any news on LVR?
Penny in TX 16 Mar 2011 5:54 PM
Race goes off at 4:20 EDT.
As of now, still no jockey.  Speculation is that they might wait for someone to scratch and take that jockey -- just a long as it is not Julien Leparoux.
Cal Gal 16 Mar 2011 6:42 PM
Since I have not read this blog for a while i went back and WOW..where do I begin ? First Of all Bretsky..very good post, It also appears you were right about the off the layoff performance in the Canadian as he is entered in the Tampa Bay Stakes on Saturday at TBD. Tough group including Doubles Partner, no jockey is listed.
Which brings me to Edgar Prado. Anyone who knows the story of Barbaro and the love he had for this horse knows why Edgar won't ride the brothers. If you don't understand, thats your problem, not Edgar's.
Greg, Thanks so much for all the wonderful information you have provided us all with on the brothers and by extension Dyna King. It's great to see him improving and the good work being done at Heart. You've been a wonderful host for this blog and you will be missed. My question is, What happen's now ? Will the blog be shut down or will we get someone new to provide us with information about the brothers.
Ragsy, I am so sorry about your dogs. What is wrong with people...jesus. It just makes me sick to hear about it. I don't think it will be God that this evil man will be standing before one day. God wouldn't have him. I would make it my lifes work to destroy this POS that calls himself a human being. Your sherriff sounds no better. I can't believe the gall of this man asking you if you know that sugar kills engines, I would soooo be wearing orange and looking for a bondsman.
Criminal Type 16 Mar 2011 7:04 PM
LVR is due derby week.
Criminal Type 16 Mar 2011 7:05 PM
Too bad Nicanor is running at TBD since I am on my way to Gulfstream as this is being typed.  We are on our way because I THOUGHT that Nicanor might be running soon and I wanted to be there when he did.  I do NOT think I will be able to get my husband to head back north, nor after I have extolled the beauty of Gulfstream to him ad nauseum.
Greg -- we will miss you.  What more is there to say?  Good luck in whatever you do next.  I hope this 'good-bye' isn't truly good-bye but merely the end of one chapter and the beginning of your career here as a regular poster.
Take care, and good luck!
rams2050 16 Mar 2011 7:44 PM
A few things...
Looks like Mr. Matz called an audible with Nicanor, seems like his entry in the Tampa Bay Stakes (Gr. III) was a last second call.  Interesting to see who will get the mount in this tough spot.
Regarding my last entry for the blog, it will also be the last entry for "Tracking Barbaro's Brothers", Bloodhorse has decided to end the blog, not my call, more on that tomorrow.  Thanks for the kind words everyone :)
Greg J. 16 Mar 2011 7:57 PM
MM learned something about Nicanor in Monday's workout.  
Mary 16 Mar 2011 8:42 PM
That's just plain WRONG!!  We have been faithful followers of this blog since its inception and
we've treasured every single photograph, every interview, every piece of information about these horses and we will be bereft if Bloodhorse ends the blog.  Please, please don't do that Bloodhorse!  What on earth  will Bloodhorse do when Margano starts tearing up the tracks and there is no coverage??  Short sighted of the "powers that be".
I for one won't renew my subscription to the magazine in protest.
Cal Gal 16 Mar 2011 9:35 PM
GREG
Can't believe this, this blog has been a great source of enjoyment. Appreciate everything you've done. You,Haskin and a few others are the class blog sites. Thanks!!!!
Mike Relva 16 Mar 2011 10:07 PM
GREG
Would you consider taking my email address and letting me know when you hear sometimes about Barbaro's brothers?
Mike Relva 16 Mar 2011 10:18 PM
Well, I guess all good things come to an end. Just wish it wasn't this web site. Maybe if we FOB's protest enough they might change their minds. It's not our fault that the brothers don't race anymore than they do. But we have Margano coming into his own and the New Babynor 2 coming soon. It's not like their wasn't news out there to report on here. Also this was Barbaro's 5th year since he won the KD. There is news to report on that we all love to read about.
Greg, here's wishing you the best of everything on whatever you decide to do. We will definitely miss your friendship. Don't forget all your friends here that care about you. Looking forward to your last post with a heavy heart.
Lou in TX 16 Mar 2011 11:15 PM
I can't believe that bloodhorse wants to end this blog.  this is one of the most popular blogs.  We all come together here to celebrate Barbaro and his brothers. It's because of this blog that I follow horseracing and I've become a racing fan.  We're all like family here. please take my email address and keep me posted.  This is a poor call for Bloodhorse and they will lose many fans.  Where can I write or call?
Chris K 17 Mar 2011 1:08 AM
This is very sad news...not only Greg being off the blog but the blog itself stopping. I too started reading the blog way back. because of my intro to Bloodhorse via the blog, I had subscribed to the magazine. I too will let my subscription drop in protest.
I hope somehow we can continue...it is hard to think about the future without updates on our special family. Our interest is what horse racing needs...and has lost over the years which is why most of those left are horsemen or hard core betters/statisticians. The industry needs more of those who love horses..love to follow horses. I thought there was progress in the industry when Z got Horse of the Year. Her effect upon the general public finally was recognized...it was not just all about numbers.
Well, I have sure learned a lot about horses and racing from you all and I hope we can somehow come back together....
Irene 17 Mar 2011 6:45 AM
 
 
FYI,

As some of you know, lately my luck has been terrible, lol.

This morning, my bad luck continues!  I just tried to send in my last entry and my computer froze.  I re-booted and what I had written was lost.  I have to leave for work, so, I will try again tonight to send it in, sorry.

Also, while the "Tracking Barbaro's Brothers" blog will be ending here on Bloodhorse, Adam Spradling of Bloodhorse was kind enough to help me set-up a new blog to continue following the Family of Barbaro.

The new blog is called, "Family of Barbaro".  It is still a work in progress, so please be patient.  The new blog will only be a success if all of my friends here continue to voice your opinion and knowledge.  I will continue to attend every race possible of all the brothers and I hope to get some interviews from the connections of the brothers.  

Here is a link to the new blog, "Family of Barbaro":

familyofbarbaro.blogspot.com/.../family-of-barbaro.html

I hope everyone continues to follow this wonderful family on my new blog, thank you.
Of course, I will continue to provide updates on Dyna King/Gifted, which I hope will be for a very long time, Godspeed Dyna King/Gifted.

Finally,

While I disagreed with Bloodhorse on ending this blog here, I have the utmost respect for Bloodhorse for giving me the chance to write about the brothers, so Thank You!
Greg J. 17 Mar 2011 7:56 AM

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