I figure this guy deserves his own thread by now ... :)
I'll start it with pics from his big Santa Anita Derby win today ...
In the paddock prior to his big win today ... Remember to click on the pics! :)
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After the race when our friend, owner/breeder Steve Coburn greats "Junior" after his big win ...
Steve is a SUPER nice guy and loves CC with all of his heart ... He adores him. He gave CC a kiss on his nose here! :)
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CC circles before heading into the Winner's Circle ...
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Victor arrives with CC and is all smiles ... Sorry I cut his nose off, but it was a madhouse at that point ...
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The booty ... The Santa Anita Derby trophy ...
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Steve and his wife Carolyn with Keith Brackpool, Victor and co-owner/co-breeder Perry Martin ... and of course ... the trophy ...
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Art, Christina and Victor with the post-race interview ...
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As you can tell ... I'm a little jazzed ... REALLY good people and a very good horse ... He looks to be something special ...
Steve, although very biased, never hesitates to tell the interviewers that Junior is something special and he's going to go down in history ... He loves his boy! :)
Done with my pic montage of this very special day. :celebrate:
Not sure if you guys have noticed ... But CC's silks are purple with a green DONKEY silhouette ...
Great sense of humor by his connections as Junior is FAR from a donkey ... facetiousness at it's finest!
Pretty cool that someone in donkey silks is kicking ass!!!
On to the Derby!
4 handride blowouts in a row ... I told Steve ... Let's make it FIVE!!! :rhrse:
Any guesses on the BSF? I'm guessing pretty close to the 108 he got last time ...
Not bad for a horse who wins in hand rides.
Thanks for sharing your pics and stories. 107 beyer
Wow what a race
Quote from: Senator L on April 06, 2014, 07:42:55 AM
Thanks for sharing your pics and stories. 107 beyer
Wow what a race
You're welcome Senator ... and thanks for the Beyer update! I was actually thinking 106 ... so pretty close!
:)
(I need to make a signature noting that Dance With Gable and The Tin Man are one and the same)
Back to back 108 and 107 in hand rides ... not too shabby for a young 3 year old!
He'll be a force come derby day, that is for sure. The race was run a lot
different than I thought. I thought Candy Boy would be where Hopportunity was
and vise versa. Not that it would have made any difference in the end though.
I don't know maybe Gary was trying to have Candy Boy look em in the eye?
Great horse California Chrome, but until after the derby my
heart belongs to Wildcat Red :puppykisses:
Shaping up to be a heckuva race :chickendance:
I'm a Wildcat Red guy too., but California Chrome may be the real deal. Lot of good horses this year including Wicked Strong, Constitution, Samraat.
No doubt California chrome is the rel deal, but there will be some
new variables in the Kentucky Derby. There is an old race track
saying when betting "if you didn't go to the wedding, don't go
to the funeral".
Chrome had a good work yesterday and is headed to the San Diego Handicap at Del Mar next month. Chrome vs Beholder - now THAT promises to be a race for the ages.
Indeed.
Two future Hall of Famers squaring off. That does not happen often.
So what does everyone think about California Chrome possibly running for 2017, too?
Or is it too early?
Quote from: Man o Taz on June 10, 2016, 12:49:12 PM
So what does everyone think about California Chrome possibly running for 2017, too?
Or is it too early?
Femme Fatale's will decide it, needs his dancecard filled up!
Being from the Los Angeles area myself, I sort of have a hometown hero kind of feeling toward Chrome. So I've tried to keep up with news and info about him daily. Best as I can read the tea leaves, I think Taylor Made wants him at the farm next year, but it's unclear just how much influence they have over Mr. Martin's thoughts on the matter. Probably stating the obvious, but I think everything will rest on how Chrome does in the remainder of this year's races. My own personal wish and hope is that he goes to stud next breeding season.
Chrome looks AWESOME - I do think he is stronger and he is fit - I think the decision will be made based on how he runs - not sure Perry has a real voice here - thank goodness
Word from those in the know....he was just cruising and didn't break a sweat this morning.
CalChrome 5f work Sat LRC: 25.80, 37.60, 49.40, 1:01. Out 1:14.40. Official 1:01 per clocker Russ Hudak
Bloodhorse.com article:
http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/212382/california-chrome-drills-at-los-alamitos (http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/212382/california-chrome-drills-at-los-alamitos)
Adding link to page with a brief clip of Chrome's work this morning. Shows him really motoring down the stretch. https://twitter.com/tarferg (https://twitter.com/tarferg)
Ohh lucky us.....Steve Coburn has his sister!
R Sunday Surprise, Lucky Pulpit-Love The Chase by Not For Love, a full sister to California Chrome, debuts in the 1st at Santa Anita Thursday, June 16
Jockey: Rafael Bejarano
Trainer: Doug F. O'Neill
Owner: Silver State Racing LLC, Godwin, A., Melton, A., Melton, C., Morgan, J. et al.
Breeder: Perry Martin & Steve Coburn
Some really sweet photos of Chrome here greeting a 2-year-old visitor: https://www.facebook.com/1692849160948428/photos/pcb.1805695829663760/1805695676330442/?type=3&theater (https://www.facebook.com/1692849160948428/photos/pcb.1805695829663760/1805695676330442/?type=3&theater)
Chrome loves visitors. Taylor Made said more than 1000 people visited him in the short time he was at the farm for his breather after Dubai last month.
My favorite one:
(https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13427913_1805695676330442_9202073181553701574_n.jpg?oh=566d921d9da2508201bf3551409fd468&oe=57FC92C2)
Incredible. Thanks!
Chrome had a fast 5F work at Los Al this morning: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/212589/california-chrome-speedy-in-los-al-work (http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/212589/california-chrome-speedy-in-los-al-work)
Went :59 1/5 with splits of :24 1/5, :47 2/5, and final furlong in :11 4/5. On the gallop out he was timed at 1:12 2/5 for 6F. All without blinkers. From the accompanying photo on Bloodhorse.com, Chrome's coat has almost a mirror shine.
Oh, obviously needs rest. Poor guy is trying to run through his skin. Don't worry. I don't think he needs to be wrapped in cotton balls. I do get sarcastic. ;)
Simon Callaghan looking forward to expected return of Firing Line, unraced since 7th in 2015 Preakness, against Cal Chrome in San Diego (G2)
Date/Track:
7/23/2016, Del Mar
Distance:
1 1/16 m (Dirt)
Finally! I thought Firing Line would never be back. This may be one helluva race.
And then you add Dortmund into the mix and Nyquist if his connections really have misgivings about shipping him for the Haskell.
Jay Privman @DRFPrivman 3h3 hours ago
Alan Sherman had Chrome in 1:26 for 7/8. Official time 1:26.40. Was aggressively hand ridden. This was a serious, aggressive work.
Art didn't seem concerned about the final time saying the track is playing pretty slow, all was well back at the barn
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CmXX1NSVIAAa2xa.jpg)
Time a bit slow, but it seems the track was playing that way.
Am I just not recognizing a normal ankle? It seems to me there's some swelling in Chrome's right fore ankle, but I'm not educated enough in equine anatomy to be sure. I'd welcome the opinion of others. Thanks.
RE the workout time, Chrome was the only horse who worked 7F, but if it means anything in terms of evaluating how the track was playing, the bullet work at 6F was 1:12.40, and the bullet work at 5F was :59.40.
I do not think so. Looks normal to me.
(http://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/3c12e6a398b55d472a3a09f14ab8ac4987e435a2/r=880/http/videos.usatoday.net/Brightcove2/29906170001/2014/06/29906170001_3611561577001_chrome.jpg)
From his injured hoof...
(http://cdn.breitbart.com/mediaserver/Breitbart/Breitbart-Sports/2014/06/07/California-Chrome-Hoofjpg.jpg)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/90/California_Chrome_at_2014_Kentucky_Derby.jpg)
Thanks Man o Taz. Good to know I was just over-reacting to the play of lights and shadows. :happy:
7/9 Saturday morning work plus some discussion....
https://twitter.com/losalracing/status/751785466169421825
I didn't like that work. Dihigi practically had a choke hold on Chrome for most of it. Chrome kind of hopped and tossed his head once, something he never did in all the many other works of his that I've been able to see. Chrome did finish up quick and passed the workmate willingly enough, but the overall time was actually slower than last week's work.
I suspect that we'll see Victor on for 'Chrome's next work.
Quote from: CA_Chrome on July 10, 2016, 04:24:00 AM
I didn't like that work. Dihigi practically had a choke hold on Chrome for most of it. Chrome kind of hopped and tossed his head once, something he never did in all the many other works of his that I've been able to see. Chrome did finish up quick and passed the workmate willingly enough, but the overall time was actually slower than last week's work.
Was he working alone in those other works or in company?
Quote from: curtis on July 10, 2016, 04:44:52 PM
Was he working alone in those other works or in company?
Chrome usually works alone. Los Alamitos gives Art a clear, empty track for Chrome's works, and Del Mar is going to do the same next week. Dihigi's been doing a really good job galloping and working Chrome, but this past Saturday it seemed to me that he was too aggressive in holding Chrome back. No way to be certain from the video, but I think Dihigi jerked back pretty hard on the reins on the backstretch which is why Chrome broke stride and tossed his head. At least that's the way it looked to me after watching the video multiple times.
Trainer Ron Ellis spoke on TVG yesterday about the criticisms being thrown around with regards to CC workouts and his opinion was that as horses get older, more accomplished, world travelers, they also get smarter and take better care of themselves.
He thinks CC is smart enough to know when raceday really is and he'll put forth his best effort then, but to be held to the high standards for just an ordinary workout, well you might be disappointed because it's really not the horses intent!
Quote from: stark on July 11, 2016, 08:31:44 AM
Trainer Ron Ellis spoke on TVG yesterday about the criticisms being thrown around with regards to CC workouts and his opinion was that as horses get older, more accomplished, world travelers, they also get smarter and take better care of themselves.
He thinks CC is smart enough to know when raceday really is and he'll put forth his best effort then, but to be held to the high standards for just an ordinary workout, well you might be disappointed because it's really not the horses intent!
I also think Chrome was getting a little rank with the rider. At this point, the horse can train himself. His biggest competition in the San Diego looks to be a come-backing Dortmund--now that Nyquist is confirmed for the Haskell--who will probably show speed. It will be in Chrome's best interest to sit off the Big Guy.
And not too far off him either depending upon just how much speed Dortmund wants to show early. He did put in a 1:41.65 in the Robert Lewis...though Chrome turned in a 1:40.59 in the San Felipe so this could be a fun race.
Quote from: Man o Taz on July 11, 2016, 01:42:11 PM
And not too far off him either depending upon just how much speed Dortmund wants to show early. He did put in a 1:41.65 in the Robert Lewis...though Chrome turned in a 1:40.59 in the San Felipe so this could be a fun race.
Raw times from two races a year apart are fairly meaningless. Dortmund should show speed, as he always does. If Bejarano or whoever is named on him can get him to relax, he could give Chrome fits.
Chrome worked 5 furlongs in :59 1/5.
:12, :23 4/5, :35 3/5 and :46 4/5. Galloped out in 1:13.00 earning a breezing.
That work was terrific. It was the bullet work at 5F today. The other thing about Chrome that many people don't know is that he will not be racing with lasix. Art took him off that drug prior to the Dubai trip and isn't planning to put Chrome back on it unless he doesn't scope clean.
September 10th is officially California Chrome day in Cypress, CA, come of Los Alamitos Race Course:
https://twitter.com/shermanracing (https://twitter.com/shermanracing)
Also, here's a really nice Horsetalk radio interview with Art: https://soundcloud.com/florida-horse-talk/art-sherman-ht-08-27-16 (https://soundcloud.com/florida-horse-talk/art-sherman-ht-08-27-16)
Awesome Again or not Awesome Again, that is the question. :)
Chrome's connections are definitely pointing toward the Awesome Again. Art gave an interview last weekend after Chrome's work and said they will be ready for the AA. Chrome looks absolutely magnificent these days. The Pacific Classic didn't take anything out of him. The San Diego was his only close race this year. He was geared down or ridden out at the wire in all the others. He could easily have tied or broken several track/stakes records, but Victor tends to save the horse when winning easily.
If Chrome wins the AA and then wins the Classic, I will put him in my all time top twenty list of greats. He is an impressive horse.
Wow. I do not know if I would do that and I have been a long time fan of his.
He has certainly earned a spot in the Hall of Fame, but top 20 is all-time great territory.
I'll have to see the field. If he were to beat Beholder again, I could see that. Perhaps if he were to beat Frosted again, and the TC winners, and Arrogate...but this has not been a strong year for 3 year olds. So unless he does something special like set a stakes or track record? It would probably be tough for me.
Quote from: Man o Taz on September 09, 2016, 10:26:14 AM
Wow. I do not know if I would do that and I have been a long time fan of his.
He has certainly earned a spot in the Hall of Fame, but top 20 is all-time great territory.
I'll have to see the field. If he were to beat Beholder again, I could see that. Perhaps if he were to beat Frosted again, and the TC winners, and Arrogate...but this has not been a strong year for 3 year olds. So unless he does something special like set a stakes or track record? It would probably be tough for me.
He's a Hall of Famer for sure but there are at least a couple of CA breds, that I've seen that I'd rank above him and I also don't think he is the best horse from his foal crop although there is no argument he is the most accomplished. He's still really good though and we're lucky to have him around to watch. Top twenty, for me is pushing it. On the Bring Chrome Home site, though, I'm sure he's ranked 1 of 1.
Well, Swaps would seem the most impressive. His time records were incredible. And his beating a horse the caliber of Nashua seems a bit more impressive than Chrome beating Beholder. But perhaps that is just me.
Native Diver also has a record that I think even with a BC Classic win by Chrome it would be difficult for me to place him ahead of him.
Best Pal - I might be able to place him ahead of him - though it would be close.
And Tiznow was brilliant, but I think if Chrome wins the BC Classic I would place him ahead of Tiznow as well, though Tiznow's BC Classic wins over Giant's Causeway and Sakhee are pretty impressive.
Chrome worked 5/8ths in 1:00 4/5 at Los Alamitos this morning on California Chrome Day in Cypress, CA. News is from Sherman Racing Twitter feed: https://twitter.com/shermanracing
(https://twitter.com/shermanracing)
Video of the work today: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrMM5groYsc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrMM5groYsc)
California Chrome splits from Russell Hudak: 25.1 49.1 101 113 126.2
some observers noted some urging near the wire, not his best work, but he's smarter these days.
will ship to SA on Sunday.
I found the video of Chrome's work this morning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wQDH8qMGMc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wQDH8qMGMc)
Dihigi had one heck of a hold on Chrome the first part of the work, then very mildly urged him coming down the stretch. The urging consisted of shaking the reins a bit and mildly pushing on the horse's neck.
Additional news: Chrome is #1 on Timeform with a 135 rating: http://www.racingandsports.com.au/en/racing/-story-378831 (http://www.racingandsports.com.au/en/racing/-story-378831)
Possible entries for the Awesome Again: http://www.horseracingnation.com/race/2016_Awesome_Again_1 (http://www.horseracingnation.com/race/2016_Awesome_Again_1)
He seemed a little distracted and the rider needed to get his attention back. Quite a specimen.
Free poster on opening day at Santa Anita....
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CtFDbt4WgAA0tkx.jpg)
Chrome is such a beautiful horse and a real rock star in his Southern California home. So it makes sense that both Del Mar and Santa Anita organized promotions around him.
Interesting quote from Art Sherman this morning,
on a SoCal radio show he said...
"just between you and me, its not a done deal that Chrome is heading to the shed next year. Those involved are still penciling out the numbers and there is still some discussion about racing in 2017 beyond the Pegasus Cup.
Beyer Speed Figure of 112 for California Chrome in Awesome Again
Chrome reminds me more and more of another chestnut, Same size. Same dominance. Secretariat. We may have a walk over in the BCC. In an earlier post a month ago I said that Chrome is in my top twenty all time greats if he wins the Breeders Cup this fall. I stand by that statement.
Quote from: afleetphil on October 02, 2016, 12:43:07 PM
Chrome reminds me more and more of another chestnut, Same size. Same dominance. Secretariat. We may have a walk over in the BCC. In an earlier post a month ago I said that Chrome is in my top twenty all time greats if he wins the Breeders Cup this fall. I stand by that statement.
and of course there will be some us who will be looking for value while tossing aside any sentimentality as we single ARROGATE on our Pick4 tickets ;)
Quote from: afleetphil on October 02, 2016, 12:43:07 PM
Chrome reminds me more and more of another chestnut, Same size. Same dominance. Secretariat. We may have a walk over in the BCC. In an earlier post a month ago I said that Chrome is in my top twenty all time greats if he wins the Breeders Cup this fall. I stand by that statement.
You do understand what a walk over is, right? You have a right to any opinion you can formulate but if you think no other horse is going to enter a race in which second will pay as much or more than winning most any other race, I'd say your top-twenty proclamation may lack a little credibility.
I am just SOOOOO enjoying watching Chrome develop and run - wow - look at the fans - check the excitement meter = THIS is goof for racing - keeping these horses running - DOES develop a fan base - check the fans in JAPAN where they run them -
I am loving it - he had me after the King Glorious at Hollywood Park - LET EM RUN!
Quote from: afleetphil on October 02, 2016, 12:43:07 PM
Chrome reminds me more and more of another chestnut, Same size. Same dominance. Secretariat. We may have a walk over in the BCC. In an earlier post a month ago I said that Chrome is in my top twenty all time greats if he wins the Breeders Cup this fall. I stand by that statement.
I disagree, although I do think Chrome is a really solid older horse. This is his banner year and he's a much better horse compared to 2014. He had the added benefit of practically every older horse of note (plus Pharoah) retiring at the end of last year, the year in which he barely raced.
So, while I think he totally deserves accolades, I also think the level to which he is pumped is a bit of an optical illusion of sorts.
Quote from: curtis on October 02, 2016, 02:27:58 PM
You do understand what a walk over is, right? You have a right to any opinion you can formulate but if you think no other horse is going to enter a race in which second will pay as much or more than winning most any other race, I'd say your top-twenty proclamation may lack a little credibility.
A walk over is when no one else shows up in the staring gate, the Bid in 1980 in I think it was the Woodward as an example.. I just can't see a horse out there right now that could challenge Chrome. I did make my comment tongue in cheek though.
Quote from: afleetphil on October 03, 2016, 06:59:09 AM
A walk over is when no one else shows up in the staring gate, the Bid in 1980 in I think it was the Woodward as an example.. I just can't see a horse out there right now that could challenge Chrome. I did make my comment tongue in cheek though.
Fair enough, after I responded, it occurred to me you may have meant "cakewalk" and not walk over. Saturday pretty much proved to me once and for all that unless something is amiss, Chrome will beat Dortmund whenever they may meet. The Classic will have too much depth of competition to just hand it over to Chrome but he'll be a deserving favorite, no doubt. I, like Stark, am very aware of Arrogate. I do think that the Travers showed what he can do not necessarily what he always will do. There are some disappointed in Secretariat because he never ran back to his Belmont. Arrogate's Travers may be somewhat like J O Tobin's Swaps. He may never completely run back to it but don't fall to sleep on him. May they all show up healthy and ready to roll.
Quote from: curtis on October 03, 2016, 09:31:42 AM
Fair enough, after I responded, it occurred to me you may have meant "cakewalk" and not walk over. Saturday pretty much proved to me once and for all that unless something is amiss, Chrome will beat Dortmund whenever they may meet. The Classic will have too much depth of competition to just hand it over to Chrome but he'll be a deserving favorite, no doubt. I, like Stark, am very aware of Arrogate. I do think that the Travers showed what he can do not necessarily what he always will do. There are some disappointed in Secretariat because he never ran back to his Belmont. Arrogate's Travers may be somewhat like J O Tobin's Swaps. He may never completely run back to it but don't fall to sleep on him. May they all show up healthy and ready to roll.
How could Secretariat run back to his Belmont. That was unworldly. To better that performance he'd have to be flying thru the air. After his Belmont he actually ran a couple of races where he set records.
Quote from: afleetphil on October 03, 2016, 01:20:55 PM
How could Secretariat run back to his Belmont. That was unworldly. To better that performance he'd have to be flying thru the air. After his Belmont he actually ran a couple of races where he set records.
Perhaps I should have said "other worldly "
Quote from: afleetphil on October 03, 2016, 01:22:58 PM
Perhaps I should have said "other worldly "
It made sense either way. I was never disappointed in him, his Marlboro Cup was off the charts. I've seen plenty of people, though, refer to his Belmont as a fluke performance. Of course, they're usually trying to bolster the reputation of another horse. I got to meet Secretariat and feed him peppermint during Derby Week in 1987. When the groom brought him out, he simply introduced him as the best horse. Someone asked if he meant the best horse at Claiborne and the groom replied, "No, I mean the best!" Later he brought out Spectacular Bid and described him as a "great horse, but not the best." Someone mumbled that Bid was the best. The groom, very matter of factly replied, "No, he had his chance to be the best and he wasn't, he's a great, great horse, but Red is the best." I don't think the groom was ever disappointed either.
That's a great story. ... I love when humans are inspired by and revere the nonhuman animals in their lives. The world makes much more sense that way.
:thumbsup:
Quote from: peeptoad on October 04, 2016, 01:14:37 PM
That's a great story. ... I love when humans are inspired by and revere the nonhuman animals in their lives. The world makes much more sense that way.
:thumbsup:
Yeah, other than my wedding day and the birth of my daughter, not much tops my fifteen minutes with Secretariat--even my Master's Commencement--the groom was right. That must have been the fifteen minutes of which Andy Warhol was referring. ;) When we claimed Anniversary Year to retire him, I showed up at the barn with a big bag of peppermints and he wouldn't take one--he will now, but not then. When we got Border Run though, he takes them by the handful. Just like his Pop. I live in the same little town in which Little Current spent his last few years. Other than spawning the artist Chuck Close, the town is known for two other things, Little Current and Border Run. There is a restaurant in town that has a bowl of peppermints by the door. Whenever I leave there I take two or three. The hostess once said, "You know, those'll rot your teeth!" I replied, "They're actually for my horse." "Your horse!?" she said. She promptly handed me a bag of them. I call it the aura of Secretariat.
Quote from: curtis on October 04, 2016, 04:24:53 PM
Yeah, other than my wedding day and the birth of my daughter, not much tops my fifteen minutes with Secretariat--even my Master's Commencement--the groom was right. That must have been the fifteen minutes of which Andy Warhol was referring. ;) When we claimed Anniversary Year to retire him, I showed up at the barn with a big bag of peppermints and he wouldn't take one--he will now, but not then. When we got Border Run though, he takes them by the handful. Just like his Pop. I live in the same little town in which Little Current spent his last few years. Other than spawning the artist Chuck Close, the town is known for two other things, Little Current and Border Run. There is a restaurant in town that has a bowl of peppermints by the door. Whenever I leave there I take two or three. The hostess once said, "You know, those'll rot your teeth!" I replied, "They're actually for my horse." "Your horse!?" she said. She promptly handed me a bag of them. I call it the aura of Secretariat.
Quote from: peeptoad on October 04, 2016, 01:14:37 PM
That's a great story. ... I love when humans are inspired by and revere the nonhuman animals in their lives. The world makes much more sense that way.
:thumbsup:
I love both of these posts.
:thumbsup:
Great post Curtis. WOW. You feed peppermints to the greatest athlete to ever live. What was it like when you looked Secretariat in the eye. My biggest regret in life was not going to see Secretariat.
Unfortunately, the wonderful world of horse racing only opened up to me in 1991...in my 25th year...so I missed the great Secretariat.
Since I have tried not to miss many more. That is why I had to go to Churchill to see Zenyatta in the BC Classic.
If you're near Santa Anita and somewhat a California Chrome fan, I can think of lots of worse ways to spend $100.
Thoroughbred Charities of America announced today that it will host a fundraising event entitled "An Evening with Team California Chrome" on Wednesday, November 2 from 7-9 p.m. at Matt Denny's Ale House in Arcadia, Calif. The evening will feature a hosted conversation with Frank Taylor, Perry Martin, Art Sherman, and Victor Espinoza about the history-making career of California Chrome. All proceeds will benefit Thoroughbred Charities of America.
California Chrome, owned by Frank Taylor and family and Perry and Denise Martin is the North American all-time leading earner and the 2014 Horse of the Year. Taylor said, "I look forward to reflecting on the outstanding racing career of California Chrome while raising money for charity."
Perry Martin added, "It will be a great opportunity to clear up all the myths and misconceptions."
Limited tickets are available for $100 per person here or by calling 859-276-4989. Hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar will be offered.
If I were within a 12 hour drive I would be there... :(
Quote from: Man o Taz on October 24, 2016, 02:29:29 PM
If I were within a 12 hour drive I would be there... :(
I moved from L.A. to North Carolina in mid 2015. How I wish I was still back in SoCal to be able to go to these events. :(
Watching the TVG feed of Chrome's ride over to Santa Anita.
Seems to be enjoying himself, all alone in a double-wide, looking out the windows.
I'm not the shipping expert, but I do know about seat belts. Kinda surprised Chrome isn't belted in, wonder what the insurance company thinks about that?
Be safe big boy!
It was a fun watch and I was thinking the same way about belts. Maybe they figure the horse is better able to protect himself in the event of a sudden stop and want to avoid injury that might occur from him being clipped in?
Fun to watch.
Holy cow! This was Chrome's gallop today. It was all Dihigi could do to hold him to a gallop. Had a near choke hold on Chrome, who was galloping faster than most horses breeze, or so it seemed: http://www.xbtv.com/video/bcworks/california-chrome-galloped-at-santa-anita-park-on-october-31st-2016-for-the-breeders-cup-classic/ (http://www.xbtv.com/video/bcworks/california-chrome-galloped-at-santa-anita-park-on-october-31st-2016-for-the-breeders-cup-classic/)
He looks like he is ready. Hopefully there is a clean break and no excuses.
Arrogate has been training well too.
It seems like this race will tell us a lot.
Chrome worked a nice 4f in :48 2/5 at Los Alamitos this morning: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/217808/california-chrome-logs-first-post-bc-work (http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/217808/california-chrome-logs-first-post-bc-work)
Los Alamitos is trying to put together a prep race for Chrome before he heads east for the Pegasus: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/217805/california-chrome-could-race-at-los-al-next (http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/217805/california-chrome-could-race-at-los-al-next) Lots of debate in that article's comments about whether or not this is a good idea, but I totally understand why Los Alamitos wants to do this if they can pull it together.
Quote from: CA_Chrome on November 19, 2016, 07:45:13 AM
Chrome worked a nice 4f in :48 2/5 at Los Alamitos this morning: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/217808/california-chrome-logs-first-post-bc-work (http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/217808/california-chrome-logs-first-post-bc-work)
Los Alamitos is trying to put together a prep race for Chrome before he heads east for the Pegasus: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/217805/california-chrome-could-race-at-los-al-next (http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/217805/california-chrome-could-race-at-los-al-next) Lots of debate in that article's comments about whether or not this is a good idea, but I totally understand why Los Alamitos wants to do this if they can pull it together.
CHROME wants to RUN - not sure I would do it at Los Al - but they sure have put up for TB racing in California - so I support them on this
IT'S OFFICIAL
Los Alamitos has added a stakes race to its winter meeting to give California Chrome a local prep race before the final start of his career in the $12 million Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream Park on Jan. 28.
The Winter Challenge will be run Dec. 17 at 1 1/16 miles with a purse structure designed to entice owners and trainers to run against California Chrome, the 2014 Horse of the Year who was second in the Breeders' Cup Classic at Santa Anita on Nov. 5.
The race is likely to be worth more than $100,000, as it will offer $50,000 to the winner, $30,000 to the runner-up, $20,000 for third, and $15,000 for the fourth and fifth finishers, according to Los Alamitos racing secretary Bob Moreno. If the race draws a larger field, additional finishers will earn $10,000 each.
"If I get six or seven, it's gravy," Moreno said. "I think we can get five or six."
http://www.drf.com/news/los-alamitos-creates-winter-challenge-california-chrome
I don't want to be a negative nelly and I understand Chrome will probably be 1/9 to win this event, but what if....
what if he throws in a clunker, surely he'd have to be retired without getting a chance to try the Pegasus, no?
Paid workouts are great when all goes according plan but there is always some risk involved.
Maybe I'm just too conservative, but there comes a time when its a good idea to say ThankYou to your horse and let him make babies for a living. This guy has already far exceeded any and all expectations, thank you indeed!
(https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRCpMDY9VZbGoI6vSywnbATP4dWxv8KmS-CVFZsjQ0rbWRkPoMm)
It depends how bad of a clunker it is.
He has never run at Los Al. Training at a track is different from racing at it.
Rather than speculating, I prefer to let the race play out and discuss it afterwards since this is a pretty unlikely result.
Here's a stunning head shot of Chrome after his gallop last Friday: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CyIH1Z0VEAAoSOd.jpg:large
Gary Tasich is a terrific photographer.
Quote from: Man o Taz on November 28, 2016, 10:32:50 AM
It depends how bad of a clunker it is.
He has never run at Los Al. Training at a track is different from racing at it.
Rather than speculating, I prefer to let the race play out and discuss it afterwards since this is a pretty unlikely result.
Not winning for fun would be a clunker. The best sacrificial lamb to go in that race would probably be Imperative. If Chrome has to work to win this or, heaven forbid, he gets beat, the next stop should be Taylor Made. If Martin and crew try to spin a sub-par effort on not ever having raced over the track and then state it's on to the Pegasus, I might start buying into the Bring Chrome Home drivel.
I applaud what Los Al has done to save the So Calif horse racing population - and for them to do this for the fans deserves a HANDS UP but Chrome is more valuable than that - I would parade him and not run him there = that said HE NEEDS A RACE
Quote from: curtis on November 29, 2016, 05:31:50 PM
Not winning for fun would be a clunker. The best sacrificial lamb to go in that race would probably be Imperative. If Chrome has to work to win this or, heaven forbid, he gets beat, the next stop should be Taylor Made. If Martin and crew try to spin a sub-par effort on not ever having raced over the track and then state it's on to the Pegasus, I might start buying into the Bring Chrome Home drivel.
If Baffert were serious about Hoppertunity running in the Pegasus, he might enter him in the race. That is, if Arrogate is a no show. Dortmund, if he is pointed there might be another choice.
What if Chrome breaks poorly and cannot recover? I do not think a loss would prevent his from pointing to the Pegasus. Remember, Martin is likely still in control.
THat is funny about the BHC stuff...
Not sure if running Chrome will prove anything. He needs a race ok, but what about the competition, if any. Low paying race. Will any one else show up. Not too exciting. Why not train Chrome up to the Pegasus.
Quote from: Man o Taz on November 30, 2016, 12:12:32 PM
If Baffert were serious about Hoppertunity running in the Pegasus, he might enter him in the race. That is, if Arrogate is a no show. Dortmund, if he is pointed there might be another choice.
What if Chrome breaks poorly and cannot recover? I do not think a loss would prevent his from pointing to the Pegasus. Remember, Martin is likely still in control.
THat is funny about the BHC stuff...
Short of Victor falling off, I don't think he can get a bad enough start to keep him from beating what will probably line up against him. Dortmund hasn't worked since the BC and Baffert hinted that he was going to give him a break, stating something along the lines, that he was losing his edge. You'll probably get to see Hoppertunity in person next year as, it seems, Baffert has concluded that he isn't fond of the so. CA tracks. With that purse structure, I doubt that you'll see anything but a rehash of that overnight stake that Imperative won the day before the BC, plus Chrome. Even Los Al specialist, Soi Phet is getting a break and is supposed to be off until next year. I suppose Arrogate's work mate, Mor Spirit, might make an appearance but I see he hasn't worked since the BC either.
Arrogate has not worked since Oct. 31 -- for people who might hope that he might make an appearance.
Quote from: CA_Chrome on November 30, 2016, 04:52:56 PM
Arrogate has not worked since Oct. 31 -- for people who might hope that he might make an appearance.
Without another zero being added to the purse, Arrogate was never going in there. It's the Chrome Invitational--as it should be.
The connections of Arrogate announced a couple of weeks that if he was under consideration for the Pegasus he wold train up to it.
And I hope Baffert does not run Hoppertunity; I think that guy could probably use a little breather before next year.
Quote from: peeptoad on December 01, 2016, 02:52:55 AM
The connections of Arrogate announced a couple of weeks that if he was under consideration for the Pegasus he wold train up to it.
And I hope Baffert does not run Hoppertunity; I think that guy could probably use a little breather before next year.
He wouldn't. I agree he needs to sit out a dance, but even if Baffert does think Hoppertunity needs a race before maybe going to the Pegasus, the San Pasqual for twice as much money, at the same distance and a Gr2 to boot is being offered on New Years Day at Santa Anita. When you consider that the San Pasqual winner gets 60% of the purse, the race will actually be worth more than twice as much to the winner. The Los Al race should be for CA Breds. There was a 7f CA Bred stake at Del Mar a couple of weekends a go and this race would be a good place for them to run coming out of that race and Chrome would still be eligible. I'm not usually in favor of a horse having a stake written especially for them but Chrome is one of those exceptions as he is unique and if I haven't made it abundantly clear--while I try to be fair--I'm no Chromie. I do get it though, Los Al has been a good soldier so let the back scratching begin. Still, Los Al was burned before by Team Chrome, two years ago when they wrote a race for him and he ended up in the starting gate at Parx, instead. Fool me once, shame on me.......
What are the conditions for the LosAl Chrome Invitational?
Heard that about 30 horses pre-entered!
Can Maidens run?
The reason I ask is because track management is guaranteeing $10,000 no matter where you finish.
The first $10K they took away from Chrome by decreasing his winner's share from $60K to $50K.
Maybe Barry Abrams will come out of retirement and run a few? 7th place = $10,000 not too bad.
Quote from: stark on December 11, 2016, 08:38:24 AM
What are the conditions for the LosAl Chrome Invitational?
The Winter Challenge 2016
For Three year olds and upward.
By subscription of $100 each to accompany the nomination, or by supplementary nomination of $1,000 by closing time
of entries. $1,500 additional to start with $100,000 estimated of which $50,000 to First, $30,000 to Second, $20,000 to Third, $15,000 to Fourth and Fifth
and $10,000 to Sixth on down. Three year olds 122 lbs. Older 124 lbs. Winners of two stake races of $60,000 in 2016, to carry 2 lbs additional. Non winners
of a stake of $60,000 in 2016 allowed 2 lbs.; $60,000 in 2015 allowed 4 lbs.; two races other than maiden, claiming or starter in 2015 allowed 6 lbs. Starters
to be named through the entry box by the closing time of entries. High Weights Preferred. A trophy will be presented to the winning owner. Nominations
Close Saturday, December 10, 2016. One Mile and One Sixteenth.
source: http://www.losalamitos.com/Admin/TB/PDFS/StakesNominations/The%20Winter%20Challenge%202016%20nom%20blank.pdf (http://www.losalamitos.com/Admin/TB/PDFS/StakesNominations/The%20Winter%20Challenge%202016%20nom%20blank.pdf)
thanks.
Obviously there'll be no show wagering, the question remains will there be place betting?
How much does Doc Allred want to spend on this goodwill gesture?
10 k for any placing seems a bit much.. I don;t want bad characters in there
Nominations for the Winter Challenge:
http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/218334/nominations-in-for-winter-challenge-at-los-al
Here are the stakes winners:
Avanti Bello
Blue Tone
El Huerfano
Grazen Sky
Papacoolpapacool
Point Piper
Poshsky
Prospect Park
Solid Wager
Ultimate Luck
Jeremy Balan @BH_JBalan
Forecast in SoCal calls for storms Thursday and Friday. Shermans likely to scratch California Chrome Saturday if track is sloppy or sealed
Whoa. That is interesting. Maybe he should fly East for the Harlan's Holiday and stay there. :-)
Quote from: Man o Taz on December 14, 2016, 11:20:32 AM
Whoa. That is interesting. Maybe he should fly East for the Harlan's Holiday and stay there. :-)
Or run in the San Pasqual. I wonder how many will enter the Cali Chrome Invitational as mud only?
Current weather forecast at Los Alamitos on Saturday is sunny with a high of 59. If that forecast holds, the track should be fine.
1 Howdy (CA) Chantal Sutherland 118 Peter Eurton -
2 Wrightwood (KY) Jose L. Verenzuela 118 Brian J. Koriner -
3 Presidentsky (CA) Brayan Pena 120 John Brocklebank -
4 Point Piper (KY) Mario Gutierrez 124 Jerry Hollendorfer -
5 Ain't Misbehavin (CA) Kent J. Desormeaux 118 Vladimir Cerin -
6 Lucky J Lane (CA) Jamie Theriot 120 Brian J. Koriner -
7 Avanti Bello (CA) Drayden Van Dyke 124 Doug F. O'Neill -
8 Unusual Meeting (CA) Tiago Josue Pereira 118 Gary Stute -
9 Papacoolpapacool (KY) Tyler Baze 120 Philip D'Amato -
10 California Chrome (CA) Victor Espinoza 126 Art Sherman -
11 Air Pocket (KY) Norberto Arroyo, Jr. 118 Rafael DeLeon -
12 Ground Rules (KY) Norberto Arroyo, Jr. 118 Clifford W. Sise, Jr. -
California Chrome, in his final workout before being shipped to Florida on Friday, worked five furlongs in 1:00.20 at Los Alamitos on Wednesday, showing a quick turn of foot through the final three furlongs.
Working before dawn, California Chrome worked the opening quarter-mile in 25 seconds, and a half-mile in 48.40 seconds.
California Chrome ran the final three furlongs in 35.20 seconds, and galloped out six furlongs in 1:13.40, according to Los Alamitos clockers.
California Chrome will have his next start in the $12 million Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream Park on Jan. 28 before he is scheduled to go to stud in Kentucky in February. The 2014 Horse of the Year, California Chrome has not raced since winning the Los Alamitos Winter Challenge on Dec. 17. He finished second to Arrogate in the Breeders' Cup Classic at Santa Anita on Nov. 5.
http://live.drf.com/nuggets/34550
Chrome looked absolutely magnificent in that last work at Los Al. He leaves California for probably the last time on Friday morning. If he handles the Gulfstream track as good as he's handled all other tracks he's raced on, he should run another fine race in the Pegasus. I hope he goes out a winner, but win or lose this horse has given so much to the sport and all of us who love him. Now I hope he becomes a successful sire so that he will never be sold and will be able to finish out his life at Taylor Made.
It should be exciting. Safe travels tomorrow big guy.
Quote from: Man o Taz on January 05, 2017, 06:50:02 AM
It should be exciting. Safe travels tomorrow big guy.
California Chrome to get police escort from Palm Beach airport to Gulfstream Park, estimated time of arrival at track around 4:30 p.m.
Chrome safely arrived at Gulfstream Park accompanied by Raul. Alan and quite a crowd were there to greet the champ when he arrived. Speaking as a Californian, this is bittersweet, because it's sad that Chrome isn't likely ever to step foot in his home state again. But he is going to a great home at Taylor Made, so I'm very happy about that. http://www.paulickreport.com/news/pegasus-world-cup/bright-eyed-california-chrome-arrives-safely-gulfstream-park/ (http://www.paulickreport.com/news/pegasus-world-cup/bright-eyed-california-chrome-arrives-safely-gulfstream-park/)
Quote from: CA_Chrome on January 04, 2017, 05:31:47 PM
Chrome looked absolutely magnificent in that last work at Los Al. He leaves California for probably the last time on Friday morning. If he handles the Gulfstream track as good as he's handled all other tracks he's raced on, he should run another fine race in the Pegasus. I hope he goes out a winner, but win or lose this horse has given so much to the sport and all of us who love him. Now I hope he becomes a successful sire so that he will never be sold and will be able to finish out his life at Taylor Made.
DITTO
California Chrome worked this morning at Gulfstream. Went 5F in 1:00 3/5. A day or two before the work, Alan Sherman said he wanted Chrome to go in about 1:00, so this was spot on. I watched the work as it happened on Gulfstream's live stream. Chrome had his ears pricked the whole way. He was looking around taking in the sights during the jog out, then was all business during the work. Dihigi always stayed high up over the saddle...never got down into it race style. Looked like Chrome handled the track just fine. Also, there were people lining the rail around the club house turn and all along the backstretch watching Chrome work. These must have been people who work at the track, because it wouldn't be an area where the general public could go. It was quite a show of respect for Chrome from the horsemen and women at Gulfstream.
There was also a big crowd on the grandstand side to watch Chrome work.
Is that you standing in line this morning waiting for a Chrome poster signed by Artsherman?
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C2J2hSKXUAQigtT.jpg)
Quote from: stark on January 14, 2017, 11:38:14 AM
Is that you standing in line this morning waiting for a Chrome poster signed by Art Sherman?
I wish, but no. I lived in the Los Angeles area for 40 years before moving back east in 2015, and was only about a half hour drive from Los Al. Now I'm about an 11 hour drive from my current home to Hallandale, FL. I would have definitely gone to Gulfstream for the race on the 28th, but they've limited on track attendance to only 12,000 and tickets are $100. Combined with cost of travel, motel, food, etc., it's too expensive. I'll go see Chrome at Taylor Made eventually.
You should have went there. They had plenty of tickets for sale. It was not too crowded at all.