I thought it might be nice to compile a list of North American jockey nicknames...

Eddie Arcaro - Banana Nose
Jorge Chavez - Chop, Chop
Patient Pat Day
Channing Hill - The Nebraska Kid
Johnny Longden - The Pumper
Lester Piggott - The Long Fellow
John Pollard - Red
Randy Romero - Ragin' Cajun
Bill Shoemaker - The Shoe
George Woolf - The Iceman

These are all I could come up with, but I am certain there are others out there.

And let us try and keep it clean/nice.

So, Frosted and California Chrome have been brilliant in their Dubai debuts, does Keen ice follow suit?

I would like him to get another G1 at 10 furlongs. I saw him in the Donn Handicap and he looked great in the paddock. What a big horse and I am not small.

If he should win then that would be all the top American horses going into the Dubai World Cup with a win. 3 in Dubai, and one stateside.

It could make for a strong race.

Some long shots in here.

1. Greenpointcrusader (Bernardini and Avaknowsthecode by Cryptoclearance by Fappiano by Mr. Prospector) 10
Next Race: G3 Withers Stakes, February 13?
7th G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile
G1 Champagne Stakes, 8 furlongs BSF 94

2. Mohaymen (Tapit and Justwhistledixie by Dixie Union by Dixieland Band by Northern Dancer) 10
Next Race: G2 Holy Bull, January 30?
G2 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs BSF 94
G2 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs

3.Sunny Ridge (Holy Bull and Lignum Vitae by Songandaprayer by Unbridled Song) 8
Next Race: G3 Jerome Handicap, January 2?
2nd G3 Delta Downs Jackpot
2nd G1 Champagne Stakes
7th G3 Sanford Stakes, 7 furlongs

4. Exaggerator (Curlin and Dawn Raid by Vindication by Seattle Slew) 16
Next Race: G2 Robert Lewis Stakes, February 6?
G3 Delta Downs Jackpot, 8.5 furlongs BSF 92
4th G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs
4th G1 Breeders Futurity, 8.5 furlongs
2nd G2 Saratoga Special, 6.5 furlongs

5. Brody's Cause(Giant's Causeway and Sweet Breanna by Saham by Mr. Prospector) 14
Next Race: ?
3rd Breeders Cup Juvenile
G1 Breeders Futurity BSF 88

6. Nyquist (Uncle Mo by Indian Charlie by In Excess and Seeking Gabrielle by Forestry by Storm Cat) 30
Next Race: G1 Los Alamitos Futurity, December 19 or G2 Robert Lewis Stakes, February 6?
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile BSF 89
G1 Frontrunner Stakes BSF 79
Del Mar Futurity
G2 Best Pal Stakes

7. Swipe (Birdstone by Grindstone and Avalanche Lily by Grand Slam by Gone West by Mr. Prospector) 12
Next Race: G1 Los Alamitos Futurity, December 19?
2nd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile
2nd G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
2nd Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs
2nd G2 Best Pal Stakes, 6.5 furlongs

8. Annual Report (Harlan's Holiday by Harlan by Mr. Storm Cat and Pension by Seeking the Gold by Mr. Prospector)
Next Race: G2 Holy Bull?
5th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs
G2 Belmont Futurity, 6 furlongs

9. Airoforce (Colonel John by Tiznow and Chocolate Pop by Cuvee by Carson City by Mr. Prospector) 10
G2 Kentucky Jockey Club BSF 87
2nd G1 Juvenile Turf, 8 furlongs
G3 Bourbon Stakes, 8.5 furlongs

10. Sail Ahoy (Bernardini and Matlacha Pass by Seeking the Gold)
Next Race: G3 Withers Stakes?
4th G2 Remsen Stakes
3rd G2 Nashua Stakes
4th G1 Champagne

11. Air Force Blue (War Front by Danzig and Chatham by Maria's Mon)
Next Race:
G1 Dewhurst Stakes, 7 furlongs
G1 Vincent O'Brien National Stakes, 7 furlongs
G1 Phoenix Stakes, 6 furlongs
2nd G2 Coventry Stakes, 6 furlongs

12. Arabian Leopard (Scat Daddy by Johannesberg by Hennessy and Antoinette by Silver Hawk by Roberto by Hail To Reason)
Next Race: G1 Los Alamitos Futurity?

On The Bubble: Morse Code (Tapit and Serena's Cat by Storm Cat),  Hoffenheim (Midnight Lute by Real Quiet and Circumstance by Vindication), ToewsOnIce (Archarcharch and Wild Forest Cat by D'Wildcat by Forest Wildcat),  Gehrig (Ghostzapper by Awesome Again and Captivating Cathy by Forest Wildcat by Storm Cat)

Here is what I am thinking in several categories...finish them later...

Horse of the Year
American Pharoah by acclamation. Will there even be any other horses voted in? Beholder?

Older Male
Honor Code
Record: 6-3-0-2
Next Race: Retired
Signature Races: G1 Whitney Handicap, G1 Metropolitan Handicap, G2 Gulfstream Park Handicap

Tonalist
Record: 6-2-2-1
Next Race: Cigar Mile
Signature Wins: G1 Jockey Club Gold Cup, G3 Westchester Stakes

Liam's Map
Record: 4-3-1-0
Next Race: Retired
Signature Wins: G1 BC Dirt Mile, G1 Woodward Stakes


Older Female
Beholder[/u]
Race Record:5-5-0-0
Next Race: Unknown
Signature Wins: G1 Zenyatta, G1 Pacific Classic, G1 Clement Hirsch, G3 Adoration Stakes

Does Beholder win the division unanimously? Tepin is a strong choice. If not, who are the other two? Stopchargingmaria with 1 G1 win in the BC or Sheer Drama with 2 G1 wins at 10 and 9 furlongs.

Tepin
Race Record: 7-5-2-0
Next Race: Unknown
Signature Wins: G1 BC Mile, G1 First Lady Stakes, G1 Just A Game, G2 Distaff Turf Mile

Sheer Drama
Race Record: 8-3-4-0
Next Race: Unknown
Signature Wins: G1 Personal Ensign, G1 Delaware handicap, G2 Royal Delta

Stopchargingmaria
Race Record: 5-3-1-0
Next Race: Unknown
Signature Wins: G1 BC Distaff, G3 Shuvee Handicap, G3 Allaire Dupont Distaff

Three Year Old Male
American Pharoah
Is this by acclamation or are there other entries?

Frosted

Race Record:8-2-3-1
Next Race: Unknown
Signature Wins: G1 Wood Memorial, G2 Pennsylvania Derby

Keen Ice
Race Record: 8-1-1-2
Next Race: Unknown
Signature Wins: G1 Travers Stakes

Three Year Old Filly
I'm A Chatterbox
Race Record: 8-4-2-1
Next Race: Unknown
Signature Wins: G1 Pennsylvania Derby, G2 Fairgrounds Oaks, G3 Rachel Alexandra1

Cavorting
Race Record: 5-3-0-0
Next Race: Unknown
Signature Wins: G1 Test, G2 Prioress

Curalina
Race Record: 6-3-1-2
Next Race: Unknown
Signature Wins: G1 Coaching Club American Oaks, G1 Acorn Stakes

Lady Eli
Race Record: 3-3-0-0
Next Race: Unknown
Signature Wins: G1 Belmont Oaks, G3 Appalachian

Lovely Maria
Race Record: 8-3-2-0
Next Race: Unknown
Signature Wins: G1 Ashland Stakes, G1 Kentucky Oaks

Since they have divided the day I refer to this as SS - the dirt version...

RACE 5 Kelso H. (Grade II)  POST TIME - 2:33 PM
Belmont Park

Purse $400,000. A Handicap For Three Year Olds And Upward. By subscription of $400 each which should accompany the nomination; $2,000 to pass the entry box and an additional $2,000 to start. For horses not originally nominated, a supplemental nomination payment of $4,000 along with the entry and starting fees may be made at any time prior to the publication of weights on Sunday, September 27. The purse to be divided 60% to the winner, 20% to second, 10% to third, 5% to fourth, 3% to fifth and 2% divided equally among remaining finishers. A trophy will be presented to the winning owner. Closed Saturday September 19, 2015 with 20 Nominations. One Mile.

PP   Horse    Virtual
Stable   A/S   Med   Jockey   Wgt   Trainer   M/L
1   Appealing Tale (KY)      5/G   L   J Talamo   118   P Miller   6/1
2   Honor Code (KY)      4/R   L   J Castellano   124   C R McGaughey III   3/5
3   Scarly Charly (KY)      6/G   L   J L Ortiz   113   M E Hushion   20/1
4   Tamarkuz (KY)              5/H   L   I Ortiz, Jr.   118   K P McLaughlin   8/1
5   Red Vine (KY)              5/H   L   J Rosario   116   C Clement   5/1
6   Mylute (KY)              5/H   L   J R Velazquez   114   T A Pletcher   12/1
7   Matterhorn (KY)      4/R   L   J Bravo   116   T A Pletcher   15/1

Owners: 1 - Barber, Gary ; 2 - Lane's End Racing and Dell Ridge Farm LLC ; 3 - Silver Ranch Stable and Wachtel Stable ; 4 - Shadwell Stable ; 5 - Jon and Sarah Kelly ; 6 - GoldMark Farm, LLC and Whisper Hill Farm ; 7 - Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners and Town and Country Farms, Corp.

Breeders: 1 - Hart Farm; 2 - Dell Ridge Farm, LLC; 3 - Budget Stable; 4 - John D. Gunther; 5 - Alastar Thoroughbred Co.; 6 - Mike G. Rutherford; 7 - Town & Country Farm Corp

Pedigrees (Sire - Dam, by Dam Sire): 1 - Tale of the Cat - Appealing Bride , by Unbridled's Song ; 2 - A.P. Indy - Serena's Cat , by Storm Cat ; 3 - Friends Lake - Extra Rare , by Rare Brick ; 4 - Speightstown - Without You Babe , by Lemon Drop Kid ; 5 - Candy Ride (ARG) - Murky Waters , by Storm Creek ; 6 - Midnight Lute - Stage Stop , by Valid Expectations ; 7 - Tapit - Winter Garden , by Roy ;

RACE 6 Flower Bowl S. (Grade I)  POST TIME - 3:08 PM

Purse $500,000. For Fillies And Mares Three Years Old And Upward. One And One Fourth Miles. (Turf)

PP   Horse    Virtual
Stable   A/S   Med   Jockey   Wgt   Trainer   M/L
1   Stephanie's Kitten (KY)      6/M   L   I Ortiz, Jr.   121   C C Brown   9/5
2   Regardez (GB)                      4/F   L   J Rosario   119   C C Brown   8/1
3   Rosalind (KY) (MTO)      4/F   L   J Rosario   121   C C Brown   3/1
4   America (KY)                      4/F   L   J Alvarado   119   W I Mott   15/1
5   Watsdachances (IRE)      5/M   L   J Bravo   123   C C Brown   5/1
6   Tiz So Sweet (KY) (MTO)      4/F   L      119   W I Mott   2/1
7   Mutatis Mutandis (IRE)      4/F   L1   J R Velazquez   119   E Walker   12/1
8   Curvy (GB)                      3/F   L1   W Lordan   121   D Wachman   2/1
9   Distorted Beauty (NY)      4/F   L   J L Ortiz   119   B N Levine   20/1
10   Danza Cavallo (FR)              4/F   L   J Castellano   119   C C Brown   10/1

Owners: 1 - Kenneth L. and Sarah K. Ramsey ; 2 - Richmond-Watson, J. H. ; 3 - Bethlehem Stables LLC, Dubb, Michael and Highclere America ; 4 - Flay, Bobby ; 5 - Kisber, Michael E., Bradley Thoroughbreds and McMakin, Nelson ; 6 - Kinsman Stable ; 7 - Chasemore Farm ; 8 - Tabor, Michael B., Magnier, Mrs. John, and Smith, Derrick ; 9 - Bloodlines Racing Partnerships ; 10 - Dubb, M., Sheep Pond Partners, Bethlehem Stables LLC and The Elkstone Group LLC

Breeders: 1 - Kenneth L. Ramsey & Sarah K. Ramsey; 2 - Lawn Stud; 3 - Hurstland Farm, Inc., James H Greene Jr.& Pin Oak Stud, LLC; 4 - B. Flay Thoroughbreds; 5 - P. G. Lyons; 6 - Kinsman Farm; 7 - Kildaragh Stud; 8 - Norelands & Hugo Lascelles; 9 - Dr. James Randall Mcglinn; 10 - Sylviane Jeffroy

Pedigrees (Sire - Dam, by Dam Sire): 1 - Kitten's Joy - Unfold the Rose , by Catienus ; 2 - Champs Elysees (GB) - Look So (GB) , by Efisio (GB) ; 3 - Broken Vow - Critics Acclaim , by Theatrical (IRE) ; 4 - A.P. Indy - Lacadena , by Fasliyev ; 5 - Diamond Green (FR) - High Finance (IRE) , by Entrepreneur (GB) ; 6 - Tiznow - Sweet Fervor , by Seeking the Gold ; 7 - Mastercraftsman (IRE) - Amathia (IRE) , by Darshaan (GB) ; 8 - Galileo (IRE) - Frappe (IRE) , by Inchinor (GB) ; 9 - Invasor (ARG) - Very Funny , by Distorted Humor ; 10 - Sunday Break (JPN) - Tropical Mark (GB) , by Mark of Esteem (IRE) ;

RACE 7 Frizette S. (Grade I)  POST TIME - 3:43 PM

Purse $400,000. For Fillies Two Years Old. One Mile.

PP   Horse    Virtual
Stable   A/S   Med   Jockey   Wgt   Trainer   M/L
1   She's All Ready (NY)      2/F   L   J Alvarado   120   J T Ryerson   3/1
2   Width (KY)                      2/F      J L Ortiz   120   C Clement   5/2
3   Nemoralia (KY)                      2/F   L1   J Rosario   120   J Noseda   5/1
4   Anna Rae (KY)                      2/F   L   J Bravo   120   J C Englehart   20/1
5   Nickname (KY)                      2/F   L   J Castellano   120   S M Asmussen   7/2
6   Desert Tune (KY)              2/F      J R Velazquez   120   T Albertrani   8/1
7   Where's the D (KY)              2/F   L   I Ortiz, Jr.   120   D F O'Neill   10/1

Owners: 1 - Nirvana Stables ; 2 - Claiborne Farm and Dilschneider, Adele B. ; 3 - Allan, Terry, Lovat, James and Pigram, Charles ; 4 - Allread, Neal, M. ; 5 - LNJ Foxwoods ; 6 - Godolphin Racing LLC ; 7 - Reddam Racing LLC and Johnson, Erik

Breeders: 1 - Kings and Queens Farm; 2 - Claiborne Farm & Adele B. Dilschneider; 3 - Alberta Davies; 4 - Frank J. Schaffer; 5 - Michael Hui; 6 - Darley; 7 - Jake Lantaff & Epona LLC

Pedigrees (Sire - Dam, by Dam Sire): 1 - Girolamo - Prominent , by El Prado (IRE) ; 2 - Blame - Extent , by Pulpit ; 3 - More Than Ready - Alina , by Came Home ; 4 - Tiz Wonderful - Fonda Ronda Two , by Prized ; 5 - Scat Daddy - Nina Fever , by Borrego ; 6 - Street Cry (IRE) - Sahara Gold , by Seeking the Gold ; 7 - Blame - Freudenau , by Meadowlake ;

RACE 8 Champagne S. (Grade I)  POST TIME - 4:18 PM

Purse $500,000. For Two Year Olds. One Mile.

PP   Horse    Virtual
Stable   A/S   Med   Jockey   Wgt   Trainer   M/L
1   Magna Light (KY)              2/C   L   J L Ortiz   122   R R Rodriguez   6/1
2   Greenpointcrusader (KY)      2/C   L   J Bravo   122   D Schettino   5/1
3   Ready Dancer (KY)              2/C   L   J R Velazquez   122   T A Pletcher   5/1
4   Sail Ahoy (KY)                      2/C      J Rosario   122   C R McGaughey III   12/1
5   Ralis (CA)                              2/C   L   J Castellano   122   D F O'Neill   3/1
6   Rafting (KY)                      2/C   L1   I Ortiz, Jr.   122   H G Motion   8/1
7   Tale of S'avall (KY)              2/C   L1   C H Velasquez   122   B Tagg   7/2
8   Sunny Ridge (NJ)              2/G   L   J Alvarado   122   J Servis   20/1
9   Portfolio Manager (KY)      2/C   L   M Franco   122   C C Brown   12/1

Owners: 1 - Dubb, M., Imperio, M., Alexander, E. and Bethlehem Stables LLC ; 2 - St. Elias Stable, MeB Racing Stables LLC and Brooklyn Boyz Stables ; 3 - Let's Go Stable ; 4 - Phipps Stable ; 5 - Reddam Racing LLC ; 6 - Wertheimer and Frere ; 7 - Fipke, Charles, E. ; 8 - Drazin, Dennis, A. ; 9 - Klaravich Stables, Inc. and Lawrence, William H.

Breeders: 1 - Elisabeth Alexander; 2 - Oakbrook Farm; 3 - St George Farm LLC & Spurrmont, LLC; 4 - Phipps Stable; 5 - Reddam Racing LLC; 6 - Wertheimer et Frere; 7 - Charles Fipke; 8 - Dennis Drazin; 9 - Hurstland Farm & Kevin McLaughlin

Pedigrees (Sire - Dam, by Dam Sire): 1 - Magna Graduate - Kimberlite , by Mineshaft ; 2 - Bernardini - Ava Knowsthecode , by Cryptoclearance ; 3 - More Than Ready - Sweettrickydancer , by Green Dancer ; 4 - Bernardini - Matlacha Pass , by Seeking the Gold ; 5 - Square Eddie - Silar Rules , by Ten Most Wanted ; 6 - Tapit - Paiota Falls , by Kris S. ; 7 - Tale of Ekati - S' Avall , by Awesome Again ; 8 - Holy Bull - Lignum Vitae , by Songandaprayer ; 9 - Harlan's Holiday - Turn to Lass , by Bright Launch ;

RACE 9 Hill Prince S. (Grade III)  POST TIME - 4:53 PM

Purse $500,000. For Three Year Olds. By subscription of $500 each which should accompany the nomination; $3,500 to pass the entry box and an additional $4,000 to start. For horses not originally nominated, a supplemental nomination payment of $5,000 along with the entry and starting fees may be made at any time prior to the closing of entries.The purse to be divided 60% to the owner of the winner, 20% to second, 10% to third, 5% to fourth, 3% to fifth and 2% divided equally amongst the remaining finishers. 123 Lbs. Non-winners of a Grade One race allowed 3 Lbs.; of a Grade Two on the turf in 2015 allowed 5 Lbs.; of a Graded Sweepstake on the turf, 7 Lbs. A trophy will be presented to the winning owner. The New York Racing Association reserves the right to transfer this race to the main track. In the event that this race is taken off the turf, it may be subject to downgrading upon review by the Graded Stakes Committee. Closed Saturday September 19, 2015 with 20 Original Nomination and 1 Supplement. One And One Eighth Miles. (Turf)

PP   Horse    Virtual
Stable   A/S   Med   Jockey   Wgt   Trainer
1   Macher (KY)              3/C   L   M J Luzzi   116   A C Adsit
2   Vision Perfect (KY)      3/C   L   E Cancel   116   D G Donk
3   Winter Springs (FR)      3/C   L   J Alvarado   116   C C Brown
4   Jay Gatsby (KY)      3/R   L1   F Jara   116   J A Jerkens
5   Takeover Target (KY)   3/C   L   J L Ortiz   120   C C Brown
6   Courtier (KY)              3/C   L   E Trujillo   116   W I Mott
7   Royal Albert Hall (GB)   3/G   L   J R Velazquez   116   D F O'Neill
8   Great Dancer (IRE)      3/C   L   J Bravo   116   J L Lawrence, II
9   Money Multiplier (KY)   3/R   L   J Castellano   116   C C Brown
10   World Approval (FL)      3/G   L   J Rosario   118   M E Casse
11   Tale of Life (JPN)      3/C   L   I Ortiz, Jr.   116   H G Motion
12   Nonna's Boy (KY)      3/C   L   C P DeCarlo   116   T A Pletcher
13   Good Luck Gus (NY) (MTO)      3/C   L      116   R R Rodriguez

Owners: 1 - BHMF Racing ; 2 - Spiegel, Robert ; 3 - Head of Plains Partners LLC ; 4 - Allen Stable, Inc. ; 5 - Klaravich Stables, Inc. and Lawrence, William H. ; 6 - Juddmonte Farms, Inc. ; 7 - Head of Plains Partners LLC, Knight, S., Ryan, M., Verge, M. and Keh, S. ; 8 - Schera, Matthew ; 9 - Klaravich Stables, Inc. and Lawrence, William H. ; 10 - Live Oak Plantation ; 11 - Flaxman Holdings, Ltd. ; 12 - Repole Stable ; 13 - Dubb, Michael, Bethlehem Stables LLC and The Elkstone Group LLC

Breeders: 1 - J. D. Squires & P. Frank Gardner; 2 - Robert Spiegel; 3 - Thierry de La Heronniere and Daniellede La Heronniere; 4 - Joseph Allen; 5 - Dorothy A. Matz; 6 - Juddmonte Farms Inc; 7 - Old Mill Stud & S. Williams & J. Parry; 8 - Maurice Regan; 9 - Machmer Hall & Haymarket Farm; 10 - Live Oak Stud; 11 - Flaxman Holdings Limited; 12 - Repole Stable, Inc.; 13 - Fred W. Hertrich III

Pedigrees (Sire - Dam, by Dam Sire): 1 - Purim - Empiress , by Empire Maker ; 2 - Pollard's Vision - Steamy , by Speightstown ; 3 - Stormy River (FR) - Hallen (FR) , by Midyan ; 4 - Giant's Causeway - Starry Dreamer , by Rubiano ; 5 - Harlan's Holiday - Vanquished , by Empire Maker ; 6 - Pioneerof the Nile - Soothing Touch , by Touch Gold ; 7 - Royal Applause (GB) - Victoria Sponge (IRE) , by Marju (IRE) ; 8 - Lord Shanakill - Enchanted Empress (IRE) , by Holy Roman Emperor (IRE) ; 9 - Lookin At Lucky - Intensify , by Unbridled's Song ; 10 - Northern Afleet - Win Approval , by With Approval ; 11 - Deep Impact (JPN) - Second Happiness , by Storm Cat ; 12 - Distorted Humor - Nonna Mia , by Empire Maker ; 13 - Lookin At Lucky - Tacticmove , by Deputy Minister ;

RACE 10 Jockey Club Gold Cup S. (Grade I)  POST TIME - 5:28 PM

Purse $1,000,000. For Three Year Olds And Upward. One And One Fourth Miles.

PP   Horse    Virtual
Stable   A/S   Med   Jockey   Wgt   Trainer   M/L
1   Wicked Strong (KY)      4/C   L   J Rosario   126   J A Jerkens   6/1
2   Coach Inge (KY)      4/G   L   I Ortiz, Jr.   126   T A Pletcher   5/1
3   Constitution (KY)      4/C   L   J Castellano   126   T A Pletcher   3/1
4   Effinex (NY)              4/C   L   J Alvarado   126   J A Jerkens   6/1
5   Looks to Spare (IL)      5/G   L   D L Parker   126   G DiPrima   30/1
6   Tonalist (KY)              4/C   L   J R Velazquez   126   C Clement   6/5

Owners: 1 - Centennial Farms ; 2 - Repole Stable ; 3 - WinStar Farm LLC and Twin Creeks Racing Stables, LLC ; 4 - Tri-Bone Stables ; 5 - O'zbekiston Racing ; 6 - Evans, Robert, S.

Breeders: 1 - William F. Lynn; 2 - Paul Pompa Jr.; 3 - Grapestock LLC & Fox Hill Farms; 4 - Dr. Russell S. Cohen; 5 - Mr. & Mrs. Harvey L. Vanier & B. Culver; 6 - Woodslane Farm

Pedigrees (Sire - Dam, by Dam Sire): 1 - Hard Spun - Moyne Abbey , by Charismatic ; 2 - Big Brown - Touch too Much , by Holy Bull ; 3 - Tapit - Baffled , by Distorted Humor ; 4 - Mineshaft - What a Pear , by E Dubai ; 5 - Pollard's Vision - Cushion , by Play Fellow ; 6 - Tapit - Settling Mist , by Pleasant Colony ;

https://youtu.be/kW9eJYn9R5k

http://www.prixarcdetriomphe.com/le-programme.html

Go Treve...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKTrv-5xLf4&list=PLxRhgI1I4XfsUt7BFmrSLc6_G6-ckzRoh

I still like the 2013 video the best...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVLrLNHheUA

This is a very special year for the BC Classic because not only do we have a Triple Crown winner potentially running in the race, but we also have a mare in Pacific Classic winner Beholder targeting it.

Possible entries include:

American Pharoah
Beholder
Effinex
Frosted
Gleneagles
Honor Code
Keen Ice
Liam's Map
Tonalist
Wicked Strong

I do find it interesting at this point that only 4 3 year olds are currently considering the race and one of them, Gleneagles, is from across the pond.

Last year, 7 of the 13 entries were 3 year olds.  In 2013, there were only 4 3 year olds and they took 2nd and 3rd. In 2012, I think there were only 3.

10 horses with likely defections means it could be a pretty small field for the BC Classic. 11 to 14 horses ran in the race the last 5 years...so that would be a small field.

Well, if the Metropolitan Handicap was Honor Code's coming out party, then the Whitney stamped him a true contender.

There were many who doubted his ability to go two turns. He should have put the doubters to rest.

Can he go 10 furlongs? Who knows? His pedigree says yes, but we all know that even well bred horses for distance sometimes falter.

Let us hope he does not because he is one exciting horses to watch.

The race was incredible. Watching him mornings and seeing his antics he was revved up for this race. He had sweated before it on a mildly hot summer day. All Javier had to do was hold on to him because he was ready to go.

I was taking pictures as usual and after seeing how far back he had dropped, I thought there was no way he could win this race.

Liam's Map was running away with it on the lead as he flashed past our seats. Taking photos I pan on the leader from the top of the stretch and then at the optimal point right in front of us I hold the camera to capture the other horses as they catch up. As I did this and Liam's Map continued down the stretch, I saw green and gold silks on black lightning zip by in the blink of an eye. I could not see the finish well to know if he got there, but it was an electrifying performance.

Again, plaudits to Team McGaughey. Last year, people would have thought that he was likely to be retired given his regal breeding. But McGaughey and Farrish decided to keep him running and we are all the better for it.

Here are possible fields.

See if you can pick which one is the $1 million race...   and the $500,000 race and let's throw in the Curlin too.

American Pharoah
Bent On Bourbon
Competitive Edge
Good Pick Nick   
Keen Ice   
Mr. Jordan
Souper Colossal
Stanford   
Tekton
War Story   

Carpe Diem
Dortmund
Frosted
Japan
Prospect Park
Tale Of Verve
Tencendur
Texas Red
Upstart

It would be funny to see the Haskell get more entries than the Jim Dandy.

http://espn.go.com/espys/2015/?voting=bestchampionshipperformance

I read on a lot of forums where this crop of three year olds, earlier regarded as one of the strongest in a decade, at least, is now regarded a mediocre.

Frankly, I do not know on what basis this claim can be made.

The top 4 finishers in the Kentucky Derby were among the favorites to win the race. The top 2 favorites finished 1 and 3.

The Preakness was a toss. And the top 2 finishers in the Belmont were the top two horses odds on.

Since the Derby the horses - except for the TC winners have run once...so based on this evidence how can one of the strongest fields be regarded as one of the weakest.

This also denies the special nature of this year's competitors:

Carpe Diem was a top 2 year old and came back to win all his prep races at 3.
American Pharoah did the same.
International Star did the same.
Dortmund did the same. 
Mubtaahij did the same.
Firing Line earned his first stakes win in impressive fashion.

When do you ever have top quality horses display this level of consistency?

Carpe Diem
Frammento
Frosted
Keen Ice
Materiality
Mr. Z
Mubtaahij
Stanford
Tencendur
War Story

And others...

Well, he's in Dubai...

http://www.horseracingnation.com/blogs/zatt/California_Chrome_The_Right_Horse_to_Win_One_for_America_123

Here's wishing him all the luck in the world!

Hopefully, he will not need it and/or make his own but you cannot help but wish him well.

Many still see him as the favorite with Constitution out, but African Story really stepped up in the G1 Al Maktoum Challenge so the defending champion has shown he can run on dirt too.

We'll see what other foreign entries there are though the US is the class of the field.

G3 Jerome Handicap - January 3 - 1 mile
El Kabeir
Nasa
General Bellamy
Ackeret
Ostrolenka
Mini Cosmo
Now We Are Free
Royal Burgh

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7oUDITG_94

G3 Sham Stakes - January 10 -  - 1 mile
Calculator
Rock Shandy
Pioneer of the West
St. Joe Bay
Papacoolpapacool
Hero Ten All
Unblunted
Rockinatten

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVOpyadSAg0

G3 Lecomte - January 17 - 1 mile
International Star
War Story
Tiznow RJ
Another Lemon Drop
Savoy Stomp
Hero of Humor
Eagle
Dekabrist
Runhappy
Killingit
Four Leaf Chief

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6iJ6c7_etHk

Smarty Jones - January 19 - 1 mile
Far Right
Bayerd
Mr. Z
Private Prospect
American Sailor
Hebbronville
Paid Admission
Lucky Player
Runaway Bling

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqpM9j9mTiY

G3 Holy Bull - January 24 - 8.5 furlongs
Upstart
Frosted
Bluegrass Singer
Juan and Bina
Keen Ice
Frammento
First Down
Decision Day
High Noon Rider

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ChAxviba5A

Derby Prep Schedule

COMPLETE SCHEDULE

RACE DATE   TITLE   GRADE   RACE DISTANCE   TRACK   RACE REPLAY   POINTS
September 6, 2014   Iroquois      1 1/16 Miles   Churchill Downs   10-4-2-1 Winner: Lucky Player, BSF 82
September 27, 2014   FrontRunner      1 1/16 Miles   Santa Anita Park   10-4-2-1 Winner: American Pharoah:101
October 4, 2014   Champagne      1 Mile   Belmont Park   10-4-2-1 Winner: Daredevil: 107
October 4, 2014   Breeders' Futurity      1 1/16 Miles   Keeneland   N/A   10-4-2-1 Winner: Carpe Diem: 93
October 5, 2014   Grey      1 1/16 Miles (S)   Woodbine   N/A   10-4-2-1 Winner: International Star: 66
November 1, 2014   Breeders' Cup Juvenile      1 1/16 Miles   Santa Anita Park   10-4-2-1 Winner: Texas Red: 104
November 22, 2014   Delta Downs Jackpot      1 1/16 Miles   Delta Downs   10-4-2-1 Winner: Ocho Ocho Ocho: 90
November 29, 2014   Remsen      1 1/8 Miles   Aqueduct   10-4-2-1 Winner: Leave The Light On: 90
November 29, 2014   Kentucky Jockey Club      1 1/16 Miles   Churchill Downs   10-4-2-1 Winner: El Kabeir: 94
December 20, 2014   Los Alamitos Futurity      1 1/16 Miles   Los Alamitos   N/A   10-4-2-1 Winner: Dortmund: 91

January 3, 2015   Jerome      1 Mile 70 Yards   Aqueduct   N/A   10-4-2-1 Winner: El Kabeir: 95
January 10, 2015   Sham      1 Mile   Santa Anita Park   10-4-2-1 Winner: Calculator: 97?
January 17, 2015   Lecomte      1 Mile 70 Yards   Fair Grounds      10-4-2-1 Winner:  International Star: 89
January 19, 2015   Smarty Jones      1 Mile   Oaklawn Park      10-4-2-1 Winner: Far Right: 89
January 24, 2015   Holy Bull      1 1/16 Miles   Gulfstream Park      10-4-2-1 Winner: Upstart: 105
February 7, 2015   Withers      1 1/16 Miles   Aqueduct      10-4-2-1 Winner: Far From Over: 96
February 7, 2015   Robert B. Lewis      1 1/16 Miles   Santa Anita Park      10-4-2-1 Winner: Dortmund: 103
February 14, 2015   El Camino Real Derby      1 1/8 Miles (S)   Golden Gate      10-4-2-1 Winner: Metaboss: 85

February 21, 2015   Fountain of Youth      1 1/16 Miles   Gulfstream Park      50-20-10-5 Winner: Itsaknockout:90/Upstart: 95
February 21, 2015   Risen Star      1 1/16 Miles   Fair Grounds      50-20-10-5 Winner: International Star: 93
February 22, 2015   Southwest      1 1/16 Miles   Oaklawn Park      10-4-2-1 Winner: Far Right: 91
March 7, 2015   Gotham      1 1/16 Miles   Aqueduct      50-20-10-5 Winner: El Kabeir :89
March 7, 2015   San Felipe      1 1/16 Miles   Santa Anita Park      50-20-10-5 Winner: Dortmund: 104
March 7, 2015   Tampa Bay Derby      1 1/16 Miles   Tampa Bay      50-20-10-5 Winner: Carpe Diem: 98
March 14, 2015   Rebel      1 1/16 Miles   Oaklawn Park      50-20-10-5 Winner: American Pharoah: 101
March 21, 2015   Spiral      1 1/8 Miles (S)   Turfway Park      50-20-10-5 Winner: Dubai Sky : 92
March 22, 2015   Sunland Derby      1 1/8 Miles   Sunland Park      50-20-10-5 Winner: Firing Line : 97

March 28, 2015   UAE Derby      1 3/16 Miles (S)   Meydan      100-40-20-10 Winner: Mubtaahij
March 28, 2015   Florida Derby      1 1/8 Miles   Gulfstream Park      100-40-20-10 Winner: Materiality : 110
March 28, 2015   Louisiana Derby      1 1/8 Miles   Fair Grounds      100-40-20-10 Winner: International Star : 98
April 4, 2015   Wood Memorial      1 1/8 Miles   Aqueduct      100-40-20-10 Winner: Frosted : 103
April 4, 2015   Santa Anita Derby      1 1/8 Miles   Santa Anita Park      100-40-20-10 Winner: Dortmund : 106
April 4, 2015   Blue Grass      1 1/8 Miles   Keeneland      100-40-20-10 Winner: Carpe Diem : 95
April 11, 2015   Arkansas Derby      1 1/8 Miles   Oaklawn Park      100-40-20-10 Winner: American Pharoah : 105
April 18, 2015   Lexington      1 1/16 Miles   Keeneland      10-4-2-1 Winner: Divining Rod

It seems there have been a lot at Aqueduct...13 since the start of the meet but I may not be counting right since they say there have been only 10.

http://www.paulickreport.com/news/thoroughbred-racing/handle-up-at-aqueduct-equine-fatalities-up-to-ten/

Here is the link to the NYRA site...
http://breakdown.gaming.ny.gov/

This is a very important list for me because I continue to hold to the notion that no horse will win the Kentucky Derby unless it has raced as a 2 year old. Of course, the other reality is that no multiple graded stakes winning 2 year old horse since Swale has won the Kentucky Derby since Swale in 1988 - I think. What a crap shoot. A dozen and then 5 Honorable Mentions and I could have done more. I also appear to be in a rut...between McLaughlin, Baffert and Pletcher is half of my derby list. Also, half of the top 12 are Cal-based horses. I think California with the dominance of I'll Have Another, California Chrome, Shared Belief, Hoppertunity and Bayern - has really shown itself to have growing dominance in the three year old ranks...I'll Have Another's year, Bodemeister and Paynter placing second in the the 3 Triple Crown races - so I think its much deserved.

1. Ocho Ocho Ocho (Street Sense by Street Cry – Winner by South African Triple Crown winner Horse Chestnut) 10
Trainer: James Cassidy
Next Race: G2 Robert Lewis, 8.5 furlongs?
G2 Delta Jackpot, 8.5 furlongs
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf Spring, 6.5 furlongs (10)

I think he has shown the most of this class with his late season wins. If American Pharoah could have run once late season he would have had this spot. Top and bottom he should be able to compete. He seems to have a lot of versatility. I also really like his breeding.

2. American Pharoah (Pioneer of the Nile by Empire Maker – Littleprincessemma by Yankee Gentleman by Storm Cat) 10
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G3 Sham Stakes, 8 furlongs?
G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (10)
G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

Well, he avoided the BC Juvenile curse which only Street Sense has managed to break by being scratched for the race. Hopefully, this bodes well for this son of Pioneer of the Nile. I guessed that Mr. Baffert will want to get him racing again early and target the Sham in order to have him peaking for the Derby given his lay off. We'll see.

3. Frosted (Tapit by Pulpit – Fast Cookie by Deputy Minisiter) 4
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G2 Holy Bull, 8.5 furlongs
2nd G1 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (4)

Mr. McLaughlin's most precocious charge for 2015. Following in the footsteps of Cairo Prince who finished a close second to Honor Code in last year's edition of the Remsen Stakes, Frosted looked great. Hopefully some time off will give him a chance to build some muscle for a tough three year old campaign.

4. Blofeld (Quality Road by Elusive Quality by Gone West – Storm Minstrel by Storm Cat and Colonial Minstrel by Pleasant Colony)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Fountain of Youth, 8.5 furlongs
G2 Nashua Stakes, 8 furlongs
G2 Belmont Futurity, 6 furlongs

I like this horse a lot. Adopting the name of a James Bond villain is great. I hope he stays healthy. I like his breeding with Storm Cat and Pleasant Colony on the bottom and being a grandson of Smarty Jones on top - if he has half the speed of his sire he'll be fast.

5. Carpe Diem (Giants Causeway by Storm Cat – Rebridled Dreams – Unbridled Song) 14
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Gotham Stakes, 8.5 furlongs?
2nd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (4)
G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

He would be rated higher if he had won the Breeders' Cup Juvenile since he was the class of the race in my mind. He's still a solid colt and I believe he'll do well next year. The question is where he'll start? Fountain of Youth? Gotham Stakes. Increasingly this decision can carry the fate of the horse for the Kentucky Derby since its not just about graded stakes earnings any more.

6. Acceptance (Vronsky by Danzig – Allswellthatnswell by Perfect Mandate)
Trainer: Donald Warren
Next Race: California Cup?
King Glorious Stakes
Golden State Juvenile Stakes

Well, last year's King Glorious winner won the Kentucky Derby. Is the King Glorious becoming one of the top Kentucky Derby prep races? LOL Before you laugh as well, his breeding is incredible. He is a great grandson of Northern Dancer through Danzig.   His sire's dam was by Santa Anita Handicap winner Lord At War. His dam's sire is in the Mr. Prospector line. His dam's dam is in the Northern Dancer/Somethingroyal (Secretariat's dam) Princequillo family. Needless to say I am a fan of the breeding.

7. Texas Red (Afleet Alex by Northern Afleet – Rematuelle by Jeune Homme by Nureyev) 12
Trainer: Keith Desormaeaux
Next Race: G2 San Vicente
G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (10)
2nd G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (2)

This horse is moving forward. The big question is whether he can carry his top form to his three year old season. I liked his sire a lot and it would be nice to see him get a top Kentucky Derby contender.

8. Dortmund (Big Brown by Boundary – Our Josephina by Tale Of The Cat) 10
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G2 Rebel Stakes, 8.5 furlongs?
G1 Los Alamitos Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (10)

Who knows what to make of Dortmund? Everyone has him high on their Derby list. I was confused by his first stakes race, the G1 Los Alamitos Futurity. Perhaps the track plays slower than Del Mar and Santa Anita, and he'll like the Santa Anita surface better because folks had him as the best in the race by far, and then he barely wins. Perhaps its just his youth showing. Then again, Mr. Baffert always has so many top three year olds, this one may end up shipping to the Rebel Stakes or elsewhere.

9. Calculator (In Summation by Pull It Back –  Back to Basics by Alphabet Soup 14
Trainer: Peter Miller
Next Race: February 7, Robert Lewis Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
1st G3 Sham Stakes, 8 furlongs (10)
2nd G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)
2nd G1 Del Mar Futurity, 7 furlongs

I guessed right that Mr. Miller wanted to get him back on the track soon as he is able for the G3 Sham Stakes. Impressive win. Folks will say - but who did he beat - and can he stretch out - but a 97 BSF with an easy win - makes this race impressive. More impressive in my book than El Kabeir's.

10. Bold Conquest (Curlin by Smart Strike – One For Jim by Distorted Humor) 6
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: Rebel Stakes or Risen Star.
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Futurity, 8.5 furlongs (2)
G3 Iroquois Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (4)

He has a win over the Churchill surface like Dortmund. This cannot be ignored. Hopefully he moves forward. No idea where he starts next, but I am thinking Oaklawn - though the LeComte could also feature for him. I read somewhere that Mr. Asmussen was aiming for 2 stake preps only for the Derby.

11. Competitive Edge (Super Saver by Maria's Mon – Magdalena's Choice by Cape Town)
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Next Race: G2 Jerome Handicap, 8 furlongs?
G1 Hopeful Stakes, 7 furlongs

I assume he's been out with an injury. If he heals up I would think the goal would be to get him back to the track soon. If he stays north, that could be the Jerome or Withers, but the fact that he is not working probably means something later rather than sooner.

12. Upstart (Flatter by A.P. Indy - by Touch Gold 6
Trainer: Richard Violette
Next Race: G3 Holy Bull Stakes, 8.5 furlongs
3rd G1 Breeders Cup Juvenile, 8.5 furlongs (2)
2nd G1 Champagne Stakes, 8 furlongs (4)
Funny Cide Stakes, 6.5 furlongs

Samraat II? Maybe. He's been in the money in three stakes including the BC Juvenile. If he moves forward perhaps next year they'll be asking "the next Upstart".

Honorable Mentions
Classy Class (Discreetly Mine by Mineshaft –Collegiate by Saarland) 1
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: G2 Jerome, 8 furlongs
4th G2 Remsen Stakes, 9 furlongs (1)

We'll see. This is Mr. McLaughlin's other top three year old horse.

Bayerd (Speightstown by - Cherokee Jewel by Cherokee Run)
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: Smarty Jones?, 8 furlongs
Springboard Mile Stakes

This Asmussen trained horse bested Frosted at Saratoga. Might be one to watch.

Lord Nelson (Pulpit by A.P. Indy - African Jade by Seeking the Gold) 1
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Next Race: G3 Lecomte Stakes, 8 furlongs?
5th G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs 
Speakeasy Stakes, 6 furlongs
4th G1 Frontrunner Stakes, 8.5 furlongs (1)

I wonder if he's a late bloomer or perhaps better suited to shorter distances. One of Pulpits last crops.

Eagle (Candy Ride by Ride The Rails - Sea Gull by Mineshaft) 2
Trainer: Neil Howard
Next Race: G3 Lecomte Stakes, 8 furlongs
3rd G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs  (2)

The name is attractive, but what got me was his owner - Mr. Farrish. Same silks as Honor Code.

Imperia (Medaglia d'Oro by El Prado - Cocoa Beach by Doneraille Court by Seattle Slew) 4
Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin
Next Race: Withers, 8 furlongs?
2nd G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (4)

I was attracted to this horse for one reason - his dam. I really liked Cocoa Beach as a race horse.

Lucky Player (Lookin At Lucky by Smart Strike - Janetstickettocats by Strom Cat) 10
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Next Race: G2 Risen Star, 8 furlongs or G2 Rebel Stakes
G2 Kentucky Jockey Club, 8.5 furlongs (10)

This horse is here for one reason - his sire. Lookin At Lucky is one of  my favorites and I hope his progeny do very well. This horse is probably going to be treated like Bond Conquest and go for 2 starts before the Derby. The Bluegrass Stakes might be a possibility.

Pretty soon I'm going to have a Derby Top 50....

What a day of racing...
http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/89173/hong-kong-international-attendance-handle-up
http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/89172/flintshire-shines-in-hong-kong-vase-victory

Hong Kong Mile

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHUBRbIvnZk

Able Friend delivered an incredible late run to snag the win from Gold Fun.

Hong Kong Sprint
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VVs95TWfto

Hong Kong Vase
http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/dec/14/flintshire-hong-kong-vase-andre-fabre
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2MJlRMwz2k

I was cheering for Red Cadeaux and Kirim Morotic. Snow Sky looked incredible in the paddock.

Hong Kong Cup
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/afp/article-2873332/Designs-Rome-wins-Hong-Kong-Cup.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5S-Mn_tGfw

I was so cheering for Military Attack and Archimedes...

So, I have been wondering how her foals have been doing.

I know her first filly, Opulence, who suffered a broken sesamoid - never raced and was bred to Stay Thirsty - and will be bred back too him.

Then she was bred to Henrythenavigator and had a colt...named Admirer...who finished 9th in his debut in August 2013 on turf at Windsor Racecourse in England.

And then twice to Galileo...having a colt in 2011 and then another colt in 2012.

The 2011 2 year old Chestnut Galileo colt as of last year was in training with Andre Fabre in France and named Auguste Rodin. 

In 2013, it was reported that she was in foal to Stay Thirsty, but I do not know if she had a colt or filly...or whether she was bred back to Stay Thirsty.

Please correct/share any information you have...

http://www.paulickreport.com/news/thoroughbred-racing/hokko-tarumae-battles-for-champions-cup-victory-imperative-15th/
http://www.drf.com/news/japan-third-times-charm-hokko-tarumae-champions-cup
http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/89091/hokko-tarumae-scores-champions-cup-in-3rd-try