July isn't getting much better as you may have surmised by my absence from this space. No need to tell the world what's going on (though I may write about it later), but like my mother says, "Kids are your greatest joy and can cause the greatest heartache." Thankfully everyone is healthy and this too shall pass, but the havoc caused is very real and has kept me away from the blog for quite a while. Quite frankly it will continue to keep me away for a while longer. I have some quiet time here before dawn Pacific Time before this day awakes to try and kick my ass so some thoughts on Diplo, who was claimed this past weekend at the end of the Hollywood Park meet.
Diplo was purchased privately by some friends in California earlier in the year. I jumped in for a small share in order to keep my hand in California racing and to take the opportunity to race with friends. In his 10 starts for us, he had a record of 1-3-3 and earned right around $39,000 - enough for us to eek out a small profit when augmented with the claim. Of the three starts he finished off the board, he still managed 4th in two and only a fifth in one. He is the very definition of an "honest racehorse".
In one respect I was fortunate to have not made it out to meet Diplo in person because I didn't have the opportunity to get attached to him. By all accounts he was great around the barn, so that would have made the claim a bit tougher to take. He was claimed for $25,000 which was a bit more than what was paid for him. He finished a solid third in the race, beaten only 3/4 of a length. I think he can win at $25,000 and maybe even at $32,000, but he has yet to prove that. If I had to have put a price tag on him before this race it would have been right in this ballpark so he was neither a bargain nor overpriced. You've got to place your horses where they can win and that's what Doug O'Neil did with Diplo. This time he was claimed. It happens. But if you are spotting your horses fairly, you can take losing one in stride knowing you were doing the right thing by the owners and the horse.
Thanks to Tom and Jeff in California for letting me in on Diplo (I hope Russ enjoyed the run from his vantage point!). Thanks to the Doug O'Neil barn for managing the horse so well. And thanks most of all to Diplo for a fun, honest run these past few months.
Showing posts with label Hollywood Park. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hollywood Park. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
Consistent Diplo Back on Hollywood Turf
Tabby Lane has been in an unfathomable funk for six weeks, One for Zetta continues to take her time in making her debut but Diplo has been stellar since his three year old debut in February. Never has he been worse then 4th in his eight starts and even then only twice. Granted, he only has one win, but since that win he's been second twice in levels higher than his maiden breaking victory.
Saturday he takes on a eight others back on the Hollywood Park turf course in a $32,000 claiming race for 3-year olds going a flat mile.
1. Brother Louis (Gonzalez/Valdez) - First time on the turf, but no stranger to California, he broke his maiden on the artificial surface here last year going a mile and a sixteenth. Since then he has run exclusively in New Mexico bred restricted races finishing fourth each and every time. Moving to a $32,000 claiming race may appear to be class relief, but not when you move from Sunland to Hollywood.
2. Otto Von Voom (Mullins/Baze) - A new arrival to the Jeff Mullins barn some improvement should be looked for here, especially coming down from an $80,000 Optional Claiming race. Turf Paradise races were excellent and appears to be a more natural miler.
3. Ministers Power (Bonde/Espinoza) - First trip over the strip was in a state bred $43,000 Allowance last out but was fourth at this level at Santa Anita in March. Has won easily up north at lower levels but this is a different kettle of fish.
4. Keen Bidder (Lloyd/Talamo) - Has shown nothing since coming to America. Big drop into this one to try and make something happen.
5. Saravas Wild Again (Knight/Quinonez) - Outfought by Diplo down the stretch last out to be denied second place. Cuts back to a mile and will definitely be in the mix here.
6. Rock Solid Charm (McAnally/Rosario) - Moving south but moving up. Never count out Ron McAnally, but this will be tough.
7. DIPLO (O'NEILL/PEDROZA)
8. Jacob's Tiger (Puype/Gonzalez) - Been trying better but not having a lot of success. Stretching out for the first time but has the numbers to go longer. Broke maiden in an MWS, albeit a state bred race. Doesn't appear to be in this group but hard to figure the class angle.
9. Strikingly Sinful (Becerra/Santiago Reyes) - Hasn't sniffed the winner's circle since maiden win as a two year old and probably won't here.
Ministers Power looks to be the lone early speed in this race though you have to think that sprinters Jacob's Tiger and Strikingly Sinful will go early out of habit if nothing else. This should put Diplo in a nice stalking position for most of the race. One thing we've learned about him over the past few months is that he does not give up and he is one game gelding. He is actually the choice of the DRF in this one, which never fails to make me nervous, but I have to agree that he looks good - not 3-5 good, but he belongs and he's ready but races aren't won on paper and once the gates open anything can happen.
Saturday he takes on a eight others back on the Hollywood Park turf course in a $32,000 claiming race for 3-year olds going a flat mile.
1. Brother Louis (Gonzalez/Valdez) - First time on the turf, but no stranger to California, he broke his maiden on the artificial surface here last year going a mile and a sixteenth. Since then he has run exclusively in New Mexico bred restricted races finishing fourth each and every time. Moving to a $32,000 claiming race may appear to be class relief, but not when you move from Sunland to Hollywood.
2. Otto Von Voom (Mullins/Baze) - A new arrival to the Jeff Mullins barn some improvement should be looked for here, especially coming down from an $80,000 Optional Claiming race. Turf Paradise races were excellent and appears to be a more natural miler.
3. Ministers Power (Bonde/Espinoza) - First trip over the strip was in a state bred $43,000 Allowance last out but was fourth at this level at Santa Anita in March. Has won easily up north at lower levels but this is a different kettle of fish.
4. Keen Bidder (Lloyd/Talamo) - Has shown nothing since coming to America. Big drop into this one to try and make something happen.
5. Saravas Wild Again (Knight/Quinonez) - Outfought by Diplo down the stretch last out to be denied second place. Cuts back to a mile and will definitely be in the mix here.
6. Rock Solid Charm (McAnally/Rosario) - Moving south but moving up. Never count out Ron McAnally, but this will be tough.
7. DIPLO (O'NEILL/PEDROZA)
8. Jacob's Tiger (Puype/Gonzalez) - Been trying better but not having a lot of success. Stretching out for the first time but has the numbers to go longer. Broke maiden in an MWS, albeit a state bred race. Doesn't appear to be in this group but hard to figure the class angle.
9. Strikingly Sinful (Becerra/Santiago Reyes) - Hasn't sniffed the winner's circle since maiden win as a two year old and probably won't here.
Ministers Power looks to be the lone early speed in this race though you have to think that sprinters Jacob's Tiger and Strikingly Sinful will go early out of habit if nothing else. This should put Diplo in a nice stalking position for most of the race. One thing we've learned about him over the past few months is that he does not give up and he is one game gelding. He is actually the choice of the DRF in this one, which never fails to make me nervous, but I have to agree that he looks good - not 3-5 good, but he belongs and he's ready but races aren't won on paper and once the gates open anything can happen.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Quiet Time
There has been some reflective time available over the past week or so as I've been traveling again. While reflection has crossed over many topics, the only ones that have any bearing here are the ones that are relevant to the acing operation.
1. Can I Keep Racing at Canterbury? This was a large topic occupying my mind. For the type of horse we like to race - $20,000 Claiming or so - there does not seem to be much opportunity anymore. Races aren't filling and after a couple of shots at a starter allowance not filling, my frustration level started rising even higher. Without help, Canterbury will no longer be competitive for horsemen who want to race year round. To clarify, year round means coming up here for the summer and keep racing either beyond or before. Although it's home, having to compromise too much on conditions (turf instead of dirt, route instead of sprint) in order to even get into a race because of the horse population (size and/or makeup) makes me wonder if we should come back next season. Of course higher purses would produce more opportunity and would draw more horses, but the outlook on that is as bleak as ever.
2. Will I Keep Doing This at All? I love running these partnerships. It's great to get a group of folks together, especially those that have never been able to purchase a horse on their own, get the opportunity to own, visit and race their own horse. I try to keep it affordable, but with the economy, new owners are hard to come by as disposable income is scarce. The lower the entry point the better, but with lower entry points you need more partners ("How can we compete at such low prices? VOLUME!") and the numbers just are not there. Additionally when you start selling in 1 and 2% increments your costs increase. Accountants charge more for K-1s, communication pieces are more difficult and consensus is even harder to build.
3. Am I Just Fried with Racing? This was was a fleeting thought. The answer was emphatically "NO!" I can't imagine my life without racing in it. This was just silly!
4. Is the Monmouth Experiment a Good One? On the surface it seems great. Handle and attendance are both up and field sizes are nice and large. All of this is good news. What it signifies for the rest of the industry, though, is probably not as great. The corollary to Monmouth's success is the failure of the year round racing model we see today across America. In order for nationwide racing to duplicate Monmouth's success, dates need to shrink and purses need to go up. More consolidation would need to take place and the mid-range racetracks are probably the the targets to go. Arlington Park summers would dominate Chicago, but could (should?) Hawthorne survive? Does the upper Midwest need a Canterbury Park and a Prairie Meadows (Prairie doesn't have a turf track, but it does have slot fueled purses)? Does Kentucky need anything besides Churchill and Keeneland? Would California care if Hollywood folds? It becomes a whole new - yet old school - landscape for racing in America.
In proofing this before hitting 'publish' it certainly seems pretty negative. I don't view it as such. The sport can survive but it faces some hard choices - much as I do with the racing stable. While I was hoping at some point to make a living running the partnerships and talking and writing about racing, it obviously isn't feasible and will probably live on in my life as a nice sidelight. Racing may love the year round model, but it doesn't appear that is feasible either. Consolidation may be necessary - winter racing in Texas, Louisiana and Florida and spring summer and fall racing elsewhere. The economy has resulted in the breeding of fewer horses and that could help to kill off the weak racetracks and strengthen the hand of the stronger. It could be the painful rebirth of racing in America and, as with any birth, the promise of a brighter future beckons.
1. Can I Keep Racing at Canterbury? This was a large topic occupying my mind. For the type of horse we like to race - $20,000 Claiming or so - there does not seem to be much opportunity anymore. Races aren't filling and after a couple of shots at a starter allowance not filling, my frustration level started rising even higher. Without help, Canterbury will no longer be competitive for horsemen who want to race year round. To clarify, year round means coming up here for the summer and keep racing either beyond or before. Although it's home, having to compromise too much on conditions (turf instead of dirt, route instead of sprint) in order to even get into a race because of the horse population (size and/or makeup) makes me wonder if we should come back next season. Of course higher purses would produce more opportunity and would draw more horses, but the outlook on that is as bleak as ever.
2. Will I Keep Doing This at All? I love running these partnerships. It's great to get a group of folks together, especially those that have never been able to purchase a horse on their own, get the opportunity to own, visit and race their own horse. I try to keep it affordable, but with the economy, new owners are hard to come by as disposable income is scarce. The lower the entry point the better, but with lower entry points you need more partners ("How can we compete at such low prices? VOLUME!") and the numbers just are not there. Additionally when you start selling in 1 and 2% increments your costs increase. Accountants charge more for K-1s, communication pieces are more difficult and consensus is even harder to build.
3. Am I Just Fried with Racing? This was was a fleeting thought. The answer was emphatically "NO!" I can't imagine my life without racing in it. This was just silly!
4. Is the Monmouth Experiment a Good One? On the surface it seems great. Handle and attendance are both up and field sizes are nice and large. All of this is good news. What it signifies for the rest of the industry, though, is probably not as great. The corollary to Monmouth's success is the failure of the year round racing model we see today across America. In order for nationwide racing to duplicate Monmouth's success, dates need to shrink and purses need to go up. More consolidation would need to take place and the mid-range racetracks are probably the the targets to go. Arlington Park summers would dominate Chicago, but could (should?) Hawthorne survive? Does the upper Midwest need a Canterbury Park and a Prairie Meadows (Prairie doesn't have a turf track, but it does have slot fueled purses)? Does Kentucky need anything besides Churchill and Keeneland? Would California care if Hollywood folds? It becomes a whole new - yet old school - landscape for racing in America.
In proofing this before hitting 'publish' it certainly seems pretty negative. I don't view it as such. The sport can survive but it faces some hard choices - much as I do with the racing stable. While I was hoping at some point to make a living running the partnerships and talking and writing about racing, it obviously isn't feasible and will probably live on in my life as a nice sidelight. Racing may love the year round model, but it doesn't appear that is feasible either. Consolidation may be necessary - winter racing in Texas, Louisiana and Florida and spring summer and fall racing elsewhere. The economy has resulted in the breeding of fewer horses and that could help to kill off the weak racetracks and strengthen the hand of the stronger. It could be the painful rebirth of racing in America and, as with any birth, the promise of a brighter future beckons.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Diplo's 2nd and Belmont Thoughts
If only those two were being used in the same title because they shared more than the same Saturday in June...
Diplo on the Hollywood Turf
Diplo ran a nice second in his $40,000 claiming race over the Hollywood Park turf course. He navigated the mile and sixteenth nicely with Martin Pedroza aboard and battled down the lane to earn the place. The winner got loose on the lead and, as happens when lone speed becomes controlling speed, was able to stay within himself to pick up the first place check. By all reports Diplo came back from the race feisty and full of himself. As it turns out, our boy is a turf horse after all. Del Mar anyone?
Belmont Stakes
Drosselmeyer won the Belmont Stakes in fine fashion. I had said yesterday that his breeding should be able to get him the distance but that maybe he wasn't classy enough to beat this field. He proved me wrong and turned the tables on Fly Down after the six length pasting in the Dwyer. I didn't think that he got into six lengths worth of trouble in that race, but apparently he did with the slow start costing him more than I thought. Mike Smith gave him a nice ride and had the mile and a half timed perfectly in his head.
The "Dudes" ran better than I thought they would. I especially thought the ride by Dominguez on First Dude was a pretty good one. I really expected the colt to fade out of it long before he did and he hung on for a very clear third. Most of the commentary focusing on how the Preakness runner up was being ignored was unjustified. If anything a horse that fades at a mile and three-sixteenths can't really be considered a threat at a mile and a half but Dominguez nursed him along better than I would have thought possible.
It's official, the new anthem of the Belmont Stakes was a dud. As you know, in theory I thought this was a bad idea on Thursday when it was announced (there's a lot of commentary around the web on this now, but as far as I can tell, my bitching about it was first - if I can't pick a winner, I need to brag about correctly prognosticating something!) and in practice it met my expectations. Even ABC must have thought so as it cut away from the horror before it was over to get to commercial. Bless them. It looked as if NYRA was trying too hard to remain relevant when it really doesn't have to - well, at least for the Bemont Stakes.
No Triple Crown possibility and the threat of rain kept many away reducing the Belmont attendance to just a shade over 45,000 - half of what it's been during years where there is the possibility of a Triple Crown. The Kentucky Derby is America's most prestigious horse race. There is always a shot at the Triple Crown heading into the Preakness, but its placement at the tail of the Triple Crown trail places the Belmont's relative appeal to the masses in the hands of fate. A forecast of nice weather and a possible Triple Crown would move attendance past 100,000. Even a hipper new official Belmont song can't get you past not having a Triple Crown winner or even a winner of either other leg in the race. Still, 45,000 people on the day of the largest race in the biggest metropilitan area in the country is more than a little depressing if you stop and think about it too much, but that's a thought for another day.
Diplo on the Hollywood Turf
Diplo ran a nice second in his $40,000 claiming race over the Hollywood Park turf course. He navigated the mile and sixteenth nicely with Martin Pedroza aboard and battled down the lane to earn the place. The winner got loose on the lead and, as happens when lone speed becomes controlling speed, was able to stay within himself to pick up the first place check. By all reports Diplo came back from the race feisty and full of himself. As it turns out, our boy is a turf horse after all. Del Mar anyone?
Belmont Stakes
Drosselmeyer won the Belmont Stakes in fine fashion. I had said yesterday that his breeding should be able to get him the distance but that maybe he wasn't classy enough to beat this field. He proved me wrong and turned the tables on Fly Down after the six length pasting in the Dwyer. I didn't think that he got into six lengths worth of trouble in that race, but apparently he did with the slow start costing him more than I thought. Mike Smith gave him a nice ride and had the mile and a half timed perfectly in his head.
The "Dudes" ran better than I thought they would. I especially thought the ride by Dominguez on First Dude was a pretty good one. I really expected the colt to fade out of it long before he did and he hung on for a very clear third. Most of the commentary focusing on how the Preakness runner up was being ignored was unjustified. If anything a horse that fades at a mile and three-sixteenths can't really be considered a threat at a mile and a half but Dominguez nursed him along better than I would have thought possible.
It's official, the new anthem of the Belmont Stakes was a dud. As you know, in theory I thought this was a bad idea on Thursday when it was announced (there's a lot of commentary around the web on this now, but as far as I can tell, my bitching about it was first - if I can't pick a winner, I need to brag about correctly prognosticating something!) and in practice it met my expectations. Even ABC must have thought so as it cut away from the horror before it was over to get to commercial. Bless them. It looked as if NYRA was trying too hard to remain relevant when it really doesn't have to - well, at least for the Bemont Stakes.
No Triple Crown possibility and the threat of rain kept many away reducing the Belmont attendance to just a shade over 45,000 - half of what it's been during years where there is the possibility of a Triple Crown. The Kentucky Derby is America's most prestigious horse race. There is always a shot at the Triple Crown heading into the Preakness, but its placement at the tail of the Triple Crown trail places the Belmont's relative appeal to the masses in the hands of fate. A forecast of nice weather and a possible Triple Crown would move attendance past 100,000. Even a hipper new official Belmont song can't get you past not having a Triple Crown winner or even a winner of either other leg in the race. Still, 45,000 people on the day of the largest race in the biggest metropilitan area in the country is more than a little depressing if you stop and think about it too much, but that's a thought for another day.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Diplo on Turf: Fluke or Favorite
Diplo hopes to shine on Belmont Day on the opposite side of the country as he takes on seven others in another $40,000 claiming race at Hollywood Park. Diplo surprised many jumping up in class and finishing a strong second at this level in his first try over the turf. He isn't likely to be 40-1 again tomorrow and we will see if turf is truly his favored surface.
Here is the field:
1. Tis (Quinonez) - Broke his maiden over the main track at Santa Anita in a $32,000 Maiden Claiming race. Came back and finished 5th in a turf allowance here at Hollywood. Dropping in here to try and get things going again.
2. Summer at Del Mar (Talamo) - Broke his maiden over Diplo two starts back but Diplo fought him off in his last to beat him by 3/4 for second. Ready for the rubber match but has not worked well since that last start.
3. DIPLO
4. Siete Machos (Santiago Reyes) - Weakened last out finishing a last placed 7th in the race Diplo and Summers at Del Mar finished 2nd and 3rd. Adds a 16th of a mile...probably not.
5. Really Uptown (Bejerano) -After six weeks off, he's back on the turf dropping back into the claiming ranks. He's been more effective at lower levels, but the Beyers fit here.
6. Saravas Wild Again (Baze) - Only three starts at three he's been steadily improving in MSW company up north at Golden Gate. In for $40,000 here and going longer than he ever has and trying the turf for the first time.
7. Brother Louie (Valdez) - New Mexico bred broke his maiden at two at this distance over this turf course. Since then he has had a steady diet of 4th place finishes in New Mexico bred restricted races at Sunland Park. Looks to b a cut below.
8. Came Aboard (Espinoza) - DIPLO's stablemate looks tough in here. Claimed off a win at this level two back with a fourth in an $80,000 Optional Claimer last week.
Siete Machos and Really Uptown should press the pace early on. The other six entries all look to stalk from just off the pace and there is only going to be so much room to be able to do that. Breaking from the three hole should give Diplo a bit of an advantage early, but could get him trapped down on the rail late as the pack moves. Pedroza has done a great job since taking over as pilot in keeping Diplo out of trouble and should that continue tomorrow we're going to have a real chance. It looks to be a cavalry charge finish and we'll need some racing luck to nail it. We'll know tomorrow afternoon if Diplo is growing into a turf specialist.
Here is the field:
1. Tis (Quinonez) - Broke his maiden over the main track at Santa Anita in a $32,000 Maiden Claiming race. Came back and finished 5th in a turf allowance here at Hollywood. Dropping in here to try and get things going again.
2. Summer at Del Mar (Talamo) - Broke his maiden over Diplo two starts back but Diplo fought him off in his last to beat him by 3/4 for second. Ready for the rubber match but has not worked well since that last start.
3. DIPLO
4. Siete Machos (Santiago Reyes) - Weakened last out finishing a last placed 7th in the race Diplo and Summers at Del Mar finished 2nd and 3rd. Adds a 16th of a mile...probably not.
5. Really Uptown (Bejerano) -After six weeks off, he's back on the turf dropping back into the claiming ranks. He's been more effective at lower levels, but the Beyers fit here.
6. Saravas Wild Again (Baze) - Only three starts at three he's been steadily improving in MSW company up north at Golden Gate. In for $40,000 here and going longer than he ever has and trying the turf for the first time.
7. Brother Louie (Valdez) - New Mexico bred broke his maiden at two at this distance over this turf course. Since then he has had a steady diet of 4th place finishes in New Mexico bred restricted races at Sunland Park. Looks to b a cut below.
8. Came Aboard (Espinoza) - DIPLO's stablemate looks tough in here. Claimed off a win at this level two back with a fourth in an $80,000 Optional Claimer last week.
Siete Machos and Really Uptown should press the pace early on. The other six entries all look to stalk from just off the pace and there is only going to be so much room to be able to do that. Breaking from the three hole should give Diplo a bit of an advantage early, but could get him trapped down on the rail late as the pack moves. Pedroza has done a great job since taking over as pilot in keeping Diplo out of trouble and should that continue tomorrow we're going to have a real chance. It looks to be a cavalry charge finish and we'll need some racing luck to nail it. We'll know tomorrow afternoon if Diplo is growing into a turf specialist.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Diplo Steps It Up
When Diplo broke his maiden on May 1 you could hear a collective sigh across the country as his partners finally exhaled. All the near misses were a thing of the past and he was now a winner. It was time for us to savor the moment and bask in the afterglow of a well-earned victory.
He came back from his win in fine fettle. So well, in fact, that trainer Doug O'Neil brought him back after only 11 days to give the turf course a try. The gelding was sound and tearing it up - like he finally knew what winning was all about. Whether it was the jock switch to Martin Pedroza or just having the light switch on upstairs, Diplo acted the part of a winner and was ready to go.
In the effort to promote full disclosure here, this is how I thought his next race would set up:
He finally broke his maiden after several tries and dropping down through the ranks, settling at the $25,000 claiming level. In my years of watching races it's rare to see a maiden step up beyond the class they broke through. It happens, of course, but for the most part the best a Maiden Claiming $25,000 could hope to do against winners is score against $16,000 claimers. Perhaps even drop as low as $12,500. That was the direction I thought we'd end up going in and I would have had no problem with the decision.
In his first spot over the turf, O'Neil picked out a $50,000 claiming race going a mile over the Hollywood Park turf course. When Diplo went off at odds of 40-1, I can't say that I was surprised. Quite honestly I was hoping he'd be able to sneak up for third and pick up a decent check. There were no fairy tale endings here with our boy swooping down the stretch and on to victory, but something interesting did happen. Our boy ran like he knew what he was doing.
Diplo broke well and Pedroza had him in good position mid-pack down the back side. Between the quarter and half mile poles he slid from third to fourth and I though, "well, he gave it a brave run". But Diplo was not through. Far from it. He made up ground through the bend and by the time they straightened out for home he was in second, only a length and a half from the front. He gained steadily through the lane to finish second by 3/4 of a length, though in fairness to the winner, Camp Victory, it wasn't like the winner was ridden all out to hang on at the wire either.
The second was a spot better than I had hoped, It it was more than that. The way Diplo ran was important. He obviously enjoyed the grass and his run through the stretch was aggressive and characteristic of a race horse with a lot of grit and heart. He showed he not only belonged with "better" horses, but could be a force to be reckoned with as well.
I don't know what's next, but this race opened up all kinds of possibilities.
He came back from his win in fine fettle. So well, in fact, that trainer Doug O'Neil brought him back after only 11 days to give the turf course a try. The gelding was sound and tearing it up - like he finally knew what winning was all about. Whether it was the jock switch to Martin Pedroza or just having the light switch on upstairs, Diplo acted the part of a winner and was ready to go.
In the effort to promote full disclosure here, this is how I thought his next race would set up:
He finally broke his maiden after several tries and dropping down through the ranks, settling at the $25,000 claiming level. In my years of watching races it's rare to see a maiden step up beyond the class they broke through. It happens, of course, but for the most part the best a Maiden Claiming $25,000 could hope to do against winners is score against $16,000 claimers. Perhaps even drop as low as $12,500. That was the direction I thought we'd end up going in and I would have had no problem with the decision.
In his first spot over the turf, O'Neil picked out a $50,000 claiming race going a mile over the Hollywood Park turf course. When Diplo went off at odds of 40-1, I can't say that I was surprised. Quite honestly I was hoping he'd be able to sneak up for third and pick up a decent check. There were no fairy tale endings here with our boy swooping down the stretch and on to victory, but something interesting did happen. Our boy ran like he knew what he was doing.
Diplo broke well and Pedroza had him in good position mid-pack down the back side. Between the quarter and half mile poles he slid from third to fourth and I though, "well, he gave it a brave run". But Diplo was not through. Far from it. He made up ground through the bend and by the time they straightened out for home he was in second, only a length and a half from the front. He gained steadily through the lane to finish second by 3/4 of a length, though in fairness to the winner, Camp Victory, it wasn't like the winner was ridden all out to hang on at the wire either.
The second was a spot better than I had hoped, It it was more than that. The way Diplo ran was important. He obviously enjoyed the grass and his run through the stretch was aggressive and characteristic of a race horse with a lot of grit and heart. He showed he not only belonged with "better" horses, but could be a force to be reckoned with as well.
I don't know what's next, but this race opened up all kinds of possibilities.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Diplo on the Turf
Diplo comes back to the races after breaking his maiden a scant 11 days ago. It's a pretty ambitious spot but it's also his first try over the turf so you never quite know if he'll jump up on the new surface. Would I like to have seen him have a few more days off? Of course. I also think that Doug O'Neil has forgot more about horses that I'll ever know.
The field is pretty tough, but small and there's a chance we could sneak up and get a piece of the the $37,000 purse in the $50,000 claiming race which will go a mile over the Hollywood Park turf course.
Here are the entries:
1. Summers in Del Mar - This one topped Diplo in a $32,000 Maiden Claiming race last out. He had 3 MSW races over the turf and the worst performance of the 3 came at the mile distance though he was steadied and very wide.
2. DIPLO
3. Gilligan - Dropping way in off of $80,000 Claiming and $32,000 Allowance races. Has shown some improvement since moving to the turf as well. Almost always competitive.
4. Camp Victory - Broke his maiden over this very turf course last year. Coming off a $32,000 claiming victory and earning an 83 Beyer.
5. Keen Bidder - English horse has not shown much since coming over to the States. Certainly needs the drop.
6. Siete Machos - A couple of close seconds over the turf and another one that comes back on short rest. Even shorter rest than our boy Diplo.
7. Seventh Star - Unlike his Commonwealth counterpart, this horse fired completely in his first try in the US leading every step of the way after some lackadaisical efforts in Ireland and earned an 88 Beyer to boot.
This is a tremendously difficult spot for our guy. If Seventh Star had it's light turned on coming to the US, he'll run away with this one. Gilligan is almost alone on the next level, consistently hitting the low- to mid-70's in his Beyer ratings. You can go to Camp Victory, but that nice 85 came over the synthetic and his turf numbers have not been as steady. There is a chance to grab a nice paycheck finishing third, but he could easily trail this field as well. It's an interesting spot for sure. I hope he enjoys the turf and surprises the hell out of me.
The field is pretty tough, but small and there's a chance we could sneak up and get a piece of the the $37,000 purse in the $50,000 claiming race which will go a mile over the Hollywood Park turf course.
Here are the entries:
1. Summers in Del Mar - This one topped Diplo in a $32,000 Maiden Claiming race last out. He had 3 MSW races over the turf and the worst performance of the 3 came at the mile distance though he was steadied and very wide.
2. DIPLO
3. Gilligan - Dropping way in off of $80,000 Claiming and $32,000 Allowance races. Has shown some improvement since moving to the turf as well. Almost always competitive.
4. Camp Victory - Broke his maiden over this very turf course last year. Coming off a $32,000 claiming victory and earning an 83 Beyer.
5. Keen Bidder - English horse has not shown much since coming over to the States. Certainly needs the drop.
6. Siete Machos - A couple of close seconds over the turf and another one that comes back on short rest. Even shorter rest than our boy Diplo.
7. Seventh Star - Unlike his Commonwealth counterpart, this horse fired completely in his first try in the US leading every step of the way after some lackadaisical efforts in Ireland and earned an 88 Beyer to boot.
This is a tremendously difficult spot for our guy. If Seventh Star had it's light turned on coming to the US, he'll run away with this one. Gilligan is almost alone on the next level, consistently hitting the low- to mid-70's in his Beyer ratings. You can go to Camp Victory, but that nice 85 came over the synthetic and his turf numbers have not been as steady. There is a chance to grab a nice paycheck finishing third, but he could easily trail this field as well. It's an interesting spot for sure. I hope he enjoys the turf and surprises the hell out of me.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Diplo Scores First Lifetime Win
I know I didn’t go so far as to say it was now or never for Diplo, but I also knew that it was close. Thankfully on Derby Day now came before never and Diplo scored his first lifetime victory and overcame his “close but no cigar” pattern of 2010.
Under Martin Pedroza – regular rider Rafael Bejerano had a previous commitment in Kentucky this past weekend – Diplo broke smoothly in the middle of the pack and was guided to the rail in the $25,000 Maiden Claiming race at Hollywood Park. Chasing fractions of :22.19 and :45.62, Diplo began making up ground at the half mile pole. Through the turn and into the stretch he seemed to be a bit pinned down inside and I was not sure if he have the running room to get through, even if he had the kick to do it. Pedroza stayed patient and when the front two horses slid out a bit he had his opening and sent Diplo through. I’d like to say he went through the hole like a shot, but under strong urging Diplo gained through the stretch and came eyeball to eyeball with Big Wags. For a few strides it looked as if the last head bob would determine the outcome, but then Diplo pulled ahead and, eventually winning by a half length.
It felt great to get Diplo off the snide. He had been paying his way, which is always nice, but I was happy for him to break through and get that first win. Now that it’s finally out the way, you wonder if a light was just switched on in a previously dark room – “Ohhhh….I’m supposed to be the FIRST one to be done!” I’m not saying that Diplo can carry us to the Breeder’s Cup, obviously, but let’s take a look at our very own Tabby Lane. Since she finally broke her maiden at the $10,000 level after 6 failed attempts at lower levels has had five starts, winning three and coming in second in another and earning $29,106 racing competitively as high as $32,000 Optional Claiming. Sometimes all it takes is that first win to pull it all together for a horse and I’m hoping that’s the case for Diplo. Right now he’ll rest up and we’ll see what’s next for him when he’s ready.
Under Martin Pedroza – regular rider Rafael Bejerano had a previous commitment in Kentucky this past weekend – Diplo broke smoothly in the middle of the pack and was guided to the rail in the $25,000 Maiden Claiming race at Hollywood Park. Chasing fractions of :22.19 and :45.62, Diplo began making up ground at the half mile pole. Through the turn and into the stretch he seemed to be a bit pinned down inside and I was not sure if he have the running room to get through, even if he had the kick to do it. Pedroza stayed patient and when the front two horses slid out a bit he had his opening and sent Diplo through. I’d like to say he went through the hole like a shot, but under strong urging Diplo gained through the stretch and came eyeball to eyeball with Big Wags. For a few strides it looked as if the last head bob would determine the outcome, but then Diplo pulled ahead and, eventually winning by a half length.
It felt great to get Diplo off the snide. He had been paying his way, which is always nice, but I was happy for him to break through and get that first win. Now that it’s finally out the way, you wonder if a light was just switched on in a previously dark room – “Ohhhh….I’m supposed to be the FIRST one to be done!” I’m not saying that Diplo can carry us to the Breeder’s Cup, obviously, but let’s take a look at our very own Tabby Lane. Since she finally broke her maiden at the $10,000 level after 6 failed attempts at lower levels has had five starts, winning three and coming in second in another and earning $29,106 racing competitively as high as $32,000 Optional Claiming. Sometimes all it takes is that first win to pull it all together for a horse and I’m hoping that’s the case for Diplo. Right now he’ll rest up and we’ll see what’s next for him when he’s ready.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Diplo Giving it His All on Derby Day at Hollywood
I’ve spoken to several folks about Diplo (Pleasant Tap – Blackjack Angel – Polish Numbers) over the past few days and my take on him is that the poor bugger has run into a hot horse every time he’s been on the racetrack. He’s tried hard and nearly gotten there, but can’t seem to make it happen. On Kentucky Derby Day out at Hollywood Park, Diplo will take on 11 other maidens and try to finally break through and be called a winner. He’s dropping in class from $32,000 to $25,000 and I’m hoping that this drop and the change in scenery from Santa Anita will make our boy the buzz saw this time rather than the wood.
Here is the field in the 6.5 furlong sprint:
1. Tea Party Time – second time out and is also dropping in from $32,000. Raced wide and green in debut so there is room for improvement.
2. Big Steven – Has not raced since early August of his two year old year in a non-descript 3.5 furlong dash. It’s going to take a lot of improvement to race with these.
3. Warren’s Peanut – Like Diplo, he’s 0 – 8, but he has never been close while our boy has hit the board 5 of 8 starts with 3 fourths.
4. Big Wags – Improved nicely on the drop last out and he dips a bit again. Should be a real tough one.
5. DIPLO
6. Unusual Justin – Back in under a week and hasn’t shown much for a while. Abrams must see something the rest of us don’t.
7. Burciaga – Stepping up in his 3-year old debut. Probably needs at least one.
8. Roos on the Loose – Like Diplo, one that’s in the money more times than not. Would like to stalk the pace, but there doesn’t seem to be any pace in here!
9. Tizexchange – A slight drop in his second lifetime start. Showed some early speed before fading in debut. Certainly needed the race and post race works have been decent.
10. Who U Foolin – Another with a slight drop after a speed then fade debut. Tizexchange looks like the better of the two, but vast improvement is necessary.
11. Eminent Honor – 0-22 with no a sniff of the tote board on his PPs.
12. Big Jay – Had a bit of a breather and comes back at this level again. Consistent Beyers that are better than most of the field, he just has not been able to hit the top of the board. Adds Tyler Baze and cutting back in distance. Looms largest.
With Rafael Bejerano taking some time to sightsee in Kentucky this weekend, Diplo gets a new pilot, Martin Pedroza who has been no slouch this year winning at a 16% clip. With no real pace in the race it’s going to be a cavalry charge at the end and Diplo will need to dig in and show some heart in order to prevail. He belongs with the best in here, I’m hoping the racing gods (and you too Russ) are smiling down on him Saturday!
Here is the field in the 6.5 furlong sprint:
1. Tea Party Time – second time out and is also dropping in from $32,000. Raced wide and green in debut so there is room for improvement.
2. Big Steven – Has not raced since early August of his two year old year in a non-descript 3.5 furlong dash. It’s going to take a lot of improvement to race with these.
3. Warren’s Peanut – Like Diplo, he’s 0 – 8, but he has never been close while our boy has hit the board 5 of 8 starts with 3 fourths.
4. Big Wags – Improved nicely on the drop last out and he dips a bit again. Should be a real tough one.
5. DIPLO
6. Unusual Justin – Back in under a week and hasn’t shown much for a while. Abrams must see something the rest of us don’t.
7. Burciaga – Stepping up in his 3-year old debut. Probably needs at least one.
8. Roos on the Loose – Like Diplo, one that’s in the money more times than not. Would like to stalk the pace, but there doesn’t seem to be any pace in here!
9. Tizexchange – A slight drop in his second lifetime start. Showed some early speed before fading in debut. Certainly needed the race and post race works have been decent.
10. Who U Foolin – Another with a slight drop after a speed then fade debut. Tizexchange looks like the better of the two, but vast improvement is necessary.
11. Eminent Honor – 0-22 with no a sniff of the tote board on his PPs.
12. Big Jay – Had a bit of a breather and comes back at this level again. Consistent Beyers that are better than most of the field, he just has not been able to hit the top of the board. Adds Tyler Baze and cutting back in distance. Looms largest.
With Rafael Bejerano taking some time to sightsee in Kentucky this weekend, Diplo gets a new pilot, Martin Pedroza who has been no slouch this year winning at a 16% clip. With no real pace in the race it’s going to be a cavalry charge at the end and Diplo will need to dig in and show some heart in order to prevail. He belongs with the best in here, I’m hoping the racing gods (and you too Russ) are smiling down on him Saturday!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Interesting Attendance Figures
A fun post by the Bug Boys today about Belmont's Memorial Day card. The title "10,099 Happy People" struck me a bit. I started thinking about the comment Canterbury announcer Paul Allen made early in yesterday's card about the crowd, wagering lines and please bet early so you don't get shut out. That, in turn, sent me to the Daily Racing Form charts to see just what was attendance here and at some selected other Thoroughbred tracks where attendance is recorded.
Monmouth - 11,565
Belmont - 10,099
Canterbury - 7,622
Hollywood - 6,591
I wanted to get numbers from Arlington and Philadelphia as well, but neither were available (nor were Churchill or Golden Gate for that matter).
The population in the Twin Cities Metropolitan area is right around three million. Three million. The NY/NJ Megalopolis is about nineteen million and the Greater Los Angeles Area is approximately thirteen million (US Census press release data).
How in the world can Canterbury only draw about 2400 less people than a major market racetrack and actually outdraw Hollywood Park?? Less to do in the TC area? Maybe, but the official kick-off of summer was gorgeous here and it is the weekend that folks start to head to cabins on the lake (pick one, we've got 11,000+). On the way back from Wisconsin this weekend, the St. Croix river was dotted with boats out cruising and fishing. Folks were out - but they were also at the track. The Red Sox were in town to play the Twins right up against first post time, so that didn't help either. The summer season in Minnesota is so short that when there are nice days to be had, camping, fishing, off-roading, biking and any other kind of outdoor activity takes over and people hit the outdoors in droves. Yet it appears that Canterbury is one of those options.
Maybe a clue why can be taken from Bert Blyleven's (Twins' color man) comments during the telecast to his broadcast partner, Dick Bremer. I'm paraphrasing here, but Bert went on a little roll about how much fun it was at Canterbury. He brought the kids and they watched the horses run, he placed a few bets, watched the call of the races by Paul Allen for a bit, ate and generally talked about the good time. The banter went on for a couple of minutes between the tandem, with both talking about going back soon and making sure they take in the races a few more times this summer. There was even a brief discussion about the difficulties of race calling. You can't buy that kind of publicity.
I wouldn't go so far as to say that Canterbury is a boutique meet, but it is interesting that Monmouth - another summer happening - out-drew it's cousin to the north while Canterbury out-drew fabled Hollywood Park. I'll be the first to admit that this wasn't a scientific study by any means. The Bug Boys post got me thinking and I just did some cursory comparisons, but there may be something to learn here. Maybe the proponents of less is more are right? I don't know for sure, but it sure was interesting to take a look at the numbers.
Monmouth - 11,565
Belmont - 10,099
Canterbury - 7,622
Hollywood - 6,591
I wanted to get numbers from Arlington and Philadelphia as well, but neither were available (nor were Churchill or Golden Gate for that matter).
The population in the Twin Cities Metropolitan area is right around three million. Three million. The NY/NJ Megalopolis is about nineteen million and the Greater Los Angeles Area is approximately thirteen million (US Census press release data).
How in the world can Canterbury only draw about 2400 less people than a major market racetrack and actually outdraw Hollywood Park?? Less to do in the TC area? Maybe, but the official kick-off of summer was gorgeous here and it is the weekend that folks start to head to cabins on the lake (pick one, we've got 11,000+). On the way back from Wisconsin this weekend, the St. Croix river was dotted with boats out cruising and fishing. Folks were out - but they were also at the track. The Red Sox were in town to play the Twins right up against first post time, so that didn't help either. The summer season in Minnesota is so short that when there are nice days to be had, camping, fishing, off-roading, biking and any other kind of outdoor activity takes over and people hit the outdoors in droves. Yet it appears that Canterbury is one of those options.
Maybe a clue why can be taken from Bert Blyleven's (Twins' color man) comments during the telecast to his broadcast partner, Dick Bremer. I'm paraphrasing here, but Bert went on a little roll about how much fun it was at Canterbury. He brought the kids and they watched the horses run, he placed a few bets, watched the call of the races by Paul Allen for a bit, ate and generally talked about the good time. The banter went on for a couple of minutes between the tandem, with both talking about going back soon and making sure they take in the races a few more times this summer. There was even a brief discussion about the difficulties of race calling. You can't buy that kind of publicity.
I wouldn't go so far as to say that Canterbury is a boutique meet, but it is interesting that Monmouth - another summer happening - out-drew it's cousin to the north while Canterbury out-drew fabled Hollywood Park. I'll be the first to admit that this wasn't a scientific study by any means. The Bug Boys post got me thinking and I just did some cursory comparisons, but there may be something to learn here. Maybe the proponents of less is more are right? I don't know for sure, but it sure was interesting to take a look at the numbers.
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