Woolley Suddenly the Toast

Photo: EquiSport Photos/Matt Wooley

Article Excerpted from NEW YORK TIMES By JOE DRAPE
Published: June 5, 2009

It is about over — the autograph signings, ringing the bell at the New York Stock Exchange and the shouts of “good luck” that have echoed across the streets of Manhattan and the foyers of this grand old racetrack on Long Island. Everyone knows Chip Woolley, the cowboy in the black hat, a cellphone ever pressed between his shoulder and ear as he pole-vaults along on crutches.

He is a horse trainer, an anonymous one only five weeks ago, before the first Saturday in May. Then, Mine That Bird shot through a sliver of a hole on the rail and into racing history as a Kentucky Derby winner.

Now, Woolley is sort of famous and his little gelding is the 2-1 morning-line favorite in Saturday’s 141st running of the Belmont Stakes. Both have blossomed over this whirlwind Triple Crown campaign.

When the public first met Woolley, he was put out when, in the wake of the second-biggest Derby upset, all anyone wanted to talk about was how he drove Mine That Bird from New Mexico to Churchill Downs.

Now, he can sound a little like the old television cowboy Sam McCloud.

“It’s a rather large place,” he said, when asked how he was enjoying his first visit to New York. “Everyone, apparently, their horns work very well here.”

Woolley can also be downright soulful. He has been broke more than once, has run at tracks where a $20 win bet could drop the odds of a runner from 8-1 to 5-2, and had stretches of futility during which the only way he could find the winner’s circle was with a map and a guest pass.

Ask him how winning the Kentucky Derby has changed his life.

“One thing it’s done is validate my career,” he said. “You spend 25 years and a lot of hard work and tough times to get to this point.”

Woolley’s parents were in town from Dalhart, Tex., on Friday. Bennie Woolley Sr. (Chip is really Bennie Jr.) wore a 10-gallon hat and refused to take credit for his son’s recent good fortune.

“All I taught was how to work hard, and love what you do,” Bennie Woolley said. “I’m just awful proud of him.”

There is no looking back for Woolley.

'Revenge' most impressive.

Photo: EquiSport Photos/M. Wooley

Okay, down to the wire!
Most impressive performances... I Want Revenge in the Wood, Friesan Fire in the Louisianna Derby, Quality Road in the Florida Derby. They are the TOP 3.
Best trade... Dunkirk in, Mafaaz out.
Best story... General Quarters, the one horse stable of Thomas McCarthy.
Biggest move... Papa Clem winning the Arkansas Derby over the ill fated Old Fashioned.
Could be for real... Musket Man wins the Illinois Derby on the heals of the Tampa Bay Derby.
Comeback trail... Square Eddie. We'll see Saturday in the Lexington.
Needed 4 horses to come up with 20... Charitable Man, Giant Oak, Jeranimo, Flying Private.


Horse Sire Trainer Owner Jockey
1 I WANT REVENGE Stephen Got Even Jeff Mullins IEAH, Lanzman Racing Joe Talamo
2 FRIESAN FIRE AP Indy Larry Jones Vinery & Fox Hill Gabriel Saez
3 QUALITY ROAD Elusive Quality James Jerkins Edward Evans John Velazquez
4 DUNKIRK Unbridled's Song Todd Pletcher Magnier, Tabor, Smith Garrett Gomez
5 DESERT PARTY Street Cry Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Frankie Dettori
6 PIONEEROF THE NILE Empire Maker Bob Baffert Zayat Stables Garrett Gomez
7 PAPA CLEM Smart Strike Bo Hirsh Gary Stute Rafael Bejarano
8 CHOCOLATE CANDY Candy Ride Jerry Hollendorfer Jenny Craig Mike Smith
9 GENERAL QUARTERS Sky Mesa Mark Miller Thomas McCarthy Julien Leparoux
10 HOLD ME BACK Giant's Causeway Bill Mott WinStar Farm Kent Desormeaux
11 MUSKET MAN Yonaguska Derek Ryan Eric Fein, Vic Carlson Daniel Centeno
12 WIN WILLY Monarchos McLean Robertson Jer-Mar Stable M.C. Berry
13 REGAL RANSOM Distorted Humor Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Alan Garcia
14 SQUARE EDDIE Smart Strike Doug O'Neill Paul Reddam Edgar Prado
15 MR HOT STUFF Tiznow Eoin Harty WinStar Farm Corey Nakatani
16 WEST SIDE BERNIE Bernstein Kelly Breen Lori & Goerge Hall Edgar Prado
17 CHARITABLE MAN Lemon Drop Kid Kiaran McLaughlin W. K. Warren Jr Undecided
18 GIANT OAK Giant's Causeway Chris Block Virginia Tarra Trust E. Razo
19 JERANIMO Congaree B.J. Wright M. Pender B. Blanc
20 FLYING PRIVATE Fusaichi Pegasus D. Wayne Lukas Grand Slam Farm Israel Ocampo

I Want Revenge takes rematch with Imperial Council in Wood

Photo: EquiSport Photos/Sue K.

Alright, we are getting into the stretch the next 2 weeks.
My thoughts...purely for recreational value!
In the the Wood, replay of the Gotham, 'I Want Revenge' over Imperial Council'
In the Santa Anita Derby, the 'Mousse' is loose over 'Pioneer'.
The Arkansas Derby should see 'Old Fashioned' reestablish himself as a Top 5 contender, and 'Papa Clem' move up a couple notches.
The Bluegrass Stakes is left with the bottom feeders of the Top 20, now that Friesan Fire is training up to the Derby. All of the Big Boys want to go on dirt. I'll take 'Terrain' by a nose over 'Hold Me Back' who may get held back.
Next update, Tax Day.

1 I WANT REVENGE Stephen Got Even Jeff Mullins IEAH, Lanzman Racing Joe Talamo 4/4 AQ Wood Memorial (G1)
2 FRIESAN FIRE AP Indy Larry Jones Vinery & Fox Hill Gabriel Saez 5/2 CD Ky. Derby
3 QUALITY ROAD Elusive Quality James Jerkins Edward Evans John Velazquez 5/2 CD Ky. Derby
4 THE PAMPLEMOUSSE Kafwain Julio Canani Bienstock & Winner Stable, A. Solis II Alex Solis 4/4 SA Santa Anita Derby
5 OLD FASHIONED Unbridled's Song Larry Jones Rick Porter Ramon Dominguez 4/11 OP Arkansas Derby
6 PIONEEROF THE NILE Empire Maker Bob Baffert Zayat Stables Garrett Gomez 4/4 SA Santa Anita Derby
7 IMPERIAL COUNCIL Empire Maker Shug McGaughey Sequoia Racing Rajiv Maragh 4/4 AQ Wood Memorial (G1)
8 DUNKIRK Unbridled's Song Todd Pletcher Magnier, Tabor, Smith Garrett Gomez 5/2 CD Ky. Derby
9 DESERT PARTY Street Cry Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Frankie Dettori 5/2 CD Ky. Derby
10 WIN WILLY Monarchos McLean Robertson Jer-Mar Stable M. Berry 4/11 OP Arkansas Derby
11 CHOCOLATE CANDY Candy Ride Jerry Hollendorfer Jenny Craig Rafael Bejarano 4/4 SA Santa Anita Derby
12 PAPA CLEM Smart Strike Bo Hirsh Gary Stute Rafael Bejarano 4/11 OP Arkansas Derby
13 REGAL RANSOM Distorted Humor Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Alan Garcia 5/2 CD Ky. Derby
14 HOLD ME BACK Giant's Causeway Bill Mott WinStar Farm Kent Desormeaux 4/11 KEE Bluegrass S. (G1)
15 TERRAIN Sky Mesa Albert Stall Adele Dilschneider Jamie Theriot 4/11 Bluegrass S. (G1) or Lex.
16 MAFAAZ Medicean John Gosden Shadwell Stables Richard Hills 4/11 KEE Bluegrass S. (G1)
17 MUSKET MAN Yonaguska Derek Ryan Eric Fein, Vic Carlson Daniel Centeno 4/4 Illinois Derby or Wood M.
18 SQUARE EDDIE Smart Strike Doug O'Neill Paul Reddam Rafael Bejarano back in training
19 GENERAL QUARTERS Sky Mesa Mark Miller Thomas McCarthy James Lopez 4/11 KEE Bluegrass S. (G1)
20 PATENA Seeking the Gold Rick Dutrow IEAH, Sikura Robby Albarado 4/11 KEE Bluegrass S. (G1)

Friesan Fire lights the Trail!

Pioneerof the Nile training at Keeneland on Polytrack 9.30.2008 Photo: EquiSport Photos/Matt Wooley

Okay Kids, A little shake up on the Derby Trail this week.
Friesan Fire looked brilliant. Perhaps the best prep race if the year. And it was on dirt!
Old Fashioned faltered in the Rebel. Will rematch Win Willy in the Arkansas Derby.
Florida Derby coming up big this year, just as it did for Big Brown last year. Quality Road leads a strong field that includes mystery horse Dunkirk, Kenny McPeek's Theregoesjojo and Beethoven who needs to pick it up a notch.
This week's Lane's End Cup favors West Side Bernie, with Edgar Prado flying in for the mount, up against Bittel Road and Garrett Gomez.
Attached is my "Top 20 or so Derby Contenders and Connections". This list along with $2.00 will get you a cup of coffee at Starbucks. Small.
Next update, April Fools Day.
"The Word" - Derby 2009 Contenders March 16, 2009 www.equisportphotos.com
Horse Sire Trainer Owner Jockey Next
1 FRIESAN FIRE AP Indy Larry Jones Vinery & Fox Hill Gabriel Saez 4/11 Blgrass or 5/2 Ky. Derby
2 THE PAMPLEMOUSSE Kafwain Julio Canani Bienstock & Winner Stable, A. Solis II Alex Solis 4/4 SA Santa Anita Derby
3 I WANT REVENGE Stephen Got Even Jeff Mullins Lanzman Racing Joe Talamo 4/4 AQ Wood Memorial (G1)
4 QUALITY ROAD Elusive Quality James Jerkins Edward Evans John Velazquez 3/28 GP Florida Derby
5 OLD FASHIONED Unbridled's Song Larry Jones Rick Porter Ramon Dominguez 4/11 OP Arkansas Derby
6 IMPERIAL COUNCIL Empire Maker Shug McGaughey Sequoia Racing Rajiv Maragh 4/4 AQ Wood Memorial (G1)
7 PIONEEROF THE NILE Empire Maker Bob Baffert Zayat Stables Garrett Gomez 4/4 SA Santa Anita Derby
8 DUNKIRK Unbridled's Song Todd Pletcher Magnier, Tabor, Smith Garrett Gomez 3/28 GP Florida Derby
9 PAPA CLEM Smart Strike Bo Hirsh Gary Stute Rafael Bejarano 4/4 HAW Illinois Derby
10 WIN WILLY Monarchos McLean Robertson Jer-Mar Stable M. Berry 4/11 OP Arkansas Derby
11 THEREGOESJOJO Brahms Kenny McPeek Samotowka, Delfiner, Drall, Magdalena Kent Desormeaux 3/28 GP Florida Derby
12 CHOCOLATE CANDY Candy Ride Jerry Hollendorfer Jenny Craig Rafael Bejarano 4/4 SA Santa Anita Derby
13 MUSKET MAN Yonaguska Derek Ryan Eric Fein, Vic Carlson Daniel Centeno 4/4 Illinois Derby or Wood M.
14 WEST SIDE BERNIE Bernstein Kelly Breen Lori & Goerge Hall Edgar Prado 3/21 TP Lane's End
15 DESERT PARTY Street Cry Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Frankie Dettori 3/28 NAS UAE Derby
16 BEETHOVEN Sky Mesa John Ward John Oxley Calvin Borel 3/28 GP Florida Derby
17 TERRAIN Sky Mesa Albert Stall Jr Albert Stall Jamie Theriot 4/11 Bluegrass S. (G1) or Lex.
18 CAPT. CANDYMAN CAN Candy Ride Ian Wilkes Jos. Rauch, David Zell Julien Leparoux
19 GENERAL QUARTERS Sky Mesa Mark Miller Thomas McCarthy James Lopez 4/11 KEE Bluegrass S. (G1)
20 VINEYARD HAVEN Lido Palace Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Edgar Prado 3/28 NAS UAE Derby
21 BITTEL ROAD Stormy Atlantic Todd Pletcher Scatuorchio & Iracane Garrett Gomez 3/21 TP Lane's End

Next 3 Weeks...The Real Deals vs. The Also Rans

The next 3 weeks will sort out the Real Deals from the Also Rans.
This week my picks (in order); the Rebel (Old Fashioned), Louisiana Derby (Friesan Fire, Patena, Papa Clem, Flying Pegasus), Tampa Bay Derby (General Quarters, Hello Broadway) and San Felipe (Pioneerof the Nile, Chocolate Candy).
Next week my picks (in order); Lane's End Cup (West Side Bernie)
Two weeks my picks (in order); the Florida Derby (Quality Road, Dunkirk, Beethoven, Theregoesjojo), UAE Derby (Desert Party, Vineyard Haven)
No guarantees expressed or implied.

"The Word" - Derby 2009 Contenders March 10, 2009 www.equisportphotos.com
Horse Sire Trainer Owner Jockey Next
1 OLD FASHIONED Unbridled's Song Larry Jones Rick Porter Ramon Dominguez 3/14 OP Rebel S.
2 PIONEEROF THE NILE Empire Maker Bob Baffert Zayat Stables Garrett Gomez 3/14 SA San Felipe S. (G2)
3 QUALITY ROAD Elusive Quality James Jerkins Edward Evans John Velazquez 3/28 GP Florida Derby
4 I WANT REVENGE Stephen Got Even Jeff Mullins Lanzman Racing Joe Talamo 4/4 AQ Wood Memorial (G1)
5 FRIESAN FIRE AP Indy Larry Jones Vinery & Fox Hill Gabriel Saez 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
6 THE PAMPLEMOUSSE Kafwain Julio Canani Bienstock & Winner Stable, A. Solis II Alex Solis 4/4 SA Santa Anita Derby
7 IMPERIAL COUNCIL Empire Maker Shug McGaughey Sequoia Racing Rajiv Maragh 4/4 AQ Wood Memorial (G1)
8 PATENA Seeking the Gold Rick Dutrow IEAH, Sikura Robby Albarado 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
9 DUNKIRK Unbridled's Song Todd Pletcher Magnier, Tabor, Smith Garrett Gomez 3/28 GP Florida Derby
10 BEETHOVEN Sky Mesa John Ward John Oxley Calvin Borel 3/28 GP Florida Derby
11 GENERAL QUARTERS Sky Mesa Mark Miller Thomas McCarthy James Lopez 3/14 TB Tampa bay Derby
12 PAPA CLEM Smart Strike Bo Hirsh Gary Stute Rafael Bejarano 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
13 THEREGOESJOJO Brahms Kenny McPeek Samotowka, Delfiner, Drall, Magdalena Kent Desormeaux 3/28 GP Florida Derby
14 FLYING PEGASUS Fusaichi Pegasus Ralph Nicks James Spence Cornelio Velasquez 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
15 GIANT OAK Giant's Causeway Chris Block Virginia Tarra Trust E. Razo La. Derby or Rebel
16 CHOCOLATE CANDY Candy Ride Jerry Hollendorfer Jenny Craig Rafael Bejarano 3/14 SA San Felipe S. (G2)
17 HELLO BROADWAY Broken Vow Barclay Tagg Elizabeth Valando Edgar Prado 3/14 TB Tampa bay Derby
18 CAPT. CANDYMAN CAN Candy Ride Ian Wilkes Jos. Rauch, David Zell Julien Leparoux
19 DESERT PARTY Street Cry Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Frankie Dettori 3/28 NAS UAE Derby
20 VINEYARD HAVEN Lido Palace Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Edgar Prado 3/28 NAS UAE Derby
21 WEST SIDE BERNIE Bernstein Kelly Breen Lori & Goerge Hall Elvis Trujillo 3/21 Lne's End or 3/28 Fl Dby
22 SQUARE EDDIE Smart Strike Doug O'Neill Paul Reddam Rafael Bejarano injured

I Want Revenge moves along Derby Trail, wins dirt debut.

Photo: EquiSport Photos/Sue K.

I Want Revenge, very impressive in dirt debut.
Imperial Council, got the race Shug wanted.


"The Word" - Derby 2009 Contenders March 7, 2009 www.equisportphotos.com
Horse Sire Trainer Owner Jockey Next
1 OLD FASHIONED Unbridled's Song Larry Jones Rick Porter Ramon Dominguez 3/14 OP Rebel S.
2 PIONEEROF THE NILE Empire Maker Bob Baffert Zayat Stables Garrett Gomez 3/14 SA San Felipe S. (G2)
3 THE PAMPLEMOUSSE Kafwain Julio Canani Bienstock & Winner Stable, A. Solis II Alex Solis 4/4 SA Santa Anita Derby
4 QUALITY ROAD Elusive Quality James Jerkins Edward Evans John Velazquez 3/28 GP Florida Derby
5 FRIESAN FIRE AP Indy Larry Jones Vinery & Fox Hill Gabriel Saez 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
6 STARDOM BOUND Tapit Rick Dutrow IEAH Mike Smith
7 I WANT REVENGE Stephen Got Even Jeff Mullins Lanzman Racing Joe Talamo
8 IMPERIAL COUNCIL Empire Maker Shug McGaughey Sequoia Racing Rajiv Maragh
9 PATENA Seeking the Gold Rick Dutrow IEAH, Sikura Robby Albarado 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
10 DUNKIRK Unbridled's Song Todd Pletcher Magnier, Tabor, Smith Garrett Gomez 3/28 GP Florida Derby
11 BEETHOVEN Sky Mesa John Ward John Oxley Calvin Borel 3/28 GP Florida Derby
12 GENERAL QUARTERS Sky Mesa Mark Miller Thomas McCarthy James Lopez 3/14 TB Tampa bay Derby
13 PAPA CLEM Smart Strike Bo Hirsh Gary Stute Rafael Bejarano 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
14 THEREGOESJOJO Brahms Kenny McPeek Samotowka, Delfiner, Drall, Magdalena Kent Desormeaux 3/28 GP Florida Derby
15 FLYING PEGASUS Fusaichi Pegasus Ralph Nicks James Spence Cornelio Velasquez 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
16 GIANT OAK Giant's Causeway Chris Block Virginia Tarra Trust E. Razo La. Derby or Rebel
17 CHOCOLATE CANDY Candy Ride Jerry Hollendorfer Jenny Craig Rafael Bejarano 3/14 SA San Felipe S. (G2)
18 MR. FANTASY Kiaran McLaughlin Westpoint Thoroughbreds Alan Garcia
19 HELLO BROADWAY Broken Vow Barclay Tagg Elizabeth Valando Edgar Prado 3/14 TB Tampa bay Derby
20 CAPT. CANDYMAN CAN Candy Ride Ian Wilkes Jos. Rauch, David Zell Julien Leparoux
21 DESERT PARTY Street Cry Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Frankie Dettori 3/28 NAS UAE Derby
22 VINEYARD HAVEN Lido Palace Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Edgar Prado 3/28 NAS UAE Derby
23 WEST SIDE BERNIE Bernstein Kelly Breen Lori & Goerge Hall Elvis Trujillo 3/21 Lne's End or 3/28 Fl Dby
24 SQUARE EDDIE Smart Strike Doug O'Neill Paul Reddam Rafael Bejarano injured

There is a PAMPLEMOUSSE, and he's the REAL DEAL!

Quality Road (Elusive Quality), John Velazquez up, wins the Fountain of Youth at Gulfstream Park 2.28.2009 Photo: EquiSport Photos/Z.Laskowski

Quality Road impresses in the Fountain of Youth.
Anyone who saw the Sham Stakes this past weekend had to be impressed with the Pamplemousse. The big question, how will he handle dirt in his face?
Imperial Council, Haynesfield, I Want Revenge, and Mr. Fantasy top the Gotham entries at Aqueduct this week.
Stardom Bound, back Saturday in the Santa Anita Oaks.
Midshipman out!

1 OLD FASHIONED Unbridled's Song Larry Jones Rick Porter Ramon Dominguez 3/14 OP Rebel S.
2 PIONEEROF THE NILE Empire Maker Bob Baffert Zayat Stables Garrett Gomez 3/14 SA San Felipe S. (G2)
3 THE PAMPLEMOUSSE Kafwain Julio Canani Bienstock & Winner Stable, A. Solis II Alex Solis 4/4 SA Santa Anita Derby
4 QUALITY ROAD Elusive Quality James Jerkins Edward Evans John Velazquez 4/4 AQ Wood or 3/28 Fl Derby
5 FRIESAN FIRE AP Indy Larry Jones Vinery & Fox Hill Gabriel Saez 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
6 STARDOM BOUND Tapit Rick Dutrow IEAH Mike Smith 3/7 SA Santa Anita Oaks
7 PATENA Seeking the Gold Rick Dutrow IEAH, Sikura Robby Albarado 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
8 CAPT. CANDYMAN CAN Candy Ride Ian Wilkes Jos. Rauch, David Zell Julien Leparoux
9 THEREGOESJOJO Brahms Kenny McPeek Samotowka, Delfiner, Drall, Magdalena Kent Desormeaux
10 IMPERIAL COUNCIL Empire Maker Shug McGaughey Sequoia Racing Edgar Prado 3/7 AQ Gotham S. (G3)
11 BEETHOVEN Sky Mesa John Ward John Oxley Calvin Borel
12 GENERAL QUARTERS Sky Mesa Mark Miller Thomas McCarthy James Lopez 3/14 TB Tampa bay Derby
13 PAPA CLEM Smart Strike Bo Hirsh Gary Stute Rafael Bejarano 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
14 FLYING PEGASUS Fusaichi Pegasus Ralph Nicks James Spence Cornelio Velasquez La. Derby or Rebel
15 GIANT OAK Giant's Causeway Chris Block Virginia Tarra Trust E. Razo La. Derby or Rebel
16 CHOCOLATE CANDY Candy Ride Jerry Hollendorfer Jenny Craig Rafael Bejarano 3/14 SA San Felipe S. (G2)
17 BIG DRAMA Montbrook David Fawkes Harold Queen Eibar Coa scr from Holy Bull
18 DUNKIRK Unbridled's Song Todd Pletcher Magnier, Tabor, Smith Garrett Gomez
19 HAYNESFIELD Speightstown Steve Asmussen Harvey Weinstein Ramon Dominguez 3/7 AQ Gotham S. (G3)
20 DESERT PARTY Street Cry Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Frankie Dettori 3/28 NAS UAE Derby
21 THIS ONE'S FOR PHIL Untuttable Rick Dutrow Paul Pompa Edgar Prado
22 HELLO BROADWAY Broken Vow Barclay Tagg Elizabeth Valando Edgar Prado 3/14 TB Tampa bay Derby
23 VINEYARD HAVEN Lido Palace Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Edgar Prado 3/28 NAS UAE Derby
24 WEST SIDE BERNIE Bernstein Kelly Breen Lori & Goerge Hall Elvis Trujillo 3/21 Lne's End or 3/28 Fl Dby
25 I WANT REVENGE Stephen Got Even Jeff Mullins Lanzman Racing Joe Talamo 3/7 AQ Gotham S. (G3)
26 MR. FANTASY Kiaran McLaughlin Westpoint Thoroughbreds 3/7 AQ Gotham S. (G3)
27 SQUARE EDDIE Smart Strike Doug O'Neill Paul Reddam Rafael Bejarano injured

Old Fashioned still on Top...Top 25 Derby Contenders & Connections!

Haynesfield wins the Whirlaway 2.07.09
Photo: EquiSport Photos/Sue K.

Okay, no big surprises in the Southwest.

Old Fashioned still on top til someone knocks him off.
Pioneerof the Nile inherits #2...but no dirt proof.
Friesan Fire faced only marginal competition.
Patena seems to be getting a lot of hype off of a second place Lecomte finish.
Stardom Bound won't in Derby if Patena makes it.
Papa Clem moves up after a nice showing in the Robt. Lewis.
Vineyard Haven...biggest disappointment of the week.
Pamplemousse, (see Friesan Fire).
Haynesfield will have trouble at distance.
Imperial Council...okay, okay..I'll move him up a notch or two!
This One's For Phil, could be a good dark horse!

"The Word" - Derby 2009 Contenders February 16, 2009 www.equisportphotos.com
Horse Sire Trainer Owner Jockey Next
1 OLD FASHIONED Unbridled's Song Larry Jones Rick Porter Ramon Dominguez
2 PIONEEROF THE NILE Empire Maker Bob Baffert Zayat Stables Garrett Gomez 3/14 SA San Felipe S. (G2)
3 FRIESAN FIRE AP Indy Larry Jones Vinery & Fox Hill Gabriel Saez 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
4 PATENA Seeking the Gold Rick Dutrow IEAH, Sikura Robby Albarado 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
5 STARDOM BOUND Tapit Rick Dutrow IEAH Mike Smith 3/7 SA Santa Anita Oaks
6 CAPT. CANDYMAN CAN Candy Ride Ian Wilkes Jos. Rauch, David Zell Julien Leparoux 2/28 GP Fountain of Youth
7 CHOCOLATE CANDY Candy Ride Jerry Hollendorfer Jenny Craig Rafael Bejarano 3/14 SA San Felipe S. (G2)
8 PAPA CLEM Smart Strike Bo Hirsh Gary Stute Rafael Bejarano 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
9 NOTONTHESAMEPAGE Catienus Wesley Ward Ken & Sarah Ramsey Elvis Trujillo 2/28 GP Fountain of Youth
10 THE PAMPLEMOUSSE Kafwain Julio Canani Bienstock & Winner Stable, A. Solis II Alex Solis 2/28 SA Sham S.
11 HAYNESFIELD Speightstown Steve Asmussen Harvey Weinstein Ramon Dominguez 3/7 AQ Gotham S. (G3)
12 IMPERIAL COUNCIL Empire Maker Shug McGaughey Sequoia Racing Edgar Prado
13 FLYING PEGASUS Fusaichi Pegasus Ralph Nicks James Spence Cornelio Velasquez La. Derby or Rebel
14 GIANT OAK Giant's Causeway Chris Block Virginia Tarra Trust E. Razo La. Derby or Rebel
15 GENERAL QUARTERS Sky Mesa Mark Miller Thomas McCarthy James Lopez 3/14 TB Tampa bay Derby
16 BIG DRAMA Montbrook David Fawkes Harold Queen Eibar Coa scr from Holy Bull
17 THIS ONE'S FOR PHIL Untuttable Rick Dutrow Paul Pompa Edgar Prado 2/28 GP Fountain of Youth
18 WEST SIDE BERNIE Bernstein Kelly Breen Lori & Goerge Hall Elvis Trujillo
19 VINEYARD HAVEN Lido Palace Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Edgar Prado
20 MIDSHIPMAN Unbridled's Song Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Garrett Gomez in Dubai
21 DONATIVUM (GB) Cadeaux Genereux John Gosden Princess Haya of Jordan Frankie Dettori in England
22 I WANT REVENGE Stephen Got Even Jeff Mullins Lanzman Racing Joe Talamo
23 SQUARE EDDIE Smart Strike Doug O'Neill Paul Reddam Rafael Bejarano injured
24 HELLO BROADWAY Broken Vow Barclay Tagg Elizabeth Valando Edgar Prado 3/14 TB Tampa bay Derby
25 BEETHOVEN Sky Mesa John Ward John Oxley Calvin Borel

RIP Stage Colony... 1987-2009

Photo: EquiSport Photos

EXCERPTED FROM OLD FRIENDS FACE BOOK - It is with a heavy heart that I post this update...for more time with Stage Colony was something that was not meant to be. According to Val's blog, he spent yesterday in the company of his Old Friends family, enjoying treats and being kind to even the smallest of visitors..When I spoke to Michael this evening after reading her post, he mentioned that later in the evening on Saturday, Kent felt he was not behaving just right and so the vet was called for. He was treated for colic and Michael stayed with him, making certain he was up and about, walking him personally. Stage then did all the postive biological things a horse is suppose to do after being treating and it looked like he was on the right road. At 4 AM, however, it was apparent that he was in grave condition and fading fast. The vet pronounced his survival on the ride to the clinic even doubtful and given the circumstances the sad decision was made.
STORY - http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/Georgetown-KY/Old-Friends/36049309669

Old Fashioned still tops list...Top 25 Derby Contenders & Connections!

Photo: EquiSport Photos/Dianne Boothe

Old Fashioned... is still up there until somebody knocks him off.
Pioneerof the Nile...did he prove anything in Robt. Lewis?
Friesan Fire...has he used up his best already?
Patena... lots of hype for a second place Lecomte finish!
Stardom Bound...won't go against Patena.
Capt. Candyman... is getting good dirt experience. May be an advantage.
West Side Bernie...too high on the list.
Square Eddie... too much to make up after recuperation.

Horse Sire Trainer Owner Jockey Next
1 OLD FASHIONED Unbridled's Song Larry Jones Rick Porter Ramon Dominguez 2/16 OP Southwest S.
2 PIONEEROF THE NILE Empire Maker Bob Baffert Zayat Stables Garrett Gomez 3/14 SA San Felipe S. (G2)
3 FRIESAN FIRE AP Indy Larry Jones Vinery & Fox Hill Gabriel Saez 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
4 PATENA Seeking the Gold Rick Dutrow IEAH, Sikura Robby Albarado 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
5 VINEYARD HAVEN Lido Palace Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Edgar Prado 2/12 UAE 2,000 Guineas
6 STARDOM BOUND Tapit Rick Dutrow IEAH Mike Smith
7 CAPT. CANDYMAN CAN Candy Ride Ian Wilkes Jos. Rauch, David Zell Julien Leparoux 2/28 GP Fountain of Youth
8 NOTONTHESAMEPAGE Catienus Wesley Ward Ken & Sarah Ramsey Elvis Trujillo 2/28 GP Fountain of Youth
9 THE PAMPLEMOUSSE Kafwain Julio Canani Bienstock & Winner Stable, A. Solis II Alex Solis 2/28 SA Sham S.
10 CHOCOLATE CANDY Candy Ride Jerry Hollendorfer Jenny Craig Rafael Bejarano 2/14 GG El Camino Real
11 HAYNESFIELD Speightstown Steve Asmussen Harvey Weinstein Ramon Dominguez 3/7 AQ Gotham S. (G3)
12 GIANT OAK Giant's Causeway Chris Block Virginia Tarra Trust E. Razo La. Derby or Rebel
13 FLYING PEGASUS Fusaichi Pegasus Ralph Nicks James Spence Cornelio Velasquez La. Derby or Rebel
14 WEST SIDE BERNIE Bernstein Kelly Breen Lori & Goerge Hall Elvis Trujillo
15 PAPA CLEM Smart Strike Bo Hirsh Gary Stute Rafael Bejarano 3/14 FG Louisiana Derby (G2)
16 BIG DRAMA Montbrook David Fawkes Harold Queen Eibar Coa scr from Holy Bull
17 MIDSHIPMAN Unbridled's Song Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Garrett Gomez in Dubai
18 DONATIVUM (GB) Cadeaux Genereux John Gosden Princess Haya of Jordan Frankie Dettori in England
19 I WANT REVENGE Stephen Got Even Jeff Mullins Lanzman Racing Joe Talamo
20 SQUARE EDDIE Smart Strike Doug O'Neill Paul Reddam Rafael Bejarano injured
21 HELLO BROADWAY Broken Vow Barclay Tagg Elizabeth Valando Edgar Prado 2/28 GP Fountain of Youth
22 BEETHOVEN Sky Mesa John Ward John Oxley Calvin Borel
23 THIS ONE'S FOR PHIL Untuttable Rick Dutrow Paul Pompa Edgar Prado 2/28 GP Fountain of Youth
24 POLTERGEIST Tapit Donnie Von Hamel Kindred Thoroughbreds Clifton Berry
25 IMPERIAL COUNCIL Empire Maker Shug McGaughey Sequoia Racing

Sinner...out til Summer!

Photo: EquiSport Photos/Z.Laskowski

SARATOGA SINNER SIDELINED
By Mike Welsch, Daily Racing Form
HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. - The thrill of victory turned into the agony of losing a Kentucky Derby candidate for trainer Eddie Kenneally after it was discovered that Saratoga Sinner, winner of Saturday's Grade 3 Holy Bull Stakes, had suffered a chip in his left knee that will require surgery.
Full Story...http://www.drf.com/news/article/101462.html

A "Sinner" amongst us...Top 25 Derby Contenders & Connections!

Photo: EquiSport Photos/Z. Laskowski

Okay, it's a new month, and a new "Word".
Saratoga Sinner debuts at #10, and what is a "Pamplemouse" anyway?
Stardom Bound makes the list at #7, you can believe IEAH will run her.
Beethoven drops a bunch, after an atypical Calvin Bo-rail trip in the Holy Bull...He'll be back.
Shafted and Poltergeist make the list.

This list is meant for recreational purposes only..."Handicapping from "The Word" may be at your own peril"...

Cheers, MW

Horse Sire Trainer Owner Jockey Next
1 OLD FASHIONED Unbridled's Song Larry Jones Rick Porter Ramon Dominguez 2/16 OP Southwest S.
2 SQUARE EDDIE Smart Strike Doug O'Neill Paul Reddam Rafael Bejarano 2/16 OP Southwest S.
3 CAPT. CANDYMAN CAN Candy Ride Ian Wilkes Jos. Rauch, David Zell Julien Leparoux 2/28 GP Fountain of Youth
4 PATENA Seeking the Gold Rick Dutrow IEAH, Sikura Robby Albarado 2/28 GP Fountain of Youth
5 PIONEEROF THE NILE Empire Maker Bob Baffert Zayat Stables Garrett Gomez 2/7 SA Robt. Lewis
6 FRIESAN FIRE AP Indy Larry Jones Vinery & Fox Hill Gabriel Saez 2/7 FG Risen Star
7 STARDOM BOUND Tapit Rick Dutrow IEAH Mike Smith 2/7 SA in Las Virgenes
8 NOTONTHESAMEPAGE Catienus Wesley Ward Ken & Sarah Ramsey Elvis Trujillo 2/28 GP Fountain of Youth
9 HAYNESFIELD Speightstown Steve Asmussen Harvey Weinstein Ramon Dominguez 2/7 AQ Whirlaway
10 SARATOGA SINNER Harlen's Holiday Eddie Kenneally Lally Stable Julien Leparoux 3/28 GP Florida Derby
11 THE PAMPLEMOUSSE Kafwain Julio Canani Bienstock & Winner Stable, A. Solis II Alex Solis 2/28 SA Sham S.
12 GIANT OAK Giant's Causeway Chris Block Virginia Tarra Trust E. Razo 2/7 FG Risen Star
13 HELLO BROADWAY Broken Vow Barclay Tagg Elizabeth Valando Edgar Prado 2/28 GP Fountain of Youth
14 BIG DRAMA Montbrook David Fawkes Harold Queen Eibar Coa scr from Holy Bull
15 I WANT REVENGE Stephen Got Even Jeff Mullins Lanzman Racing Joe Talamo in Dubai
16 MIDSHIPMAN Unbridled's Song Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Garrett Gomez in Dubai
17 VINEYARD HAVEN Lido Palace Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Edgar Prado in Dubai
18 CHOCOLATE CANDY Candy Ride Jerry Hollendorfer Jenny Craig Rafael Bejarano 2/14 GG El Camino Real
19 DONATIVUM (GB) Cadeaux Genereux John Gosden Princess Haya of Jordan Frankie Dettori in England
20 BEAR'S ROCKET Lion Heart Reade Baker Bear Stables Kent Desormeaux 3/28 GP Florida Derby
21 WEST SIDE BERNIE Bernstein Kelly Breen Lori & Goerge Hall Elvis Trujillo
22 BEETHOVEN Sky Mesa John Ward John Oxley Calvin Borel
23 THEREGOESJOJO Brahms Kenny McPeek Samotowka, Delfiner, Drall, Magdalena Robby Albarado 2/7 FG Risen Star
24 SHAFTED Mineshaft Mark Casse Woodford Racing Patrick Husbands 2/7 SA Robt. Lewis
25 POLTERGEIST Tapit Donnie Von Hamel Kindred Thoroughbreds Clifton Berry

Capt. Candyman Can punches ticket!

Horse Racing Photos: EquiSport Photos/Z. Laskowski

From DRF & Equibase - "CAPT. CANDYMAN CAN showed speed, eased back off the leaders on the backstretch, angled four wide on the turn, rallied to gain the lead at the top of the stretch and was fully extended to prevail. HELLO BROADWAY away alertly, set the pace under pressure inside ROCKETING RETURNS, responded when headed by CAPT. CANDYMAN CAN at the top of the stretch but couldn't stay with that rival in the final eighth while clearly second best."
DRF story here... http://www.drf.com/news/article/101382.html

Looks like a legitimate contender to me. He moves up 12 positions on my list, to #5 (Which is probably worth a little less than a Steve Haskins accolade :) .
What happened to Kimmel's horse, 'Break Water Edison'?
MW

'Pure Clan' back to Lakin from IEAH

Pure Clan at Churchill Downs. 11.24.2007
Horse Racing Photos: EquiSport Photos/Matt Wooley

Lakin reacquires Pure Clan from IEAH
Daily Racing Form, Mary Rampellini, HOT SPRINGS, Ark.
Lewis Lakin, breeder of Pure Clan, said Monday night that he has bought back a majority interest in the millionaire filly from IEAH Stable and Pegasus Holding Group in a private deal that closed over the weekend, making him the sole owner. Lakin originally sold majority interest in Pure Clan to IEAH last February.
Rest of the story here... http://www.drf.com/drfNewsArticle.do?NID=101320&subs=0&arc=1

Benny the Bull...back on Track!

Benny The Bull, with Edgar Prado up, wins the Sunshine Million Sprint at Gulfstream Park. 1.26.2008 (Horse Racing Photos - EquiSport Photos/Matt Wooley)

Daily Racing Form - By Mike Welsch, MIAMI BEACH, Fla.
Michael Iavarone said Benny the Bull is on the farm in Ocala but will likely rejoin trainer Rick Dutrow Jr.'s stable in April with the hopes of returning to the races in July.
"We're targeting a late-summer campaign, with our main goals the Breeders' Cup Sprint and hopefully to get him back to Dubai again for the Golden Shaheen the following spring," said Iavarone.
Full story here... http://www.drf.com/news/article/101301.html

Square Eddie, Old Fashioned...Showdown in the Dirt!

Square Eddie, photo EquiSport Photos/JB Faulconer

Old Fashioned, photo EquiSport Photos/Dianne Boothe

From the Daily Racing Form - ARCADIA, Calif. - Square Eddie, second in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile in October and the San Rafael Stakes at Santa Anita last Saturday, will make his first start on a conventional dirt track in the Grade 3, $250,000 Southwest Stakes at Oaklawn Park on Feb. 16.
Full article here - http://www.drf.com/news/article/101190.html

Should be a great preview for the rest of the trail. Maybe the beginning of a long term rivalry between Square Eddie and Old Fashioned?
Cheers, MW

A Pamplemousse?..#10 this week in "The Word", Top 25 Derby Horses w/connectio

The Pamplemousse makes a debut at #10 this week after a nice win in the San Rafael.
Square Eddie not the best horse? Does he need dirt?
Chocolate Candy wins the Cal Derby. Against who?
Patena continues to train well after a 2nd in the Lecomte.
Taqarub wins 3rd in a row with 8+ win in minor Stakes.
Stardom Bound in the Derby? Count on it with IEAH.

"The Word" - Derby 2009 Contenders 1.20.2009
Horse Sire Trainer Owner Jockey Next
1 Old Fashioned Unbridled's Song Larry Jones Rick Porter Ramon Dominguez 2/16 OP Southwest S.
2 Beethoven Sky Mesa John Ward John Oxley Calvin Borel 1/31 GP Holy Bull S.
3 PioneeroftheNile Empire Maker Bob Baffert Zayat Stables Garrett Gomez 2/7 SA Robt. Lewis
4 Square Eddie Smart Strike Doug O'Neill Paul Reddam Rafael Bejarano
5 Big Drama Montbrook David Fawkes Harold Queen Eibar Coa 1/31 GP Holy Bull S.
6 Stardom Bound Tapit Rick Dutrow IEAH Mike Smith 2/7 SA in Las Virgenes
7 Midshipman Unbridled's Song Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Garrett Gomez in Dubai
8 Vineyard Haven Lido Palace Saeed bin Suroor Godolphin Racing Edgar Prado in Dubai
9 Notonthesamepage Catienus Wesley Ward Ken & Sarah Ramsey Elvis Trujillo 2/28 GP Fountain of Youth
10 The Pamplemousse Kafwain Julio Canani Bienstock & Winner Stable, A. Solis II Alex Solis at Santa Anita
11 Friesan Fire AP Indy Larry Jones Vinery & Fox Hill Gabriel Saez 2/7 FG Risen Star
12 Haynesfield Speightstown Steve Asmussen Harvey Weinstein Ramon Dominguez
13 I Want Revenge Stephen Got Even Jeff Mullins Lanzman Racing Joe Talamo in Dubai
14 Chocolate Candy Candy Ride Jerry Hollendorfer Jenny Craig Rafael Bejarano 2/14 SA El Camino Real
15 Donativum (GB) Cadeaux Genereux John H. M. Gosden Princess Haya of Jordan Frankie Dettori
16 Patena Seeking the Gold Josie John Sikura, D. Dilalla Robby Albarado
17 Giant Oak Giant's Causeway Chris Block Virginia Tarra Trust E. Razo at Fairgrounds
18 Capt. Candyman Can Candy Ride Ian Wilkes Jos. Rauch, David Zell Julien Leparoux at Palm Meadows
19 Coronet of a Baron Pure Prize Eoin Harty Darley Alan Garcia
20 Break Water Edison Lemon Drop Kid John Kimmel Eli Gindi Alan Garcia at Payson Park
21 West Side Bernie Bernstein Kelly Breen Lori & Goerge Hall Elvis Trujillo 1/31 GP Holy Bull S.
22 Well Positioned Awesome Again Pat Reynolds Paul Pompa Javier Castellano at Gulfstream Park
23 Charitable Man Lemon Drop Kid Kiaran McLaughlin W. K. Warren Jr Alan Garcia at Palm Meadows, recovering
24 Taqarub Aldebaran Kiaran McLaughlin Shadwell Alan Garcia
25 Munnings Speightstown Todd Pletcher Tabor, Magnier, Smith John Velazquez

On the "Also Ran" List
Cribnote
Flat Out
Danger to Society
Brother Keith
Stimulus Plan
Free Country
Theregoesjojo

Cheers, MW

R.I.P. 'Indyanne'...

Indyanne (Indian Charlie), Robby Albarado up, wins the Thoroughbred Club of America S. (G3) at Keeneland 10.04.2008mw ( Horse Racing Photos by EquiSport Photos )

R.I.P. 'Go Between'...

Go Between, Miguel Mena up, red cap, wins the Fayette Stakes at Keeneland Race Course. 10.27.2007mw (Horse Racing Photo: EquiSport Photos)

$4.4 million bid for Azeri rejected

Photo: EquiSport Photos

By Glenye Cain Oakford (DRF)
Horse of the Year and three-time champion Azeri went through the ring as scheduled Monday at Keeneland's January all-ages sale, but the final $4.4 million bid was not enough to convince seller Michael Paulson to part with her, even on a day that saw 40- to 50-percent declines across the board.
Azeri was in foal to 2004 Horse of the Year Ghostzapper, and fetal sexing shows that she is carrying a filly, according to Paulson. Paulson consigned Azeri through John Sikura's Hill 'n' Dale sales agency.

Ky. Derby Trail...Square Eddie tops "The Word" 1.11.2008

Photo: EquiSport Photos

The Word...Kentucky Derby Trail 1.11.2008
Friesan Fire jumped into the mix with a nice win in the Lecomte. Nice to see Larry Jones with a couple of strong contenders.
Just a quick summary of my prognostications and observations for the week. Feel free to add your 2 cents!
1 Square Eddie
2 Old Fashioned
3 Beethoven
4 Midshipman
5 Vineyard Haven
6 Big Drama
7 PioneeroftheNile
8 Haynesfield
9 Notonthesamepage
10 Friesan Fire
11 I Want Revenge
12 Donativum (GB)
13 Giant Oak
14 Capt. Candyman Can
15 Coronet of a Baron
16 Break Water Edison
17 Chocolate Candy
18 West Side Bernie
19 Well Positioned
20 Charitable Man

Ky. Oaks Trail 1.11.2008
1 Stardom Bound
2 Maram
3 Laragh
4 Four Gifts
5 Rachel Alexandra
6 C.S. Silk
7 Dream Empress
8 Just Jenda

Ecplise Award for Photography...the Honorable Mentions

Thanks! to all who sent Congrats, and to those who have asked to see the "Honorable Mentions". Here's Big Brown winning the Kentucky Derby. This was published in the Daily Racing Form May 6,2008 and was my first Eclipse nom. I feel very honored to be recognized. It's nice to have a bit of credibility for one's work.
Big Brown (Boundary), Kent Desormeaux up, wins the 134th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. 5.03.2008mw (Horse Racing Photo by EquiSport Photos / Matt Wooley)

Honorable mention in the Photography category also went to Alexander Barkoff, whose photo of a morning sunrise on the Fair Grounds backstretch was published in the New Orleans Times Picayune on November 9.
Fog shrouds the Fair Grounds Race Course Saturday, November 1, 2008 as horses work in preparation for the 2008-09 meeting which began November 14, 2008. (Posted with permission of photographer, Alexander Barkoff)

Congratulations again to Matt Goins, this years' winner, for his other "Bookend". He has spent much of his life in the trade as a photojournalist and is one of the hardest working photographers I know. This second Eclipse Award must be, I'm sure, very gratifying. One needs to consistently know how to "be in the right place at the right time" to get the consistently great shot. Matt knows how to do it. Way to go!

Matt Goins' picture, and caption, was posted here on Dec. 30th and appears further down this column.

Ky. Derby Trail 1.04.2009 "The Word"

Old Fashioned (Unbridled's Song), Ramon Dominguez up, wins the Remson S. (G2) at Aqueduct 11.29.2008db ( Horse Racing Photos by EquiSport Photos/Dianne Boothe )

Here's the rundown as I see it, in order. Purely speculative and unscientific. Neither 'Pioneerof the Nile' nor 'Haynesfield' really impressed this time out, so their position is relatively unchanged.
The Lecomte is this weekend, and could bring some new contenders into the mix. Square Eddie runs back in the San Rafael S. Jan 17 at Santa Anita.
I'm starting to get a few pictures on the website... http://www.equisportphotos.com/gallery/6981546_RBDHb

Kentucky Derby Trail 1.04.2009
1 Old Fashioned
2 Square Eddie
3 Beethoven
4 Midshipman
5 Vineyard Haven
6 Donativum (GB)
7 Big Drama
8 PioneeroftheNile
9 Giant Oak
10 Haynesfield
11 Coronet of a Baron
12 Notonthesamepage
13 I Want Revenge
14 Capt. Candyman Can
15 West Side Bernie
16 Break Water Edison
17 Chocolate Candy
18 Well Positioned
19 Charitable Man
20 Munnings
21 Cribnote

Kentucky Oaks Trail 1.04.2009
1 Stardom Bound
2 Maram
3 Laragh
4 Four Gifts
5 Rachel Alexandra
6 C.S. Silk
7 Dream Empress

Painting with Light

Life Magazine Classic Photo of Pablo Picasso. The picture was shot by photographer Gjon Mili in Vallauris, France in 1949. The photo shows us Picasso in a different but interesting and original setting.

My daughter, Sarah, painting with a small flashlight. This fun little idea can have some very interesting real world applications. Of course, you have to learn to write your name backwards!

When you think of "Painting with Light" you might think of spreading a light beam ONTO an otherwise dark subject. But, if you let the actual light do the story telling, the results can create a new perspective.

This is a simple technique using the "Rear or Second-Curtain Sync" setting on your flash or as a custom function in your camera if using an older flash. Second-Curtain Sync forces the flash to fire at the end of the exposure rather than at the beginning. In a dark environment, use a tripod and select a long Shutter Priority, or "Bulb", exposure to create a dramatic effect.

Imagine the many subjects that could be enhanced with this technique. Perhaps a Stallion in a semi-darkened arena with a few light trails right before the flash, a bride on the dance floor showing some movement right before the image is frozen, a stage production.

Use your imagination, and your camera settings, to put your vision in a new perspective.
Share your interesting "Light Techniques" here.
MW 1/04/2008

Haynesfield gets the job done in Count Fleet

Haynesfield (Speightstown), Ramon Dominguez up, wins the Count Fleet S. (L) at Aqueduct 1.03.2009sk (Horse Racing Photos by EquiSport Photos/Sue Kawczynski)

(The Handicapper's Edge) Saturday's $68,460 Count Fleet S. was expected to be the coming-out party for Turtle Bird Stable's HAYNESFIELD (Speightstown), who was hammered down to 1-2 favoritism in his first start outside of New York-bred company. Although it was not as stylish as his 5 1/4-length victory in the Damon Runyon S. last time out, the Steve Asmussen colt duly prevailed after a brief tussle in the Aqueduct stretch, and stamped himself as a major player on the New York road to the Kentucky Derby (G1).

Haynesfield showed signs of inexperience and attempted to lug in, but Ramon Dominguez kept him straight, and he gradually drew off by 3 1/2 lengths. The chestnut stopped the teletimer in 1:44 3/5 for one mile and 70 yards on the fast inner track, rewarding his backers with mutuels of $3, $2.50 and $2.10.

"Obviously, it was a very different trip than last time," Dominguez said. "I didn't want to push him. He relaxed nicely. It was just a matter of getting in the clear. He tried to lug in -- he did the same thing last time. I was aware that we were following quick fractions. When it was time to pick it up, he did."

"The race was very nice; I mean, he won," assistant trainer Toby Sheets said. "It wasn't visually as impressive as last time and the competition was a little bit different, but he won".