Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

JoyJackson21 — Sat, 04 May 2013 19:54:31 GMT

Thank you for another great article, Steve. You made me laugh out loud with the line, "Making semblance of selections.....ought to confuse you more." Great line! - LOL. Actually, your choices didn't make me at all confused, they convinced me that I've made the right choices for my single wagers & my exotic wagers. I'm feeling good about my choices. I think your supposition of where the Derby participants will be running is a good hypothesis of how the race will actually be played out. What you said made a lot of sense.

And a HUGE thank you for the awesome pictures accompanying your article. My favorite photos are the photos of the Kentucky Derby champions, Mine That Bird and Funny Cide. They look fabulous! Their Kentucky Derby races are underrated, but both of their Derby wins were pretty fabulous. I love seeing them again. They look happy and well-taken care of. The fans must have been thrilled to see them, I know I would have been if I had been there. The photos of Mine That Bird trying to get the attention of Funny Cide & the picture of Funny Cide continually eating made me laugh. It's wonderful to see both horses doing so well.

Good luck with your Kentucky Derby choices, Steve!

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

ThunderInTheSun — Sat, 04 May 2013 05:51:22 GMT

In such a large field my concern on a muddy/sloppy track is an accident. With so much at stake and only a handful of horses who like running in the mud, the chance for a spill goes up. The mudders in the race (I only see 4 of them really) all have disparate posts which can be good or bad. Verazzano and Overanalyze aren't too fond of mud and these two can really create some chaos for the field if held in the pack. Hopefully nobody does something stupid when positioning but that should happen early. The final turn will determine who gets pushed far wide and who will sneak through on the rail. Whoever gets that rail spot then without getting trapped should win it, provided someone like Orb or Mylute doesn't close from outside. In the slop, that will take a mighty effort from a strong horse. Track conditions will be a critical variable in this derby. Good luck and safe passage to all.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

ksweatman9 — Sat, 04 May 2013 04:31:03 GMT

So nice to see the derby winners looking like royalty, but they ARE royalty, aren't they? I hope to visit Mine that Bird in June, will be a long trip, but he's special to me. My daddy died in February of 2009 and he always picked the long shots to win the roses. He would've been elated. I feel that "Bird" was his horse and I love the little gelding. There's alot of good ponies running this year but I've decided to pull for another gelding and another long shot. Go Vyjack, show us that Big Brown isn't the only one who can shoot from the 20 hole and win. Kisses ans Carrots to you, Mine that Bird and Funny Cide.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Greg R — Sat, 04 May 2013 04:17:57 GMT

I like seeing Mine That Bird honored at the K D Museum. I always thought he could have done more if he had been handled differently. In the West Virginia Derby, he was beaten by a horse getting eleven pounds from him. Was it after that he needed the throat surgery for a breathing obstruction? His races after that, trying to rebound from the surgery and layoff, were on Santa Anita's ProRide, NOT a fair gauge of his ability. His transfer from Chip Woolley's care did him no favors. I say that as a longtime D. Wayne fan. Woolley had the horse figured out. M T B needed to sit, wait and make one late run. 1 1/4 mi. on dirt was his best trip. He wouldn't have needed mud. Rushing him into contention at shorter trips was a complete misread of the horse. Oh, well. He no doubt has fewer regrets about it than I have.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Greg R — Sat, 04 May 2013 03:57:21 GMT

Are there any counterparts to Oaks winner Princess of Sylmar in the Derby field? Yes, two. She won on Aqueduct's inner track. So did Revolutionary and Vyjack. They have also proven they can come from behind, as she did. She was a longshot in the Oaks. Vyjack will be a longer shot than Revolutionary. For whatever that's worth.

I'm tempted to revert to the horses I liked a couple of months ago, Itsmyluckday and Vyjack. Both have won on off tracks, though not at the highest level, of course. Half the horses in the field would not surprise too much! What a scramble, as usual! It's difficult to have a strong conviction when the Derby is such a demolition derby/roller derby. No matter if you lose $, don't think of it as a disappointment, think of it as a revelation.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Mike Monarchos — Fri, 03 May 2013 22:59:30 GMT

Nice photos again Steve. I saw you Wednesday at Churchill Downs. I was the guy with the red rose painting. I got Rosie to sign it. No other jocks though. They made it hard to get to them by having themcome down the steps through a covered chute. I didn't stay for the Derby. I went to Claiborne Farm on Thursday and had lunch in Paris. I loved seeing all the horse shoes of past horse racing greats such as: Secretariat, Riva Ridge, Count Fleet, Dust Commander and many others in the sidewalks along Main Street. I also had lunch in a restaurant owned by the people who bred Goldencents. Of coarse they think he'll win the Derby. Paris is a nice little town with friendly people. I forgot to mention that after Rosie signed my painting I took it back to my car along with my camera. I put the painting on the hood of my car and put my camera inside the vehicle. Well like the dummy that I am I then locked the car and walked from the parking lot to Gate 10 and re-entered Churchill Downs. I bet 3 or 4 more races and then returned to the parking lot and noticed something on the hood of my vehicle. It was my rose painting that Rosie Napravnik had signed earlier. Obviously the people at Churchill Downs were very honest that day. Either that or nobody liked the painting. Lol! It did make me feel good about the people of Louisville though.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

greyghost — Fri, 03 May 2013 19:36:57 GMT

Mine That Bird & Funny Cide look terrific. Nice to see Chip Woolley without crutches. Look forward to that rainy day scenario. More & more I like Revolutionary & Java's Wars chances.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Sail On — Fri, 03 May 2013 18:36:47 GMT

Sad that Black Onyx can't run tomorrow, but if Fear The Kitten was also eligible, then he should be allowed to run. That is the whole point of isn't it? I was really hoping to see him in the Derby, and I am really disappointed.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Linda in Texas — Fri, 03 May 2013 17:20:47 GMT

Clever Giddyup. 'Takes one to know one' and Mine That Bird knows that one for sure. Nobody told him!

Oh Jacklyn, if we are doing what we should be doing. Your last statement i hope is wrong. Because of Ferdinand a clause is in 'most' sales that if sent to foreign countries for breeding, they are returned at the end of their duties in the shed.

Ferdinand is not and will never be forgotten. Nor the other ones that met the same fate. It is at the top of my efforts always.

Steve,I wrote a response to the wonderful photos and hit a key and it disappeared. I had asked the Rain Gods to not let it rain on Saturday. Maybe it went up to them and they already have my request.

Funny Cide and my sister state hero of New Mexico Mine That Bird looks like he could probably load the gate and win it again. Looks fit as a fiddle to me. Won't ever forget the whole scene. Plain Jane trailer. Pulled by a not new truck driven by a trainer with a broken leg.Everyone thought Mine That Bird was a fluke plain plodder from New Mexico going to the big city to show'm his stuff and he did. And he was the victor. Loved it then. Smile to this day.

And I won't be eating part of Alex'sBigFan's hat if Lines of Battle wins! Takes too long to order a new one for one reason and she must be 'chapeauxed' at The Belmont for the second reason!:)

Black Onyx scratched so the rail will be wide open for Calvin.

Will not mention any other names as i don't want to be a jinx.

Just always want all horses who race to come back to their stalls safe and sound for well deserved and earned refreshments.

Have a great time Steve, i know your feet are planted firmly in the air with all the fanfare you are taking in. We love it. Thanks.

AND GOOD LUCK HANDICAPPERS COME BACK WHEN IT IS OVER AND TELL US ALL ABOUT YOUR WINNINGS!!

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Windolin — Fri, 03 May 2013 16:50:18 GMT

Thank you Steve! The pix are great. Good seeing Funny Cide and Mine That Bird looking so happy and healthy.

Revolutionary is one gorgeous horse, I think that is one reason I like him so.

Lots of sentimental favorites this year.

May the best horse win and I keep all these talented and beautiful horses and jockeys in my prayers for a safe return to the barn after the race. Godspeed to all

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

SOUTHBENDFARM — Fri, 03 May 2013 16:40:32 GMT

Mine That Bird looks like he is race fit and could go today in any race. Funnycide looks like a horse who has had a few to many treats...Mine That Birds trainer still cares for the horse and treats him with all the respect he earned with his victory. Funnycide does look like he is headed to the post. Loved the picture of Revolutionary also. I can see him taking his sires place at Lane's End after next year.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Fran Loszynski — Fri, 03 May 2013 16:20:25 GMT

Don't despair Jacklyn these beautiful racehorses go on to breed and have a loving staff take care of them. Visit Gainesway in Kentucky you will see Birdstone , A fleet Alex and Tapit to mention a few. Many champions are still alive because don,t forget some owners are there in the stall when their little colts and fillies are born. There is alot of love for these racehorses and horse people are awesome.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Jacklyn — Fri, 03 May 2013 13:40:40 GMT

Look at Funny Cide in the paddock! He's on his toes thinking he's going to race again! I saw him at KY Horse Park each morning during the 2010 WEG. So beautiful both of them. Great to see their owners care for them. I'd love a report of what happens to each Derby horse a year after the Derby. Wonder how many can even be found? The statistics of how many end up at slaughter are probably high.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Giddyup — Fri, 03 May 2013 06:11:11 GMT

I'm no horse whisperer but something tells me Mine That Bird said "Hey Funny! I gotta hot tip on a 50 to 1 longshot for you."

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Mary — Fri, 03 May 2013 03:21:22 GMT

Yes, Revolutionary has an ideal position in 3. Borel won on Super Saver in 4. Revolutionary, Black Onyx, Will Take Charge,and Itsmyluckyday have the pedigrees.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Sail On — Fri, 03 May 2013 02:24:25 GMT

Wow! Pletcher really has the luck this year! Revolutionary got an ideal post. But Verrazano post is ideal. He can fall in behind Falling Sky, as he meets up with Goldencents, ate that group will be 'I'll see ya!' for at least a quarter mile. Charming Kitten also has a cool PP. He will be able to angle in behind the second group w/o any problem, as the two horses inside from him will have gone. I expect Normandy Invasion to be somewhere on he outside of the second pack.

This will be a great race, even if it will be slow.

Still, I wish the Derby field was limited to 14.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Fran Loszynski — Fri, 03 May 2013 01:35:14 GMT

All I can say Steve about this article and pics of two awesome veterans and the contenders is WOW. Revolutionary reminds me of Ruffian the way he looks so stoic. Thanks Steve your comments of Normandy's breeze. I can't wait to see him finish he does have great position. Okay I've made my pick, I've read Steve's column and I'm set for the Derby! YYYYYYEEEEEEEEHHHAAAAWWWHHH

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Cassandra.Says — Fri, 03 May 2013 01:26:56 GMT

War Pass: G1 winner (B.C. Juvenile) on a sloppy, sealed track at Monmouth, wired field, won x 5.

Runup the Flag: Alw wnr at Churchill Downs, track good, broke in air, circled field won x 4, Calvin Borel up.

Given the post, Borel will probably hug the rail but it is a bad mistake to think this guy is a one trick pony.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Terry M. — Fri, 03 May 2013 01:13:43 GMT

Lovely photos of the Bird! I am glad he is in a place where he can be admired by visitors. My Derby pick for several weeks now has been Orb.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Steel Dragon — Fri, 03 May 2013 01:12:24 GMT

I think many are underestimating the impact of post 16 on Orb. Yes, it's been overcome by others in recent years, but it's still bad news and increases the need for a lucky trip.

I also don't think that pillbox was shaken very well when it was initially full.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

GJU — Fri, 03 May 2013 00:18:43 GMT

Great pictures again, Steve. I love the one of Mine That Bird looking at Funny Cide. Thanks for your insight on the Derby too. Looks like rain....

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Alex'sBigFan — Thu, 02 May 2013 23:43:22 GMT

Great analysis Steve and more great photos. I'm curious to see what Oxbow is going to do with all that stored up energy he has. He gets my "cutest" vote and I like him and I think he is Lenny's pick. I don't think we are going to get the war won with just a little Oxbow though.

FunnyCide and Mine That Bird look great. How cute is Mine That Bird! I wonder if he remembers his big win at Churchill? My neighbor, who by now is probably 89 or 90, used to scream, "Mind The Bird, Mind The Bird!"

Look forward to tomorrow's analysis and who the best mudders might be. If Lines of Battle comes out of quarantine Friday, goes to the track, and then wins the Derby on Saturday I think I'll eat my Belmont hat being designed now! I'm giving him an "A" for effort though and just being there.

Steve, hope you are getting some partying done and having a ball there. You deserve it.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

Lydia — Thu, 02 May 2013 23:42:37 GMT

Glad to see the Derby winners looking so good. Both are so handsome.

re: Haskin's Derby Report: And They're Off!

CHIEF PICAWINNA — Thu, 02 May 2013 23:18:55 GMT

Going on the contingency that the track is fast, and its not sealed and rain is not expected by race time.I expect Palice Malice to be in the first flight with the addition of blinkers,if Falling Sky dosent get out quickly his chances of pressing and outclosing the pacesetters and closers is low.The colt that is piloted by an inexperienced jockey and is starting right in the middle of the calvary charge into the first turn is Goldencents. A mistake by the young jockey, and it could be the beginning of a rough trip.It is much different for O'Neil to use a young jockey outside in 19 than it is in the middle of the field, with horses cutting over and one or both of the colts in the one or two post trying to get out of possible trouble in the first 150-200 yards.Goldencents could be squeezed back.