Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

LAZMANICK — Sat, 08 Mar 2014 21:35:53 GMT

Coldfacts, save your energy. I have no problem with anything you say or how you say it, as long as you can accept the fact that some people are going to respond and not all responses are going to be kind. My last post was in reference to a new blogger who on his/her very first post decides to set things straight and tell people what they can do or not do.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

Coldfacts — Sat, 08 Mar 2014 13:39:27 GMT

LAZMANICK,

"Does he not tend to comment on many others’ opinions even to the point of actually taking their comments out of context?”

At the end of each of Mr. Haskin's blogs is the statement 'Plese Leave a comment'

There is no specification as to what the context of those comments should be. The comments can therefore be in the form of either a challenge or an endorsement of the views of the moderator.

Let take this opportunity to address your comments above. This forum allows for opinions to be advanced and consequently said opinions can and will be challenged occasionally. Am I the sole contributor that comments on opinions? No! Do I challenge opinions on a larger scale than others? No! My tendency is to question the basis of certain opinions when the cold facts available either do not support them or allow for more appropriate conclusions. All contributors are at liberty to put into context their opinions if it appears that said opinions are taken out of context. The challenger does not have the last words.

Lots of submissions are loaded with ambiguities and therefore allows for varying interpretations. Lots of statements are emotionally driven and are without proper foundation. I try to inject some balance. Below an example:

“It is unlikely that trainers will want to start against Uncle Mo”

In what context should the above have been viewed? Why would a Blood-Horse correspondent make such a statement? I challenged the above opinion. Did I do so because I took the statement out of context? The statement was clear and void of ambiguity.

Why would trainers be afraid start their horses against Uncle Mo? Secretariat was champion 2YO and HOY when he started his 3YO career. Did trainers hide their charges when he rolled into town? Did Uncle’s performances and achievements supersede those of the great chestnut? Did the horses Mo defeated exited the races with injuries or drop dead thereafter?

Some opinions beg for challenges and that was one. Uncle Mo like Secretariat was defeated in the Wood and did not even make the Derby field. Statements like the above must be seen for what they are and that is, grossly inappropriate.

I present a different perspective using the same set of cold facts. That is what sparks healthy debates and allows contributors to fine tune their analytics skills. I have no problem being demonized for a policy that is a harmful. However, do not demonize me for a policy that promotes more in-depth thoughts and less emotions in arriving at conclusions.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

LAZMANICK — Fri, 07 Mar 2014 17:27:31 GMT

TXBLUE

I look forward to lively debate too. However, what I suggest you do before you chastise others on here is read Coldfacts’ posts and then ask yourself: Does he not tend to comment on many others’ opinions even to the point of actually taking their comments out of context?

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

TXBLUE — Wed, 05 Mar 2014 01:43:14 GMT

My first post. With that congrats to Mr. Haskin. His much admired research is exceeded only by his writing prowess. I was taken aback by the reaction of the posters of someones opinion (Coldfacts). I read his post and he stated his opinion of Intense Holiday. He is entitled to that opinion. I would further say that he makes the board better by contributing rather like heat tempering steel. He did not name call nor slander but several of the responding posters did. I look forward to reading and sharing opinion(s) on this site. I enjoy lively and divergent views. Racing is a multifaceted sport and industry. Let us welcome views we do not agree with. Some very knowledgeable posters here. Let us welcome all opinions. By the way Intense Holiday is my derby favorite. I think he has all the right stuff to get the mile and a quarter on May 3rd.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

Coldfacts — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 17:43:13 GMT

LAZMANICK,

Long before Mr. Haskin dedicated this blog to Intense Holiday I was a fan of the colt. Below is an extract from the Unlocking Winners Blog to confirm same.

Posted 11/29/2013:

"A careful review of the Nashua will reflect the less than ideal trip experienced by 4th place finisher Intense Holiday. He was bottled up behind horses down the back stretch and was angled to the outside and then back to the rails only to be blocked at a crucial point in the race. His rider chose to not persist with him after it was apparent he was out of contention for one of the top 3 spots."

"I am of the opinion Honor Code is the colt to beat in the Remsen but I cannot see Cairo Prince finishing ahead of Intense Holiday should he experience a better trip”

I had a wager on colt every time he raced with the exception of the Risen Star. I just cannot balance Mr. Haskin's assessments with the numerous disappointing performances he has delivered. Some folks see a glass as half empty other see it as half full. I hope this has shed some light on my views and the demonization can be halted.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

Leopold — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 17:38:17 GMT

Fantastic article. I would like to see more articles like this; of what the sport is truly about. Thanks Steve

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

Coldfacts — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 17:36:29 GMT

Linda in Texas,

No one died and left me in charge. Kindly accept my sincere apology as have clearly offended you. My views tend to impact folks in the wrong way despite the fact that they are never intended achieve such results.

I am a fan of the subject colt and happen to disagree with Mr. Haskin’s assessment. I meant no harm. My fault lies in the composition of my words.

The answer to your question is, yes. I once owned thoroughbreds but not in this country. I likewise have touching story about the horses I owned. I was not trying to make little of the on told by Mr. Haskin.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

Coldfacts — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 17:32:47 GMT

Homebred,

I have decided to cease making submissions to Mr. Haskin’s blogs. However, I hope he will grant me this final submission that contains some response to your critique of me.

I am not 12th pup from a large litter and I do not possess a "Napoleon complex" I cannot determine when one of my submissions will cause controversy. Let me assure you that they are never intended to be.

A lot very offensive quote have been directed to me. I will not try to determine their merits or demerits. However, the one cited in your submission supersedes all. I deliberately cause controversy for my own twisted entertainment. My submission usually contain a mix of facts and opinions that are open for comments. I have no control over how said facts and opinions are received. While it might not be apparent, I am respectful of the views of others.

Twisted Entertainment at the expense of others could only be conceived by a twisted mind. I do no believe my passion for thoroughbreds has left me with a twisted mind. How could you see it fit to attribute such a reason for my approach and regard yourself as fair and balanced. Under no circumstance could I arrive at that conclusion about another.

Despite the harsh and offensive appraisal you have compiled of me, I hope the ones you are likely to receive someday, will be more favorable as you have surely provided insight into the wonderful and infallible individual you are.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

BelmontBarb — Sun, 02 Mar 2014 03:16:02 GMT

This story Steve is the perfect opener to those of us who do not know or have not had the opportunity be on the other side of the game and inside the world of thoroughbred racing and so I am not surprised by the negativity of some (nor their lack of knowledge) and it is a daily task to keep those energies away just as Intense Holiday has done....for the simple fact that this colt was able to survive such a battle shows his strength, power and perserverance to overcome. Even if Intense Holiday doesn't cross that finish line first, his efforts, will and heart make this Rising Star a Risen Star ~ He has a tough course ahead of him and lets stay positive that no matter where he finishes ~ he finishes well and sound - He's a fine colt as is your article!

Thank you - for your passion in the Sport of Kings!

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

steve from st louis — Sun, 02 Mar 2014 00:12:02 GMT

Steve, your work and opinion of the Blooded Horse is obviously beyond reproach. Some fools find the internet empowering. It's a shame they find themselves as interesting and intelligent when that's nine furlongs from reality.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

El Kabong — Sat, 01 Mar 2014 02:53:58 GMT

I have revisited the Risen Star again and again. I'll go down right now saying that was one of the most thrilling races I've seen in a while on the Derby trail. First of all, I have to admit that I underestimated Larry Jones for the last time. He is a brilliant trainer and Albano has not been heard from for the last time. Knowing Larry, he'll have this colt ready to dominate on the front end again in the LD. That said, I am looking forward to Intense Holidays next rematch. That stretch run was intense. He gunned down a really fast horse who I believe will stretch out just as much. These two will thrill us again, they are spectacular horses who have guts and speed. Good luck to the others. They'll need it.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

Paula Higgins — Fri, 28 Feb 2014 03:33:32 GMT

Great story Steve! Made my day. Close to tears over this one. I cannot imagine anything worse in this sport than losing a foal. So glad he is thriving in every way and looking forward to following him.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

Bigtex — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 23:23:57 GMT

Steve, I love how you closed out your story in your last sentence! Perfect ending to a great story...once again!

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

lunar spook — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 17:15:48 GMT

LINDA IN TEXAS-You wouldn't name your favorite blogger , but ill name mine , its LINDA IN TEXAS , (those were great comments by the way)

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

LAZMANICK — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 03:05:44 GMT

Wow. It’s difficult to overcome the knowledge and expertise of Coldfacts. I mean, he’s a legend isn’t he? However, I think I’ll take a stand for Intense Holiday and say that I believe that he’s a rising star. His tenacity in turning what looked like a defeat into a hard earned victory in the Risen Star impressed me, especially because he was squeezed and slowed in the clubhouse turn and had to slow and then pull out and go 4 or 5 wide in the far turn. Then when it looked like he was going to stall at the 8th pole, Mike Smith got into him, especially in the final 16th and he showed his desire to win. Intense Holiday’s closing numbers were, after a tardy beginning, better than the filly Untapable in the Rachel Alexandra, and a lot of people are raving about her after her ten length win, many now thinking that she’s the Oaks favorite. Sure Intense Holiday was zero for 4 in graded stakes company, but who did he race against? Let’s see……Havana, then Cairo Prince and Noble Moon, then Honor Code and Cairo Prince again, and then once more against Cairo Prince and with a sprinkling of Conquest Hero. That’s pretty good company.

Good horses improve from two to three and others improve with racing experience. Thank goodness that the owners of Cigar didn’t give up on him after his first dozen or so races. Charismatic never emerged until its 14th race and his first two wins were in claimers. It took Real Quiet 8 starts to even break its maiden. Tabasco Cat didn’t win its first G1 until its 11th start, the Preakness, and then he must have felt so good about it that he went out and won the Belmont in his next start. At some point it would be nice to see an objective opinion based on applying sound handicapping principles instead of doling out meaningless facts based on breeding or the general law of averages, much of which sound intelligent, but have little or no particular relevance when a horse enters a starting gate.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

Dr Drunkinbum — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 23:56:41 GMT

El Kabong

That's true and I also like Barry Irwin and Team Valor and honesty. Steve handles everything very well. That's just one of the reasons he's the best. I also think precautionary meds, and radiation like CT Scans are overused and can be dangerous as this great article points out in this case with the plasma that was given. My favorite interview is still the Battle of the Bulge interview with Harry Aleo, the owner of Lost in the Fog, but certainly Barry's was exceptional also.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

predict — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 23:14:59 GMT

I hope we can see that Rising Star for the legacy of Harlan's Holiday. He has produced some notable individuals that have left their mark on racing. Remembering some of those : Denis of Cork(3rd in the KD), Shanghai Bobby(winner BC Juv.), Into Mischief(sire of Vyjack and Vicar's in Trouble), Poker Player(best is yet to come?), Notacatbutallama( nice multiple stakes winner), Mendip(graded quality now at stud in Turkey), and one of my favorite fillies, Summer Applause.

Intense Holiday could be the real deal, don't overlook if he enters that starting gate at CD the first Saturday in May.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

predict — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 22:37:13 GMT

Great story Steve. You always bring so much to the stories in the backgound that we seldom get to hear, to which I offer a world of thanks.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

Your Only Friend — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 22:10:56 GMT

After reading the blog and your articles just another reason that racing should put in point system for 3 year old fillies.......believe it would create more interest in racing That would be bold move, probably have some rejections from those who resist change.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

El Kabong — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 20:28:20 GMT

Steve, If Intense Holiday does make it to the Derby, Old Pink Eye Bob and his crew are going to have a tough time telling the story any better. It's really a privilege to have someone bringing us these stories from the barns whether they rise to the ultimate occasion on May 3 or not. I really appreciate the effort the 20 entrants and their connections have summoned to reach that day, but with stories like this, we get to know how difficult the road really is at times.

Dr D, my thoughts exactly but I think Steve handled the matter better. Secretly I root for Team Valor because I want Neumeier to put the mic to Barry one more time. I never laughed so hard at a post derby interview in my life.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

Linda in Texas — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 18:03:58 GMT

I am going to quote a blogger for whom i have a ton of respect, but i won't mention his name. I say to Coldfacts, "who died and left you in charge"? That is about the nicest way i can say how i really feel. You no doubt take a cold shower every time you read Steve's articles. You seem to want to start a fight with anyone every time someone does not hold your anti everything opinions. I am curious, which horses did you own and race? Further, you never do mention a pick. But you are quick to chastise other's for their choices, while conveniently not giving yours. Usually i just blow your comments off and consider the source, but why time after time you have to rain on other's parades?

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

Linda in Texas — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 17:52:35 GMT

Thank you Steve for this article. I am just now reading it. I should have checked "Hangin With Haskin" earlier as I did not know this about Intense Holiday. Must be how and where the name 'Intense' Holiday came from. But he is a Harlan's Holiday and i wanted him to do well for his deceased sire. Little did i know he had the issue as a newborn so it makes him even more special to cheer on. Sounds almost like a Mucho Macho Man issue all over again. I love them all each in their own ways, just special creatures i cannot even begin to describe and that keeps me coming back over and over again.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

homebred — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 17:50:52 GMT

This is my first ever comment submitted to the Bloodhorse. Unfortunately, its fueled by one negative commentor! I used to visit the Thoroughbred Times news article section and post comments under various aliases. It was entertaining to try and stir the pot on industry issues. "COLDFACTS" reminds me of when Zenyatta was racing and one person decided to stir the pot by attacking her and her connections for leaving Ca or racing against the 'boys, etc... This individual commented under the name "Afleetalexforever". I also remember how fun it was to watch the masses attach him right back, some even inviting him to step out of the shadows and "meet them in a parking lot".....I know how easy it is to get caught up in this situation...but consider maybe COLDFACTS is deliberately stirring the POT, for his own twisted entertainment....or...maybe he has the "Napoleon complex"....or maybe he was the 11th pup on a 12th pup litter!!!!! As a horseman, I got the message of the story, and its always a great thing to promote our industry with good news, NOT NEGATIVE. Nice job Haskins.

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

homebred — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 17:50:49 GMT

re: Intense Holiday Lived to Be Rising Star

The Bid — Wed, 26 Feb 2014 16:32:47 GMT

Steve....THANKS on ALL accounts!!!!!! Another gem from THE BEST!!!!