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Lentenor: Looking Good

Editor’s Note: The following is a guest entry from Ron Mitchell, the online managing editor of The Blood-Horse. Ron also was kind enough to take a few photos.

On a recent visit to Ocala, The Blood-Horse’s video producer and director Russell Johnson and I had the good fortune to drop in on Lentenor at Jill and John Stephens’ Stephens Thoroughbreds.

It was a crisp (low 30s) beginning to the day when we visited, but quickly the sun broke through and Lentenor was brought out to the track for a gallop. Exercising with Gabriel DeJesus aboard, Lentenor showed that he likes what he’s doing.

Since Russell’s outstanding video and my exclusive interview with Jill Stephens will be available at bloodhorse.com in the near future, I will not spoil it by revealing all the details here. But suffice to say, Jill believes Lentenor is progressing as well, if not better, than his brothers in certain ways at this point in his development. This is the fourth horse produced from La Ville Rouge that has been under the Stephens’ watchful eye in Florida.

After observing the Stephens’ operation, it is no secret how they are able to get the kind of results they do in prepping horses on behalf of owners such as the Firestones and Jacksons and trainers like Michael Matz, Barclay Tagg, and Christophe Clement, among others.

While there is some major responsibility placed upon the couple, they view it as an honor and a privilege to be working with such quality horses and people. And the results show in Barbaro, Nicanor, and now Lentenor.

70 Comments:

Lentenor looks GREAT !  This is amazing stuff.  Without wanting to slight Nicanor and all of his potential as Nicanor himself, everyone seems to have a real strong sense that Lentenor may show something extraordinary.

It is such a thrill to watch it all, to hear the active discourse from all points of view and places in the hearts of FOB's, BBB's (Barabro's Brothers Bloggers) and Bloodhorse, who has recognized our passion for Barbaro, his family and connections.

Can't wait for the video of Lentenor, Nicanor's first start (may he stay safe and strong) and for us to feel joy, instead of just heartbreak, on January 29th -- the second anniversary of Barbaro's passing.

Rock on Nicanor, Lentenor . . . and the soon to be welcomed new foal !

Karen, PA 21 Jan 2009 2:13 PM

Lentenor looks like a big, strong colt. He seems to be developing and maturing very fast for his age. I like the confident look in his eye and the way he carries himself.

Watch out for this guy!

Beth 21 Jan 2009 2:20 PM

Thank you for the update! Can't wait to read the full story and see the video.

Sally in Indy 21 Jan 2009 2:20 PM

Thanks Amanda for the great pictures of Lentenor. It appears that although lighter than Dynaformer, he is has similar conformation to his sire. I can't wait to see the full story. Lentenor appears to be well-behaved and a tad more serious than Nicanor.

Kathy 21 Jan 2009 2:38 PM

Not to slight Nicanor in any way shape or form but I agree, I think Lentenor is the one who is putting it together early the way Barbaro did.

Also I love the confident, mature eye he has on him.  There's an intensity in his look that screams class.

L 21 Jan 2009 2:42 PM

Theres something in this horse that gives me chills. He's sure of himself, you can see it in photos and feel it the way his connections speak about him. He has a fire in his eye the way Barbaro did... but I really have a feeling this guy is not just going to be known for being 'Barbaro's brother' he's going to make the crowd cheer on his own.

May Lentenor and Nicanor stay safe, sound and healthy!

Lady Ruffian 21 Jan 2009 3:07 PM

WOW - he is so big and so SERIOUS - looks like he could be the "one" on the racetrack.

Sally in NV 21 Jan 2009 3:26 PM

Something told me to check back to this blog, and what a treat there was to see!  Lentenor is sooo very handsome.  

Thanks to Ron Mitchell for the sneak peek, and looking forward to Russell Johnson's video.      

GinnieJ 21 Jan 2009 3:26 PM

 Great photos of Lentenor. Such a good looking colt he is with an aura of confidence about him. There is no doubt he will make a well respected name for himself. Can't wait for Nicanors first race, waiting patiently for info on it.

 I wonder if LaVille's new arrival will be named Margano who would follow in line of names of the foxhounds in the Jacksons picture?

DONNA 21 Jan 2009 3:52 PM

He looks very regal.  Thank you for the pics and I look forward to the video.  This is very timely and a special treat for all of us as we near the anniversary of Barbaro's death.  Thank you for this gift of communication with others who loved Barbaro and who love his brothers for who they are.  

Cassidy 21 Jan 2009 4:07 PM

From the moment I saw this guy I knew he had it.  No disrespect to Nicanor, Lentenor just had it all on day 1.  Truly another gift from above we will enjoy these guys for a long time.

ritainga 21 Jan 2009 4:15 PM

Ah, Lentenor! Thank you for the pictures and the blog -- I can't wait for the video!

From the start, Lentenor was my boy. I've loved this horse since he was born, though I've adored Nicky since I knew about him. I can see Barbaro sometimes in Nicky, and now that he's matured it's harder than when he was littler to see it in Len, but...still. I don't know how to describe it, but I just have a feeling, and have for a long time. Gods grant he and his big brother safety, please. Yes, I remember full well what is in a little over a week, and it does have me thinking about the boys. I hope they stay safe, I really do.

Cheers.

Amber 21 Jan 2009 5:20 PM

I just don't see what you all are seeing in this colt. No disrespect but he looks like a typical 2yr old would look like in Jan. He seems to be a big growthy looking colt. He has his sire's shoulder for sure, big joints etc. As far as the look, yes he does look alert but 2 yr olds look at everything anyway. Again I'm not knocking him but he doesn't look any better than alot of babys do this time of year.

Wanda 21 Jan 2009 5:27 PM

Looking at photos of McDynamo & Nicanor, they look like they have a very similar build - same front legs & hoof shape. McDynamo was an awesome steeplechaser, maybe that could be an option for Nicanor. He could shine in a different world and not have to carry the weight of being compared to his other brothers. I have to agree about Lentenor - he just looks like he's going to be one to watch out for.

Karen in Indiana 21 Jan 2009 5:43 PM

He looks amazing!  Last time that I remember looking at him was when he was still a yearling still at Millridge farm.  Now he looks even bigger and seems to be looking more like a racehorse than Nicanor did at this point (not trying to say that Nicanor also isn't special because he is).  I really agree with everyone else Lentenor seems to be more like Barbaro at this point.  But I can't wait for Nicanor's first race which I will be looking forward next week.  But I hope for the safety of these two beautiful boys.  I will looking forward to how Lentenor turns out.

Laura 21 Jan 2009 5:51 PM

Wow!  Look at how beautifully he stands there with his rider.  I am so happy to hear he is enjoying his life.  I can hardly wait for the video.

Thank yuo for the Lentenor news.

MJ 21 Jan 2009 5:52 PM

Thank you so much for doing these blogs!  I can't believe how well both Nicanor and Lentenor are progressing!  Lentenor looks like he may truly have something!  I too am eager to see how Nicanor does in his racing career.

Kate 21 Jan 2009 6:08 PM

Lentenor looks like a champion.  This photo gives me chills as well.  There is something about him that exudes from the photos.  I look forward to see him transform into something all of us will remember.

Hillary 21 Jan 2009 6:09 PM

What a superb article and the photos are great.  Lentenor has a lovely eye, kind but there is spirit there!  They are obviously doing a great job with him and he looks a happy horse which is the main thing!!!!  

There is no need to compare Barbaro, Nicanor and Lentenor.  Let's just enjoy them for who they are as individuals!  May Lentenor and Nicanor enjoy their racing and remain safe and sound throughout their careers!

God Bless

best wishes

Abbie

Abbie Knowles 21 Jan 2009 6:16 PM

Thanks for the update/sneak peek at what's ahead.  Lentenor certainly has the look of an older horse, it's easy to forget he is still a baby.  I'm hoping his training continues to go well and that he and Nicanor can have a great future ahead.

txbarbfan 21 Jan 2009 7:03 PM

He Looks AMAZING!! Better than Barbaro?? I guess we'll see! I love seeing him progress!

Tara 21 Jan 2009 7:54 PM

looks like lentenor is coming into his own. maybe he'll be the one to do what his late older brother couldn't, win the triple crown.

christy tate 21 Jan 2009 8:06 PM

taking nothing  from Nicanor, i think Lentanor is going to be as good a horse as Barbaro. idk, its something in  his eyes...one picture i saw of him, there was a spark there

Meg 21 Jan 2009 8:40 PM

It is very exciting watching Nicanor and Lentenor as they grow. We love them both! Thanks for the blog as well as the great photos through all the past weeks. They certainly are interesting and brighten the day!

Jennifer 21 Jan 2009 8:44 PM

Lentenor is such a gorgeous looking thoroughbred, and a pretty big two year old at that. This is the one we really need to look out for, he looks to have great conformation (no expert, just from refrences I've seen).

Kekira 21 Jan 2009 9:07 PM

He reminds me in looks like his sire. In the photos here, he looks like he could be a military horse.

Nicanor reminds me of his dam in looks. At least in the pictures. Barbaro was a mix of both brothers.

How do these boys compare to the retired brother by a different sire?

newsline2 21 Jan 2009 9:27 PM

Lentenor looks like a throw back to the Triple Crown horses of the early 1900's through the 1920's to me.  He has such a build.  He is just beautiful  Looks so filled out and grown already...a long way from those wobbly legs we saw just two short years ago.

Autumn 21 Jan 2009 9:59 PM

Of all the brothers, Lentenor does look the most like magnificent Barbaro, and in these photos he looks positively regal!

SusaninSoTX 21 Jan 2009 9:59 PM

to the stephens-i'm jealous,what a joy it must be to have, taking part of the jackson boys deveoplement. we can see and share the experience watching these beautiful boys grow and mature from birth. each has his unique character. all have our love and best wishes for health and a safe life.

sandieh 22 Jan 2009 7:55 AM

I look forward to the video. Thank you for the updates on our two boys!

LaVille's new arrival will be so!

Debbie 22 Jan 2009 8:43 AM

Lentenor looks real fine. May he stay strong and well. Thank you for the update.

Kathie 22 Jan 2009 9:20 AM

Autumn, I agree he does look like a throw back, that was my first thought as well. I mean that in the best way. It'll be interesting to see how he does.

Karen in Indiana 22 Jan 2009 9:59 AM

I agree with Wanda--I see a big, growthy colt.  In fact, he looks a bit too big for his own good.

JAJ 22 Jan 2009 10:51 AM

I don't see Big and Growthy.  Sire from the neck up for sure.  Rear posture is Carson City all day, although he doesn't appear as wide as Carson City from the rear; tough to tell from photo provided.  He is more correct than either of his brothers were.  Top 5 percentile at any auction--there is alot of big money that loves his damsire's line, but not much of it around.  Obviously, Dynaformers at a premium now--as it is assumed he has to be close to pension, even in lousy market conditions.

brettzky99 22 Jan 2009 11:38 AM

JAJ: That seems to be typical of the family and Dynaformer's get are not generally 2yr old starters.

Wanda 22 Jan 2009 11:58 AM

Just curious brettzky99 how can you tell he's correct from those 2 pictures? Are you an Oilers fan? I'm a Flames fan myself lol.

Wanda 22 Jan 2009 12:09 PM

Ah Brettzky, there you are!  Have been looking for your comments,   Does this youngster have the "look of eagles" or not??  (that was for anyone to comjent on).  The look in his eyes is what is so astriking, that and his sheer stunning physical self.  The look of promise is there.. Can't wait for the video and the rest of the interview!

Marigold 22 Jan 2009 12:41 PM

Brettzky99,

You don't think he looks looks big and immature?  Those pictures are from January of his 2-year old year.  There is a lot of weight on that front end and those long pasturns.

JAJ 22 Jan 2009 12:48 PM

Lentenor looks incredible. Thank you so much for sharing. Of course we will want pictures of baby brother #3 as soon as he is born. :)

Best of luck to Nicanor on the occasion of his first race. He will be carrying all our hearts with him.

PatCA 22 Jan 2009 1:06 PM

IMMATURE??? COME ON1!!! That young horse looks ready to run right now.  Ready to win.  Ready to blow everyone away.  He is incredible looking.  Takes my breath completely away.  

Marigold 22 Jan 2009 2:34 PM

JAJ,

If you can find a picture of Carson City's confirmation, the hind detail is close to parralel.  I see your point where he is a touch raw from the neck up, but when I think of growthy, it is size without detail.  This horse's front shoulders are clearly developed, and he shows Prospector in his face and head.  To be honest, he reminds me alot of Zenyatta, who is Prospector x 2, Roberto x 2.  We were outbid twice this year on Rock Hard Ten (Kris S-Roberto) colts, that were crossed with Mr. Prospector mares.  In my opinion, he comes across as quite marketable.

brettzky99 22 Jan 2009 2:39 PM

Come on Marigold that's a real stretch to say he looks ready to run right now. He still has a belly on him and no real muscle either. Like I said earlier he looks like a typical 2yr old in Jan. The exercise boy is riding long so I guess he's just hobby horsing around the track right now.

Wanda 22 Jan 2009 3:05 PM

It would be interesting to hear one or both of the Jacksons be interviewed on Nicanor and Lentenor and see if they were optimistic on the brother's Barbaro chances now and down the road.

Kathy 22 Jan 2009 3:47 PM

One thing that is for certain, all comments about Lentenor having a look that harkens back to the thoroughbred look of the classic times is true -- at least so far as we've seen.  Lentenor certainly has a strong, seemingly confident look that does say class.

What a treat for us all to travel this road with them.  Thank you Barbaro . . . and all your connections.

Karen, PA 22 Jan 2009 3:47 PM

There is a picture of Carson City atwww.pedigreequery.com/carson+city

Pepper's Pride's sire, Desert God is similar.

www.pedigreequery.com/desert+god

newsline2 22 Jan 2009 3:50 PM

I love looking at 2 year olds in January!  They change daily if not hourly.  It would be interesting to see a photo or 2 of him a week later.  He looks to me like he is doing exactly what he should be doing at this age.  Learning what a race track is and what he is supposed to do on it.  Once he has those lessons then it will be up to Michael Matz to prepare him physically to produce.  I love his front end, seems to really know how to use his neck, I like his shoulder.  Nice back legs too, like his hocks at the moment.  As I said, that could have already changed.  

    Karen in Indiana, I hate to be thinking about 'chasing a 3 year old.  Let's let Nicanor finish growing up and see how he actually runs before jumping to his next career.  That is no knock on steeplechasing, just a wait and be patient.

Springsmom83 22 Jan 2009 3:59 PM

Wanda,

Please reference photo on 10/14/2008.  I always thought you had a winner (at auction), if you could get some detail into the Roberto's, it's rare, but look at that photo.  If you can search the confirmation on the Dynaformers that Darley bought for top buck, compare them to this colt.  I would respectfully diagree with you on his lack of muscular development, as it pertains to a January two year old.  Love the Oilers, like the Flames also...played alot against Craig Conroy in college.  What do you think of the Canucks breaking the bank on Sundin (you could buy 5 AP Indys & another 5 Giants Causeways).  What is your opinion of the 10/14 photo?  That is really the one that got me.

brettzky99 22 Jan 2009 4:25 PM

Wanda,  He looks like he WANTS to run now.  That he's mentally ready.  He is a very confident looking 2 year old.  That cannot be denied.  It is stunning.

Marigold 22 Jan 2009 4:29 PM

Amanda, I am thinking that the expanded report and video might settle a lot of this debate.  How long will we have to wait for those?

Will you get a heads up on when Nicanor is scheduled to run next week?

Marigold 22 Jan 2009 4:43 PM

JAJ,

Funny, my only concern with this colt would be his ability to handle 2 turns.  I get Carson City in his head, and his rear.  The October photo is a better indication, I think. He doesn't look like he will be as long as Carson City.  I was at Aqueduct, when he won that sprint Handicap in 90 or 91 (can't remember-or find it).  He won a big sprint at Belmont too.

brettzky99 22 Jan 2009 5:05 PM

brettzky99: Yeah where's the Canucks in the standings right now? I'll check back with you when I can check that photo out..

Wanda 22 Jan 2009 10:17 PM

Great article! We love reading about Nicanor and Lentenor and will continue to love them and wish them well regardless of whether they have careers in racing or not. The pictures are super, too! Thanks!

Jenn 23 Jan 2009 12:13 AM

As you suggested brettzky99 I went back and looked at the pics also the one of his dam. He did look a bit more compact as a yearling, he has grown and there is more length there for sure. He does show very long pasterns in that pic. IMO he has a better shoulder than his dam although she has a shorter back. He doesn't appear to have the big joints of his older brother.

Anyway thanks for the imfo on those pics and GO FLAMES.

Wanda 23 Jan 2009 10:59 AM

Thank you for the blog.  I enjoy the refences to confirmation in relation to lineage.  Not sure I can see it yet but I will keep trying

bowlofflowers 23 Jan 2009 11:49 AM

I think Lentenor looks like he's made of chocolate. Delicious milk chocolate.

Bengal Bob 23 Jan 2009 3:51 PM

I think Lentenor is the ONE

Carol 23 Jan 2009 6:04 PM

I'll say what I've said since seeing pictures of him as a foal:  he's going to be the one to watch out for!  And this report is one step of confirmation!  :-)

Julie 23 Jan 2009 11:57 PM

Awww,looks like his tail is going to be as gorgeous as Barbaro's!! Can't wait to see you race!!

Nancy 24 Jan 2009 2:47 AM

JAJ,

In regards to Carson City:  When I look at Lentenor, more than either of his brothers, he scaringly reminds me of Pollard's Vision, the most prominent son of Carson City.  If you can find a pic and look at the three of them, the rear hip contour is the same.  I don't see a dramatic difference in the height of the knee on any of the three, although Carson City looks longer in the back than PV, and I would guess Lent will be shorter in the back also;  I geuss on the margin this could affect the way the height of the knee (stifle) shows in proportion to the sheath.  This leads me to my second point (and I say it respectfully for the sake of discussion):  don't you think that identifying a horses best fit distance, and of surface for that matter through physical attributes is an antiquated practice, as many TruNicks and Equaline  reports suggest??  I mean there are some good examples: two best sprinters today (my opinion) are J Be K and Midnight Lute.  Both horses closely resemble their sires in confimation Deputy Minister and Real Quiet respectively.  Also resembling Deputy Minister in confirmation is his Daughter Better than Honor, who is the most famous broodmare for 1 1/2 miles in history.  I don't believe either of the three have a pronounced higher of lower knee.  Even a better example is the Chicago horse Lewis Michael.  He holds track records at 1 3/16 at Arlington and set a 7f record in California...same horse.  Ghostzapper was another at long and short distances.  I geuss we have had no success other than trying different horse at different distances and surfaces; this includes mating model software and subscriptions and/or physical identification.  I think confirmation is a helpful dterminant in identifying athleticism hopefully--but alot of trial and error after that.  Only my opinion, fwiw.  My personal experience with shorter backed horse with big sloping shoulders were that they had more success going short.  However, we have never had a horse of this pedigree or any of the aforementioned, either.

brettzky99 24 Jan 2009 10:45 AM

Just heard today that it is finally known who is going to be riding Nicanor in his first race.  The jockey will be none other than Edgar Prado.  Michael Matz said that Nicanor might be Barbaro but he doesn't know really but he knows for sure that Nicanor has a lot of talent.  His owner Roy Jackson also said that Nicanor is as big as Barbaro now, and that he is excited for the debut of Nicanor.  Michael Matz said that he is very excited about the debut of Nicanor and wished he would be running tomorrow.

Laura 24 Jan 2009 12:24 PM

Thank you so much for the new photos of precious Lentenor.  I saw him back in September in Kentucky.  He has, of course, matured even more.  He is very stately looking.  I can hardly wait to see the video as well.  I also look forward to Nicanor's first race.  Most important is that they both stay safe.

Thank you very much for keeping us all informed about Barbaro's precious brothers and another one on the way!!!

God Bless,

Holly

Holly 24 Jan 2009 2:22 PM

Lentenor is as stunning a Throughbred as I have ever seen. It is easy to see his bloodlines.

Linda 24 Jan 2009 10:19 PM

New workout today..

This notice is to inform you that one or more of your horses has worked out.

Nicanor

Your Comment:

Date: January 25, 2009

Track: PALM MEADOWS TRAINING CENTER

Distance: Five Furlongs

Time: 1.01:20 Handily

Track Condition: Fast

Surface: Dirt

Rank: 8/38

mj 25 Jan 2009 12:07 PM

Holly, how did he look back in September?  What was your overall impression?

Marigold 25 Jan 2009 7:15 PM

OMG, I have always thought that he looked more like Barbaro and was the one that would be special.  I love Nicanor but for some reason Lentenor seems special to me.

I watched the video and he looks larger and more mature than Nicanor but I love them both.

I hope Nicanor wins his race tomorrow but more importantly comes home safe.

Marilyn 30 Jan 2009 8:15 PM

From the video, his personality seems a lot like an OTTB I worked with by Dynaformer. Lots of smarts about both of them, and when they're apprehensive, if they trust you, they'll move forward and it will not be an issue again. I'm impressed with the Dynaformers I've seen so far! Barbaro, Nicky and Lentenor are no different!

ElonGrad97 31 Jan 2009 2:39 PM

I have been following this sport for over 45 years. In that time, I have seen two 2 year olds that I can say impressed me with their sheer physical appearance.  One was the great Secretariat, probably the most perfect horse to ever step on any track. The other was the immortal Ruffian. As a 2 year old she was larger and more muscular than any 3 year old of that season. Barbaro was impressive to say the least but the picture of Lentenor above is spectacular.  I thought Nicky would be the one but now I don't believe this to be true  Lentenor has a presence about him, the same as the two aforementioned champions. He does have the look of eagles about him which is something that Nicanor does not. I will still cheer for Nicky but it will be fun to watch his younger brother develop and see what he becomes. I think he will fulfill the dream that  Barbaro never got the change to do of capturing the triple crown.  I was not on the Big Brown band wagon and am not easily impressed by anything in horse shoes. It takes something special to get praise from me. I chose Barbaro as my pick then and I think Lentenor will be my pick next year. I think Nicky  may still surprise us all yet but only time will tell. Either way, I will follow them both and pray for their success and safety.  

ROBIN 03 Feb 2009 7:17 PM

Lentenor maybe the one to watch for..this is a Dynaformer colt after all. as for Nicanor his out of time to run for the Ky, not enough experience ..maybe by luck..and his no Barbaro either.. remember Barbaro is full of run develope the experience to handle the big KY Derby not Nicanor lack of it.. a star later maybe.. still like all Dynaformer Colt...Lentenor is likely to show KY Derby next year a BIG ONE..

playdrace 10 Feb 2009 1:16 AM

He is beautiful!  Just beautiful.  And he looks like he means business.

Christy 15 Feb 2009 3:52 AM

Lentenor looks great like a real champ. I can't wait to see him racing. I bet he will show his true potential some time in the near future. I will be rooting for him when he starts racing and I will have my eye on him.

horselover 21 Apr 2009 9:28 PM

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